The Historical Centre of Athens: A walk around the city
It is impossible to be in the historical centre of Athens and not be impressed by the city's long history. According to archaeological finds, the first inhabitants must have been here over 9000 years ago. However, it was around the 5th century BC when Athens flourished. This period is called the "Golden Age of Pericles". During that time, the city became an important cultural and commercial centre. Meanwhile, the first known type of democracy was born.
Nowadays, millions of people visit the historical centre of Athens annually. At the same time, it is an important hub and part of the everyday life of the locals. In 2004, a long pedestrian street around the Acropolis connected the most important archaeological sites. Therefore, the historical centre feels like an open, living museum where you can walk away from the bustle of the city. So, wear your comfortable shoes, hat and sunscreen and get ready for a walk around the historic centre of Athens!
The archaeological site of Acropolis in the heart of Athens. Photo by Alexander Hood, licensed.
The Acropolis
Undeniably, a visit to Acropolis hill is a must. This is where the Parthenon stands, Αtemple dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city of Athens. Next to it stand the smaller temple of Erechtheio with the famous "Caryatides", the six female statues serving as architectural support. Further, you will meet the temple of Athina Nike. It stands to the right of the Acropolis entrance. Although Acropolis literally means "the city's highest point", this is not true in the case of Athens, as the Lecabetus hill has the highest altitude. After visiting the "Sacred Rock", head straight to the Acropolis Museum. There, you will find exhibitions of artefacts found in the area, narrating the story of the human presence on the Acropolis from pre-historic times through late Antiquity.
Plaka and Anafiotika
Continue your tour to the historical centre of Athens following the pedestrian street just above the Museum. Next, visit Plaka, one of Athens's oldest and most picturesque neighbourhoods with neoclassical mansions, little souvenir shops and tavernas. From there, you can also walk up the northeast side of Acropolis hill to the neighbourhood of Anafiotika. The district was built by people from the island of Anafi in the Aegean sea. Many workers were brought to Athens to refurbish King Othon's Palace. Thus, the narrow streets and whitewashed houses resemble the Cycladic island's architecture, reminding the residents of their birthplace.
The neighbourhood of Anafiotika, underneath the Acropolis. Photo by form PxHere, licensed.
Dionysiou Areopagitou street and Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Next, you can walk down the Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian street, where the locals take their evening stroll. Here you will meet a variety of street musicians and local artists giving impressive performances. If you visit during the summer season, you will meet many formally dressed people here. These are the spectators of the ancient theatre of Odeon of Herodes Atticus. It would be an excellent opportunity to watch a play or a concert at the theatre that has stood under the Acropolis since Roman times. Usually, you can watch theatrical plays with English subtitles.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus is housing the Athens Festival from May through October. Photo by Nikthestoned, licensed.
Thession, Monastiraki, Kerameikos
Thession, Philopappos Hill, Pnyx
With Acropolis at your right-hand side, continue towards the neighbourhood of Thession. It is a vibrant area due to the countless nice cafès and restaurants. Thession is located under the hill of Philopappos with the homonymous Roman Monument and the Pnyx, where the Athenians held their assemblies in ancient times. Nowadays, the locals enjoy this green lung, walk their dogs, or have a picnic.
Monastiraki Square with the hill of Acropolis in the background. Photo by w:es:Usuario:Barcex, licensed.
Ancient Agora, Monastiraki & Syntagma square, Panathenaic Stadium
After an excellent, relaxing time in the sun at Thession, head to Monastiraki square via Andrianou street. You will pass by the ancient "Agora" and the temple of Hephestus, or you can walk towards the flea market of Monastiraki, with antique and souvenir shops. Once you reach the central square, you can try some famous Greek souvlaki! Then, follow Ermou Street to the Greek Parliament at Syntagma Square. The National Gardens and the Temple of Olympian Zeus remainings are nearby, as well as the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens. Photo by A.Savin, licensed.
Kerameikos, Gazi, Metaxourgio, Psyri
Another option to continue your exploration of the historical centre of Athens from Thession is to head towards the ancient cemetery of Kerameikos and the neighbourhoods of Metaxourgio, Gazi and Psyrri. These areas are full of life, with people of all ages and an increasing number of restaurants, shops and bars. These neighbourhoods are also famous for their nightlife! Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the events at the cultural centre of Technopolis in Gazi.
The Panathenaic Stadium, or "Kallimarmaro", is the stadium of the first Modern Olympic Games in the historical centre of Athens. Photo by form PxHere, licensed.
If you are a traveller that loves history and culture, don't miss Laura's post about her experiences in the historical centre of Athens.
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Featured image by Alexander Hood, @ pixabay