Explore Hadrian’s Library, built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 131-132 A.D. Once a vibrant hub of learning and culture, it now stands as a testament to Rome's architectural and cultural influence in ancient Greece.
- Admire the impressive Corinthian columns and monumental gateway at this historic site.
- Discover the library’s role as a cultural hub for reading, lectures, and worship in Athenian society.
- Explore the remains of various churches, including a Byzantine church from the 11th century.
- Imagine the grandeur of the library’s interior courtyard, once adorned with marble columns and intricate paintings.
- Hadrian's Library Skip-the-Ticket-Line Ticket
Timed entry tickets are required for all visitors
We would like to inform you that from April 1st 2024, entry is only possible during the selected time slot. The ticket is valid from 15 min. before to 15 min. after the selected time slot. For example, if your time slot is 12:00, you can enter anytime between 12:00 and 13:00. We recommend arriving 30 minutes before your selected time slot to ensure a smooth entry process.
Regarding the Athens Saver Combo ticket, the mandatory selection of the date and time of visit only applies to the Acropolis & Slopes. Within 5 days you can visit the rest of the Archaeological Sites.
Hours
From 1st of April until 31 of August 08:00 - 20:00
Last entrance to the Site at 19:30
On the 1st of September the opening hours apply, due to a gradual reduction in the length of the day, as follows:
1st to 15th September 08:00 - 19:30
Last entrance to the Site at 19:00
16th to 30th September 08:00 - 19:00
Last entrance to the Site at 18:30
1st to 15th October 08:00 - 18:30
Last entrance to the Site at 18:00 and
16th to 31st October 08:00 - 18:00
Last entrance to the Site at 17:30
Location
The archaeological site to be visited is delimited by the following streets:
In the North, by the Pandrosou street.
In the West, by the Areos street where the main entrance of the site is located.
In the South, by Dexippou street where the entrance with immobility affairs is located.
In the East, by Aiolou street.
Information for Disabled Persons
The Archaeological Site of the Library of Hadrian is only partially wheelchair accessible through the lateral entrance, at Dexippou street [assistance by a companion is advisable and after communication with the chief guards in 210-3210180].
- Non-refundable
Hadrian's Library, built during Emperor Hadrian's third visit in 131-132 A.D., is a stunning relic of ancient Athens. Designed like a Roman forum, it was more than a library; it served as a center for art, culture, and civic activities. The large rectangular structure featured an open courtyard surrounded by stoas with towering Phrygian marble columns and a grand entrance marked by a propylon with Corinthian columns. Inside, the library housed books and scrolls, and also hosted public lectures and art exhibitions.
Although damaged in the 267 A.D. Herulian invasion, the library was later restored in the 5th century. Today, visitors can see remnants of Byzantine churches and wall paintings, showcasing the site’s rich historical layers and its lasting influence on Athens.