Democracy Experiential Workshop Activity on Pnyx hill, Athens

Become a citizen of classical Athens at the archeological site of Pnyx Hill, the original location of the Athenian Public Assembly, with an amazing view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

Start with a brief introduction on the theme, given by your interpreter with the Socratic method, a shared dialogue between teacher and students.

Continue with a 300-meter uphill walk, leading you to the ancient vema—the stone platform where speakers once addressed the citizens of Athens. Upon arrival, you’ll settle in the nearest shaded area to take part in a dynamic role-play: a recreation of an ancient Assembly meeting. You’ll debate a case scenario, speak your mind, cast your vote, and even use a replica of an ancient water-timer just as they did in the classical era.

Next, experience the dramatic tradition of ostracism. Identify the “dangerous citizen”, inscribe their name on your ostracon, and symbolically exile them from the city. Each participant will carve and keep their ostracon as a unique commemorative piece.

To conclude the experience, enjoy a brief tour of the hill, followed by the Exploration Game — a fun team challenge (This game is available for groups of 4 or more.)

1. Pnyx

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This workshop is an outdoor experience therefore it requires good weather. In case it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be notified at least 3 hours ahead, and will be offered the option to choose between a different date, a similar workshop, or a full refund.
• Language is plain English. There will be no difficult words or terminology.
• There are no toilets or canteens on the hill - you may find one close to the meeting point.
• As this workshop takes place at a Historical site, involving Heritage and Cultural aspects, all participants are required to respect ethic, law and respectful conduct etiquette (soberness, cleanliness, photo/video shooting, dress-code, loudness etc) and be respectful and polite during the entire session. Our facilitator has the right to terminate your participation without any refund in case your behavior is disrespectful in regards to the place or the people.
• Suitable for adults and teenagers over 10 years old. Underaged participants CANNOT book alone, at least one adult should book too, who is also responsible to supervise them.
• Attending this workshop in public space means you consent to photo/video shooting which may occur within the course of this service, including the future publication of this material by us or the other participants. You may withdraw your consent at any time (before or after the workshop) by contacting us in writing. We shall not be held accountable for pictures and videos of you, taken by others during our services and for the use of such photo and video materials by those third parties.
• Facilitators/ Instructors are First Aid trained & certified, however, by law, they are not allowed to provide any medication, so please have your medication with you (especially for allergies, since you will be outdoors).
• There will be a 300m uphill walk in order for us to arrive at the Pnyx speaker’s platform, which could be physically demanding. Please ensure that you wear comfortable shoes and clothes and that are suitably fit to allow full participation.