An Ancient Shopping Center

The Athenian Agora

By (author) Dorothy B. Thompson

Book cover: An Ancient Shopping Center

Extent: 32, 32 pages

Publisher: American School of Classical Studies at Athens

Subjects: Classical Studies, Mediterranean Archaeology

Series: Agora Picture Book

Series volume number: 12

Language: English

(Paperback) (Published)

(November 1993)

ISBN: 9780876616352

5.47 x 8.46 inches

Price: $4.95

Out of stock

Primarily a political centre, the Agora was also the focus of a varied commercial life. This booklet illustrates the evidence for such diverse trades as shoe-making, fish mongering, weaving and the manufacture of perfumes. Vivid illustrations and useful resources, such as a table of prices and coinage, bring the bustling marketplace


As well as being a political center, the Agora was the focus of a noisy and varied commercial life. This booklet illustrates the archaeological, documentary, and pictorial evidence for such diverse trades as shoe-making, fishmongering, weaving, and the manufacture of luxury goods and perfumes. Shopping was just one aspect of this public space: ancient Athenians would also have received medical treatment, been married and buried, made sacrifices, and received education in the Agora. The material remains from all of these activities are also discussed. Vivid illustrations and useful resources, such as a table of prices and coinage, bring the bustling marketplace to life.

  • By (author) Dorothy B. Thompson