ATHENS

The Parthenon, pictured here, is near Mars’ Hill, where Paul preached his sermon on the “unknown god” (see Acts 17:15-34).

This photograph shows the ruins of the Parthenon in Athens. Athens was the ancient Greek capital of Attica and in New Testament times was in the Roman province of Achaia. It was named in honor of the pagan Greek goddess Athena. By New Testament times, Athens had lost much of its former greatness and glory, but still contained statues and monuments to many gods and goddesses, including the “unknown god” (Acts 17:23).

Significant Events:
The Apostle Paul visited the city and preached on Mars’ Hill, near the Parthenon (Acts 17:15-34). Missionaries were sent from Athens to other parts of Greece (1 Thes. 3:1-2). (See Bible Dictionary, “Athens.”)