ATHENS (PNYX WALL)

Location: Pnyx, Athens (Greece) — 37.9721 N, 23.7196 E

Dating: 6th-5th centuries BC

Characteristics: The curving retaining wall is made of immense polygonal blocks. Many of which are rectangular with the occasional multi-angled block typical of polygonal masonry. The largest blocks reach nearly two meters in height, width and depth. At almost 5 meters high at its highest point, the wall supported an open space above which was used for political assemblies.

Polygonal classification: Most similar to type IV (Lugli) but often characterized as Greek “Lesbian polygonal”

Attribution: The wall and assembly space is attributed to the Athenians.

Specific points to see:

• Pnyx Hill – Pnyx wall and assembly platform, Prison of Socrates, Eptathrono
• Acropolis of Athens