Plato’s Symposium

An exploration of the mysteries of “Eros” through a modern “symposium”. This unique experience begins with a tour of the Lyceum of Aristotle, discovered in 1996 on the banks of the river Ilissus, made immortal by Socrates walking in the cool shade of the plane trees that grew on its shores. The Lyceum attracted many philosophers (Protagoras, Plato), but became famous when Aristotle established the Peripatetic school of philosophy. We will explore the gymnasium and wrestling area where Aristotle once established a library, a zoo and a botanical garden, with contributions by Alexander the Great. We will also discuss the influence of Aristotle’s work on modern science, philosophy, and political thought.   

After lunch, we will travel across modern Athens to the Digital & Interactive Museum of Plato in the Academy. This was the other seminal educational institution of classical Athens, a place where the great philosopher presented his theories and teachings to his students. Even though very little survives from the Academy’s original buildings, the spirit of Plato still defines the area.

The purpose of the Digital & Interactive Museum is to highlight the historical and intellectual significance of Plato’s works. Participants will be introduced to his allegories and his famous Dialogues and will come to understand why Plato is still one of the main topics taught in universities and schools all over the world. The program culminates in an unforgettable interactive performance by professional actors, inspired by one of Plato’s seminal works, the “Symposium”, where Socrates, Alcibiades, and Aristophanes take advantage of a banquet to deliver unforgettable speeches in honour of Eros, the god of love and desire.