Athens, the capital of Greece, is among the oldest cities in the world. Its recorded history goes back to 3200 BCE. Ancient Athens, initially a settlement on the Acropolis, developed in the 6th century BCE into an all-powerful city-state. During the classical period, it became the centre of the arts, knowledge, and philosophy, the seat of Plato’s Academy and Aristotle’s Lyceum. It is widely referred to as the birthplace of democracy. Often, Athens, and more generally Greece, is called the “cradle of Western civilization”.
The heritage of the classical period is still apparent in the city, as reflected in its ancient monuments and works of art, with the universally-known Parthenon, considered to be the emblematic monument of ancient Western civilization and its most brilliant monument, dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of the city. It is among the world’s most recognizable monuments and is admired as a global symbol of the lasting values of excellence, democracy, and art.
On the foothills of the Acropolis lies the Pnyx, where the ancient city’s popular assembly met to decide on the important issues affecting the city from the 6th century BCE through the end of the 4th-century BCE. Close to the Pnyx lies the ancient Agora (marketplace), an open area to the northwest of the Acropolis, a gathering place for men, a focal point for athletics, art, and the spiritual and political life of the ancient city, but mainly as its economic centre.
Also preserved in Athens are monuments of Rome and Byzantium, the medieval Daphne Monastery which, along with the Acropolis, have been designed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, along with a small number of Ottoman monuments.
Photo: horizon-magazine.eu
Gastronomy
Athens has been established as a top gastronomic destination, offering a rich variety of choices, from traditional tavernas to modern, gourmet restaurants. In the tavernas, authenticity and a friendly atmosphere prevail, offering classic and traditional dishes. At the same time, the modern gastronomic scene is evolving with award-winning chefs and restaurants serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, using local produce and offering magnificent views. The city also offers excellent seafood and a variety of options for vegetarians, while street food, such as souvlaki and gyros, remains popular.
