Athens,
the city of intellect and light with a glorious history over 8000
years old, is the cradle of Greek civilization. In this corner of
the European continent, the human spirit bloomed and cast its fruits
to Europe.
From its eternal
flame, the whole world would light a torch of devotion in order to
illuminate the way to progress and the Renaissance 2000 years later.
However, the
unprecedented events that occurred long ago in that corner of the
Mediterranean were not all fortuitous. Nature itself favored Attica and
Athens in a way that the preconditions for an
unprecedented event were created. The unique deep blue sky, the
pleasant climate, the sunshine and the clean air were the
prerequisites for the people living in Athens to function with a
penetrating mind and highly developed senses and to be distinguished
as philosophers, poets, writers, orators and sculptors.
The
beginning of the history of Athens is lost in the darkness of time.
But what history ignores myth and tradition filled by at least in
what concerns the gods who had a direct relationship with the town
of Athens.
In Athens, memory
never fades. Wherever you stand, wherever you turn, the city's long
and rich history will be alive in front of you.
In the center of town
are the two hills, the Acropolis with monuments from the Age of
Pericles, and Lycabettus with the picturesque chapel of Ai Giorgis.
The love of the
Athenians for the arts, for beauty in all things and above all for
their city, expressed itself in dozens of other monuments that
radiate from the Acropolis.
The heart of the
modern capital, with the most important buildings connected to
Greek culture and intellectual achievement, is located in and near
to the Syntagma Square.
Athens
today is a modern city, alive and on the go. Modern, but romantic as
well, with busy streets and squares, shop windows in a riot of
colors, as well as little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighborhoods
such as Plaka and Monastiraki.
In the countless
shops, the visitor will find whatever he may need. In the tavernas
and restaurants he can enjoy any taste sensation, in the night
clubs, discos and bars, he can drink and dance the night away.
Because in Athens, the fun never stops before daylight.