- In Athens, the most important political body was the Assembly, which was made up of all male citizens over the age of 18. The Assembly met regularly to debate and vote on laws, declare war, and make other important decisions.
- Another important institution was the Council of Five Hundred, which was a group of citizens chosen by lot who prepared business for the Assembly and supervised the day-to-day running of the city-state.
- Finally, the Areopagus was a powerful court that handled cases of murder, treason, and other serious crimes.