The Ancient Agora

The Agora of Athens served as a vital hub for everyday life, contrasting sharply with the divine realm of the Acropolis above. Situated at the foot of this iconic sanctuary, the Agora was the heartbeat of Athenian democracy. Here,  citizens gathered to discuss politics, share news, and connect with friends. It buzzed with the activity of vendors and shoppers from all walks of life,  making it the town's commercial center. As people roamed the stalls, they engaged in lively conversations, exchanged ideas, and kept up with the latest events. The Agora was not just a marketplace; it was the social and political soul of Athens, where democracy took root and flourished among its people.

The ancient Agora is today an archaeological park full of ancient ruins, which reflects in an eloquent way the life in the most frequented and colorful place of ancient Athens.

Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery of Athens

Kerameikos, the ancient district of potters and Athens' official cemetery, lies alongside the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. Here, the Athenians buried their dead just outside the city walls, creating a strong connection with their loved ones. Luxurious family graveyards showcase the legacy of generations. Imposing tombs honor Atheniasn who bravely fell in battle. Each funerary monument tells a silent story, reflecting the values and struggles of the city. The city wall, remnants of which still stand, marked the boundary between life and death, reminding the people of their enduring ties to those who passed away. 

In its stillness, the cemetery offers a powerful connection to Athens' past. It reminds us of the lives which shaped the city's identity.

Plaka & Monastiraki

Plaka, the historic district of Athens, is situated at the foot of the Acropolis hill. This picturesque and ancient neighborhood boasts narrow, cobblestone streets, winding alleys, charming squares, neoclassical mansions, and major historical sites, making it one of the top destinatons in Athens. Plaka has been the heart of Athens, from its ancient roots to the present days. This is where the people of Athens have always lived from ancient times till present day. In antiquity, it housed the Ancient Agora, which served as the political and commercial hub of Athens. During Roman times, it flourished under the influence of prominent emperors. In the byzantine era,  the district was enhanced with elegant churches. Under Ottoman rule, Plaka developed an exotic atmosphere with its baths, mosques, and lively bazars. Throughout the centuries, Plakahas been the beating heart of Athens' vibrant commercial and cultural life. Just next to Plaka is the vibrant Monastiraki district, named after the small monastery that overlooks the central square. This popular area is renowned for its bustling flea market, the numerous stores and the lively Sunday Bazaar, which attracts both locals and tourists.

Plaka and Monastiraki are the perfect destinations for a leisurely stroll around. These charming neighborhoods are ideal for shopping, offering a wide range of local handicrafts, jewelry, and authentic Greek products.  You can also enjoy a coffee in one of the numerous cafes, or savor the rich flavors of Greek cuisine at one of the many traditional restaurants.

The Roman Agora

In the 1^st century B.C. a new commercial Agora was established  of the anear the site of the original ancient Agora. This newly designed structure featured a large, rectangular layout with a geometric design, including a spacious colonnaded courtyard surrounded by poricoes. Within this bustling marketplace,  numerous shops offered a wide range of goods for sale creating a vibrant commercial hub. Adjacent to the Agora,  the Tower of the Winds was constructed - an advanced, marble-built meteorological station that functioned as a sundial, hydraulic clock, and weathervane. Many centuries later, during the Ottoman occupation, a mosque was built on the site, covering part of the ancient Agora.

Hadrian's Library

The greatest benefactor of Athens, the Roman emperor Hadrian, donated in the 2^nd c. AD the most luxurious building in the heart of the city he admired so much. Conceived rather as a luxurious Roman forum than as a library, it covered a big area that comprised a big colonnaded court-yard surrounded by 100 marble columns as well as lecture and conferences halls. It was equipped with all necessary facilities of a modern library of that time offering, at the same time, the opportunity of recreation to the people of Athens.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus

The temple's impressive size is undeniable, as it was one of the largest in the Greek world. The area where it was built had been considered sacred since prehistoric times. From this location, Zeus could gaze upon the temples dedicated to his beloved daughter, as the temple lies in direct line of sight with the Acropolis. After a tumultuous history, the construction of the massive temple was completed with the support of Roman Emperor Hadrian. In gratitude, the Athenians honored him with a triumphal structure, the renowned Gate of Hadrian, which still stands in front of the temole today. The 16 columns that remain offer a glimpse into the grandeur of what was once a magnificent temple.

The byzantine monastery of Kaisariani

 Located just a short distance to the east of Athens, on the slopes of Mount Hymettus, the 11th-century monastery dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin at the Temple is set within an idyllic forest of high ecological value. This forest has been renowned since ancient times for its aromatic plants, herbs, flowers, and beekeeping traditions. The monastic complex, which includes a church entirely covered in frescoes, monk cells, baths, and a refectory, was an important cultural center until 1833 and continues to impress visitors today due to its remarkable state of preservation. This historic site, rich in both religious and cultural significance,  attracts visitors interested in the history of medieval monasteries, Byzantine frescoes, and the unique flora and fauna of Mount Hymettus.

Elefsina

The legend of Elefsina tells of Pluto, tje god of the underworld, who abducted Persephone, the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of cereals, and made her his wife. This myth led to the establishment of the most important worship for Demeter and Persephone, which also became the center of some of the most popular mystic cults in the ancient Greek world.  Devotees traveled to Elefsina to undergo a transformative experience that promised a better life in the afterlife. The Eleusinian Mysteries were centered around secret rituals designed to provide initiates with spiritual enlightenment and comfort regarding life and death. They conitnue to be a powerful symbol of humanity's quest for meaning, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of happiness, inspiring people to reflect on their own journey toward enlightenment.

The Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounio

The Temple of the sea god Poseidon is located on Cape Sounio, the southernmost tip of Attica, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It was part of Pericle's grand building project aimed at enhancing the beauty of Athens. Constructed from white marble, the temple served as a vital landmark for sailors navigating the Aegean. In addition to its religious significance, the promontory also housed one of the major forts of the city-state, playing a key role during times of crisis. The site is a must-visit, not only for its ancient temple and the stunning beauty of the natural environment, but also for the spectacular views of the sea and the nearby islands, especially during sunset hours.

The Corinth Canal  

The Corinth Canal separates mainland Greece from the Peloponnese, providing a vital link between the Aegean and Ionian seas. For centuries, building the canal was a challenge for many prominent figures, all aiming to shorten travel times and improve connections between East and West. Finally completed in the late 19th century, the Corinth Canal has become one of Greece's top attractions. Today, several bridges connect the two regions of Greece, making it a key landmark for visitors to explore.

Mycenae

On the mainland of Argolis, located SE of the Peloponnese, lies the ancient fortress of Mycenae, a key archaeological site rich in history and mythology. As a highly organized kingdom, Mycenae was home to a society of landowners, tradesmen, and warrirors, and remains one of the most significant sites of the Mycenaean civilization. The fortress, protected by its iconic cyclopean walls, preserves remnants of this advanced culture. Visitors to Mycenae can explore impressive landmarks, such as the Lion Gate,  royal tombs, religious structures, and the palace. Nearby, the legendary tombs of notable figures, including the famous King Agamemnon, who led the Greek forces in the Trojan War, furhter enhance the site's historical importance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological site of Mycenae continues to offer valuable insights into the advanced engineering and culture of the Mycenaean era.

Epidaurus

The sacred land of Epidaurus, nestled in the heart of a stunning landscape, was once home to the most renowned sanctuary of Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. Epidaurus is also famous for its ancient theatre, considered the most harmonious in the Greek world, celebrated for its exceptional acoustics. The site was not only a center for worship but also the most popular therapeutic destination of its time, known for its unique approach to healing through dream interpretation. Pilgrims from all over sought the divine intervention of Asclepius to cure ailments, undergo treatments, and find both physical rest and spiritual relief through the healing power of theatre. The well-preserved monuments of classical architecture at Epidaurus offer a glimpse into the origins of medicine and its connection to ancient Greek culture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient Epidaurus remains an iconic symbol of ancient healing practices and the development of medical knowledge.

Delphi

At the southern foot of the sacred Mount Parnassus lies the ancient site of Delphi, known for its mysterious crevice from which toxic gases once emanated. This sacred place became home to the famous Oracle of Delphi, where the god of prophecy, Apollo, communicated the will of Zeus through the priestess Pythia. Revered by the ancient Greeks as the "navel of the world", Delphi developed into the most significant oracle of the ancient Greek world, attracting sovereigns, leaders, and visitors from all over the then known world.  It gained immense wealth from the offerings of the powerful personalities who sought divine guidance. Today, Delphi remains one of Greece's top attractions, with numerous monuments preserved to showcase its former glory. Visitors can explore the archaeological site of Delphi, which includes among other monuments the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, and the ancient stadium.The nearby Delphi Archaeological Museum houses some of the most exquisite offerings once dedicated to the oracle with the famous "Charioteer" being the top exhibit. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi coninues to captivate tourists and history enthusiasts.