The renowned Greek philosopher who founded the Academy in Athens was Plato. Established around 387 BC, the Academy was one of the earliest institutions of higher learning in the Western world. It fostered philosophical debates, mathematics, and various subjects, contributing to the development of Western philosophy. Plato taught many influential students, including Aristotle, and his dialogues explored topics such as justice, beauty, and the nature of reality. The Academy persisted for several centuries, influencing generations of thinkers and playing a crucial role in the spread of philosophical and scientific knowledge in ancient Greece and beyond.