Located in the heart of ancient civilization, Athens, the capital of Greece, calls to those of us who are looking to explore both the ancient and modern. From the iconic ruins of the Acropolis to the lively streets bustling with local life, Athens offers a blend of history, culture, and charm. Athens promises visitors an unforgettable journey filled with exploration, discovery, and a deep appreciation for the essence of Greek life.
Step Back into History
For many of us, Greece, and Specifically Athens, is a destination that transports us back in time. A city that not only provides us with tangible history in the form of statues, monuments, and temples that date back to antiquity, but concepts, technologies and ways of thinking that live in the present. Widely accepted as the birthplace of democracy, Athens has helped to shape many countries political affiliations and cultures. Even the ancient stone roads, some of which are still being used today, serve as a reminder of the intellectual enlightenment that existed at this time. Below we will look at a few of the most famous attractions that serve to highlight the ingenuity, beauty and pragmatism of the Greek and Athenian people.
The Acropolis might be Athen’s most famous tourist attraction, simply because it is the most visible, as it’s located in the heart of Athens atop a large hill that is around 500 ft tall. This historic landmark has been used to fulfil many purposes, such as a military stronghold, tourist attraction, temple and as a symbol of Athenian supremacy. This location may have served as the inspiration that allowed the Athenians to develop democracy, philosophy, freedom of expression and other ideals which many of the world’s countries utilize today. Considering that it almost 25 centuries old, many of its monuments have survived in some degree to the present day, which has allowed Athens to remain a top spot for those looking to explore the past. Athens and Greece have committed to the preservation of this site so that future generations are able to experience the wonder of the ancient world.
Sitting atop the Acropolis is the Parthenon, which was used as a temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena. The Greeks believed that their destinies were usually in the hands of multiple gods, so it would not be an uncommon sight to see monuments and statues dedicated to these deities. The Parthenon was originally built to replace two earlier temples. Constructed entirely of marble, it was considered an architectural marvel at the time. Although the temple looks white today, ancient texts indicate that it was previously painted with bright and vibrant colors. The temple would have been adorned with many sculptures and art, partially meant to show off the city’s power and wealth. The building has been damaged and partially rebuilt several times over the course of its long history, but still remains as a monument to Greek and Athenian values.
To say that the Greeks are athletes is an understatement. The Panathenaic Stadium is an example of how seriously the people of Greece took sport. Although the current stadium was built in 1896 for the first modern Olympic Games, the original stadium is thought to have been built in 330 BCE. It boasts of being the only stadium in the world made completely of marble. The Panathenaic games began around 566 BCE and were held every four years. It’s thought that the games were created to rival the Olympic Games held in Olympia. The stadium currently has a capacity of 50,000 but hosted 80,000 spectators during the first modern Olympics in 1896.
Athens Beach Bliss
If history is not the reason that you’ve come to Athens, perhaps it’s due to the many beautiful blue beaches that dot its coasts. Vouliagmeni Beach is the perfect place to unwind under an umbrella with a cold drink in your hand. A popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, it’s easily accessible by car or bus. Varkiza beach is also another popular spot, perfect for families with young children. It’s important to research the best beach spots, as some such as Vouliagmeni and Varkiza have mandatory entrance fees. This is one reason why these locations are preferred, as they are more well-maintained than some of the other beaches in the area.
Cuisine and Nightlife
Athens has a wide variety of cuisine, bars and restaurants so that you don’t have to go wanting for more gluttonous desires. Want to sit on a terrace and drink wine while viewing the Acropolis from afar? Then head over to Hytra where the views look like something out of a movie. Thousands of houses and buildings light up the surrounding area while you are treated to delicious food and fun. Perhaps you’d rather take advantage of your tropical locale, and head over to Island Athens Riviera. A perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, gazing over the azure waters and the many light specks that dot the coast. This article could be comprised entirely of restaurants and bars, but we leave those additional adventures to you and your sense of exploration!
Whether you’ve come to Athens for archaeological research, laying on the beach, or to simply wander, it’s beauty and history make it an impossible place to dislike. A welcoming spot for tourists and surprisingly affordable, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most visited places in the world. Perhaps it’s time to consider a vacation? Remember, you only live once!
