the wandering chick
...Athens
and Olympia

With dated recordings 3400 years old, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world. It was here, in 500 B.C. , that the form of government we know as democracy was established. But Athens has experienced, over the years, all other forms of government, too, including monarchy, socialism and capitalism. But it's certainly not the government that brings droves of tourists to Athens each year. Her culture, her history and her beauty are the big draws.

Athens is home to 148 theater stages, so deep is its passion for music and theatre. Mythology, academia and philosophy also run deep, being the home of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle.

Athens is one of a few cities said to be built on 7 hills, each with its own history, importance and purpose. The best known is the Acropolis where sits the Parthenon.

Today, one can appreciate the history pertaining to the seven hills, but for many, they simply provide vast panoramic views of the city and places to watch remarkable sunsets.

aerial view of athens
An overview of the city of Athens
ruins
the Parthenon
The Parthenon, sitting atop the Acropolis, is the most well-known temple of Athens and even all of Greece. It has been the highlight since the 5th century BC in dedication to the goddess of wisdom and protector of the city, Athena. The Acropolis itself, also called the Sacred Rock, is known throughout the world as Athens' trademark. Many of the ancient cities have an acropolis, which is another word for fortress or citadel. The next few shots are of the Parthenon.
Another well-known structure on the Acropolis is that holding the Porch of the Maidens. The six (only five are in view) women are balancing the roof of the building on their heads, a symbol of power and strength. Such columns in the form of women are called caryatids, which I cannot pronounce. The marble structure dates back to about 425 B.C.
greek ruins
greek ruins
greek ruins
greek ruins
The olive tree is firmly rooted in the Ancient Greek mythology as a symbol of peace and friendship. It has been considered sacred by Greeks of all generations and for thousands of years. A branch from an olive tree is a sign of peace; an olive wreath is a trophy for the olympic athletes.
greek ruins
greek ruins
A view of a couple of the other hills of Athens, taken from the Acropolis
greek ruins
greece countryside
temple ruins
temple ruins
The Greek countryside between Athens and Thessaloniki

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