Embark on a private tour from Athens to Eleusis, the birthplace of Western civilization. Explore ancient Greek culture and architecture, including the temple of Demeter and the Eleusinian Walls.
- Archaeological Site and Museum of Eleusis - The “Eleusiio” is the name of the archaeological site and museum in Eleusis. The site is noted for its ancient amphorae and important findings from the excavation. The site is located on the southern slope of the Asklepieion hill, in a region at Eleusis where Eumolpus founded his mysteres of Demeter and Kore, whose sanctuaries have been excavated west and east respectively. On the slope of this hill there is an extensive archaeological site which includes the remains of the sanctuary, as well as the ancient theater. The site is named for an ancient Greek poet who wrote in hexameter verses about Demeter and Persephone, and was said to have been buried here. - Kanellopoulou 1 - The Old Olive Oil factory of Elefsina was founded by the Lysandros and Emmanouil Charilaos brothers who arrived in Elefsina from Galatsi, Romania in 1867. The company was founded as a family business and still remains with the same family members. The company is notable for its production of extra virgin olive oil, though it also produces other oils, such as sesame, sunflower, and peanut oils. - The Ploutonion - The entrance to Hades, the Greek city of Ploutonion on the outskirts of Sparta, is an impressive structure built in the style of a Doric temple. The structure has two entrances: one which is the only one open to visitors and the other which is left propped open with a skull. The Greeks believed that if they closed it and stopped using it, Ploutonion would be destroyed by demons. Today, this entrance is blocked by a large rock. - Sanctuary of Demeter (Thesmophorion) - Demeter is a goddess in Greek mythology, daughter of the Titans Rhea and Cronus. Her Roman counterpart is called Ceres. She was a goddess of agriculture, grain crops and fertility whose chief temple stood on the island of Eleusis near Athens. She was also worshiped as a protector of children, which led her to be identified with the Roman goddess of children, Bona Dea. - The Kallichoron Well - The Well of Demeter, a mysterious deep well in the western part of ancient Greek site Eleusis near Athens, is associated with the origins of many traditions. There are no reliable records that discuss the origins of the well, but it is believed that an Arcadian peasant discovered water at a depth of about 70 meters in or near Eleusis in the 5th century BC. From then on, a mystery cult called “the Mysteries of Demeter and Persephone” was established there. It’s unclear whether this discovery was accidental or purposefully designed to be found. The well gained importance as the location of the Eleusinian Mysteries, which were founded in around 535 BC. - Holy Church of Panagitsa Mesosporitissa - At the top of the Archaeological site of Elefsina, above the coffin where the Eleusinian Mysteries took place, now every year on the day of the Entrance, this wonderful church operates, honoring the middle of the sowing and the abundance of the fruits of the earth. Wonderful view of the whole city, the bay of Elefsina and Salamina opposite, you can visit it only if you get a ticket for the archeological site and the Museum, which is included.
- 5-hour access to a luxury vehicle with a private driver
- Included tickets to the historic site of Eleusis
- All taxes covered
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off service
- Personalized tour with a private official guide for 5 hours
- Food and Drinks
- Other Entrance Tickets that were not included in the itinery
Your personal drive and tour guide will collect you from your Athens accommodation for this exclusive excursion.
During this journey, you’ll gain insights into the spiritual and cultural significance of Eleusis, a historical site featuring well-preserved vestiges of notable Greek architectural works, including the famed Demeter shrine. You’ll also see a quaint chapel and ruins of olden residences.
Known as the cradle of Western civilization, Eleusis served as a spiritual and knowledge hub. This locale was historically the most sacred area for the Eleusinian Mysteries, a religious practice involving confidential rituals honoring Demeter and Persephone, goddesses linked to harvest and maternal affection.
Eleusis is also renowned for its Eleusinian Walls, a chain of defenses that were set up around Athens circa 180 BC with the aim of safeguarding Eleusis against Spartan assailants.
After Eleusis, you’ll tour the adjacent archaeological museum before returning to Athens.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
