Gods and Heroes in the Athenian Agora

Religion permeated all aspects of civic life in ancient Athens, and its material traces—shrines, temples, altars and dedications—are visible throughout the Agora. This booklet explores the archaeological and historical evidence for religious activity in the civic centre of Athens, examining the worship of major Olympian deities as well as more localized and lesser-known cults. Special attention is given to heroes such as Theseus, one of the legendary founders of Athens, whose veneration often rivalled or even surpassed that of the Olympians in popular practice. Drawing on the finds from the Agora excavations, this study offers an accessible examination of the intersection between civic space and sacred practice. Illustrated in colour throughout. New updated edition.