Roman Agora

The Roman Agora was built gradually in the last part of the first century BC. The Romans had occupied Greece and their public buildings had started to crowd the market functions of the Ancient Agora (next post). Mercantile needs suggested a new place to do business, and the Roman Agora was the answer.

The eastern entry point. The gate area has inscriptions honoring the several Romans who contributed financially to the construction of the new market place. Many of the richest and/or noblest Romans were very interested in Greek history and culture, and Greek was widely spoken among the upper classes.


The marketplace.


Nothing phallic about this picture.


At the eastern end stands an old observation tower which was used for astronomic purposes. It is currently under reconstruction.