2023 Mediterranean Cruise Day 8 - Athens, Greece

Athens

Athens, the capital and largest city of Greece, is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with recorded history stretching back over 3,400 years. Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy, Athens played a pivotal role in the development of philosophy, arts, science, and politics in the ancient world. Today, it blends its rich heritage with the energy of a modern European metropolis.

Key attractions in Athens include:

• The Acropolis and Parthenon – Iconic ancient citadel and temple complex.

• Ancient Agora – The heart of classical Athens’ public life.

• Plaka District – A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, shops, and tavernas.

• National Archaeological Museum – Home to Greece’s most significant ancient artifacts.

Athens’ influence on art, literature, politics, and philosophy remains profound. The city continues to be a center for cultural events, academic research, and international dialogue, while maintaining deep connections to its ancient roots.

We arrived back at the pier and I had arranged a private tour of Athens for Roneshia and I. The next few pictures are of us meeting our tour guide and leaving the cruise terminal.

The next pics are street views as we head to our first stop. The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

The Acropolis (meaning “high city” in Greek) is an ancient citadel perched on a rocky hill above the city of Athens. It is the most iconic landmark of Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Acropolis served as a fortified center, religious sanctuary, and symbol of Athenian power and culture. Today, it stands as a timeless testament to the artistic and political achievements of classical Greece.

The Acropolis is a powerful symbol of:

• Democracy – representing the political ideals born in ancient Athens.

• Artistic Excellence – showcasing advanced techniques in sculpture, architecture, and urban planning.

• Cultural Identity – a national and cultural emblem of Greece, recognized worldwide.

• The Acropolis is a complex of buildings and temples, including:

  • The Parthenon (the most famous structure)

  • The Erechtheion (with its Caryatid Porch)

  • The Temple of Athena Nike

  • The Propylaea (the monumental entrance)

In other words, the Acropolis is the entire hilltop site and sacred precinct.

This is an AI generated picture.

These are actual pictures taken showing multiple views of the Acropolis.

The Parthenon is the crown jewel of the Acropolis of Athens and one of the most celebrated monuments of ancient Greece. Dedicated to Athena Parthenos (Athena the Virgin), the city’s patron goddess, it stands as a symbol of classical beauty, proportion, and the ideals of democracy and civic pride. Built between 447 and 432 BCE, it was the centerpiece of the grand building program initiated by the Athenian leader Pericles during the city’s Golden Age.

The Parthenon embodies:

• The artistic pinnacle of classical Greece.

• The political ideals of the Athenian democracy.

• A global icon of cultural achievement and architectural perfection.

  
  

Today, it continues to inspire architects, historians, and visitors from around the world, while ongoing restoration work strives to preserve it for future generations.

This is an AI generated picture of the Parthenon.

Pictures taken from afar.

Areopagus Hill Sign and Description

Views of the City

Panoramic View of Athens

Stone Steps

Church across from Acropolis.

Street Views

On this part of the tour, our guide is providing history on the Athenian Temples.

Olympian Zeus Temple

Olympian Sign

This short video is of the stadium with a little added history.

Panathenaic Stadium in Numbers

Stadium Picture

Museum Shop

More city views.

Isn't she lovely?

So thankful for this life I've been given.

American School of Classic Studies

The Runner Statue

The Academy

The Library

The Changing of the Guard in Athens, Greece is a ceremonial event performed by the Presidential Guard (Evzones), an elite unit of the Hellenic Army. The ceremony takes place in front of the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square, right by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This is the central and most iconic spot to witness the guards. Other useful information:

• Every hour, on the hour (24/7): A short guard change happens.

• Sundays at 11:00 AM: A grand parade-style ceremony takes place with many guards, a marching band, and more elaborate formations. This is the most impressive version.

• The guards wear traditional uniforms, including the fustanella (pleated skirt with 400 folds, symbolizing Greece’s years under Ottoman rule).

• Their shoes, called tsarouchia, are leather clogs with large black pompoms.

• The movement is slow, deliberate, and highly stylized, symbolizing both discipline and tradition.

• The ceremony is solemn, but the synchronized steps and uniforms make it a striking display.

Waiting to watch the changing of the guards.

The next four videos show the changing of the guards. Because it is Sunday, we get the parade-style ceremony.

The end of the ceremony.

More pictures.

In this video, our guide is giving us more history of Athens, including information on the center of the old town, great advice and recommendations on what else to do while here.

Holocaust Museum Sign

The Kerameikos of Ancient Athens

We were hungry so we stopped to grab some lunch. We ate at the Theta Athens.

Cajun Shrimp and Pasta

Ro Ro is so darn photogenic.

More Hilltop Acropolis Views

Athens Flea Market

Our last opportunity to watch the changing of the guards before heading home.

Old Olive Tree. This tree is believed to be over 1,000 years old.

Ro Ro and I with our tour guide. He was a great guide and took great care of us.

Ro Ro's Gallery - Athens

In this section you will find a gallery of photos and videos, courtesy of my daughter, Roneshia, aka Ro Ro. Some may be duplicative of the ones I took but these were taken from her perspective.

Pictures

Videos

Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos

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Until our next time......