Athens
ATHENS
The Acropolis, the Agora and Aeropagus Hill
This photo was captured from the roof top dining area of the Thissio View Hotel restaurant in Athens, Greece. The view of the Acropolis was so breathtaking, I could hardly eat that night. It’s hard to explain the beauty of the scene as the moon rose over the hill of the uniquely beautiful and majestic edifice.
Many would agree that the Acropolis is indeed the most striking and complete monumental complex of ancient Greece existing in our times. It is associated with the important myths of ancient Athens, great religious feasts and the oldest cults of the city. On this hill, democracy, philosophy and theater were born and to this day provide the intellectual and spiritual foundation of our contemporary world and its values.
The word Acropolis itself originates from the Greek words for ‘highest point’ and “city”- fitting as the complex sits on a rock high above the city and visible to some extent from all around. It is made up of various architectural masterpieces dating back to the 5th century BC. Though attacked and plundered by Romans, Persians, Goths and the like, through bombardments, fires, earthquakes, interventions and alterations, - it still stands, having adapted over twenty-five centuries to different uses and the civilizations, myths and religions that have flourished in Greece through time.
The Acropolis contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. The Parthenon was dedicated to Athena Parthenos, the patron goddess of the city of Athens and goddess of wisdom, and centuries later continues to stand as a symbol of democracy and the beginning of the Western civilization. Other important present remains include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Propylaia and the Erechtheion.
That night, I couldn’t help but be reminded not to let fear hold me back – but to let it, instead, be the champion of my inspiration! I had been very hesitant to visit Greece in preceding years because of persistent reports of a country rocked by economic constraints and austerity measures. I finally decided to book the trip, and as with many things in life, everything I’d ever imagined and wanted in the experience was on this side of my fear. As the saying goes – don’t believe everything you think!
The Aeropagus or Hill of Ares, is situated just to the west of the Acropolis. It was important to the Athenians for a number of reasons including a story to which reference is made in the book of Acts in the Bible. It is there the Apostle Paul, in AD50 is said to have delivered a famous Aeropagus Sermon to the men of Athens. The Greeks were very careful not to offend any of the deities, so they had an inscription dedicated to an "unknown god". St Paul told them that the Christian God was the one they ignorantly worshipped. "Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands." You can also see a bronze plaque which contains the relevant text from the Bible.
Visit Athens
There are so many differing opinions of the city of Athens with travelers routinely questioning how long an ideal stay would be for exploring the various ruins before setting of for one of the many Greek Island. If you are into history and culture, I would suggest nothing less than three days to take in the main sites, enjoy some Greek cuisine and hospitality. A popular area to stay would be Plaka, which would enable you to explore many popular historical sites on foot.
The warmth of the outstanding hospitality I experienced in Greece is second to none I’ve experienced around the world and matched only by the beauty of the landscapes, if you’ve wanted to go – do it! Athens is the springboard to adventures in Greece, but the country is well known for its beaches, from the black sandy shores of Santorini to the lively resorts of Mykonos. There are many adventures to be had on your own and plenty guided tours.
Viator
and Get Your Guide are good sources of inspiration. Need help planning your trip and itinerary suggestions: where to go, how to get there? CONTACT ME