The Gulf of Eleusis has historically been a cornerstone of the city’s prosperity, offering shelter from harsh weather and the tumultuous open sea for most of the year. The bay, spanning roughly 70 square kilometres, has an average depth of 18 metres, reaching up to 37 metres at its deepest. However, the natural coastline of Eleusis did not provide an ideal harbour, necessitating the construction of artificial moles by local authorities.
By the early 19th century, three breakwaters were noted by visitors to Eleusis, though in a largely dilapidated state. Of these, only one survives today, forming a semi-circular pier composed of large, rectangular, fine-cut white poros stones. Stretching about 80 metres from the shore, this quay is punctuated by small, square openings of 40 centimetres, facilitating the flow of seawater in and out of the harbour. Although its initial height remains unclear due to the loss of many rows of stones, the structure’s durability is evident, having withstood both natural elements and the human propensity for reusing building materials.
In antiquity, Eleusis’ port was a hub for the local community and fishermen, the latter exploiting the bay’s rich marine resources to provide fresh fish to Eleusis and nearby Athens. The harbour also served visitors to the sanctuary, even if religious customs mandated that mystai approach Eleusis via land during the monumental procession of the Greater Mysteries. Departures from Eleusis, however, were less restricted, with many foreign visitors likely opting for a sea route home. Notably, in 129 CE, Emperor Hadrian embarked from the port of Eleusis for Ephesus, bypassing Piraeus.
With the development of Eleusis in the 19th century, the ancient port continued to be utilised by small fishing vessels and sailboats. These boats facilitated the export of agricultural produce from the Thriasian Plain and products from local industries, as well as the import of machinery and raw materials. The increase in maritime traffic eventually led to the need for modernising the port facilities, resulting in the construction of a contemporary breakwater over the ancient mole. The remnants of the other two ancient breakwaters are now buried beneath current construction and port development activities.
