Hadrian's Library

The Library of Hadrian, in Athens

The Library of Hadrian is a vast ancient building given to Athens by the Roman emperor Hadrian. The Athens audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this site, which was much more than a library, near Monastiraki.

The gift of emperor Hadrian

The Library of Hadrian was erected in the second century by the Roman emperor Hadrian, a great benefactor of Athens. More than a simple library, this vast complex included a columned courtyard, reading rooms, spaces for the conservation of scrolls and places for walking and studying. There remain today fine vestiges, including part of the façade and the colonnade, near Monastiraki.

What to see

Here you discover the vestiges of the façade, the colonnade and the courtyard of the Library of Hadrian, a vast complex given to Athens by the emperor. The site illustrates the Roman golden age of the city. It is a stop for lovers of ancient history, near Monastiraki and the Roman Agora.

Practical information

The Library of Hadrian lies near Monastiraki, in the heart of Athens, reachable on foot. The visit has a fee and follows its own hours, which vary with the season; the vestiges can be partly glimpsed from the outside. It is best to check the arrangements before coming.

Who had the Library of Hadrian built?

The Roman emperor Hadrian, in the second century; this vast complex included, beyond the library, courtyards, rooms and places of study.

Where is the Library of Hadrian?

Near Monastiraki, in the heart of Athens.