Philosophical facilities in Late Antique Athens: toward an archaeological investigation

In Late Antique Athens philosophers were considered charismatic and spiritual persons, with an important social role. The venues where they used to meet and discuss must have reflected their leading position and prestige. But where these were? And how these were architecturally organized? This contribution aims to illustrate the venues (private and public) used by philosophers in Athens, starting from the early imperial period. The investigation is based on written sources (literary and epigraphic) attesting philosophers’ facilities and on the architectural analysis of the venues which are traditionally regarded as philosophers’ seats (Areopagus Houses; Proclus’ house; Palace of the Giants). Discussion is based on a critical approach to heterogeneous data.