Stoa of Attalos and Ancient Agora Museum, Athens

The stoa—a staple of ancient Greek cities. Think of it as the original all-in-one social hub, a place where merchants sealed deals, officials conducted business, and the arts had their moment in the spotlight. Open at the front with a row of stately columns, these structures provided shade, shelter, and a touch of architectural flair to the bustling life of the city.

Now, think of the Stoa of Attalos, a particularly grand version of the concept. Named after King Attalos II of Pergamon (which is in modern-day Turkey), this beauty was gifted to Athens in the 2nd century BC. Because few things can foster friendship like an impressive covered walkway, right? More recently, in the 1950s, the entire structure was meticulously rebuilt, making it one of the most striking restorations in all of Greece.

Spanning a whopping 115 meters (or 377 feet) in length and 20 meters (or 65 feet) in width, this was the biggest building in ancient Athens. Its ground floor featured 42 shops tucked behind a row of columns, a setup that would put modern shopping centers to shame. The design blends Doric columns on the outside with Ionic elegance on the inside—because why choose just one architectural style when you can have both?

Inside, you’ll find the Ancient Agora Museum, home to treasures from the Agora’s long and fascinating past. Expect everything from Neolithic relics to Byzantine artifacts, with a strong emphasis on the Classical era. Among the highlights: red-figure pottery, a Spartan bronze shield, and the infamous ostraka—pottery shards inscribed with names. These weren’t just for decoration but were used for ostracism, an ancient Greek version of voting someone off the island (or, in this particular case, out of the city for ten years).

Upstairs, the balcony exhibition gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the Agora’s excavations and the Stoa’s reconstruction. Think blueprints, models, and historical photographs—an architectural deep dive, if you will.

Before you go, a quick tip: entry is included in your Agora ticket, so no need to dig into your “drachma stash” for extra fees. And do yourself a favor—head to the upper level for an absolutely stunning view of the Agora. It’s the perfect way to take in the grandeur of ancient Greece, minus the toga.