Tomb of Themistocles
A historically significant site honoring Themistocles, the Athenian general and statesman, the 'Saviour of Greece'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Tomb of Themistocles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically significant site honoring Themistocles, the Athenian general and statesman, the 'Saviour of Greece'.
"This resting place is not well cared for, but Themistocles' impact is undeniable."
🚗 Parking Patience Needed
Parking can be tough; arrive early or visit on a weekday.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Focus on Themistocles' impact, even if the site's upkeep varies.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Themistocles' Final Resting Place
A historically significant site honoring the Athenian statesman and general who played a crucial role in Greek naval victories.
Naval History Connection
Connect with the legacy of Themistocles, who built the Greek navy and repelled Persian invasions, shaping the course of history.
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Planning Your Visit
Respecting a Historical Gem
Navigating Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience Needed
Parking can be tough; arrive early or visit on a weekday.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Focus on Themistocles' impact, even if the site's upkeep varies.
🚶♂️ Explore the Area
Enjoy nearby walking paths and sea air, though the landscape could be improved.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience Needed
Parking can be tough; arrive early or visit on a weekday.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Focus on Themistocles' impact, even if the site's upkeep varies.
🚶♂️ Explore the Area
Enjoy nearby walking paths and sea air, though the landscape could be improved.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors acknowledge the historical importance of the Tomb of Themistocles as the resting place of the 'Saviour of Greece,' Themistocles. However, many note that the site is not as well-maintained as expected for such a significant figure, with parking being a notable challenge. Despite these drawbacks, the historical connection and the surrounding sea air are appreciated.
"Themistocles (/θəˈmɪstəkliːz/; Ancient Greek: Θεμιστοκλῆς; c. 524 – c. 459 BC)[1][2] was an Athenian politician and general. He was one of a new breed of non-aristocratic politicians who rose to prominence in the early years of the Athenian democracy. As a politician, Themistocles was a populist, having the support of lower-class Athenians, and generally being at odds with the Athenian nobility. Elected archon in 493 BC, he convinced the polis to increase the naval power of Athens, a recurring theme in his political career. During the first Persian invasion of Greece, he fought at the Battle of Marathon[3] (490 BC), and may have been one of the ten Athenian strategoi (generals) in that battle."
Hailiang Lv
"I was surprised that such an important historical figure and the ‘Saviour of Greece’, this resting place is not well cared for.
Had it not been for Thermistocles, Piraeus Port may not be as big as it is now as he created the Greek Navy with 200 extra ships which repelled the second Persian invasion (in which he commanded the Navies at the battles of both Artemisium and Salamis), this turned the tide of the war and a year later the Persian King was defeated at Plataea.
I still enjoyed looking into Themistocles’s life and then visiting this place.
Parking is a little bit of a nightmare, so turn up early or go on a weekday."
John Barnard
"Great location. There is a separate place for running and cycling, walking paths and a cafe. The landscape can be improved. There are fishermen and adjacent sea air."
Pasha Glemba
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tomb of Themistocles is located in the Drapetsona area of Piraeus, Greece. While specific public transport routes directly to the tomb might be limited, you can reach Piraeus by metro or bus and then take a taxi or a local bus towards Drapetsona. Visitors have noted that parking can be a challenge, so consider arriving early or on a weekday.
Finding the tomb itself might require some navigation within the Drapetsona area. It's advisable to use a GPS or map application. The surrounding area offers walking paths and sea air, making the journey part of the experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding entry fees or ticketing for the Tomb of Themistocles is not widely available. It is generally considered an open historical site. However, it's always a good idea to check for any local advisories or potential small fees upon arrival, though many visitors treat it as a historical landmark to observe.
Specific opening hours for the Tomb of Themistocles are not consistently published. As it's an outdoor historical site, it's likely accessible during daylight hours. Visitors are advised to plan their visit during the day to best experience the location.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the historical significance of the site itself, believed to be the resting place of the influential Athenian general Themistocles. While some visitors note that the monument could be better preserved, the connection to ancient Greek naval history and the 'Saviour of Greece' is a powerful draw. +1
Reviews suggest that the Tomb of Themistocles is not as well-cared for as one might expect for such an important historical figure. While the municipality is urged to protect it, visitors appreciate the historical context despite the upkeep. +1
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the Tomb of Themistocles. Visitors often capture images to commemorate their visit to this historically significant site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the immediate vicinity of the tomb might not have many dining options, the broader Piraeus and Drapetsona areas offer various eateries. One TikTok video mentions a place called Bounty in Drapetsona, suggesting local food spots are available nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities at the Tomb of Themistocles involve capturing the historical monument itself and reflecting on its significance. Visitors can also frame shots with the sea air and surrounding landscape, though the landscape itself may be less manicured.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the parking challenges and the site's upkeep. It might be best to combine this visit with a more interactive historical site or a park where children can play afterward. The nearby sea air and walking paths offer a pleasant environment for a family stroll.
🏛️ History Buffs
While the physical monument may not be as grand as other ancient ruins, its historical significance is immense. Researching Themistocles' life and battles beforehand will greatly enhance the experience. Consider the context of his naval reforms and their impact on the subsequent development of Athens.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Themistocles
His influence extended beyond military matters; as an archon, he championed the growth of Athenian naval power, which laid the groundwork for Athens' future maritime dominance. Despite being a populist figure often at odds with the aristocracy, his contributions were instrumental in shaping the course of Greek civilization. The Tomb of Themistocles serves as a tangible link to this remarkable historical figure.
Visiting the tomb offers a chance to reflect on his profound impact. While some visitors note that the site's upkeep could be improved, the historical weight of the location remains undeniable. It's a place to connect with the 'Saviour of Greece' and understand his enduring legacy.
Navigating the Drapetsona Area
While the tomb itself may not be a grand structure, its historical importance is significant. The area is also noted for its fishermen and the general atmosphere of a working port town. For those interested in maritime history, the location provides a unique context, especially considering Themistocles' role in building the Greek navy.
Access to Drapetsona is typically via Piraeus. Parking is a recurring concern for visitors, so planning your arrival time is key. The area provides a glimpse into a less-touristed side of Athens' maritime heritage, offering a different perspective than the more central historical sites.
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