On the occasion of the construction of the New Acropolis Museum, an extensive archaeological excavation was conducted on the intended site, known as the Makrygiannis plot This dig revealed an ancient neighbourhood with a history of continuous habitation from prehistoric times through the Byzantine era. This significant residential area, situated near the Acropolis on its southern slopes, boasts an amphitheatre-like setting with views of the lush Ilissos River fields. The antiquities unearthed during the construction of the Acropolis Metro station belong to the same ancient settlement.

During the Late Neolithic period (3500-3100 BCE), the area saw its initial settlements, forming the earliest residential cores. The Makriyannis plot excavations exposed evidence of the site’s constant use over the centuries for dwelling, production, and burial purposes. Progressing to the Classical era, particularly during the Peloponnesian War, the area’s urban expansion began. Houses from this period, like the notable House Θ, were uncovered, revealing an andron (banquet hall) complete with a mosaic floor, still preserved today. Construction in the area continued without interruption in subsequent years, with houses undergoing repairs and alterations, the development of a comprehensive street network, and the establishment of artisanal zones, adapting to shifting social, political, and economic circumstances.

The successive building phases in the Makriyannis plot area were primarily affected by late antiquity habitation, with remnants now visible beneath the modern structure of the Acropolis Museum. Given the complex network of architectural remains – encompassing houses, streets, workshops (including pottery, sculpture, marble work, metallurgy), baths, and latrines – this prominent ancient Athenian neighbourhood offers a rich archaeological tapestry. One of the most significant building complexes from this area, now integrated into the museum’s architecture and accessible for public viewing, is highlighted below.

House Z is one of the most striking and opulent edifices uncovered, visible today beneath the Museum’s glass-floored courtyard. This grand residence, established around the mid-5th century CE, features multiple levels of rooms encircling a peristyle courtyard. Reconstruction estimates suggest it covered an impressive 3700 m². Two triclinia (reception and dining rooms), a nymphaeum (an ornate marble fountain), storage areas, a kitchen, baths, and three courtyards were identified. The rooms display remarkable luxury, with mosaic floors, marble-lined walls, and decorations featuring earlier period marble sculptures. Scholars believe this elaborate complex likely served public functions and belonged to a wealthy, prominent citizen, possibly connected to the central administration. This connection is hinted at by two portraits of imperial court women found near the main entrance, one believed to portray Eudocia, wife of Emperor Theodosius II.

In the 6th century CE, a new wing, designated as Building E, was added to the east of this dominant structure, encompassing several rooms. This two-storied wing features a large arched reception hall at its ground level that communicates with a triconch, potentially used as a triclinium or a private worship space for the host’s close associates or friends. To the west of this hall is a sizable circular area, identified as a tower. The tower’s robust walls suggest significant height, and its internal circular structure is a later addition. Today, many museum visitors toss coins into this space, mimicking the coin-throwing tradition of Rome’s Fontana di Trevi, as the impressive remnants are visible from above in the museum courtyard. With the addition of Building E, the total area of the complex Z expanded to 5.000 m², indicating the owner’s substantial wealth and high social standing.

At the end of the 6th century, part of House Z was damaged by fire and subsequently abandoned, along with other neighbouring buildings. In their place, workshops emerged, operating until at least the 8th century and transforming the area’s character. By the 11th century, with Athens’ growing population, the site saw the emergence of simple houses and pottery workshops. These new structures were built atop older walls and utilised building materials from the previous buildings. During the 13th century, the area experienced a decline as it lay outside ‘Rizokastro’, the city’s fortification, and was repurposed for agricultural use. Following the establishment of the Greek state, General Ioannis Makrygiannis acquired land in this region, which later became known by his name.