The Arsenal of Philon

The Arsenal of Philon is one of the most magnificent public buildings of ancient Piraeus. It was designed by Philon Exikestidis during the time of the orator Lycurgus (346-328 BC), whereas according to other sources it is claimed that it was built during the time of Dimitrios Falireos. The building thanks to an inscription can be represented with great accuracy. The arsenal was mainly used as a warehouse for materials and instruments for the equipment of warships, as the equipment of war triremes was placed there for safekeeping during the winter season. The interior was divided into three compartments lengthwise, with two rows of columns. The lighting was achieved by the existence of 36 windows on each side of the building, while the entrance was sealed with two large copper doors. The Arsenal of Philon was completely destroyed by the Roman General Sulla in 86 BC. In 1988 and during construction work carried out at 170 Ypsilantou Street, the northern side of the arsenal was found by chance, while later another part of it was excavated and is today underneath the road surface of 2nd Merarchias Avenue. Today, only a very small part of the arsenal’s northern side and its entrance are visible.