Propylaea is the gate to the site. Propylaea was the physical division between the secular and spiritual parts of Athens. To reach the Propylaea, you must climb numerous steep steps, which were added to the original design in 52 AD by the Roman Emperor Claudius. In Greece’s more recent history, Propylaea has served as the palace of a Byzantine bishop, a Florentine palace, and the residence of a Turkish governor. Yet, rigorous restorations have ensured that Propylaea has regained its glory.