I woke up feeling kind of crummy. I took some cold medicine, determined not to slow down!
The first order of the day was to visit the Acropolis and famed Parthenon, the Temple of Athena. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of classical Greek art, and the Parthenon is considered an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western Civilization.
On the way in, on the slope of the Acropolis is the first theatre.
Once you pass the gate, the breadth of the Acropolis is seen, and an image of it at its height might come to mind, with bustling crowds wishing to worship the patron goddess of Athens.
The Acropolis has several temples, the largest one being the Parthenon. There is also the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Polias, the temple with the statues on the side used as columns, and the Temple of Nike (Victory).
First Modern Olympic Stadium
We took a short trip to the site of the first modern Olympics of 1896.
Changing of the Guard
Greece has a “Changing of the Guard” ceremony similar to the one done at Arlington National Cemetery. This one is also for the unknown soldiers from all armies that fought for freedom.
Lunch and Shopping
We were then given about 90 minutes of “free” time to have lunch in the old Athens Agora, and to do some souvenir shopping.
National Museum of Greece
Much like the museum in Heraklion, this museum had archaeological displays throughout Greece’s history, and also included some Egyptian artifacts.
After the museum we went back to the hotel and crashed… after writing a blog.