food
Kastella
Karamanlidika - Τα Καραμανλίδικα του Φάνη
52 SokratousPlaka
24 MnisikleousPsyri
MiaouliThiseio
Keratsini Sea Food Market
IrakleousLithos Tavern
17 EsopouArchaeological sites - sights
The Museum of Cycladic Art is a museum of Athens. It houses a notable collection of artifacts of Cycladic art.
The museum was founded in 1986 in order to house the collection of Cycladic and Ancient Greek art belonging to Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris. Starting in the early 1960s, the couple collected Greek antiquities, with special interest in the prehistoric art from the Cyclades islands of the Aegean Sea. The Museum's main building, erected in the centre of Athens in 1985, was designed by the Greek architect Ioannis Vikelas. In 1991, the Museum acquired a new wing, the neo-classical Stathatos Mansion at the corner of Vassilissis Sofias Avenue and Herodotou Street.
Cycladic figure
The museum has housed temporary exhibitions of some of the most important Greek and international modern and contemporary artists.
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Museum for Kykladisk Kunst
4 Neofitou DoukaThe Museum of Cycladic Art is a museum of Athens. It houses a notable collection of artifacts of Cycladic art.
The museum was founded in 1986 in order to house the collection of Cycladic and Ancient Greek art belonging to Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris. Starting in the early 1960s, the couple collected Greek antiquities, with special interest in the prehistoric art from the Cyclades islands of the Aegean Sea. The Museum's main building, erected in the centre of Athens in 1985, was designed by the Greek architect Ioannis Vikelas. In 1991, the Museum acquired a new wing, the neo-classical Stathatos Mansion at the corner of Vassilissis Sofias Avenue and Herodotou Street.
Cycladic figure
The museum has housed temporary exhibitions of some of the most important Greek and international modern and contemporary artists.
Agrotera (Gr. Ἀγροτέρα, "the huntress") was an epithet of the Greek goddess Artemis, and the most important goddess to Attic hunters.
At Agrae on the Ilissos, where she was believed to have first hunted after her arrival from Delos, Artemis Agrotera had a temple, dating to the 5th century BC, with a statue carrying a bow. During the Boedromia, on the seventh day of Boedromion (roughly, the beginning of September), an armed procession would take 600 goats to this temple, where they would all be sacrificed by the polemarch in honor of the victory at the Battle of Marathon. This rite derived from a vow made before the Battle of Marathon, which in turn derived from the custom of making a "slaughter sacrifice", or sphagion (σφάγιον), to Artemis Agrotera before a battle. The temple was destroyed in 1778, when the Ottoman forces occupying Athens set about demolishing ancient sites for building material to construct a wall around the city. The ruins of the temple survive today on Ardettou Street, tightly surrounded by modern buildings. There is an ongoing campaign for the expropriation of adjacent buildings and the restoration of the temple.
Under this name Agrotera was also worshiped at Aigeira,[12] Sparta, and elsewhere. The name Agrotera is synonymous with the epithet Agraea, but Eustathius derives it from the town of Agrae.
The epithet Agrotera was also sometimes applied to the nymph Cyrene.
Temple Artemis Agrotera
24 ArdittouAgrotera (Gr. Ἀγροτέρα, "the huntress") was an epithet of the Greek goddess Artemis, and the most important goddess to Attic hunters.
At Agrae on the Ilissos, where she was believed to have first hunted after her arrival from Delos, Artemis Agrotera had a temple, dating to the 5th century BC, with a statue carrying a bow. During the Boedromia, on the seventh day of Boedromion (roughly, the beginning of September), an armed procession would take 600 goats to this temple, where they would all be sacrificed by the polemarch in honor of the victory at the Battle of Marathon. This rite derived from a vow made before the Battle of Marathon, which in turn derived from the custom of making a "slaughter sacrifice", or sphagion (σφάγιον), to Artemis Agrotera before a battle. The temple was destroyed in 1778, when the Ottoman forces occupying Athens set about demolishing ancient sites for building material to construct a wall around the city. The ruins of the temple survive today on Ardettou Street, tightly surrounded by modern buildings. There is an ongoing campaign for the expropriation of adjacent buildings and the restoration of the temple.
Under this name Agrotera was also worshiped at Aigeira,[12] Sparta, and elsewhere. The name Agrotera is synonymous with the epithet Agraea, but Eustathius derives it from the town of Agrae.
The epithet Agrotera was also sometimes applied to the nymph Cyrene.
Monastiraki (Greek: Μοναστηράκι, pronounced [monastiˈraci], literally little monastery) is a flea market neighborhood in the old town of Athens, Greece, and is one of the principal shopping districts in Athens. The area is home to clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores, and is a major tourist attraction in Athens and Attica for bargain shopping. The area is named after Monastiraki Square, which in turn is named for the Church of the Pantanassa that is located within the square. The main streets of this area are Pandrossou Street and Adrianou Street.
The Monastiraki Metro Station, located on the square, serves both Line 1 and Line 3 of the Athens Metro.
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Monastiraki-pladsen
21 ApollonosMonastiraki (Greek: Μοναστηράκι, pronounced [monastiˈraci], literally little monastery) is a flea market neighborhood in the old town of Athens, Greece, and is one of the principal shopping districts in Athens. The area is home to clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores, and is a major tourist attraction in Athens and Attica for bargain shopping. The area is named after Monastiraki Square, which in turn is named for the Church of the Pantanassa that is located within the square. The main streets of this area are Pandrossou Street and Adrianou Street.
The Monastiraki Metro Station, located on the square, serves both Line 1 and Line 3 of the Athens Metro.
Kerameikos (Greek: Κεραμεικός, pronounced [ce.ɾa.miˈkos]) also known by its Latinized form Ceramicus, is an area of Athens, Greece, located to the northwest of the Acropolis, which includes an extensive area both within and outside the ancient city walls, on both sides of the Dipylon (Δίπυλον) Gate and by the banks of the Eridanos River. It was the potters' quarter of the city, from which the English word "ceramic" is derived, and was also the site of an important cemetery and numerous funerary sculptures erected along the road out of the city towards Eleusis.
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Keramikos Archaeological Site
148 ErmouKerameikos (Greek: Κεραμεικός, pronounced [ce.ɾa.miˈkos]) also known by its Latinized form Ceramicus, is an area of Athens, Greece, located to the northwest of the Acropolis, which includes an extensive area both within and outside the ancient city walls, on both sides of the Dipylon (Δίπυλον) Gate and by the banks of the Eridanos River. It was the potters' quarter of the city, from which the English word "ceramic" is derived, and was also the site of an important cemetery and numerous funerary sculptures erected along the road out of the city towards Eleusis.
There are three Agoras in downtown Athens. One is the Ancient Agora where the Thission building is, below the Acropolis and the hill of Areospagos. Then there is the Roman Agora near the Tower of the winds in the Plaka. Both have been closed for centuries though tourists can pay an admission fee and walk the ancient streets where Socrates and Plato used to walk, and see remnants of the ancient stoas, buildings and statues. But the Agora on Athinas Street, otherwise known as the Athens Dimotiki Agora (Public Market) or Varvakios Agora is my favorite of the three and even when I am not shopping (how much meat and fish can you cook when you live in a hotel room?) I seem to get energized walking around. To me the Varvakios Market is the most exciting place in Athens and I can't recall a trip to Greece that I did not take a walk through the covered streets.
Athens MarketIf you are coming from the Monastiraki Flea Market and continue from Monastiraki Square down Athinas street towards Omonia you will pass the Hotel Attalos on your left and a block later the Hotel Cecil. When you get to Evripidou street you will find yourself at the Agora, Athens Public Market, bordered by Athinas, Evripidou, Eolou and Sofokleous Streets. Morning is the best time to be here. It's often a mob scene but lots of fun and a reminder that the true wonders of Athens may not be in the dead past but in the very alive present. Some of the butchers come from generations of butchers who have had stalls in the market for a century. In the last few years the EU has made the market comply with their standards and now meat is kept cool in refrigerators and the whole market got a facelift. But the atmosphere is still the same and the experience is certainly what shopping was meant to be.
Athens fish marketThe Fish market is my favorite part. Wear shoes, not flip-flops. The ground is kind of wet and fishy. Wander around and look at all the fish, some fresh, some frozen, and listen to the voices of the merchants as they call out their prices. For some reason the pigs feet are in with the fish and I have not understood that but if its OK with the fish then it is OK with me. Any fish you can find in the Aegean and even some imported from as far away as China, Portugal and North Africa are here. You will know what fish are in season and what to order in the restaurants after a short walk through the fish market because those will be the fish that there will be the most of and will drop in price as the day gets later. I guarantee you will be impressed by some of the creatures of the deep on display. You will also be surprised at the variety and the noise. Fish venders know how to shout. I often see the owners of restaurants I go to, shopping for the freshest fish.
Athens meat marketSurrounding the fish market on three sides is the meat market and across the street are the fruits and vegetables. The weirdest animals are found in the meat section closest to Omonia, though this depends on the season. I have seen giant woolly animals that looked like either a giant wild boar or a mastodon. But mostly you will see the kind of meat that you will recognize from your shopping at home, only bigger parts and probably a lot healthier then the meat you get. Like in the fish market there are signs that tell you what kind of animal it is and where it comes from. Mostly you will see beef, pork, lamb, goat, chickens and an occasional rabbit, plus entire tables with organ meats like livers and kidneys and the intestines and other ingredients for making patsa and mageritsa.
Olive shop in the Athens marketCheck out the stores that sell olives. It's OK to sample. Find a type you can't live without and buy a kilo to keep with you on your journey. I like the big ones from Agrinion. My wife likes the shriveled oil-cured type. Taste them all. If you love olives this is your special heaven. You can buy a half kilo and take them back to your room to have as a snack or on the rooftop bar with your evening ouzo as you watch the lights brighten the Acropolis. There are also spice shops, cheese shops, canned goods, dry goods, live chickens, you name it. If you want to be creative with your shopping for gifts to bring back to family and friends, look around here. I usually bring back around ten giant cans of Mytilini sardines to go with my ouzo. This last time I brought back two big pickled fish called skoumbri (mackerel). Its probably not legal but if you get caught what are they going to do besides take it away? Anyway while homeland security is focused on terrorism people like you and I can smuggle in a skoumbri or two. Tour An Olive Shop
Ipirus restaurant, Athens marketIf you are hungry visit the two working class restaurants in the meat market and the secret underground restaurant at the bottom of the vegetable market by the olive shops where wine appears on the table whether you ask for it or not and the menu is in the guys head or you order by pointing on whats on the next table. There are several restaurants and fast food places in and around the market including some old ouzerie-cafeneons and an old Rembetiko cafe called The Stoa Athanaton where you can see Rembetika legends at their afternoon matinees or at night. The restaurants within the meat market are inexpensive and though you may be a little intimidated by the lack of a touristy atmosphere you will feel at ease when you are eating your roast lamb and potatoes, fricasse, bean soup, or a podi, the soup made from the foot of a cow which actually contains a foot of a cow. I go to Eiprus restaurant, sometimes even for breakfast. Nope you can't get eggs-over-easy or any eggs at all but you would be surprised how good a bowl of fish soup tastes early in the morning. Don't forget to try the Patsa a cure for hangovers, indigestion, bad blood or eating. Right around the corner is Papandreou which like Epirus has been open for decades or more. In both restaurants you point at what you want and it comes to the table. T here are also a couple of very good souvlaki shops right on Athinas.
Athens Fruit and Vegetable MarketAcross the street from the fish and meat market is the fruit and vegetable market where you will find the biggest lemons, peaches and some of the most colorful fruit you will ever have seen. There are also Russians and Greeks who have returned from the former eastern block countries selling cigarettes, tissue paper, lighters and just about anything. There is a Polish food shop, like a deli on the right hand side as you walk towards Sokratous Street. You will also pass shops that sell nothing but eggs, or feta cheese and some shops that have smoked meats and sausages. There are also people from the villages who don't have stalls, just sitting on a box, selling wild herbs, or wild greens from the mountains, or garlic. At the bottom of the fruit and vegetable market is the beginning of Athens' China town which is also India town, Pakistani town and also the Arabic section of the city. If you are a big goofy American in Bermuda shorts and a camera that looks like the caricature of a tourist you may feel a little uncomfortable wandering around these back streets though the dangers are few and don't have anything to do with being kidnapped, murdered or worse.
Evripidon Street, AthensEvripidou Street is one of the most interesting and diverse shopping streets in Athens. There are plant and seed stores, the excellent herb and spice stores including the popular Elixer, where you can find herbs you have never even heard of as well as spatholatho, the oil the ancient Greek soldiers used to use to heal their wounds. Next door is Arapian, a Armenian butcher that specializes in sausages, pastourma and souzouk among other things. Buy their spiciest souzouk and take it home. They will vacuum pack it for your trip. There are many ethnic stores and barbershops, that cater to their clientele from the east. There are Indian restaurants and the famous Telis, which serves only grilled pork-chops, fried potatoes and salad. If you go back and cross Athinas Street and you continue past the side entrance of the meat market you will come to Eolou Street which is one of Athens' primary pedestrian shopping streets which can lead you to Omonia Square and all the way to the National Museum or back towards the Plaka, Monastiraki and the Acropolis. Going up Evripdou Street away from Athinas Street will take you to Klathmanos Square where you can go up Stadiou street to Syntagma.
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Central Municipal Athens Market
AthinasThere are three Agoras in downtown Athens. One is the Ancient Agora where the Thission building is, below the Acropolis and the hill of Areospagos. Then there is the Roman Agora near the Tower of the winds in the Plaka. Both have been closed for centuries though tourists can pay an admission fee and walk the ancient streets where Socrates and Plato used to walk, and see remnants of the ancient stoas, buildings and statues. But the Agora on Athinas Street, otherwise known as the Athens Dimotiki Agora (Public Market) or Varvakios Agora is my favorite of the three and even when I am not shopping (how much meat and fish can you cook when you live in a hotel room?) I seem to get energized walking around. To me the Varvakios Market is the most exciting place in Athens and I can't recall a trip to Greece that I did not take a walk through the covered streets.
Athens MarketIf you are coming from the Monastiraki Flea Market and continue from Monastiraki Square down Athinas street towards Omonia you will pass the Hotel Attalos on your left and a block later the Hotel Cecil. When you get to Evripidou street you will find yourself at the Agora, Athens Public Market, bordered by Athinas, Evripidou, Eolou and Sofokleous Streets. Morning is the best time to be here. It's often a mob scene but lots of fun and a reminder that the true wonders of Athens may not be in the dead past but in the very alive present. Some of the butchers come from generations of butchers who have had stalls in the market for a century. In the last few years the EU has made the market comply with their standards and now meat is kept cool in refrigerators and the whole market got a facelift. But the atmosphere is still the same and the experience is certainly what shopping was meant to be.
Athens fish marketThe Fish market is my favorite part. Wear shoes, not flip-flops. The ground is kind of wet and fishy. Wander around and look at all the fish, some fresh, some frozen, and listen to the voices of the merchants as they call out their prices. For some reason the pigs feet are in with the fish and I have not understood that but if its OK with the fish then it is OK with me. Any fish you can find in the Aegean and even some imported from as far away as China, Portugal and North Africa are here. You will know what fish are in season and what to order in the restaurants after a short walk through the fish market because those will be the fish that there will be the most of and will drop in price as the day gets later. I guarantee you will be impressed by some of the creatures of the deep on display. You will also be surprised at the variety and the noise. Fish venders know how to shout. I often see the owners of restaurants I go to, shopping for the freshest fish.
Athens meat marketSurrounding the fish market on three sides is the meat market and across the street are the fruits and vegetables. The weirdest animals are found in the meat section closest to Omonia, though this depends on the season. I have seen giant woolly animals that looked like either a giant wild boar or a mastodon. But mostly you will see the kind of meat that you will recognize from your shopping at home, only bigger parts and probably a lot healthier then the meat you get. Like in the fish market there are signs that tell you what kind of animal it is and where it comes from. Mostly you will see beef, pork, lamb, goat, chickens and an occasional rabbit, plus entire tables with organ meats like livers and kidneys and the intestines and other ingredients for making patsa and mageritsa.
Olive shop in the Athens marketCheck out the stores that sell olives. It's OK to sample. Find a type you can't live without and buy a kilo to keep with you on your journey. I like the big ones from Agrinion. My wife likes the shriveled oil-cured type. Taste them all. If you love olives this is your special heaven. You can buy a half kilo and take them back to your room to have as a snack or on the rooftop bar with your evening ouzo as you watch the lights brighten the Acropolis. There are also spice shops, cheese shops, canned goods, dry goods, live chickens, you name it. If you want to be creative with your shopping for gifts to bring back to family and friends, look around here. I usually bring back around ten giant cans of Mytilini sardines to go with my ouzo. This last time I brought back two big pickled fish called skoumbri (mackerel). Its probably not legal but if you get caught what are they going to do besides take it away? Anyway while homeland security is focused on terrorism people like you and I can smuggle in a skoumbri or two. Tour An Olive Shop
Ipirus restaurant, Athens marketIf you are hungry visit the two working class restaurants in the meat market and the secret underground restaurant at the bottom of the vegetable market by the olive shops where wine appears on the table whether you ask for it or not and the menu is in the guys head or you order by pointing on whats on the next table. There are several restaurants and fast food places in and around the market including some old ouzerie-cafeneons and an old Rembetiko cafe called The Stoa Athanaton where you can see Rembetika legends at their afternoon matinees or at night. The restaurants within the meat market are inexpensive and though you may be a little intimidated by the lack of a touristy atmosphere you will feel at ease when you are eating your roast lamb and potatoes, fricasse, bean soup, or a podi, the soup made from the foot of a cow which actually contains a foot of a cow. I go to Eiprus restaurant, sometimes even for breakfast. Nope you can't get eggs-over-easy or any eggs at all but you would be surprised how good a bowl of fish soup tastes early in the morning. Don't forget to try the Patsa a cure for hangovers, indigestion, bad blood or eating. Right around the corner is Papandreou which like Epirus has been open for decades or more. In both restaurants you point at what you want and it comes to the table. T here are also a couple of very good souvlaki shops right on Athinas.
Athens Fruit and Vegetable MarketAcross the street from the fish and meat market is the fruit and vegetable market where you will find the biggest lemons, peaches and some of the most colorful fruit you will ever have seen. There are also Russians and Greeks who have returned from the former eastern block countries selling cigarettes, tissue paper, lighters and just about anything. There is a Polish food shop, like a deli on the right hand side as you walk towards Sokratous Street. You will also pass shops that sell nothing but eggs, or feta cheese and some shops that have smoked meats and sausages. There are also people from the villages who don't have stalls, just sitting on a box, selling wild herbs, or wild greens from the mountains, or garlic. At the bottom of the fruit and vegetable market is the beginning of Athens' China town which is also India town, Pakistani town and also the Arabic section of the city. If you are a big goofy American in Bermuda shorts and a camera that looks like the caricature of a tourist you may feel a little uncomfortable wandering around these back streets though the dangers are few and don't have anything to do with being kidnapped, murdered or worse.
Evripidon Street, AthensEvripidou Street is one of the most interesting and diverse shopping streets in Athens. There are plant and seed stores, the excellent herb and spice stores including the popular Elixer, where you can find herbs you have never even heard of as well as spatholatho, the oil the ancient Greek soldiers used to use to heal their wounds. Next door is Arapian, a Armenian butcher that specializes in sausages, pastourma and souzouk among other things. Buy their spiciest souzouk and take it home. They will vacuum pack it for your trip. There are many ethnic stores and barbershops, that cater to their clientele from the east. There are Indian restaurants and the famous Telis, which serves only grilled pork-chops, fried potatoes and salad. If you go back and cross Athinas Street and you continue past the side entrance of the meat market you will come to Eolou Street which is one of Athens' primary pedestrian shopping streets which can lead you to Omonia Square and all the way to the National Museum or back towards the Plaka, Monastiraki and the Acropolis. Going up Evripdou Street away from Athinas Street will take you to Klathmanos Square where you can go up Stadiou street to Syntagma.
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. The word acropolis is from the Greek words ἄκρον (akron, "highest point, extremity") and πόλις (polis, "city"). Although the term acropolis is generic and there are many other acropoleis in Greece, the significance of the Acropolis of Athens is such that it is commonly known as "The Acropolis" without qualification. During ancient times it was known also more properly as Cecropia, after the legendary serpent-man, Cecrops, the supposed first Athenian king.
While there is evidence that the hill was inhabited as far back as the fourth millennium BC, it was Pericles (c. 495–429 BC) in the fifth century BC who coordinated the construction of the site's most important present remains including the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.The Parthenon and the other buildings were damaged seriously during the 1687 siege by the Venetians during the Morean War when gunpowder being stored in the Parthenon was hit by a cannonball and exploded.
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Akropolis
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. The word acropolis is from the Greek words ἄκρον (akron, "highest point, extremity") and πόλις (polis, "city"). Although the term acropolis is generic and there are many other acropoleis in Greece, the significance of the Acropolis of Athens is such that it is commonly known as "The Acropolis" without qualification. During ancient times it was known also more properly as Cecropia, after the legendary serpent-man, Cecrops, the supposed first Athenian king.
While there is evidence that the hill was inhabited as far back as the fourth millennium BC, it was Pericles (c. 495–429 BC) in the fifth century BC who coordinated the construction of the site's most important present remains including the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.The Parthenon and the other buildings were damaged seriously during the 1687 siege by the Venetians during the Morean War when gunpowder being stored in the Parthenon was hit by a cannonball and exploded.
The Acropolis Museum (Greek: Μουσείο Ακρόπολης, Mouseio Akropolis) is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built to house every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. It also lies over the ruins of a part of Roman and early Byzantine Athens.
The museum was founded in 2003, while the Organization of the Museum was established in 2008. It opened to the public on 20 June 2009. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
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Akropolismuseet
15 Dionysiou AreopagitouThe Acropolis Museum (Greek: Μουσείο Ακρόπολης, Mouseio Akropolis) is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built to house every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. It also lies over the ruins of a part of Roman and early Byzantine Athens.
The museum was founded in 2003, while the Organization of the Museum was established in 2008. It opened to the public on 20 June 2009. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
The National Archaeological Museum (Greek: Εθνικό Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο) in Athens houses some of the most important artifacts from a variety of archaeological locations around Greece from prehistory to late antiquity. It is considered one of the greatest museums in the world and contains the richest collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity worldwide. It is situated in the Exarcheia area in central Athens between Epirus Street, Bouboulinas Street and Tositsas Street while its entrance is on the Patission Street adjacent to the historical building of the Athens Polytechnic university.
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National Archaeological Museum
44 28is OktovriouThe National Archaeological Museum (Greek: Εθνικό Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο) in Athens houses some of the most important artifacts from a variety of archaeological locations around Greece from prehistory to late antiquity. It is considered one of the greatest museums in the world and contains the richest collection of artifacts from Greek antiquity worldwide. It is situated in the Exarcheia area in central Athens between Epirus Street, Bouboulinas Street and Tositsas Street while its entrance is on the Patission Street adjacent to the historical building of the Athens Polytechnic university.
The Benaki Museum is among the most extensive and innovative museum organizations in Europe. Diverse cultures engage in dialogue with Greek culture and contemporary art movements across a network of venues all over Athens ‒ and beyond. It was founded by Antonis Benakis in 1930 and donated to the Greek state. Arranged across a network of six museum buildings, the Museum also features five archival departments and an extensive library. Its inventory covers all periods of Greek culture (from Prehistory to the present) as well as European, Islamic, Pre-Columbian, African, Chinese and Korean art. The Museum presents over thirty exhibitions and in excess of 600 events per year, welcomes over 300,000 visitors and offers a wide range of educational and cultural activities. The Benaki Museum has earned international recognition and forged collaborations and partnerships with established cultural entities, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Royal Academy of Arts, the University of Oxford and Princeton University. Its collections are shared with the wider public on its website and on other digital platforms, including Europeana and Google Art Project.
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Benaki Toy Museum
138 PireosThe Benaki Museum is among the most extensive and innovative museum organizations in Europe. Diverse cultures engage in dialogue with Greek culture and contemporary art movements across a network of venues all over Athens ‒ and beyond. It was founded by Antonis Benakis in 1930 and donated to the Greek state. Arranged across a network of six museum buildings, the Museum also features five archival departments and an extensive library. Its inventory covers all periods of Greek culture (from Prehistory to the present) as well as European, Islamic, Pre-Columbian, African, Chinese and Korean art. The Museum presents over thirty exhibitions and in excess of 600 events per year, welcomes over 300,000 visitors and offers a wide range of educational and cultural activities. The Benaki Museum has earned international recognition and forged collaborations and partnerships with established cultural entities, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Royal Academy of Arts, the University of Oxford and Princeton University. Its collections are shared with the wider public on its website and on other digital platforms, including Europeana and Google Art Project.
Lycabettus is a hill in Athens. It has the chapel of St. George on top and operates a cable car. Lycabettus is the second highest point of the Athenian basin after the Turkovounia and rises at 277 meters above sea level and 227 meters above the city.
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Lycabettus Hill
LikavittouLycabettus is a hill in Athens. It has the chapel of St. George on top and operates a cable car. Lycabettus is the second highest point of the Athenian basin after the Turkovounia and rises at 277 meters above sea level and 227 meters above the city.
The Museum of Ancient Greek Technology is a museum in Katakolo, Elias, Greece. It was founded by Kostas Kotsanas and holds 200 operating reconstructions of mechanisms and inventions of the ancient Greeks covering the period from 2200 BC to 100 AD.
It is approximately 500 meters from the pier. The tour is conducted in English / French by the curator, while the exhibits are also accompanied by explanatory labels in English as well as rich audio-visual material (posters, diagrams & videos of their operation).
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Kotsanas Museum for antik græsk teknologi
6 PindarouThe Museum of Ancient Greek Technology is a museum in Katakolo, Elias, Greece. It was founded by Kostas Kotsanas and holds 200 operating reconstructions of mechanisms and inventions of the ancient Greeks covering the period from 2200 BC to 100 AD.
It is approximately 500 meters from the pier. The tour is conducted in English / French by the curator, while the exhibits are also accompanied by explanatory labels in English as well as rich audio-visual material (posters, diagrams & videos of their operation).
The Byzantine and Christian Museum (Greek: Βυζαντινό και Χριστιανικό Μουσείο) is situated at Vassilissis Sofias Avenue in Athens, Greece. It was founded in 1914, and houses more than 25,000 exhibits with rare collections of pictures, scriptures, frescoes, pottery, fabrics, manuscripts, and copies of artifacts from the 3rd century AD to the Late Middle Ages. It is one of the most important museums in the world in Byzantine Art. In June 2004, in time for its 90th anniversary and the 2004 Athens Olympics, the museum reopened to the public after an extensive renovation and the addition of another wing.
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Det Byzantinske og Kristne Museum
22 Leof. Vasilissis SofiasThe Byzantine and Christian Museum (Greek: Βυζαντινό και Χριστιανικό Μουσείο) is situated at Vassilissis Sofias Avenue in Athens, Greece. It was founded in 1914, and houses more than 25,000 exhibits with rare collections of pictures, scriptures, frescoes, pottery, fabrics, manuscripts, and copies of artifacts from the 3rd century AD to the Late Middle Ages. It is one of the most important museums in the world in Byzantine Art. In June 2004, in time for its 90th anniversary and the 2004 Athens Olympics, the museum reopened to the public after an extensive renovation and the addition of another wing.
The National Gardens of Athens is the best place to escape the city and with the areas of the Plaka, Acropolis, Thission, Monastiraki and Psiri all connected by pedestrian streets and parks you barely have to go through Athens to get there.
National Gardens of AthensBehind the Tomb of the Unknown soldier on Amalias street, at the top of Syntagma (Constitution) Square is what my brother calls "Athens greatest treasure". Formerly The Kings Garden, now the National Garden, it is like a tropical paradise right in the middle of the concrete jungle of Athens. You can spend hours wandering around the shaded pathways past flowers and trees and ducks. There are two duck ponds and a duck population that has gotten completely out of control. There are the remains of ancient Athens scattered around and several dozen cats. The National Garden is a great place to escape the noise and heat of Athens. Especially if you like ducks.
In what used to be the private garden of the king an event took place that changed the course of history for Greece and made it what it is today, a small country in the eastern Mediterranean, instead of a large country spread over two continents with its capital in Constantinople. This event was a the bite of a monkey.
Athens National GardensAfter the first world war things were looking up for Greece. The Germans had been defeated and Turkey which had been allied with them, was falling apart. Under Eleftherios Venizelos, Greece's greatest statesmen and one of the most intelligent and respected leaders in Europe, the country had tripled in size and it's army controlled Smyrna on the coast of Asia Minor, an international city full of Greeks who had lived there for thousands of years, as well as many other towns on the coast which were also full of Greeks. The Greek army had the support of the European powers and what was left of the Turkish army was disorganized and on the run. It seemed that Greece would achieve it's dream of the megalo idea: the Great Idea, a greater Greece with it's capital in Constantinople (Istanbul): A second Byzantine Empire. Then on Sept 30th 1920, while walking in the gardens, King Alexander was bitten by a monkey. He died three weeks later. His brother Constantine, a Germano-phile who was unpopular with the European powers, returned to Greece and in elections the Royalists triumphed over the Venizelists.
To make a long story short, the king removed the Venizelists officers from the army just about when the European powers withdrew their support. The French, sensing a change in the winds, began to supply weapons to the young Turks, led by Mustapha Kemal, also known as Attaturk . The Greek army overextended in an ill-advised plan to take Ankara was soundly routed and retreated back to the coast of the Aegean sea bringing with them every Greek from every village, who feared retribution by the Turkish army in hot pursuit. Smyrna was burned to the ground and thousands of Greeks and Armenians were massacred while the British, French, Russian and US Navy just watched from the harbor, waiting to do business with the new Turkish Government. The burning of Smyrna and the evacuation of a million and a half Greeks and Armenians put an end to three thousand years of Hellenic and Christian civilization in Asia Minor and their flood into Athens and the cities and towns of Greece created a refugee problem beyond the scope of any country, much less a small poor one like Greece. Even today the neighborhoods created to house these refugees like Nea Smynri and Kokinia, still have a character of their own.
All because of a monkey bite!
It should be mentioned that the monkey that bit the king was someone's pet monkey. There are no wild monkeys in Greece or in the National Garden and you are in no danger of being bitten.
(For more see my History of Greece.)
Athens National gardens zooBut in the National gardens you can forget about history and wars and the ills of modern society and take in the plants, flowers and trees that have been collected from all over the world. There is even a botanical museum on the grounds. In the old days the gates of the park were locked and the people of Athens could only stroll around Zappion, the gardens being the realm of the king and his family. Now it belongs to the people which is as it should be. There is also a small zoo featuring wolves from Bulgaria, strange antelope like creatures, monkeys, peacocks, hawks, buzzards, a lion, parakeets, canaries and goats, all sharing their cages with the ducks. (Be sure to see the real Athens Zoo too)
Athens national gardens ducksYou can walk along the paths admiring the exotic fauna and the ducks. There is even a small cafe near the Irodou Atikou street called O Kypos where you can get a nice frappe, an ouzo and mezedes, and enjoy the afternoon while you feed your leftovers to the ducks who come to your table begging for food.
There is also a very nice duck pond where you can feed them but be careful that you don't become a meal yourself. We always save our bread from lunch to bring here, or you can buy doughnuts (koulouria) from a little man near the large pond.
Yes the National gardens has become over-run with ducks. But if you are going to be over-run with any animals ducks are a good one. They are good-natured, sort of friendly, comical and generally well-mannered.
I suppose that the only question now is how long will it be before the ducks begin invading other parts of the city. How long will they be contained by the walls of the National Garden? I envision a time when the ducks will be wandering through the ancient agora and even up on the Acropolis. Not that this is a bad thing, but where will it end?
Athens National Gardens turtlesBesides the ducks there is also a water turtle population that seems to be on it's way to getting out of control and space has become so hard to find they have begun stacking themselves. While less of a problem than the ducks because of their inability to escape the National gardens or even their pond, the abundance of these turtles raises this interesting question. Are these the same turtles that used to be sold in pet stores in America with little plastic palm trees? And if they are why did they leave America and come here? The good news is that according to the US Dept of Agriculture in their travelers tips pamphlet, any American can import up to six turtles as long as the shells are 4 inches long and they are for personal use as pets and not for commercial purposes. But don't grab one of these or you may get arrested. These turtles are property of the Greek state. That goes for the ducks too.
There is also a playground for kids with swings and see-saws and other fun devices which can be used as a reward for good behavior!
The Evzones and the Former King's Palace
If you walk out to Irodou Atikou Street on your left is the camp of the Evzones, who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and what was once the King's Palace across the street. It's now the home of the Prime Minister, (though they say he prefers hisapartment). The palace was built by Ernst Ziller who had designed many of the buildings in the new city of Athens in the late 1800s. Instructed to build a small palace for Prince Constantine and his bride Sophia, the princess was so unhappy with the results she fired him because it was too small. Ziller died broke on Solonos Street though he has certainly left his mark on Athens and all over Greece.
evzone in Athens, GreeceEvzone means well belted and the termgoes back to Homer to describe soldiers known for their fighting ability. They were founded in 1824 during the war for Independence and in 1864 became the elite troops of the Greek army. The kilt they wear is called a fustanella and were worn by the klefts , the freedom fighters who fought the Turks in the war for Independence. There are about 200 evzones and they are chosen from among the soldiers for their height and charactor. Among their duties are guarding the Presidential Mansion, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Every Sunday at 11 they ceremoniously change the guard) and raising and lowering the flag of the acropolis. During Easter they have a celebration at the Evzone camp with roast lamb and wine and if you are wandering around lonely and friendless on Easter Sunday maybe they will invite you in. My mother-in-law went to this party and she and an evzone fell in love with each other and she wrote a book about it that she has been trying to get published for years. It is very romantic and would make a great movie!
If you walk up the street you will come to Vassilias Sophias street and the Benaki Museum and further up the hill is Kokonaki Square . If you take a right on Vassilias Sophias street you can visit the Byzantine Museum and the War Museum next door to each other. See Museums
The Zappion Building
Zappion Building, AthensIf you walk downhill on Irodou Attikou you will pass Zappion on the right where in the summer you can see puppet theater (Karagiosis) and other forms of entertainment at the large outdoor cafe. Some summers they have outdoor movies here. This area is a popular place for Athenians to stroll and sit when the weather is nice. The Zappion is used as an exhibition hall and for official events so take a look inside and see if there is anything going on. There are park benches and a couple cafes in the area between Irodou Attikou and Amalias street. The Zappion was built in 1878 and donated to the nation by the Zappas brothers from Ipirus. This building was the first to hold an indoor Olympic event, in the 1896 Olympics. In fact even though credit as the founder of the modern Olympics goes to Pierre de Coubertin, and his name is mentioned in every Olympic ceremony and in the media, in truth, Coubertin only founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The founders of the modern Olympics were three people. In 1833 Panagiotis Soutsos wrote about the revival of the Olympic Games in his poetry 'Dialogue of the Dead'. In 1850 Dr William Penny Brookes founded annual games in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, UK. In 1856 Evangelis Zappas wrote to King Otto of Greece offering to fund the revival of the Olympic Games. The first modern international Olympic Games were held in Platia Kotzia, Athens in 1859, sponsored by Zappas. In 1870, when Coubertin was just seven years old, the first modern Olympics to be held in a stadium took place in the ancient Panathenaic stadium (below) of Athens which had been rebuilt by Zappas. So the Zappion building is an important place to visit and acknowlege the true founder of the Modern Olympics, even if the International Olympic Committee does not want to.
Henry Miller wrote about the National Gardens in 1939:
"It remains in my memory like no other park I have known. It is the quintessence of a park, the thing one feels sometimes in looking at a canvas or dreaming of a place one would like to be in and never finds.
Seeing lovers sitting there in the dark, drinking water, sitting there in peace and quiet talking in low tones gave me a wonderful feeling about the Greek character. The dust the heat, the poverty, the bareness, the contentedness of the people, and the water everywhere in little tumblers standing between the quiet, peaceful couples, gave me a feeling that there was something holy about the place, something nourishing and sustaining"
- from Inventing Paradise:The Greek Journey 1937-47 by Edmund Keeley (see books )
The dust and the poverty is gone and unless you are there in July or August, the heat may be missing as well. But the cafe at Zappion is a wonderful place to be any evening or day and walking the pathways of the park and auto-free roads around the Zappion is a pleasant way to escape the city at any time of day or year.
Panathinaiko Stadium
Panathinaiko StadiumAcross the street from Zappion is the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium rebuilt entirely of marble in 1896 for the first modern Olympics by Evangelis Zappas and George Averoff, though the stadium was actually rescued from antiquity and previously restored in 1870, also by Zappas. The stadium was originally built in the 330 BC for the Panathenaic contests. In the Roman period it is said that 1000 wild animals were slaughtered here to celebrate the inauguration of the Emperor Hadrian in 120 AD. The Stadium sits in a hollow of Arditos Hill and you can climb to the top for some really great views of the Acropolis and Mount Lykavettos and a walk from one end to the other should be all the exercise you need for one day. On sunny days there are usually lots of people here, mostly children playing ball, some athletes practicing and many people hanging out at the cafe near the entrance. The stadium can seat 50,000 people. I saw the Harlem Globetrotters here in 1971. There is a jogging track on the hill which surrounds it but if you want some real exercise just run up and down the steps a couple times and you will easily burn off last nights meal. See also my Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium page for more photos and information.
When you cross the street from the National gardens and the Zappion you are actually crossing the Illissos River which is underneath the traffic, making its way to the sea as it has for aeons, though now a little dirtier. In the 18th century girls left offerings in a certain spot on the shore, close to the entrance of the stadium, to assure themeslves of getting a good husband. According to Pausanias there was a statue of Venus nearby. There is a plan to raise the river and put the traffic underground that will make the city even more appealing should they actually do it. But even if they don't this area around the National Gardens is worth spending time in, especially if you have children. If you have a soft spot in your heart for ducks you will be particularly happy here.
The area to the right of the stadium on the pine-covered Arditos Hill is called Mets, named for a Bavarian beer hall that was built here in 1870. It was also known as the Pandremenadika or the getting married place after the 60 year courtship of an 80 year old man named Yiannis Marinos to his 75 year old bride in a marriage that took place here. Later it was known for the many bordelos. Now it is home to the Athens Centre Greek Language School, several tavernas and bars including the Half Note Jazz Club which is right across the square from Athens First Cemetery, the resting place of the most well known people in modern Greek history, music, art and culture and an amazing place to wander through with its tree-shaded lanes and magnificent monuments.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Temple of Olympian ZeusIf you walk back, towards the Zappion building you will pass the Temple of Olympian Zeus the largest of the ancient Greek temples, one of the first to be concieved and the last to be completed. Started during the 6th Century BC by Peisistratos it was not finished until 131 AD by the Emperor Hadrian who ruled the city during the Roman period over700 years later. It must be inspected up close to really appreciate just how big it actually was. Originally there were 104 Corinthian columns of which only 15 remain standing. One of the columns actually blew down in a storm in 1852. In the period that followed Greek Independence the area was the site for the original celebration of what we now call Apokreas which many of us know as carnival, as practiced in places like New Orleans and Rio de Janairo and modern day Athens. In the early 1800s a stylite (a group of ascetics who spent long periods sitting or standing on top of pillars or columns. The word comes from the Greek stylos for column.) built his dwelling on top of one of the columns of the temple and it can be seen in early paintings and drawings.
Nearby is the Arch of Hadrian which was erected in 132 AD as a gate between the ancient city and the Roman city of Athens.
When you leave the temple of Zeus you can cross Amalias and you will eventually come back to the Plaka
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National Garden
1 Leoforos Vasilisis AmaliasThe National Gardens of Athens is the best place to escape the city and with the areas of the Plaka, Acropolis, Thission, Monastiraki and Psiri all connected by pedestrian streets and parks you barely have to go through Athens to get there.
National Gardens of AthensBehind the Tomb of the Unknown soldier on Amalias street, at the top of Syntagma (Constitution) Square is what my brother calls "Athens greatest treasure". Formerly The Kings Garden, now the National Garden, it is like a tropical paradise right in the middle of the concrete jungle of Athens. You can spend hours wandering around the shaded pathways past flowers and trees and ducks. There are two duck ponds and a duck population that has gotten completely out of control. There are the remains of ancient Athens scattered around and several dozen cats. The National Garden is a great place to escape the noise and heat of Athens. Especially if you like ducks.
In what used to be the private garden of the king an event took place that changed the course of history for Greece and made it what it is today, a small country in the eastern Mediterranean, instead of a large country spread over two continents with its capital in Constantinople. This event was a the bite of a monkey.
Athens National GardensAfter the first world war things were looking up for Greece. The Germans had been defeated and Turkey which had been allied with them, was falling apart. Under Eleftherios Venizelos, Greece's greatest statesmen and one of the most intelligent and respected leaders in Europe, the country had tripled in size and it's army controlled Smyrna on the coast of Asia Minor, an international city full of Greeks who had lived there for thousands of years, as well as many other towns on the coast which were also full of Greeks. The Greek army had the support of the European powers and what was left of the Turkish army was disorganized and on the run. It seemed that Greece would achieve it's dream of the megalo idea: the Great Idea, a greater Greece with it's capital in Constantinople (Istanbul): A second Byzantine Empire. Then on Sept 30th 1920, while walking in the gardens, King Alexander was bitten by a monkey. He died three weeks later. His brother Constantine, a Germano-phile who was unpopular with the European powers, returned to Greece and in elections the Royalists triumphed over the Venizelists.
To make a long story short, the king removed the Venizelists officers from the army just about when the European powers withdrew their support. The French, sensing a change in the winds, began to supply weapons to the young Turks, led by Mustapha Kemal, also known as Attaturk . The Greek army overextended in an ill-advised plan to take Ankara was soundly routed and retreated back to the coast of the Aegean sea bringing with them every Greek from every village, who feared retribution by the Turkish army in hot pursuit. Smyrna was burned to the ground and thousands of Greeks and Armenians were massacred while the British, French, Russian and US Navy just watched from the harbor, waiting to do business with the new Turkish Government. The burning of Smyrna and the evacuation of a million and a half Greeks and Armenians put an end to three thousand years of Hellenic and Christian civilization in Asia Minor and their flood into Athens and the cities and towns of Greece created a refugee problem beyond the scope of any country, much less a small poor one like Greece. Even today the neighborhoods created to house these refugees like Nea Smynri and Kokinia, still have a character of their own.
All because of a monkey bite!
It should be mentioned that the monkey that bit the king was someone's pet monkey. There are no wild monkeys in Greece or in the National Garden and you are in no danger of being bitten.
(For more see my History of Greece.)
Athens National gardens zooBut in the National gardens you can forget about history and wars and the ills of modern society and take in the plants, flowers and trees that have been collected from all over the world. There is even a botanical museum on the grounds. In the old days the gates of the park were locked and the people of Athens could only stroll around Zappion, the gardens being the realm of the king and his family. Now it belongs to the people which is as it should be. There is also a small zoo featuring wolves from Bulgaria, strange antelope like creatures, monkeys, peacocks, hawks, buzzards, a lion, parakeets, canaries and goats, all sharing their cages with the ducks. (Be sure to see the real Athens Zoo too)
Athens national gardens ducksYou can walk along the paths admiring the exotic fauna and the ducks. There is even a small cafe near the Irodou Atikou street called O Kypos where you can get a nice frappe, an ouzo and mezedes, and enjoy the afternoon while you feed your leftovers to the ducks who come to your table begging for food.
There is also a very nice duck pond where you can feed them but be careful that you don't become a meal yourself. We always save our bread from lunch to bring here, or you can buy doughnuts (koulouria) from a little man near the large pond.
Yes the National gardens has become over-run with ducks. But if you are going to be over-run with any animals ducks are a good one. They are good-natured, sort of friendly, comical and generally well-mannered.
I suppose that the only question now is how long will it be before the ducks begin invading other parts of the city. How long will they be contained by the walls of the National Garden? I envision a time when the ducks will be wandering through the ancient agora and even up on the Acropolis. Not that this is a bad thing, but where will it end?
Athens National Gardens turtlesBesides the ducks there is also a water turtle population that seems to be on it's way to getting out of control and space has become so hard to find they have begun stacking themselves. While less of a problem than the ducks because of their inability to escape the National gardens or even their pond, the abundance of these turtles raises this interesting question. Are these the same turtles that used to be sold in pet stores in America with little plastic palm trees? And if they are why did they leave America and come here? The good news is that according to the US Dept of Agriculture in their travelers tips pamphlet, any American can import up to six turtles as long as the shells are 4 inches long and they are for personal use as pets and not for commercial purposes. But don't grab one of these or you may get arrested. These turtles are property of the Greek state. That goes for the ducks too.
There is also a playground for kids with swings and see-saws and other fun devices which can be used as a reward for good behavior!
The Evzones and the Former King's Palace
If you walk out to Irodou Atikou Street on your left is the camp of the Evzones, who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and what was once the King's Palace across the street. It's now the home of the Prime Minister, (though they say he prefers hisapartment). The palace was built by Ernst Ziller who had designed many of the buildings in the new city of Athens in the late 1800s. Instructed to build a small palace for Prince Constantine and his bride Sophia, the princess was so unhappy with the results she fired him because it was too small. Ziller died broke on Solonos Street though he has certainly left his mark on Athens and all over Greece.
evzone in Athens, GreeceEvzone means well belted and the termgoes back to Homer to describe soldiers known for their fighting ability. They were founded in 1824 during the war for Independence and in 1864 became the elite troops of the Greek army. The kilt they wear is called a fustanella and were worn by the klefts , the freedom fighters who fought the Turks in the war for Independence. There are about 200 evzones and they are chosen from among the soldiers for their height and charactor. Among their duties are guarding the Presidential Mansion, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Every Sunday at 11 they ceremoniously change the guard) and raising and lowering the flag of the acropolis. During Easter they have a celebration at the Evzone camp with roast lamb and wine and if you are wandering around lonely and friendless on Easter Sunday maybe they will invite you in. My mother-in-law went to this party and she and an evzone fell in love with each other and she wrote a book about it that she has been trying to get published for years. It is very romantic and would make a great movie!
If you walk up the street you will come to Vassilias Sophias street and the Benaki Museum and further up the hill is Kokonaki Square . If you take a right on Vassilias Sophias street you can visit the Byzantine Museum and the War Museum next door to each other. See Museums
The Zappion Building
Zappion Building, AthensIf you walk downhill on Irodou Attikou you will pass Zappion on the right where in the summer you can see puppet theater (Karagiosis) and other forms of entertainment at the large outdoor cafe. Some summers they have outdoor movies here. This area is a popular place for Athenians to stroll and sit when the weather is nice. The Zappion is used as an exhibition hall and for official events so take a look inside and see if there is anything going on. There are park benches and a couple cafes in the area between Irodou Attikou and Amalias street. The Zappion was built in 1878 and donated to the nation by the Zappas brothers from Ipirus. This building was the first to hold an indoor Olympic event, in the 1896 Olympics. In fact even though credit as the founder of the modern Olympics goes to Pierre de Coubertin, and his name is mentioned in every Olympic ceremony and in the media, in truth, Coubertin only founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The founders of the modern Olympics were three people. In 1833 Panagiotis Soutsos wrote about the revival of the Olympic Games in his poetry 'Dialogue of the Dead'. In 1850 Dr William Penny Brookes founded annual games in Much Wenlock, Shropshire, UK. In 1856 Evangelis Zappas wrote to King Otto of Greece offering to fund the revival of the Olympic Games. The first modern international Olympic Games were held in Platia Kotzia, Athens in 1859, sponsored by Zappas. In 1870, when Coubertin was just seven years old, the first modern Olympics to be held in a stadium took place in the ancient Panathenaic stadium (below) of Athens which had been rebuilt by Zappas. So the Zappion building is an important place to visit and acknowlege the true founder of the Modern Olympics, even if the International Olympic Committee does not want to.
Henry Miller wrote about the National Gardens in 1939:
"It remains in my memory like no other park I have known. It is the quintessence of a park, the thing one feels sometimes in looking at a canvas or dreaming of a place one would like to be in and never finds.
Seeing lovers sitting there in the dark, drinking water, sitting there in peace and quiet talking in low tones gave me a wonderful feeling about the Greek character. The dust the heat, the poverty, the bareness, the contentedness of the people, and the water everywhere in little tumblers standing between the quiet, peaceful couples, gave me a feeling that there was something holy about the place, something nourishing and sustaining"
- from Inventing Paradise:The Greek Journey 1937-47 by Edmund Keeley (see books )
The dust and the poverty is gone and unless you are there in July or August, the heat may be missing as well. But the cafe at Zappion is a wonderful place to be any evening or day and walking the pathways of the park and auto-free roads around the Zappion is a pleasant way to escape the city at any time of day or year.
Panathinaiko Stadium
Panathinaiko StadiumAcross the street from Zappion is the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium rebuilt entirely of marble in 1896 for the first modern Olympics by Evangelis Zappas and George Averoff, though the stadium was actually rescued from antiquity and previously restored in 1870, also by Zappas. The stadium was originally built in the 330 BC for the Panathenaic contests. In the Roman period it is said that 1000 wild animals were slaughtered here to celebrate the inauguration of the Emperor Hadrian in 120 AD. The Stadium sits in a hollow of Arditos Hill and you can climb to the top for some really great views of the Acropolis and Mount Lykavettos and a walk from one end to the other should be all the exercise you need for one day. On sunny days there are usually lots of people here, mostly children playing ball, some athletes practicing and many people hanging out at the cafe near the entrance. The stadium can seat 50,000 people. I saw the Harlem Globetrotters here in 1971. There is a jogging track on the hill which surrounds it but if you want some real exercise just run up and down the steps a couple times and you will easily burn off last nights meal. See also my Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium page for more photos and information.
When you cross the street from the National gardens and the Zappion you are actually crossing the Illissos River which is underneath the traffic, making its way to the sea as it has for aeons, though now a little dirtier. In the 18th century girls left offerings in a certain spot on the shore, close to the entrance of the stadium, to assure themeslves of getting a good husband. According to Pausanias there was a statue of Venus nearby. There is a plan to raise the river and put the traffic underground that will make the city even more appealing should they actually do it. But even if they don't this area around the National Gardens is worth spending time in, especially if you have children. If you have a soft spot in your heart for ducks you will be particularly happy here.
The area to the right of the stadium on the pine-covered Arditos Hill is called Mets, named for a Bavarian beer hall that was built here in 1870. It was also known as the Pandremenadika or the getting married place after the 60 year courtship of an 80 year old man named Yiannis Marinos to his 75 year old bride in a marriage that took place here. Later it was known for the many bordelos. Now it is home to the Athens Centre Greek Language School, several tavernas and bars including the Half Note Jazz Club which is right across the square from Athens First Cemetery, the resting place of the most well known people in modern Greek history, music, art and culture and an amazing place to wander through with its tree-shaded lanes and magnificent monuments.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Temple of Olympian ZeusIf you walk back, towards the Zappion building you will pass the Temple of Olympian Zeus the largest of the ancient Greek temples, one of the first to be concieved and the last to be completed. Started during the 6th Century BC by Peisistratos it was not finished until 131 AD by the Emperor Hadrian who ruled the city during the Roman period over700 years later. It must be inspected up close to really appreciate just how big it actually was. Originally there were 104 Corinthian columns of which only 15 remain standing. One of the columns actually blew down in a storm in 1852. In the period that followed Greek Independence the area was the site for the original celebration of what we now call Apokreas which many of us know as carnival, as practiced in places like New Orleans and Rio de Janairo and modern day Athens. In the early 1800s a stylite (a group of ascetics who spent long periods sitting or standing on top of pillars or columns. The word comes from the Greek stylos for column.) built his dwelling on top of one of the columns of the temple and it can be seen in early paintings and drawings.
Nearby is the Arch of Hadrian which was erected in 132 AD as a gate between the ancient city and the Roman city of Athens.
When you leave the temple of Zeus you can cross Amalias and you will eventually come back to the Plaka
The National Library of Greece (Greek: Εθνική Βιβλιοθήκη) is situated near the center of city of Athens. It was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen, as part of his famous Trilogy of neo-classical buildings including the Academy of Athens and the original building of the Athens University. It was founded by Ioannis Kapodistrias.
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National Library of Greece
32 PanepistimiouThe National Library of Greece (Greek: Εθνική Βιβλιοθήκη) is situated near the center of city of Athens. It was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen, as part of his famous Trilogy of neo-classical buildings including the Academy of Athens and the original building of the Athens University. It was founded by Ioannis Kapodistrias.
The National Historical Museum (Greek: Εθνικό Ιστορικό Μουσείο,[1] Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío) is a historical museum in Athens. Founded in 1882, is the oldest of its kind in Greece. It is located in the Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, which housed the Hellenic Parliament from 1875 until 1932.
Collections
The museum houses the collection of the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece (IEEE), founded in 1882.[2] It is the oldest collection of its kind in Greece, and prior to its transfer to the Old Parliament, it was housed in the main building of the National Technical University.
The collection contains historical items concerning the period from the capture of Constantinopolis by the Ottomans in 1453 to the Second World War, emphasizing especially the period of the Greek Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the modern Greek state.
Among the items displayed are weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, manuscripts, as well as a large collection of traditional Greek costumes from various regions. The collection is displayed in the corridors and rooms of the building, while the great central hall of the National Assembly is used for conferences.
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Nationalhistorisk Museum (Gamle Parlament)
13 StadiouThe National Historical Museum (Greek: Εθνικό Ιστορικό Μουσείο,[1] Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío) is a historical museum in Athens. Founded in 1882, is the oldest of its kind in Greece. It is located in the Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, which housed the Hellenic Parliament from 1875 until 1932.
Collections
The museum houses the collection of the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece (IEEE), founded in 1882.[2] It is the oldest collection of its kind in Greece, and prior to its transfer to the Old Parliament, it was housed in the main building of the National Technical University.
The collection contains historical items concerning the period from the capture of Constantinopolis by the Ottomans in 1453 to the Second World War, emphasizing especially the period of the Greek Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the modern Greek state.
Among the items displayed are weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, manuscripts, as well as a large collection of traditional Greek costumes from various regions. The collection is displayed in the corridors and rooms of the building, while the great central hall of the National Assembly is used for conferences.
The National Observatory of Athens (NOA; Greek: Εθνικό Αστεροσκοπείο Αθηνών) is a research institute in Athens, Greece. Founded in 1842, it is the oldest research foundation in Greece, as it was the first scientific research institute built after Greece became independent in 1829, and one of the oldest research institutes in Southern Europe.
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National Observatory of Athens
& MetaxaThe National Observatory of Athens (NOA; Greek: Εθνικό Αστεροσκοπείο Αθηνών) is a research institute in Athens, Greece. Founded in 1842, it is the oldest research foundation in Greece, as it was the first scientific research institute built after Greece became independent in 1829, and one of the oldest research institutes in Southern Europe.
The Hellenic Motor Museum (Greek: Ελληνικό Μουσείο Αυτοκινήτου) is a car museum in Athens. It is owned by the Theodore Charagionis Foundation and opened in March 2011. The museum is situated in central Athens near the National Archaeological Museum, on the three top floors of the Athenian Capitol shopping mall.
The collection of the museum consists of 300 cars of which about 110 are displayed periodically. The museum offers many other facilities such as a Formula 1 simulator, a road safety educational programme and an amphitheatre.
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Hellenic Motor Museum
33 IoulianouThe Hellenic Motor Museum (Greek: Ελληνικό Μουσείο Αυτοκινήτου) is a car museum in Athens. It is owned by the Theodore Charagionis Foundation and opened in March 2011. The museum is situated in central Athens near the National Archaeological Museum, on the three top floors of the Athenian Capitol shopping mall.
The collection of the museum consists of 300 cars of which about 110 are displayed periodically. The museum offers many other facilities such as a Formula 1 simulator, a road safety educational programme and an amphitheatre.
The Hellenic Children's Museum in Athens, Greece is located in two houses specifically designed for use by children. The museum also features in the book, The Athens Assignment.
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Hellenic Children's Museum
19 KidathineonThe Hellenic Children's Museum in Athens, Greece is located in two houses specifically designed for use by children. The museum also features in the book, The Athens Assignment.
The Hellenic Parliament (Greek: Ελληνικό Κοινοβούλιο, transliterated Elliniko Kinovoulio), in Greek known as Voulí ton Ellínon (Greek: Βουλή των Ελλήνων, literally Parliament (or Will) of the Hellenes) is the parliament of Greece, located in the Old Royal Palace, overlooking Syntagma Square in Athens. The Parliament is the supreme democratic institution that represents the citizens through an elected body of Members of Parliament (MPs).
It is a unicameral legislature of 300 members, elected for a four-year term. During 1844–1863 and 1927–1935, the parliament was bicameral with an upper house, the Senate, and a lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, which retained the name Vouli. Several important Greek statesmen have served as Speakers of the Hellenic Parliament.
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Hellenic Parliament
2 ΒουλήςThe Hellenic Parliament (Greek: Ελληνικό Κοινοβούλιο, transliterated Elliniko Kinovoulio), in Greek known as Voulí ton Ellínon (Greek: Βουλή των Ελλήνων, literally Parliament (or Will) of the Hellenes) is the parliament of Greece, located in the Old Royal Palace, overlooking Syntagma Square in Athens. The Parliament is the supreme democratic institution that represents the citizens through an elected body of Members of Parliament (MPs).
It is a unicameral legislature of 300 members, elected for a four-year term. During 1844–1863 and 1927–1935, the parliament was bicameral with an upper house, the Senate, and a lower house, the Chamber of Deputies, which retained the name Vouli. Several important Greek statesmen have served as Speakers of the Hellenic Parliament.
5th-century temple ruins with Doric columns and stunning sea views.
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Poseidons tempel - Sounio
5th-century temple ruins with Doric columns and stunning sea views.
Eleusis (Greek: Ελευσίνα Elefsina, Ancient Greek: Ελευσίς Eleusis) is a town and municipality in West Attica, Greece. It is situated about 18 kilometres (11 miles) northwest from the centre of Athens. It is located in the Thriasian Plain, at the northernmost end of the Saronic Gulf. North of Eleusis are Mandra and Magoula, while Aspropyrgos is to the northeast.
It is the site of the Eleusinian Mysteries and the birthplace of Aeschylus. Today, Eleusis is a major industrial centre, with the largest oil refinery in Greece as well as the home of the Aeschylia Festival, the longest-lived arts event in the Attica Region.
On 11 November 2016 Eleusis was named the European Capital of Culture for 2021.
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Eleusis
Eleusis (Greek: Ελευσίνα Elefsina, Ancient Greek: Ελευσίς Eleusis) is a town and municipality in West Attica, Greece. It is situated about 18 kilometres (11 miles) northwest from the centre of Athens. It is located in the Thriasian Plain, at the northernmost end of the Saronic Gulf. North of Eleusis are Mandra and Magoula, while Aspropyrgos is to the northeast.
It is the site of the Eleusinian Mysteries and the birthplace of Aeschylus. Today, Eleusis is a major industrial centre, with the largest oil refinery in Greece as well as the home of the Aeschylia Festival, the longest-lived arts event in the Attica Region.
On 11 November 2016 Eleusis was named the European Capital of Culture for 2021.
TRAVELS
Piræus havn
str Akti MiaouliPort of Piraeus
Port of Rafina
RafinasPort of Rafina
Port Police Lavrio
Stathmos Larisis
Intercity train
Σταθμός Υπεραστικών Λεωφορείων Λιοσίων
43 Str. DagkliIntercity buses
Olympia was the most glorious sanctuary of ancient Greece dedicated to Zeus. It was the venue for the Olympic Games held in the context of the Olympics, the most important celebration of the Greeks during most of antiquity. Corresponding celebrations were the Pythians organized in honor of Apollo at Delphi, the Isthmia in honor of Poseidon at the Isthmus of Corinth and Nemea, also in honor of Zeus at his sanctuary at Nemea.
Olympia was called Altis, that is, the Sacred Grove. It was built on the north bank of the river Alfios. There are traces of human presence from the Neolithic period. It was originally a rural settlement and gradually developed into the largest religious center of the ancient world. There was for about a thousand years the golden-ivory statue of Zeus, a work by Pheidias, which was known in antiquity as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was 12 m high and consisted of wood internally, but gold, ivory, silver, crystal clearings and semiprecious stones on the outside. The starting point of the Olympics dates back to 776 BC. And they were held every four years. But the Games are already much older, because according to tradition, Peloponnesus, who won the King of Pisa Oinomaos race in a chariot race, started. The various religious and secular buildings were gradually erected until the 2nd century AD. AD as it is today. The oldest building is the temple of Hera and the newest is the Nymphaeum. During the Roman period, many buildings were completed and refurbished as the Romans continued their struggles without interruption.
The sacred space continued to function normally during the early Christian years of Constantine the Great. In 393 AD, the last Olympic Games took place and shortly thereafter the Byzantine emperor Theodosius I, by decree, definitively banned their execution because they were considered pagan, while during Theodosius II, the sanctuary was finally destroyed (426 AD). ]
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Archaia Olympia
Olympia was the most glorious sanctuary of ancient Greece dedicated to Zeus. It was the venue for the Olympic Games held in the context of the Olympics, the most important celebration of the Greeks during most of antiquity. Corresponding celebrations were the Pythians organized in honor of Apollo at Delphi, the Isthmia in honor of Poseidon at the Isthmus of Corinth and Nemea, also in honor of Zeus at his sanctuary at Nemea.
Olympia was called Altis, that is, the Sacred Grove. It was built on the north bank of the river Alfios. There are traces of human presence from the Neolithic period. It was originally a rural settlement and gradually developed into the largest religious center of the ancient world. There was for about a thousand years the golden-ivory statue of Zeus, a work by Pheidias, which was known in antiquity as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It was 12 m high and consisted of wood internally, but gold, ivory, silver, crystal clearings and semiprecious stones on the outside. The starting point of the Olympics dates back to 776 BC. And they were held every four years. But the Games are already much older, because according to tradition, Peloponnesus, who won the King of Pisa Oinomaos race in a chariot race, started. The various religious and secular buildings were gradually erected until the 2nd century AD. AD as it is today. The oldest building is the temple of Hera and the newest is the Nymphaeum. During the Roman period, many buildings were completed and refurbished as the Romans continued their struggles without interruption.
The sacred space continued to function normally during the early Christian years of Constantine the Great. In 393 AD, the last Olympic Games took place and shortly thereafter the Byzantine emperor Theodosius I, by decree, definitively banned their execution because they were considered pagan, while during Theodosius II, the sanctuary was finally destroyed (426 AD). ]
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a theatre in the Greek city of Epidaurus, located on the southeast end of the sanctuary dedicated to the ancient Greek God of medicine, Asclepius. It is built on the west side of Cynortion Mountain, near modern Lygourio, and belongs to the Epidaurus Municipality. It is considered to be the most perfect ancient Greek theatre with regard to acoustics and aesthetics. According to Pausanias, the ancient theatre was constructed at the end of the 4th century BC by the architect Polykleitos the Younger. Pausanias praises the theatre for its symmetry and beauty. At a maximum capacity of 13,000 to 14,000 spectators, the theatre hosted music, singing and dramatic games that were included in the worship of Asclepius. It was also used as a means to heal patients, since there was a belief that the observation of dramatic shows had positive effects on mental and physical health.
Today, the monument attracts a large number of Greek and foreign visitors and is used for the performance of ancient drama plays.The first modern performance conducted at the theatre was Sophocles's tragedy Electra. It was played in 1938, directed by Dimitris Rontiris, starring Katina Paxinou and Eleni Papadaki.
Performances stopped due to World War II. Theatrical performances, in the framework of the organized festival, began again in 1954. In 1955 they were established as an annual event for the presentation of ancient drama. The Epidaurus Festival continues today and is carried out during the summer months.
The theatre has been sporadically used to host major musical events. In the framework of the Epidaurus Festival, well-known Greek and foreign actors have appeared, including the Greek soprano Maria Callas, who performed Norma in 1960 and Médée in 1961.
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Palaia Epidavros
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a theatre in the Greek city of Epidaurus, located on the southeast end of the sanctuary dedicated to the ancient Greek God of medicine, Asclepius. It is built on the west side of Cynortion Mountain, near modern Lygourio, and belongs to the Epidaurus Municipality. It is considered to be the most perfect ancient Greek theatre with regard to acoustics and aesthetics. According to Pausanias, the ancient theatre was constructed at the end of the 4th century BC by the architect Polykleitos the Younger. Pausanias praises the theatre for its symmetry and beauty. At a maximum capacity of 13,000 to 14,000 spectators, the theatre hosted music, singing and dramatic games that were included in the worship of Asclepius. It was also used as a means to heal patients, since there was a belief that the observation of dramatic shows had positive effects on mental and physical health.
Today, the monument attracts a large number of Greek and foreign visitors and is used for the performance of ancient drama plays.The first modern performance conducted at the theatre was Sophocles's tragedy Electra. It was played in 1938, directed by Dimitris Rontiris, starring Katina Paxinou and Eleni Papadaki.
Performances stopped due to World War II. Theatrical performances, in the framework of the organized festival, began again in 1954. In 1955 they were established as an annual event for the presentation of ancient drama. The Epidaurus Festival continues today and is carried out during the summer months.
The theatre has been sporadically used to host major musical events. In the framework of the Epidaurus Festival, well-known Greek and foreign actors have appeared, including the Greek soprano Maria Callas, who performed Norma in 1960 and Médée in 1961.
The small village of Ancient Corinth, with its great archaeological site and few permanent residents, is very close to the modern city of Corinth and in the shadow of an arid castle…
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Archaia Korinthos
The small village of Ancient Corinth, with its great archaeological site and few permanent residents, is very close to the modern city of Corinth and in the shadow of an arid castle…
Archaeological site known for its unique, well-preserved temple built between 450 and 400 BC
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Temple of Apollo Epikourios
Archaeological site known for its unique, well-preserved temple built between 450 and 400 BC
Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of the Atreides, is situated upon a small hill-top on the road leading from the Argolic Gulf to the north (Corinth, Athens, etc.). The site was inhabited since the Neolithic times (about 4000 BC) but reached its peak during the Late Bronze Age (1350-1200 BC), giving its name to a civilization which spread throughout the Greek world.
During that period, the acropolis was surrounded by massive "cyclopean walls", built in three stages (ca.1350, 1250 and 1225 BC), with the exception of the SE flank where a steep ravine provided natural defense. A palace was built on the summit of the hill, while towards the Argolic plain lay the wall-painted "Cult Center", the main gate or "Lion Gate" and the "Grave Circle A", the burial ground of the Mycenaean royalty. On the NE side, a tunnel leading to a subterranean fountain was built in "cyclopean" masonry in around 1225 BC.
Outside the walls lay the residential area of Mycenae, as indicated by the number of private houses brought to light by the excavations. However the landscape here is dominated by the "Grave Circle B", and the monumental tholos tombs, among them the ones attributed to the legendary royal family of Mycenae. The burial monuments of Mycenae also yielded the treasure of finds, now exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum and at the on site Museum of Mycenae.
Mycenae was occupied without interruption until 468 BC when it was conquered by the city of Argos and its population was banished. It was reoccupied in the 3rd century BC for a relatively short period. When the ancient writer Pausanias visited the place in the 2nd century AD, it had been deserted long ago.
In 1876 Heinrich Schliemann started the excavations which led him to the discovery of the Homeric Mycenae. From 1864 to 1902, excavations at the palace, the subterranean fountain, and many chamber tombs were conducted by Christos Tsountas, the father of Prehistoric Archaeology in Greece. Further excavations were conducted by Alan Wace - one of the leading figures of Mycenaean Archaeology - during three campaigns, in 1920-1923 on the acropolis and the tombs, in 1939 and 1950-1957 on the houses and tombs at the Lower City. In 1952-1955 Prof. G. Mylonas and I. Papadimitriou, on behalf of the Athens Archaeological Society, uncovered the "Grave Circle B". Research on the site actually never ceised, since the Mycenaean land had still much to reveal.
87 lokale anbefaler
Mykines
Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of the Atreides, is situated upon a small hill-top on the road leading from the Argolic Gulf to the north (Corinth, Athens, etc.). The site was inhabited since the Neolithic times (about 4000 BC) but reached its peak during the Late Bronze Age (1350-1200 BC), giving its name to a civilization which spread throughout the Greek world.
During that period, the acropolis was surrounded by massive "cyclopean walls", built in three stages (ca.1350, 1250 and 1225 BC), with the exception of the SE flank where a steep ravine provided natural defense. A palace was built on the summit of the hill, while towards the Argolic plain lay the wall-painted "Cult Center", the main gate or "Lion Gate" and the "Grave Circle A", the burial ground of the Mycenaean royalty. On the NE side, a tunnel leading to a subterranean fountain was built in "cyclopean" masonry in around 1225 BC.
Outside the walls lay the residential area of Mycenae, as indicated by the number of private houses brought to light by the excavations. However the landscape here is dominated by the "Grave Circle B", and the monumental tholos tombs, among them the ones attributed to the legendary royal family of Mycenae. The burial monuments of Mycenae also yielded the treasure of finds, now exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum and at the on site Museum of Mycenae.
Mycenae was occupied without interruption until 468 BC when it was conquered by the city of Argos and its population was banished. It was reoccupied in the 3rd century BC for a relatively short period. When the ancient writer Pausanias visited the place in the 2nd century AD, it had been deserted long ago.
In 1876 Heinrich Schliemann started the excavations which led him to the discovery of the Homeric Mycenae. From 1864 to 1902, excavations at the palace, the subterranean fountain, and many chamber tombs were conducted by Christos Tsountas, the father of Prehistoric Archaeology in Greece. Further excavations were conducted by Alan Wace - one of the leading figures of Mycenaean Archaeology - during three campaigns, in 1920-1923 on the acropolis and the tombs, in 1939 and 1950-1957 on the houses and tombs at the Lower City. In 1952-1955 Prof. G. Mylonas and I. Papadimitriou, on behalf of the Athens Archaeological Society, uncovered the "Grave Circle B". Research on the site actually never ceised, since the Mycenaean land had still much to reveal.
Megalochori (Agistri island) has two beaches with crystal clear blue waters in natural bays that create sandy and pebbly areas.
The first beach is to the left of Megalochori Port, in front of "Seaside Studios", and is pebbly and sandy in places.
The second one is to the right of the port, in front of the Hotels "Nontas", "Theris" and "Amaryllis". It consists of small organized sandy beaches with umbrellas, sun loungers and coffee tables, where you can enjoy a swim, a coffee, a drink or a chilled fresh natural juice.
20 lokale anbefaler
Megalochori
Megalochori (Agistri island) has two beaches with crystal clear blue waters in natural bays that create sandy and pebbly areas.
The first beach is to the left of Megalochori Port, in front of "Seaside Studios", and is pebbly and sandy in places.
The second one is to the right of the port, in front of the Hotels "Nontas", "Theris" and "Amaryllis". It consists of small organized sandy beaches with umbrellas, sun loungers and coffee tables, where you can enjoy a swim, a coffee, a drink or a chilled fresh natural juice.
Meteora is a cluster of enormous dark sandstone rocks rising out of Kalambaka, near the first Pindos and Chassis. The monasteries of Meteora, built on the tops of some of the rocks, are today the second most important monastic complex in Greece, after Mount Athos. Of the thirty that have historically existed, only six currently operate, which have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988.
200 lokale anbefaler
Meteora
Meteora is a cluster of enormous dark sandstone rocks rising out of Kalambaka, near the first Pindos and Chassis. The monasteries of Meteora, built on the tops of some of the rocks, are today the second most important monastic complex in Greece, after Mount Athos. Of the thirty that have historically existed, only six currently operate, which have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988.
Delphi was an ancient Greek city in which it operated the most important oracle of the ancient Greek world. The city has been mentioned since Homeric times under the name Pythos.
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Delphi
Delphi was an ancient Greek city in which it operated the most important oracle of the ancient Greek world. The city has been mentioned since Homeric times under the name Pythos.
Nafplio or Anapli is a traditional and cultural city in the Peloponnese, the capital of the Regional Unit of Argolida, the seat of the municipality of Nafplio and the main port of the eastern Peloponnese.
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Nafplion
Nafplio or Anapli is a traditional and cultural city in the Peloponnese, the capital of the Regional Unit of Argolida, the seat of the municipality of Nafplio and the main port of the eastern Peloponnese.
Aegina is an idyllic island very close to Athens, thus a very popular destination for quick getaways. Belonging to the Saronic group of islands, Aegina Greece has many archaeological monuments, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches!
The center of the island is Aegina Town, the picturesque capital of Aegina. Boasting elegant Neoclassical buildings, narrow alleys and a bustling seafront promenade, Aegina Town is perfect for summer strolls!
Aegina is also an island with glorious historical past, as it used to be one of the most important islands of ancient Greece, so it’s not a surprise that sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Aegina! The most impressive archaeological site of the island is the Ancient Temple of Athena Aphaia, dating back to the 6th century BC.
54 lokale anbefaler
Aegina
Aegina is an idyllic island very close to Athens, thus a very popular destination for quick getaways. Belonging to the Saronic group of islands, Aegina Greece has many archaeological monuments, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches!
The center of the island is Aegina Town, the picturesque capital of Aegina. Boasting elegant Neoclassical buildings, narrow alleys and a bustling seafront promenade, Aegina Town is perfect for summer strolls!
Aegina is also an island with glorious historical past, as it used to be one of the most important islands of ancient Greece, so it’s not a surprise that sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Aegina! The most impressive archaeological site of the island is the Ancient Temple of Athena Aphaia, dating back to the 6th century BC.
Hydra, one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands, is located in the heart of the Argo Saronic Gulf. One of the main reasons why Hydra is a popular destination is its proximity to Athens, as a ferry from Athens to Hydra, will get you to the beautiful island in just 2 hours. It’s the perfect option for a quick getaway!
Having been a filming location of “A girl in black” and “Boy on a dolphin” movies, as well as a holiday destination for Leonard Cohen, Hydra stands out for its classy beauty!
In Hydra island, you won’t see any cars! Everyone uses their foot, boats or donkeys to get around the island. The cars ban, along with the elegant stone mansions of the island, create a charming atmosphere and make the island one of the most serene destinations near Athens.
57 lokale anbefaler
Hydra
Hydra, one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands, is located in the heart of the Argo Saronic Gulf. One of the main reasons why Hydra is a popular destination is its proximity to Athens, as a ferry from Athens to Hydra, will get you to the beautiful island in just 2 hours. It’s the perfect option for a quick getaway!
Having been a filming location of “A girl in black” and “Boy on a dolphin” movies, as well as a holiday destination for Leonard Cohen, Hydra stands out for its classy beauty!
In Hydra island, you won’t see any cars! Everyone uses their foot, boats or donkeys to get around the island. The cars ban, along with the elegant stone mansions of the island, create a charming atmosphere and make the island one of the most serene destinations near Athens.