Eleusis

Eleusis, known in Greek as Elefsína, is a town and municipality in West Attica, Greece. It lies about 18 kilometers northwest of central Athens, on the Cephissus river delta near the Saronic Gulf coast. The area forms part of the western edge of the Athens metropolitan region.

In antiquity, Eleusis was an important religious center in Attica. It is best known as the site of the Eleusinian Mysteries, an initiation cult devoted to Demeter and Persephone that drew participants from across the Greek world. The rites were held in sanctuaries surrounding the Telesterion, the great initiation hall, and they remained influential from the archaic period into late antiquity. The city also participated in the wider political and economic life of the region.

Archaeological remains at Eleusis include sanctuaries, votive offerings, and the Telesterion complex, which provide insight into ancient cult practices and architectural development. The ruins have been the subject of extensive excavations since the 19th century, contributing to our understanding of Attic religion and ritual.

Today, Elefsina is a municipality in the Attica region. The modern town preserves a coastal urban landscape with a port and light industry on the western outskirts of Athens. It remains a focal point for cultural institutions and heritage related to the Eleusinian legacy, including on-site archaeological preserves and museums that attract researchers and visitors.