Archaeological Site of Abdera
Visitable part of the ancient city of Abdera, birthplace of Democritus, near the present harbour, with the “House of the Dolphins”.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Abdera was founded in the 7th century BC by Ionian settlers from Asia Minor. At first the city faced difficult climatic conditions and diseases from the surrounding marshes, but a century later it flourished thanks to agriculture, animal husbandry and fishing. Its name is linked with the philosopher Democritus and the sophist Protagoras.
The archaeological site covers about 3,000 stremmata and has revealed remains from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. The part visited by the public lies near the present harbour and includes the western section of the southern enclosure wall of the ancient city. Outstanding is the “House of the Dolphins”, named after the mosaic floor of its courtyard.
Highlights
- The ancient city of Democritus and Protagoras
- The “House of the Dolphins” with a mosaic floor in the courtyard
- Remains from the Archaic to the Roman period
- Archaeological Museum of Abdera in the modern settlement
Permanent exhibition
- Επισκέψιμο τμήμα της αρχαίας πόλης – Guided tour of the remains of the ancient city near the harbour, including the “House of the Dolphins”.
- Operated by
- Εφορεία Αρχαιοτήτων Ξάνθης (Υπουργείο Πολιτισμού)
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €5 |
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| Reduced | €3 |
Free admission: 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend of September, 28 October and the first and third Sunday of each month from 1 November to 31 March
Visitor categories with reduced or free admission are defined by the Ministry of Culture.
Accessibility
- Partially wheelchair accessible
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The site has designed access for visitors with disabilities. The archaeological site is open-air and has uneven ground.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
In the summer months bus services run from Xanthi; get off at the car park in front of the entrance.
By car
Parking available
By car, the site is 8 minutes from the modern settlement of Abdera and 25 minutes from Xanthi.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
On site there are toilets and a car park.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Good to know | The Archaeological Museum of Abdera in the village has a separate ticket and opening hours. |
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