Excavation of ancient market in Athens

Archaeologists have discovered a large area believed to be a market with religious shops and centers on the southern edge of Athens, dating back to the 4th century BC.

"It is a very large population. It can be a busy market with lots of trading activities and religions every day."

In ancient Greece, the market was a financial, political and social center, with lots of stalls and administrative buildings. Archaeologists believe that the complex belongs to the autonomous city of Halai Aexonides, one of the most densely populated areas around ancient Athens.

The main building is a square with a space in the middle of a natural lake made of stone. The building has 12 rooms, probably shops, and a small temple with open-air altars.

There are also lots of pottery, coins, lead balance used in trade.

Ancient market area in Athens. (Photo: AP)

MT