One of the most fascinating landmarks in the Roman Agora is the Tower of the Winds, an ancient octagonal clocktower built in 50 BC by the astronomer Andronikos Kyrrhestas. This structure is considered the world’s first meteorological station, featuring sundials, a water clock, and wind indicators on each of its eight sides, each representing a different wind deity. Over the centuries, it has served as a clock tower, a church, and even a dervish lodge during Ottoman rule.

👉 Photography Tip: The Tower of the Winds looks stunning when lit by the golden hour sunlight.

An overlooked yet fascinating feature of the site is the Byzantine funerary decorations surrounding the Tower of the Winds. The tower was later used as a church, and the area around it became a Christian cemetery, with beautifully carved tombs and burial markers. Some of these remains were later relocated to this site from other parts of the city.

👉 Stand back and observe the tower’s intricate carvings representing each of the eight winds, a rare example of ancient scientific knowledge blending with art.