Areopagus (Areios Pagos)

This was a place in Athens. This name is the Latin form of the Greek word translated “Mars’ hill.” It also denotes the council or court of justice which met in the open air on the hill. The council was held on the southeast summit of a rocky height west of the Acropolis at Athens. The council was founded by Solon, and consisted of nine archons or chief magistrates who were then in office, and the ex-archons of blameless life.

On this hill of Mars (Greek: Ares), Paul delivered his memorable address to the “men of Athens” (Acts 17:22-31).

Ares, for whom the hill is named, was the Greek god of war. Mars was the Roman name for the same God.