Athens – Acropolis
Athens has been the center of Greek civilization for some 4,000 years. The capital of modern Greece, it’s still dominated by 5th century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel topped with ancient buildings such as the colonnaded Parthenon temple. So it was fitting that we started our Athens trip at this iconic location.
The first observation was that of people. Crowds everywhere, it took1/2 hour to buy tickets, then 15 minutes to get in. There was even a 15 minute line to leave the grounds! But put all that behind you, and enjoy not only the scenery but the awareness of walking in (on) the steps of people over some 4,000 years. And marvel at the abilities of people who did not have any benefits of modern equipment.
Across from our hotel was the Temple of Olympian Zeus, definitely worth a visit. The work on the column top was incredible. Then a walk to the Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic games in 1896, again in 2004, and now hosting ceremonial events & live music concerts.
We ended the day with a terrific dinner at a most pleasant local Greek restaurant. And oh yes, we walked around 9 miles today.
The Parthenon as viewed from the Olympic Stadium; Zeus Temple peeking from behind the trees
The Parthenon, picture taken from the rooftop bar in our hotel
St. George Chapel, on Lycovitus Hill
Parthenon elevation
Parthenon corner
Hard to imagine how these were built!
Looking up at the massive stonework
Tanya and Romola in front of the Parthenon
Lots of pieces left to put together!
A view down to the old theater, still used today
“Porch of the Maidens”
Tanya and Shane in front of the caryatids (female statues)
Hadrian Arch
Detail of the column tops
Temple of Olympian Zues
Looking into the open end of the stadium
Statue at the Stadium
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