Located near the Acropolis on Tripodon Street, the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates was erected by the choregos Lysicrates, a wealthy patron of musical performances at the Theater of Dionysus. According to the inscription carved on the monument’s epistylion, Lysicrates built the monument to commemorate the award of first prize in 335/334 B.C.
Circular in design, and anchored on a square podium of limestone, the centerpiece is surrounded by six elaborate, Corinthian-style columns made of white Pentelic marble.
Its frieze sculptures depict episodes from the myth of Dionysus, and it is crowned by a monolithic roof that supports the choragic tripod. This ancient monument, also called the “Lantern of Diogenes”, by contemporary Athenians, was arbitrarily enclosed by the nearby French Catholic Capuchin monastery during the 17th century, being used as a reading chamber and for storing books. In 1821, the convent was destroyed during the battles for independence. But the monument survived, and is considered by many to be the best preserved sample of an ancient choragic monument in existence. It now occupies the centre of Lysicratous square, evoking admiration from passers-by.
Source: www.athensattica.gr