What I can see

This hill may only be of 4.7 acres, but it is of great ecological importance for this densely built area of ​​Athens. It is an “island” for birdlife, but also for other species of animals, such as reptiles. The paved paths are surrounded by rich Mediterranean flora, mainly pine. In recent years, however, signs of abandonment are evident, especially after the fire at the historic Kapralos cafe (2024).

What I can't see

The name of the hill is due to possible existence of the sanctuary of Athena Hippias and Poseidon Hippios, protectors of horses. According to another version, it may come from the sacrifice of horses to these deities. Other -insufficiently documented- theories regarding antiquity, speak of the temple of the Erinyes, the tomb of Oedipus, Theseus, Peirithus and Adrastus and the existence of the statue of Colonus. The hill was overgrown with olive trees in antiquity, but it did not remain so forever. It was a “bald” hill for centuries. It was planted with trees at the beginning of the 20th century, when a series of decrees from 1901 to 1915 declared many areas and hills in Athens to be reforested.

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