Explore the historic site where Aristotle founded the Peripatetic School in 335 BC, laying the foundations for Western philosophy, science, and logic. Visit the remains of the first organized library and research center, where Aristotle and his students delved into diverse fields such as politics, ethics, biology, and physics.
Step into the birthplace of scientific inquiry—unlike Plato’s Academy, which focused on abstract thought, the Lyceum was known for its empirical research and systematic observation, influencing modern scientific methods.
Additionally, discover a historic gymnasium at the Lyceum, which served not only as a center of philosophy but also as a training ground for athletes and military cadets. This reflects the Greek ideal of developing both the mind and body, creating a well-rounded approach to education and physical excellence.
Attraction Highlights
- Walk in Aristotle’s Footsteps – Explore the very site where Aristotle founded the Peripatetic School, shaping the foundations of Western philosophy and science.
- Discover the First Research Center – Visit the remains of the earliest organized library and research hub, where Aristotle and his students studied politics, ethics, biology, and more.
- Experience the Birth of Scientific Inquiry – Unlike Plato’s Academy, the Lyceum emphasized empirical research and systematic observation, influencing modern scientific methods.
- Uncover a Historic Gymnasium – The Lyceum was not just a school of thought but also a training ground for athletes and military cadets, embodying the Greek ideal of a balanced mind and body.
Benefit:
Single Entry
Important Notes
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and loose fitted clothing are strongly recommended.
| Address | Rigilis 11, Athens, 10675 |
| Collection Information | Note: You must be within a 200m radius of this attraction to be able to make a booking.
|
| Phone | (+30)2109233166 |
| Email: | [email protected] |
| Work Hours | 1 April - 31 October 08:00 - 18:00 (last admission 17:30). 1 November - 31 March 08:00 - 15:00 (last admission 14:30). Note: Opening times may be later at certain times of the year depending on the sunset and are subject to change - please check the attraction for the latest information. |
| Closed Days | 1 January. 25 March. 1 May. Greek Easter. 25 & 26 December. Note: Closure dates are subject to change - please check with the attraction for the latest information. |
| Website | http://odysseus.culture.gr |
What to expect
Things to look out for
The Lyceum of Aristotle is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Athens, known as the place where Aristotle founded his famous Peripatetic School of Philosophy in the 4th century BC. This sacred and intellectual hub was not only a philosophical school but also a gymnasium, training ground, and public gathering place that played a crucial role in the development of Western thought and education.
Located near the modern-day Greek Parliament, the Lyceum was originally established as a sanctuary dedicated to Apollo Lyceios, giving the site its name. It later became a center for physical and intellectual training, where young Athenians would exercise, train in military arts, and engage in philosophical discussions. When Aristotle arrived in Athens in 335 BC, he transformed the Lyceum into an advanced institution of learning, where he lectured while walking with his students, earning them the name Peripatetics (Greek for ""those who walk around""). This interactive approach to learning influenced the way education was structured in later centuries, setting the stage for modern scientific inquiry.
Another remarkable feature of the Lyceum was its library, considered to be one of the first formal research institutions in the world. Aristotle gathered a vast collection of scrolls, manuscripts, and texts, which were used for academic study and knowledge exchange. This innovation paved the way for the concept of research-based universities that we see today.
Located near the modern-day Greek Parliament, the Lyceum was originally established as a sanctuary dedicated to Apollo Lyceios, giving the site its name. It later became a center for physical and intellectual training, where young Athenians would exercise, train in military arts, and engage in philosophical discussions. When Aristotle arrived in Athens in 335 BC, he transformed the Lyceum into an advanced institution of learning, where he lectured while walking with his students, earning them the name Peripatetics (Greek for ""those who walk around""). This interactive approach to learning influenced the way education was structured in later centuries, setting the stage for modern scientific inquiry.
Another remarkable feature of the Lyceum was its library, considered to be one of the first formal research institutions in the world. Aristotle gathered a vast collection of scrolls, manuscripts, and texts, which were used for academic study and knowledge exchange. This innovation paved the way for the concept of research-based universities that we see today.
Helpful Tips
Important Notes
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and loose fitted clothing are strongly recommended.
| Address | Rigilis 11, Athens, 10675 |
| Phone | (+30)2109233166 |
| Work Hours | 1 April - 31 October 08:00 - 18:00 (last admission 17:30). 1 November - 31 March 08:00 - 15:00 (last admission 14:30). Note: Opening times may be later at certain times of the year depending on the sunset and are subject to change - please check the attraction for the latest information. |
| Closed Days | 1 January. 25 March. 1 May. Greek Easter. 25 & 26 December. Note: Closure dates are subject to change - please check with the attraction for the latest information. |
| Website | http://odysseus.culture.gr |
