Stoa Basileios

The ruins of the Stoa Basileios on the Agora in Athens are unfortunately not very well maintained. The site can only be viewed from the fence on Adrianou Street and from the bridge at the entrance to the Agora. The ruins are poorly excavated and marked. Additionally, the subway line runs as an elevated track right through the ruins. As is often the case in Athens, even at historically significant sites, there is extensive graffiti left by disrespectful and small-minded individuals.
The Stoa Basileios played a significant role in the history of ancient Greece. The Archon basileus, one of the highest officials with crucial influence on Greek politics, had his office at this location. Laws of the land have supposedly been inscribed on stone tablets at the building since the constitution of Solon, ensuring all citizens could be aware of them. It is also highly likely that the trial against Socrates took place in this building. This politically motivated trial ended with the death penalty for Socrates.