Athens Greece

From LoveToKnow Travel
Athens Greece, called the “birthplace of western civilization,” is a city of contrasts. Classical, Byzantine, and modern history thrive side-by-side as this bustling city goes about its daily life. A classic Ionic column might be implausibly be set in the median of a busy thoroughfare, the road built around it. A small Byzantine church sits beside a multi-story office building, and from all over Athens, one is rewarded with awe-inspiring glimpses of the Acropolis and its beautiful, stone architecture. Athens is a fascinating city. Here’s a sampling of the sights you’ll want to visit there:

The Acropolis and The Parthenon

The symbol of Greece and of the Greek Empire, the Acropolis is home to The Parthenon, the Temple of Athena, and a wonderful museum. At the foot of this mount lies the classical theater of Dionysus, amazingly preserved. The buildings on the Acropolis are a mixture of classical, Roman, and Pre-Persian architecture and history.

The Parthenon, the centerpiece of the Acropolis, was built in 438 B.C. Recently restored, this stone temple is breathtakingly beautiful. A museum on the hill, adjacent to the Parthenon, houses marble carvings, statues, and other artifacts from the area.

The Parthenon

Athens Greece: the Plaka

The Plaka, just south of Syntagma Square is Athens’ evening entertainment district. Its curving, cobblestone streets are filled with small restaurants called tavernas, most of them offering live entertainment. There is a delightful aroma of grilled lamb and chicken combined with the strains of lilting, traditional Greek music throughout this neighborhood. Meals are generally very affordable.

National Archeological Museum

In a setting such as Athens, you expect a lot from a National Archeological Museum. This treasure trove of a museum does not disappoint. Opened in 1889, this neo-classical building houses an impressive collection of classical Greek artifacts as well as those from Neolithic to Roman times. Items are not well lit or well marked, but the sheer majesty of the craftsmanship displayed here more than overcomes this oversight.

Syntagma Square

The Royal Guards in front of the Palace

The center of Athens, Syntagma (or Constitution) Square is lined with luxury hotels, including the classic Grande Bretagne. With a park in the middle, Syntagma Square is a meeting place for Athenians and tourists alike. Sidewalk cafes beckon weary workers and travelers to sip a cup of strong Greek coffee as they watch the people go by. To the eastern side of the square is the 19th century, neo-classical Royal Palace and its adjacent, lovely Royal Gardens, guarded by the elaborately dressed Royal Guards.

Monastiraki

This lively quarter, just west of Syntagma Square, is home to the daily flea market. Here, vendors haggle with passersby over the price of rugs, copperware, jewelry, and antiques. Fascinating people watching and interesting treasures are found here. Also in the Monastiraki neighborhood is the tiny Byzantine chapel of Kapnikarea, which stands in the middle of the street, the road having been built around it.

Athens Greece: the Central Market

To me, nothing tells more about a society than its food markets. Athens is no different. The central market complex is comprised of a long, narrow meat market, separate produce market, and dozens of surrounding shops selling everything from spices to cookware. Unusual produce, pottery, and spices are sure to delight.

Lycabettus Hill

Towering over Athens Greece, Lycabettus Hill offers a spectacular view of Athens, the Acropolis, and, on a clear day, the Aegean Sea. Reached by foot or by funicular, Lycabettus Hill will reward your journey with a stunning sunset view. A snack bar and picnic benches are available at the top for visitors to rest and relax.

Olympic Stadium

This U-shaped stadium was the centerpiece of the first modern Olympic games, held in Athens in 1896. This carefully restored stadium, dating from 144 B.C., is used today for sporting events and concerts. It will be featured again in the upcoming Athens Olympics. Seating up to 60,000 spectators, the stadium is just a short walk from Syntagma Square.

Piraeus

Piraeus, the seaport of Athens, is just 30 minutes away from Syntagma Square. Here, cruise ships dock, ferryboats depart for the many Greek islands, and fishermen ply their trade. Watch the beautiful sunset and dine on fresh seafood at one of the many dockside restaurants here.

Delphi

The Temple at Delphi

Just an hour’s drive outside of Athens is the ruin of the fabled oracle at Delphi. The temple at Delphi was home to the Pythian priestesses who prophesized the future there. Today, Delphi is a stunning mix of classical architecture and scenic beauty. It is well worth the drive.


 


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