did you know that if you speak some at least a wee bit european-originated language, there is a fairly big chance that many of the words you use everyday comes from ancient Greek? No wonder since about these three thousand years ago Athens and Greece were the one spot where the whole western culture took its first steps. Follow me today on the marvelous journey to see the touchstones of european civilations. Allons-y to Attica!
There are of course gazillions of cultural sights all through the city, so picking up just 5 was a bit difficult, but here we go.
There is no better landmark anywhere in Greece more memorable than the Acropolis of Athens. You will never forget the first time you glazed over the rooftops of the city and got your first sight of the this amazing peace of architecture and art. The Parthenon, temple of Aphrodite, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erecteion or the monumental main gateway, the Propylea. Almos anyone knows these sites at least to some degree from movies or photographs; they have kinda become the very symbol of Athens. The entrance fee is 20 euro, but if you choose to come outside the main season (during Autumn and Winter) you will get a 50% off and there will be significantly less tourist - just check the photo above, you wouldn't make one like that in the high season). Also, if you study any of the european univiersities, you will get a free entrance, so don't hesitate.
Also, there is a weird rule that you may not take pictures there that may be found offensive or disrespectful of some kind, so beware. (I was forced to delete a very cute picture of my toy pig :(( )
2/ The ancient Agora
The ancient marketplace is probably the greenest area of the city. You will find it very peaceful for an afternoon walk. Also, there is the best preserved greek temple hidden in the garden here - the Temple of Hephaestos. Definitely worth visiting :) Especially if you love the ancient greek culture as much as I do.
The seat of the Greek parliament and the former royal palace; the Syntagma Square is the place where the past and future of the country meet. You for sure don't want to miss the regular changing of the guards every hour in front of the Parliament building.
4/ Monastiraki
If you want to catch some of the busy life of the Athens, definitely check the Monastiraki square. A former ottoman mosque ovelooking the busiest place in the city where tourist and locals merge into a mixed crowd of unimaginable chaos. You find here also the famous Monastiraki flea market where you may find many interesting souvenirs to bring home with you. Also, the view from Monastiraki towards the Acropolis is breathtaking.
5/ The Cathedral
Among the many christian orthodox churches in the city, I have picked the largest - the seat of the orthodox metropolitan of the country, the cathedral is the centerpiece of chrisitan worship. Beautiful domed structure with two tall towers and the statue of the last Byzantine (and therefore the very last Roman Emperor) Constantinus XI. Palaiologos leaves you no doubt that faith is not taken lightly here. Anyway, if you like this kind of architecture, just take a walk from Syntagma to the Acropolis and many of these orthodox churches and chapels will pop up. Don't stop wowing.
And don't stop traveling. Till next time.
Lex :)
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