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Acropolis means "high city" and the Acropolis of Athens is set atop a hill in Athens, Greece.

What does Acropolis mean?

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Acropolis means “high city.”

“Acro” comes from the Greek root akros, which means height or summit. “Polis” means city in Greek.

So an acropolis refers to an ancient Greek settlement, usually fortified, atop a hill or other elevated part of the landscape.

There were many acropolises in ancient Greece, but of course, the Acropolis of Athens is the most well known. In fact, when someone says “acropolis” today, they are typically referring to the Acropolis of Athens in Greece, home to the Parthenon.

Popular Options for Visiting the Acropolis of Athens 🏛️
— Acropolis timed-entry ticket with optional audio guide
— Combined pass for the Acropolis plus up to 5 other famous archaeological sites
— Acropolis Guided Tour (including the Parthenon)
— Guided tour of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, which houses significant artifacts

Planning a trip to the historic hilltop archaeological site? Bookmark our Acropolis Athens website for the complete rundown on visiting the Acropolis of Athens and the Acropolis Museum!

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