The dam was built between 1926 and 1929 to meet the increasing water
demands of the capital, following a significant influx of immigrants after the Asia
Minor War (1919-1922). It served as Athens’ primary water source until 1959,
when water began to be drawn from Iliki Lake near the town of Thebes.

At the time of its construction, the Marathon Dam was a major symbol of
modernization for Greece.
The lake seamlessly integrates with its natural environment, forming a
breathtaking landscape that motivates Athens residents to embark on weekend
excursions.
Above the dam, there is a coffee restaurant offering amazing views of the
scenery.

The lake is situated about a 10-minute drive from where the Marathon Battle took
place, signifying the connection of the future with the past and was built with
high-quality Pantelic marble, the same material that was used in the Parthenon.

The Athens Classic Marathon traces the route of the 1896 Olympic
course, starting in Marathon