| a. History: One of the oldest
cities in the world - the capital of Greece, Athens, offers a variety
of images, impressions and experiences. According to myth Athens'
legendary history begins with a contest between Athena, the
goddess of wisdom, and Poseidon, the god of the sea. Both eyed
the city and claimed it as their own. In order to determine who would
be her protector they agreed that whoever could come up with the most
useful gift to the mortals would win. Poseidon started the contest
by striking the rock of the Acropolis with his mighty trident
and brought forth water. Athena on the other hand offered the citizenry
the olive tree, symbol of peace and prosperity which proved to be
invaluable and thus, Athena became the benefactor and the city was
named after her (Athena). The Cyclopean Wall built on the Acropolis
(the High City) during the Bronze Age, clearly indicates the worship
of an earth goddess, the prototype of Athena. Through trials and tribulations,
social conflicts and numerous political systems democracy was established
in the sixth century B.C. and Athens became one of the leading city-states
in Greece. The successive victories against the Persians enable her
to become a maritime power and a major building project - a temple
to Athena, the Parthenon; the Erectheion and the Propylaia
- was undertaken on the Acropolis to replace the building which was
destroyed during the Persian attack. The Parthenon, the ''Monument
of Monuments'' as it has been called, is the dominant feature
of the Acropolis and epitomizes the glory of Ancient Greece. It is
the largest Doric Temple, entirely (except the wooden roof)
built of Pentelic marble. The great names connected with this
marvel of creations are: Pericles, who inspired it and the
entire program on the Acropolis, Pheidias, the great sculptor,
who supervised the project and Iktinos and Callicrates, the
architects. The dual purpose of the Parthenon was to house the huge
statue of (the patron deity of the city) Athena, and to be the treasury
for the tribute money (which was brought from Delos, the great sanctuary
of Apollo). The Erechteion was built on the most sacred spot
on the rock where according to myth, the contest between Athena and
Poseidon took place. The porch with the six larger than life Caryatides
(maidens), is the most impressive section of the temple. Architecturally,
the Erechtheion is the most unusual temple, consisting of three
basic parts: the main temple, the northern porch and the southern
porch - all dimensions being different, a supreme achievement of Ionic
style. The Propylaea: The architect Mnesicles conceived and
executed the towering entrance to the Acropolis. It was supposed to
be more than a gateway, its function was to generate awe and respect
and prepare the mortals who were about to meet the goddess. Architecturally
it is compared to the Parthenon and it was the first building ever
to incorporate brilliantly the Doric and Ionic styles. Due
to the Peloponnesian War, the project was never completed.
The three architects Callicrates, Ictinos and Mnesicles
- in conjunction with Pericles' superb ideas and foresight, and
the superior sculpture of Pheidias and Myron - made Athens the marvel
of architecture, a wonder of antiquity and of the Golden Age (5th
Century B.C.). At the end of the destructive Peloponnesian War in
404 B.C. defeated by Sparta and her allies, Athens, still remained
an important cultural and educational center, never again, however,
regained her former power and magnificence. During the Byzantine Period,
Athens decayed and dwindled and was virtually excluded from the affairs
of the Empire. After the fall of Constantinople a Duchy was
established in Athens but the Westerners did little to improve the
situation there. Athens was annexed to the Ottoman Empire,
the Turks seized the Acropolis in 1456. Throughout the Middle Ages,
Athens was an insignificant village. The Parthenon, however, remained
an important monument which was severely damaged in 1687, during the
Turk-Venetian War. Athens changed hands numerous times during the
War of Independence and in 1839 became the capital. Many changes occurred
in the 19th Century, the city, however, remained very small until
recent years and specifically after the 2nd World War and the Civil
War. More than 40% of the population has been drawn to the capital
and Athens is the largest city of Greece. The mythical and historical
past of the city creates an aura of superior beauty and prestige.
The history, culture and quaint traditions give the glorious metropolis
a special luster, an incomparable splendour. Enjoy her marvellous
offerings. Be fascinated with the many and varied facets of this cosmopolitan
city. Be dazzled by her unparalleled past. Be charmed by the whimsical
customs and traditions and for the sake of the extraordinary quality
of art, culture and historical significance of this glorious city,
excuse and tolerate the curse of the industrial age - pollution -
and the congestion of Modern Athens. The frustration of the terrible
traffic jams; oppressive summer heat or any discomfort that big cities
present, will soon disappear if you head directly to a shady cafe
or to the oldest neighbourhood of Athens - Plaka - or one of the gorgeous
sea shores.
b. Ancient Athens: Most important sights and attractions
1. The Acropolis The most important ancient monument of the
Western World is the crown Jewel of Athens and with the commanding
temple the Parthenon - which has become the symbol of perfection
that characterizes the classical spirit of Pericles' era and that
of the Golden Age - dominates the center of the city. Along with
the Parthenon, the other most significant monuments, the Erechtheion,
the Propylaea and the temple of the Wingless Nike
(Victory), were built towards the 2nd half of the 5th Century B.C.
and even today, despite the destruction and plunder during the course
of many centuries, they stand proudly, survivors of the ravages
that man and time have imposed on them, retaining their splendour,
declaring to the world the Glory that was Greece.
2. The Theatre of Dionysus Located in the southern slope
of the Acropolis, its enormous dimensions demonstrate the importance
of cultural activity in Ancient Greece. The great plays of the tragedians:
Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles and the works of Aristophanes
were first staged in this re-structured but still crumbling
theatre. It is the oldest of the Greek theatres and its function
apart of the artistic was also to serve public meetings.
3. Odeon of Herod Atticus Just below the Acropolis hill
the reconstructed amphitheatre is welcoming visitors from everywhere
who experience great joy during the summer Athens Festival Performances,
it is an unforgettable adventure being in one of those happenings
in one of the most impressive ancient monuments. It was built by
Herod Atticus in the second century A.D. in memory of his
wife. It was completely renovated in the 1950's and the 32 rows
of seats can accommodate about 5,000 spectators.
4. The Ancient Agora (Market) Beneath the northern walls
of the spiritual center of Ancient Athens, the Acropolis, sprawled
the Agora - the commercial and public center, the heart of daily
life philosophers and great writers taught here and St Paul spread
Christianity and converted many. Although it is difficult to believe
looking at the ruins today, this place brought forth politics; philosophy;
artistic development, rational discussion and communication. That's
where Socrates held his famous dialogues with his students
and where he searched for truth, which brought his downfall with
the authorities and condemned him to death in 403 B.C. The prison
cell in which he drank the hemlock was uncovered in recent excavations.
5. The Acropolis Museum Located at the southeast corner
of the Acropolis all the exhibits on the site can be admired in
the comfortable galleries. Beautifully organized rooms in chronological
order offer the visitor much information on temples pre-dating the
Parthenon and which were destroyed by the Persians. The work of
sculptors is admired in the three front galleries containing pre-classical
works of the 6th Century B.C. The Archaic period is characterized
with the exhibits in rooms IV and V (the Ìan on Horseback-whose
head is a copy the original is at Louvers-many statues depict kores
(maidens) the most famous being the Almond-Åyed kore (500B.C.)
#674). Two statues: the Kritios Boy and the Blond Õouth
depict the transitional stage from the Archaic to the Classical
period. Sections of the Parthenon frieze along with other remnants
of sculpture that escaped the theft of Lord Elgin are housed in
rooms VII and VIII. Finally the five surviving Karyatides from
the Erechtheion (the sixth is found in the British Museum,
spoil of Lord Elgin) are safely housed in room IX behind glass and
special lighting. You have completed the tour of the Acropolis now
indulge in enjoying the beautiful view. Far beyond you see the Strait
of Salamis (the Temple of Athena Nike faces it), and further
the Peloponnesian mountains. The Saronic Gulf Islands are to the
left. Behind Mt Hymettos to the east is Cape Sounion and
of course surrounding the sacred hill is the city of Athens.
6. The Hill of Pnyx The rostrum which was cut into the rock
served mankind greatly, since great orators like Solon, Pericles,
Demosthenes and Themistocles (but also a large number of demagogues)
used it as a platform in order to probe, explore and advance democracy.
Located in the west side of the Acropolis the Pnyx today serves
as a theater presenting the Sound and Light show and offers a fantastic
view of the Acropolis. Besides the Pnyx in the west and southwest
of the Acropolis, there are the Philopappou Hill and the Hill of
Areapagos. The three sacred hills guarded the ancient city.
7. The Philopappou Hill The sacred rock (Acropolis) and
the city of Athens are best viewed from the hill of Philopappou
or the hill of the Muses. A marble monument has been erected in
memory of Antiochos Philopappos - a Syrian prince who had served
as Roman consul and became Athen's benefactor in the second century
A.D.
8. Hill of Areopagos The ancient supreme court (Arios
Paghos) is located just below the entrance of the Acropolis.
According to Aeschylus, this hill was where Orestes was judged and
found innocent for murdering his mother Clytemnestra. St Paul, centuries
later, also preached there. The court had a reputation for integrity
and fairness, it retained jurisdiction over murder and religious
offences for centuries. This hill, as it was mentioned earlier-
along with the other two sacred hills- guarded the city.
9. The Temple of Olympian Zeus A fitting monument to the
mighty ruler of the gods, Zeus, was this huge temple (the largest
in Ancient Greece). It was the tyrant Peisistratos who started it
in the 6th century B.C. and it was completed, centuries later, by
the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 132 A.D. Of the 104 Corinthian style
columns, each 56ft. high and 7ft. wide, only 15 remain. There is
no trace of the huge gold and ivory statue of Zeus and the
one of Hadrian.
10. Hadrian's Arch To separate his city which he called
''Handrianopolis'' from the ancient city of Theseus (Athens), he
erected the Arch which was facing the temple of Zeus. It is located
towards the end of Amalias Ave.
11. National Archaeological Museum Located on 28th Octovriou
(Patesion) St. It exhibits the largest and most dazzling collection
of Greek Antiquities. The most prominent being the Mycenaean gold
pieces (including Agamemnon's gold mask); the Cycladic figurines
which resemble techniques of modern sculpture; the bronze statue
of Poseidon and many more.
12. Plaka The oldest and most picturesque quarter of the
city is located on the north slope of the Acropolis. The narrow
winding streets, the cobblestone walkways (cars have been banned
for the most part) and the elegant old homes, are all that is left
of old Athens. A cluster of Byzantine churches, ancient ruins, souvenir
shops, tavernas, night clubs and bars are jam-packed into a half
a sq. kilometer. A most delightful place to be, where many paths
climb up to the Acropolis. Many tourists enjoy the uniqueness of
the Plaka area and the two main streets Kydathineon and Adrianou
are being strolled till the wee hours, where restaurants, tourist
shops and bars stay open. The Tower of the Winds, with its
water clock, sun dial and weather vane, a stunning monument,
built in the first century B.C. octagonally shaped, is worth visiting.
Another site, worth seeing in the Plaka area, is the Roman Agora
and the well preserved 4th century B.C. monument of Lysicratous.
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c. Modern Athens: 1.Monastiraki
Square Actually Monastiraki is an extention of Plaka. It is the
heart of the city's market district. The central meat and the produce
markets are located there. Many other shops and vendors are packed
on Athinas and Aeolou Sts. The popular flea market is southwest on
Ifestou St which leads off to the metro station. To this day,
Monastiraki, attracts and it is the centre of Athenian artists
who create beautiful articles using copper, bronze, iron and other
metals. In addition, a great number of antique dealers and variety
souvenir shops flock the area. Towards Avissinias Sq. you will
observe wood-crafters refinishing old chairs, bureaus and other interesting
items to be sold on the spot and in antique stores. It is a very animated
place, especially on Sundays - when all other shops are closed -
and people congest the area to browse and shop at the weekly sidewalk
bazaar. It is indeed the most colorful and the noisiest area in Athens.
Towards Syntagma, on Ermou and Mitropoleos Sts. more
up-scale shopping can be done. Good fashion and textile shops on Ermou
and on Mitropoleos the best buys in carpets and flokati (hand woven
rugs). Pandrosou st. leads to Mitropoleos Sq. where the Mitropolis
(Athens Cathedral) is located.
2.Omonia Square All major streets of Athens lead to Omonia
which is linked with Syntagma Sq. via Panepistimiou (El. Venizelou)
and Stadiou, the two most important streets. It is a very busy transport
center with a station of the Metro system and streets heading in
all directions. Athinas going south from Omonia towards Monastiraki;
Pireos heading south-west towards Piraeus; Aghiou Konstantinou runs
west to the railway station and 3rd Septemvriou goes north. Besides
the metro station, Omonia is also on most of the trolley-bus routes.
On Stadiou, a shopping street, in the
old Parliament building, there is the National Historical Museum
where items from the War of Independence are displayed, among them,
things worn by the Philhellene Lord Byron. On Panepistimiou
St. along with several neoclassical buildings of the 19th century,
one can see the home of Heinrich Schliemann, the German archaeologist
who found the tombs at Mycenae and excavated ancient Troy.
On the same broad street the Academy of Arts, Athens University
and the National Library - reminiscent of the classical style -
are located. The Library contains a great number (over a million)
of books and manuscripts and priceless hand-illuminated Gospels,
dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries.
3.Syntagma Square/Constitution Square Syntagma now has become
synonymous with a convenient spot to meet. It is the central reference
and rendezvous point not only for visitors but Athenians as well.
It is as always has been an Athens centre of activity since Aristotle's
time, when his Lyceum was located to the south of the square. In
the little over one acre-large plaza you'll find a fountain surrounded
with orange, cypress and palm trees. Expensive outdoor cafes, first
class hotels, restaurants, fast food establishments, including McDonald's,
all types of tourist shops, offices and banks. All that, along with
constant traffic coming in from every direction (eight major thruways),
give you the impression of very spirited, brisk setting. In front
of the Parliament Building (Vouli) - in the east side of
the Square - is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where every
Sunday around 10:30a.m. (if you arrive early enough) you can view
the formal changing of the guard (the Evzones) sentries dressed
in the traditional uniform. It is a ceremony worth-seeing. On the
marble retaining walls besides the bronze shields commemorating
contemporary military victories, there's an engraved segment of
Pericles' funeral oration (the Epitaph) in which Athenians killed
in the Peloponnesian War are acclaimed and honoured. It is widely
believed that underneath the site lie the tombs of many of those
soldiers. Adjacent to the Parliament Building, the National Garden/(Ethnikos
Kipos) is a welcoming heaven to thousands who find relief during
the summer heat. A lovely park of subtropical trees, dozens of walkways,
two small ponds with swans and ducks, a small zoo, children's playground
and plenty of benches, it is indeed a very pleasant diversion. The
Zappeion Hall, inside the National Garden, was built in 1896
in order to be used during the first Modern Olympic Games.
Its function is to host numerous cultural and commercial exhibits.
It was here also where the induction of Greece to the European Community
was signed, Zappeion was built by the generosity and bequest
of the national benefactor Evangelos Zappas. Just across the street
from the National Garden, on Vassileos Konstantinou Ave, there is
the all marble stadium which was built prior to the first (1896)
Modern Olympic Games. The stadium can accommodate appr. 70,000 and
it is now mostly used for various ceremonies, concerts and very
important sporting events. It is also called the Panathenaikon Stadium
and has the identical ancient U-shape of the Olympia and Delphi
stadiums. It was built on the exact spot where the ancient (330B.C.)
stadium stood.
4.Kolonaki and Mount Lycavittos Kolonaki, one of Athen's
most elegant quarters. It attracts many visitors for its trendy
shops, the out-door cafes, the gourmet restaurants and shops, the
intense night life for every taste and to take the cable car (from
Ploutarhou St) to the peak (910ft) of Lycavittos Hill. Lycavittos
is the place where you can - at its summit - have a panoramic view
of Athens in all her splendour, the Attica basin, the Saronic
Islands and the surrounding mountains. It is best viewed in
the morning when pollution and haze have not as yet set it. The
picturesque chapel of St George (Aghiou Gheorghiou) is very
imposing - especially at night when it's lit. For the visitors'
convenience there is a pavilion with a restaurant and snack bar,
there is also an amphitheatre where jazz and rock concerts are performed
during the summer festival. Besides the cable car there are also
the countless steps that take the brave climbers from the center
of Kolonaki to the top of the hill.
d.Piraeus Piraeus - the port of Athens - is the third largest
port in the Mediterranean (Marseilles and Genoa being first and
second respectively). It is located 6 miles south-west of Athens
and the Great Harbor accommodates shipping vessels, cruise liners,
the major inter-islands, ferries and Greece's maritime export-import
trade. Piraeus and Athen's histories have been intertwined due
to the fact that Piraeus has been Athen's port since the classical
period. During the Persian Wars, Themistocles transferred
the Athenian fleet from the unsheltered port of Phaleron to the
protection of Piraeus, which he, after his victory at Salamis in
480B.C., fortified and extended the walls to all three harbors. Pericles
expensed those ''Long Walls'' to Phaleron and Athens. At the end
of the Peloponnesian War, though, as one of the stipulations
interposed by the vistorious Spartans, the Walls were demolished.
Piraeus is today as restless, traffic-congested and fun-loving as
Athens, the world of Piraeus of Melina Merkouri's ''Never
on Sunday'' has disappeared and has been replaced by modern buildings,
marble banks, shipping offices, stores and attractive tavernas.
It is a very busy place, a working port with up-market marinas and
a lively nightlife. Although there are some attractive spots worth-visiting,
many tourists choose not to linger and they come only to get a ferry
for the islands. Piraeus has three harbors, the largest being the
Great Harbor (Meghas Limenas), on the western side of the
Piraeus peninsula. All ferries leave from here. Zea Harbor, peaceful
and picturesque, is across the peninsula on the eastern shore. This
serves as a port for hydrofoils to the Saronic Gulf islands - except
Aegina - and as a place where tycoons moor their luxurious yachts.
The other picturesque port Mikrolimano/Tourkolimano (small harbour)
is on the north-east and it's bursting with private boats. There
is the third and most popular harbor, everyday walks have become
customary and the impressions and view along the harbour and on
the hill of Castella as well, remind you of insular surroundings.
The best and fastest way to get to Piraeus from Athens is by metro,
which terminates on Akti Kalimassioti, at the north-eastern
corner of Meghas Limenas (Great Harbour).
e.Apollo Coast: 1.Cape Sounion It is regretful that
one of the most attractive coastlines and seashores has been overdeveloped.
This is the road that borders Attica's Apollo coast, where many
of the beaches now are properties of EOT (Dept of Greek Tourism)
or hotels, in either case you are charged to use them. Sounion is
located appr. 43 miles south-east of Athens and along the way you
will come across beautiful environs and alternative options for
swimming and water sports. Sounion is indeed a naturally magnificent
seascape. Just looking at it becomes evident why the ancient Greeks
- who so carefully picked the temple sites - chose Cape Sounion
for the Temple of Poseidon which was built the 5th century
B.C. and immerses 55ft into the sea. The majestic Doric columns,
which look like they're sprouting from the rocks, with the immenseness
of the blue-sea and sky- colour in the background, present a sight
of an incredibly elusive beauty. The temple has been rebuilt in
the place of the ancient monument which had been destroyed during
the Persian invasion. It still retains 15 columns of Doric style
while the facade has elements of the Ionic as well. Lord Byron was
fascinated with Sounion's and the temple's beauty and not only expressed
his sentiments in Don Juan but also carved his name on one of the
columns. The islands Kea, Kythnos and Serifos in the south-east
and Aegina and the Peloponnese in the west, could be seen beautifully
on a clear day. Besides the coastal road you may take the route
Athens-Glyfada-Vouliagmeni-Sounion.
2.Glyfada Attica's largest resort, is approx. 10 miles south
of Athens. It is regarded as one of the most affluent suburbs and
the main characteristics are the intense nightlife, the greenery
and the outstanding villas. It is overrun with tourists in the summer
and the excellent shopping centers and nightlife attract a great
number of Athenians throughout the year. Additionally, Glyfada has
enticed many wealthy expatriates who have settled permanently here.
The beach - Asteria - offers all types of athletic installations,
restaurants and a Marina that can accommodate more than 50 vessels.
There is also the Golf Club in Glyfada, which attracts many
visiting and local golf enthusiasts . Another southern coastal suburb
with earnest nightlife is Palaeo Phalero (Old Faliro) a little
closer to Athens (5 miles). The beautiful seashore with the palm
trees offers very pleasant stralls all year round. If you find yourselves
wanting to own a piece of those wonderful places contact Attica/Real
Estate, Glyfada (Tel.89-83-377), the well trained, multi-lingual
personnel will be happy to assist you.
3.Vouliagmeni A small cape separates the coast - of this
lovely southern suburb, 15 miles from Athens - into two bays with
gorgeous sandy beaches. The nape of the cape - narrower than its
tip - is the neck (lemos) A beautiful ornament of the area is the
Vouliagmeni lake, whose bright green water is surrounded
by towering cragged rocks. Swimming is allowed and there are good
restaurants around. The Astir Vouliagmenis beach, is well equipped
for 5,000 bathers, with excellent installations, fields for various
sports activities, cafeterias and additional seashore accommodating
30,000 overall people. The Vouliagmeni Marina is one of the best
in the Mediterranean and it can accommodate 100 to 150 yachts.
4.Lagonisi The drive to Lagonisi, about 25 miles from Athens,
is enchanting. Very picturesque bays, clear azure-colored protracted
sea, vacation resorts, coastal tavernas and beautiful scenery inundate
the region. The group ''Lagonisi'' disposes a well-structured facility,
fully equipped for the bathers' convenience, while along the seashore
there are many free sandy beaches with intriguing little bays. An
enjoyable vacation spot indeed.
f.Kifissia; Marathon; Mt. Parnese:
1.Kifissia
This northern suburb (8 1/2 miles from Athens) has, in recent years, known great development and expansion.
Contemporary fashionable shopping and entertainment centers, trendy boutiques, gourmet, international and
all types of restaurants/cafes, urban neo-classical buildings inside picturesque gardens and lovely homes, compose
the attractive picture of the territory. For the afore-mentioned reasons and other enjoyable aspects, one of them
being Kifissia's park, where every May a beautiful floricultural exhibit takes place.
This lovely suburb attracts numerous tourists and out-towners. In addition, as is the case of
Glyfada, many affluent expatriates and foreign dignitaries choose Kifissia for their home.
The various galleries also contribute greatly to Kifissia's character and appearance.
2.Marathon The small town of Marathon is located 26 miles
north-east of Athens. Nothing remarkable about the place, besides
the fact that one of the most famous battles in world history took
place here and Miltiades' strategy in altering the formation of
conventional battle proved to be ingenious and was extensively studied
everywhere. Today's Marathon race is the outcome of the celebrated
Marathon battle (490B.C.) when upon its completion a soldier ran
to announce their victory to the Athenians. Arriving exhausted,
shouted ''Nenikikame'' (we won!), collapsed and died. Four miles
before you reach the town and a little over 380 yards from the Athens-Marathon
road, stands the Marathon Tomb, honouring the 192 men who died in
that battle. The mound is 328ft high and 590ft in circumference.
There is also a museum which is closer to the town and both, the
Tomb and Museum, are open every day except Monday, from 8:30 am to
3:00 pm. The admission fee of appr. $2.50 covers both sites (tomb
and museum).
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3. Mount Parnese Nineteen miles away from Athens you find yourself
at the foot of the highest mountain of Attica, Parnitha (altitude:4636
ft.). The drive from there to the hotel Mon Parnes offers a
breath-taking view. The majestic site gathers many visitors and it
is best known for the very popular casino and the Alpinists' Society's
shelter, which has become the winter hangout for the devotees of the
sport. Another well-known spot is the Mola Spring with plentiful
cold water and near the spring stands the picturesque Saint Petros
chapel, where climbers, hunters and woodcutters are rendered a service
in a cell offered by the church. There are also winter sports installations
and a little over a mile west of those there is the Parnitha National
Forest where wild animals roam.
Summer Festivals: Every summer the festival scene is superb.
World-class entertainers participate in the Athens Festival and
many regional performances are exceptional as well. Thessaloniki
as Europe's designated Cultural Capital in 1997 presented
a plethora of excellent events from ancient tragedies and Shakespeare
to rock concerts by Van Morrison and U2. If you have the
chance, do not miss a performance at the ancient theater at Epidavros
and especially at the Odeon of Herod Atticus in Athens. It is an
experience that will stay with you forever. Imagine this: you're
listening to a classical symphony or watching an ancient tragedy,
performed - in a 2.500 year old amphitheater - by first-class actors,
while you're looking-up towards the monument of monuments the Parthenon,
and the marvel of the Acropolis. That is indeed one of the most
up-lifting and sensational adventures of a lifetime. Ancient tragedies
not to be missed: Euripides' masterpiece the Trojan Women; Medea;
Iphighenia en Tavrois. Sophocles' Oedipus Rex and Antigone. Aeschylus'
(the father's of tragedy) the Persians, the Oresteia Trilogy
and Aristophanes' the Birds and Lysistrati. Modern performances
and concerts by: George Dallaras (one of the country's best interpreters
of song); Haris Aleksiou; Dimitris Mitropanos; Maria Farandouri;
Alkystis Protopsalti;the group Pyx Lax; Elefteria Arvanitaki; Stephanos
Korkolis, and the teen idols Sakis Rouvas, Manto,Yiannis
Varthis, among others who are still appearing during the summer
months. Telephones for Festival program and ticket information:
- Odeon of Herod Atticus 210 3221459 - Epidavros 27530 22006 - Lycavittos
Theater 210 7227209 - 210 7227233 - Thessaloniki (Festival Box Office)
2310 3221459 2310 257130 Greek Folk Dancing: -Dora Stratou Dance
Company at their own theatre, on Philopappou Hill 210 3244395 (Night
performances from May to October) Disco scene: Discos operate in
Athens only from fall to spring. In the summer the action moves
to the southern suburbs, especially Glyfada. Rock Music: -The Rodon
Club 24, Marni St. (the place to be for rock music) 210 5247424.
Concerts, Opera, Symphonies, Ballet: International
and Greek artists along with famed orchestras, frequently perform
at the Megaron Mousikis (the Athens Music Hall) which is located
on Vassilissis Sophias next to the U.S. Embassy. Tel.: 210 7282333.
Theatre-Cinema: Athenians are known for their love for the theatre,
thus, the variety of theater companies. Excellent plays are performed
every year - especially from October through May - by superb casts
of actors. If you're a theatre fan and you're familiar with the
play, you may have a pleasant evening (especially in an outdoor
summer theater) watching your favorite play in Greek. Movie theaters
are showing recently, released movies from the States, Britain and
other countries with subtitles in Greek. Most of the Movie houses
are on the two streets between Syntagma and Omonoia and Patission
St.(28th October) and Plateia Amerikis. There are also many outdoor
movie theaters, in the summer, playing re-runs. If you have not
seen the movie (since they get here three to four months later),
you will enjoy the open-air atmosphere. Some major theaters in Athens:
-Apollon 19 Stadiou St. 3236811 -Astor 28 Stadiou St. 3224038 -Asty
4 Korae St. 3221925 -Ideal 46 Panepistimiou St. 3826720 There are
many more including the Multi-Movie theater complex the Village
Centre (10 cinemas) in Maroussi 6805950. The Athenscope and the weekly
Greek News - purchased at any kiosk selling foreign publications
- offer comprehensive listings of the entertainment scene. The sports
scene: a. Swimming: Pools/Beaches: Many fine hotels with pools allow
non-guests to use them. The following listing with phone numbers
will help you. -Astir Vouliagmeni 210 8960211-0311 -Divani Caravel
2107253725 -Holiday Inn 210 7248322 -Park Hotel 210 8832712 -President
210 6924600 Public Beaches: With a small fee the Greek National
Tourist Organization (EOT) beaches can accommodate you with changing
cabins, showers, canoes, windsurfing, basket, volley and tennis
courts and playgrounds for the children. They are, however, terribly
crowded, especially on week-ends, public beaches of Greater Athens:
-Alipedou Voulas A 210 8953248 -Alipedou Voulas B 210 8959590 -Varkiza
210 8972102 -Vouliagmeni 210 8960906 b. Windsurfing: If you're a
windsurfing enthusiast, Greece is the ideal place for you. For information
regarding equipment and schools call the Hellenic Windsurfing Federation:
210 3230068. c. Waterskiing: Contact the following clubs: -Astir
Ski Club Vouliagmeni 210 8960211 -Vouliagmeni Naval Club 210 8960741/
210 8962142 d. Rowing: -The Greek Rowing Federation (22, Koumoundourou,
Piraeus) can keep you abreast on the rowing races of the various
naval clubs. e. Scuba Diving: -Union of Greek Diving Centers 210
9229532 f. Tennis: -Athens Tennis Club 210 9232872 -Athletic Club
54, Tatoiou St., Kifissia -Panellinios Gymnastic Club 210 883-4408
-Pefki Tennis Club 210 806-6162 g. Golf: For the golf devotee the
Glyfada Golf Course 210 8946820 offers an 18-hole course, a pavilion
for golfers and various facilities. It is open to the public from
7:30 a.m. (Mondays from 1 p.m.) until sunset (prices are approximately
$ 50 for week days and $ 65 for week-ends - per round - call to
verify). h. Riding Clubs: For the equestrian who cannot do without
his/her favorite sport, the equestrians an clubs, listed below,
can help. Athletic Riding Club of Ekali 210 8135576 Hellenic Riding
Club Maroussi 210 6826128 Riding Club of Parnitha 210 2402413 The
Greek Equestrian Federation 210 6528139 can answer any questions
you might have and assist you to locate a riding club near you.
i. Mount climbing: For the alpinist the Greek Federation of the
AlpinistsÕ Clubs 210 3645904 or 210 3212355 can be of assistance.
g. Skiing: The nearest resort (appr. 120 miles) north-west of Athens
is Mount Parnassos. For information on other locations call the
Hellenic Skiing Federation (210 -5240057) or visit any EOT office
and obtain a copy of Greece: Mountain Refuges and Ski Centers. Spectator
Sports: Soccer (football) - the favorite sport of Greeks for the
longest time - is constantly losing ground to a more prestigious
game: Basketball. The most important soccer and basketball teams
in Greece are: Panathenaikos, Olympiakos, AEK and PAOK! Where to
shop: Most of your shopping can be done downtown, around Syntagma,
Omonoia and Kolonaki Sqs. Most bargains, however, (if you're careful)
could be found at Monastiraki. Also, keep and eye open - for good
buys - in the local flee markets (woven rugs, blankets and needlework
items). Always shop around before buying, since price and quality
vary widely from one shop to the next. The best and naturally the
most expensive shops are located in Kolonaki and Syntagma Square
and the best shopping centers of the northern suburb is Kifissia
and of the southern suburb Glyfada. Omonoia Sq. offers a variety
of less expensive stores and Ermou St. is great for women's shops.
Pandrossou and Adrianou Sts. in Plaka offer a variety of stores
for buying jewelry, statues and all kinds of souvenirs. Monastiraki
- an extension of Plaka - is ideal for handmade costumes instruments,
worry beads (kompologhia), leather goods, copper, brass, onyx and
don't leave without a salad-bowl, made of olive tree wood, they're
terrific. The greatest number of antique dealers are crammed there
and if you are an antique addict and you have a good eye for authenticity
you might leave with some great finds. Don't hesitate to bargain.
Bargaining there is expected - especially if it's done within reason.
Monastiraki is the only place open Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For lovely ceramic pieces visit the showroom/workshop of Contempory
Ceramics/Synchroni Keramiki on Pentelis, 1 Ave. Melissia or 26 Haritos
St. Kolonaki, where the outstanding work of Katy Anastasaki is exhibited.
For traditional handcrafts you should visit the National Organization
of Hellenic Handcrafts, 9 Mitropoleos St. where the exhibited (not
for sale) items will educate you on quality and suggested prices,
and a good place to shop is the National Welfare Organization's
Hellenic Folk Art Gallery, Apollonos and Ipatias (corner), Plaka.
The largest selection of flokati-rugs (the best coming from Thessaly
and Epiros) can be found at Mazarakis Flokati, 31-33 Voulis st.
(your prized rug can be shipped to your home). The best jewelry
shops on Voukourestiou and Valaoritou Sts. offer high quality -
works of art - pieces. Public Transportation: The Greek National
Tourist Organization provides a map and information for all connections
- inside Athens and its outskirts - of bus and trolley lines. Bus
and trolley tickets cost less than 50 cents (100 drachmas) and
must be purchased at special booths or many kiosks. They cannot
be purchased on the bus or trolley, the only thing you must do once
you're on is to validate the ticket by inserting it into the purposely
placed orange colored meters. It has to be validated/punched; if
an inspector comes on board, and it is not, you will be fined. Metro:
During expansion of Athens' metro system, inconvenience is the order
of the day. Hopefully, the project will soon be completed and things
will be normal once again. Presently, the metro does manage to connect
the northern suburbs (starting in Kifissia), with Piraeus and includes
many stops along the way. Trains run every 4-5 min. during rush
hours and every 10 min. till midnight, when the metro shuts-down
until 5:30 a.m. Tickets are purchased at the station and must be
punched again before you board. (The map from EOT will assist you,
check section on GNTO). Mini Buses: They travel throughout central
Athens with stops at the red bus stops. You may use the same ticket
as the other buses/trolleys.The red shopping mini buses offer free
rides around Athens' historical triangle, starting on Ermou St.
Trains: For information about train service for the entire country
you may contact the Greek Railway Organization (OSE) at 1 Karolou
St.near Omonoia Sq. Tel. 522-2491 or the branch office near Syntagma
Sq. at 6 Sina St. Tel. 3624402. Taxis: Taxicabs are still inexpensive
in Greece. Fares start at less than one dollar (around 200 drachmas)
and all cabs have meters (the minimum for short distances, however,
was recently approved to be 500 drs. (about $1.75). Baggage charges
(for bags over 10 kg) are extra and they're posted on the dash board
in Greek and English. Rates between midnight and 5 a.m. almost double,
holidays also carry a surcharge. You can negotiate rates for out
of town trips, within all major cities, however, rates are non-negotiable.
To get a cab in an Athens street you must flag it down (standing
on the side of the direction you're heading. e.g. going towards
Omonoia, wait on the sidewalk of the traffic heading that way, and
so forth), call out your destination and if it's going that way
you'll be signaled to get in. Rarely you'll have a taxi to yourself,
be ready to share it with others (if you're headed at the same direction),
you are still going to be charged the regular rate. Naturally, you
always have the right to refuse another passenger. It is nearly
impossible to track down a taxi during rush hour. Occasionally you
see signs for taxi stands but seldom cabs waiting there. The following
rates will give you an idea as to how much to expect to pay (although
prices are about to change): Base rate about .75 cents (200 dr/minimum
charge is appr. $1.75/500 dr.). Inside city limits .25 c (65 dr)
per kilometer. Outside city limits .46c (125/km). Waiting rate is
about $ 7 (2,000/hr). Radio Taxi: It's advisable, when you have
to be somewhere on time, to call a taxicab ahead of time, state
your destination and ask when to expect them (they usually can estimate
the traffic at specific hours and they'll advise you). It costs
a little more (an additional $1.75 about) but it is worth it. You
should request from someone at your hotel (or somebody else) to
call because most of the following Radio-taxi companies require
you speak a little Greek:
-Athina 1 9217942
-Hermes 4115200
-Express 9951136; 9934812
-Hellas; Downtown Athens 6457000
-Northern suburbs 8014000
-Southern suburbs 9961420
-Ikaros 5132316
-Kosmos 1300
-Parthenon 5811809
(In most cases you have to keep calling if a cab is not available at that moment. They do not reserve/book taxis).
Limousine Service:
Most of the hotels could arrange for a chauffeured car to drive you anywhere, it is advisable, however, to make your own arrangements (it will definitely be cheaper) and negotiate over the phone, ahead of time, for single or multiple trips.
-Limousine Service 3233957
-Astra Limousine Service 9220333 |
General Information for Athens