Athens sights

Athens is a city that has been a focal point of many Greek legends and myths. It was the setting for many of the most iconic stories and the birthplace of heroes whose heroic deeds are still very much alive today. Today, of course, the city is a modern, tourist-driven metropolis. But in the midst of today’s great civilization, you can find many legendary landmarks.

The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis is considered to be Athens’ oldest architectural monument. It is also the most recognizable place in the city. It is set in a hilly area which rises to a height of 156 metres. There is a flat top where the main attractions of the acropolis are concentrated.

The foundation of such a hill dates back to the 5th century B.C. Gradually the territory started to be erected. Gradually temples started to be built on the territory. The final form was developed over several decades. Unfortunately, not all of them have survived to this day. However, today you can see the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, as well as the Niki Apteros.

Temple of Zeus the Olympic

The temple has received a great deal of attention not only from tourists but also from researchers. It has not managed to retain its original appearance as it has been damaged by nature and man more than once. However, even its ruins are awe-inspiring to all who visit the area.

The veneration of the temple was noted by the people who believed in Zeus. They regarded him as the supreme god. As Christianity developed, the belief in Thunderbird began to wane. Gradually, the building was being destroyed and robbed of its value. Then the elements did their part. Today there are 15 columns and the last one lies at its foot.

Temple of Hephaestus (Hephaisteion)

The Hephaisteion spreads out in the northwestern part of the Ancient Agora. For a long time it served as an orthodox temple, but later turned into a national monument of Greek history. Then a museum was established within its walls, but in the last century it was decided to return it to its original appearance.

In terms of preservation, the temple of Hephaestus was more fortunate than the others. It was constructed of solid marble. There was a period when it was thought to be the temple of Theseus. However, the opinion was changed after the statues of Hephaestus and Athena were found there. Theseus was only mentioned in the images on the walls.

The monastery of Kesariani

To the east of Athens there is the monastery of Kesariani. It is not immediately identifiable due to the stone fence that protects it from uninvited guests. The Orthodox shrine is impressive in its rough appearance. It is believed to have been built in the 11th century.

Today it is the property of the orthodox church. At one time the Greeks reverently regarded the structure as a sacred centre. Today it is more of a cultural treasure from the Middle Ages.

Daphne Monastery

Drive about 11 km northwest of Athens and you’ll find another ancient temple. The Byzantine monastery is impressive in appearance as it is a classic representative of this architectural style. An altar to Apollo of Daphne once functioned here.

The temple received its name from the lush vegetation – the laurels. They are called “daphni” in Greek. The main temple is the part dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its decoration are the mosaics of incredible beauty, created in XI-XII centuries, which remained up to now.