Marathon is a small Greek town in Attica, located at the foot of the mountain range Pentelikon, 32 km from Athens. According to one version, the name of the city derives from the name of grass "marathon", which means "dill", densely growing in these parts. The second version States that the area is named in honor of the hero of Marathon (Maragoni, a character from Greek mythology).

Marathon valley, in which lies the town, entered the world history of the famous battle of Marathon, which took place in 490 BC, Despite a significant numerical advantage of the Persians, the Greeks won. According to legend, after his victory in Athens was sent a messenger with good news. Athenian warrior covered the distance from Marathon to Athens without stopping, shouting "We won!" the warrior dropped dead. In his honor in the program of the first Olympic games in 1896 included a race at the long distance, which was called "marathon".

Near the battlefield was erected tumulus (domed tomb, necropolis in the form of the mound) for the 192 victims of the Athenians, preserved to our days. Today this historic tomb is decorated with a marble memorial stele. The mound is surrounded by a small Park.

Near the mound in 1970 it was discovered another burial, which is called the Hill plateau. They were the only allies of the Athenians at the battle of Marathon and buried under the hill. Nearby is the archaeological Museum, which presents interesting objects found on the battlefield, in the cave of pan and artifacts belonging to the Geroda Attica.

Next to Marathon valley is man-made lake Marathon, which was formed as a result of the structure of the dam. In the mid-20th century, this lake was the main source of water supply of Athens. In the lake is forbidden to swim and to fish.

5 kilometers, the sea coast is one of the best sandy beaches – Shines, surrounded by pine trees (pine). It is very popular among windsurfers.