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In addition to The Acropolis, Two (2) Must Visit Places In Athens: Areopagus Hill and Lycabettus Hill.

Areopagus Hill in Athens, Greece is just a short walk up or down hill from the Acropolis. Any time is a great time to visit Areopagus Hill and look out over the remarkable city of Athens. One of the preferred times is just before sunset, with a few snacks and something soft to sit on. It's wonderful to come here nightly or any time you can to relax and marvel at the scenery. It's amazing to consider how many famous people have been here at Areopagus Hill (aka Mars Hill) perhaps right on this spot, pondering the creation and existence of the universe.

Areopagus Hill in Athens is primarily known for two famous figures: Saint Paul and Phryne. Saint Paul delivered his famous sermon on the Areopagus, according to Christian tradition. Phryne, a hetaera, famously appeared before the Areopagus Court on charges of impiety.
Saint Paul:
In the first century AD, Saint Paul visited Athens and addressed the Athenians on the Areopagus.
His speech, recorded in the Book of Acts, is known as the Areopagus sermon.
He spoke about the "unknown God" and proclaimed the one true God.
The sermon is a significant event in Christian history and is often interpreted as an example of Paul's missionary work and his engagement with Greek philosophy.
Phryne:
Phryne, a renowned courtesan of the 4th century BC, was accused of impiety for profaning the Eleusinian mysteries.
One version of the story claims that she appeared before the Areopagus Court and, to sway the judges, dramatically revealed her body, leading to her acquittal.
Other possible connections:
The Areopagus was historically the location of the Athenian court, where important legal and political decisions were made.
It is also speculated that various philosophers and orators may have spent time on the hill, though specific instances are not widely documented.
While Zeno, the founder of Stoicism, studied philosophy in Athens, there's no specific mention of him spending time on the Areopagus.

The Areopagus Hill in Athens, Greece, was a significant location in ancient Greek society, functioning as a judicial and legislative center, and later becoming the setting for the Apostle Paul's sermon.
Many famous writers and philosophers mentioned or referenced the Areopagus in their works:
Aeschylus: The playwright featured the Areopagus as the setting for Orestes' trial in his tragedy The Eumenides, portraying the establishment of the court as a pivotal institution for resolving conflicts and upholding justice.
Sophocles: References the Areopagus in Oedipus at Colonus as a symbol of Athenian justice and authority.
Euripides: Mentions the Areopagus in his plays and was said to be constrained by it due to its power over matters of religion and impiety.
Aristotle: Describes the Areopagus as a powerful and respected institution in his Constitution of Athens.
Thucydides: Mentions the Areopagus in his historical accounts.
The Areopagus' presence in these ancient works highlights its importance as a symbol of justice, morality, and Athenian civic life. Its legacy continues to resonate in later literary and legal traditions.

Areopagus Hill in Athens, Greece, is called Mars Hill due to its association with the Greek god of war, Ares, and the Roman equivalent, Mars. The hill is named "Areopagus" in Greek, which translates to "Ares' Hill". This name stems from the mythological trial of Ares, who was judged there by the gods for the murder of Poseidon's son, Alirrothios.
Here's why the hill is linked to Ares/Mars:
Mythological Trial:
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According to Greek mythology, Ares was tried on the hill by the other gods for killing Alirrothios.
Judicial Function:
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The Areopagus also served as a judicial body in ancient Athens, dealing with serious crimes like murder. This legal association further solidified the connection to the god of war, who was often depicted as a judge or avenger.
Roman Influence:
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The Romans, who conquered Greece, referred to Ares as Mars. This Roman name for the god is what led to the common English name, Mars Hill.
Apostle Paul's Sermon:
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The hill gained further prominence in Christian history when Apostle Paul delivered a sermon there, as recorded in the Book of Acts. This event also contributed to the hill's fame and its association with both the Greek and Roman versions of the war god.

Lycabettus Hill | Mount Lycabettus is seen far center right. It may be hard to see in this image, but it looks like a mound or small hill in the center right of photo. Lycabettus appears in various legends. Popular stories suggest it was once the refuge of wolves (lycos in Greek), which is possibly the origin of its name (means "the one [the hill] that is walked by wolves"). Another etymology suggests a Pelasgian, pre-Mycenean, origin (Lucabetu=mastoid hill).
Lycabettus Hill, located in Athens, Greece, is a prominent landmark with a rich history interwoven with both mythology and historical events. While ancient Greek writers didn't frequently mention it, the hill is a significant part of Athenian lore and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
Mythological Origins:
According to legend, Athena, the goddess of wisdom and patron of Athens, created Lycabettus Hill. She was carrying a large rock to enhance the Acropolis when she received news that caused her to drop the stone, forming the hill.
Another interpretation of the name "Lycabettus" suggests it means "mountain of wolves," as wolves were said to have inhabited the hill in ancient times.
Historical Significance:
Ancient Times:
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Lycabettus Hill was used for quarrying limestone, which was used in the construction of various Athenian monuments and buildings.
19th Century:
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The hill was largely bare and deforested due to quarrying. However, reforestation efforts began in the late 19th century, and by the early 20th century, trees were planted to restore its natural beauty.
20th Century:
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A funicular railway was built to transport visitors to the summit, making it easily accessible. The hill also became a popular venue for concerts and theatrical performances.
Present Day:
Lycabettus Hill is a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of Athens, including the Acropolis, the city center, and the Saronic Gulf.
The summit features a chapel dedicated to St. George, an open-air theater, and restaurants, providing visitors with a variety of experiences.
The hill's natural beauty, coupled with its historical and mythological significance, makes it a must-visit spot in Athens.

In the Bible, particularly in the book of Acts, the Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill, is a rocky hill in Athens where the Apostle Paul delivered a famous address to a group of Athenian philosophers and intellectuals. The Areopagus was the location of a prominent Athenian court, and Paul's speech there is significant as it reflects the early Church's engagement with diverse cultures and philosophies.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Location:
The Areopagus is a hill in Athens, Greece, situated near the Acropolis.
Biblical Context:
In Acts 17:16-34, Paul is in Athens and encounters various philosophers. He is then brought to the Areopagus to explain his new teachings.
Paul's Speech:
Paul's address on the Areopagus is notable for its attempt to connect with the Athenian audience by referencing their own religious practices, including an altar dedicated to an "Unknown God". He uses their own poets and philosophers, like Epimenides and Aratus, to explain the Christian message of the one true God.
Significance:
The Areopagus sermon highlights the early Church's approach to engaging with different cultures and philosophies, demonstrating the universality of the Christian message. It also showcases the early development of Christology, as Paul speaks about the resurrection and judgment.
Outcomes:
While some Athenians mocked the idea of resurrection, others, including a member of the Areopagus council named Dionysius, and a woman named Damaris, became believers.
In essence, the Areopagus in the Bible represents a significant moment where the Apostle Paul, in a setting of intellectual discourse, presented the Christian gospel to a learned audience, marking a crucial step in the expansion of Christianity.

Acts 17:16-34 recounts Paul's time in Athens, where he was deeply troubled by the city's idolatry. He engaged in discussions with Jews, God-fearing Greeks, and philosophers, ultimately leading to a famous sermon on Mars' Hill. Paul addressed the Athenians about their religious practices, emphasizing that God, the creator of all things, is not limited to human-made idols. He also spoke about repentance and the coming judgment, citing Jesus' resurrection as proof. The Athenians' reactions varied, with some mocking, others intrigued, and a few believing.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Paul's Distress:
Paul's spirit was provoked when he saw the city full of idols.
Reasoning and Debate:
He debated in the synagogue, marketplace, and with philosophers, including Epicureans and Stoics.
The Areopagus:
Paul was taken to the Areopagus (Mars' Hill) where he delivered his sermon.
Paul's Message:
He acknowledged the Athenians' religious nature but challenged their understanding of God.
He emphasized that God, the creator of everything, does not dwell in temples or need human worship.
He spoke about God's command for all people to repent and His appointment of a day of judgment.
He used the resurrection of Jesus as proof of this coming judgment.
Reactions to the Message:
Some mocked the idea of resurrection.
Others expressed interest in hearing more.
A few believed, including Dionysius the Areopagite and Damaris.