Greece: Exploring the Ancient Wonders

A journey through the archaeology and culture of Athens, Delphi, and Mycenae, as well as the roles they played in Greek mythology   . . . 

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​Greece has long been credited for the creation of Western society. From mathematics to democracy, this part of the ancient world has helped to sculpt ideas and cultural practices that have withstood the ages. Here we will explore many of those places and events that would help to sculpt the modern world. 

An Adventure through Greek History and Myth

​I had long been fascinated with the stories of Greek mythology. It was while browsing around online one day, that I saw a deal so amazing I couldn't pass it up. It was the off season and I knew there was a chance I would have to brave the threat of winter weather. But this was it, the time had come that I would finally immerse myself deep within that ancient realm.

It was late in the evening when I stepped out of the airport and boarded the train for downtown Athens. The air was refreshingly crisp that night. Christmas had just passed and the decorations were still abundant. The atmosphere was lively and festive around Syntagma Square, and I could feel the excitement beginning to build as I made my way through the center of town. 

A few blocks later, I would soon be approaching the plaza at Monastiraki Station where I would witness my first look at the illuminated Acropolis. After taking it in for a few moments, I made my turn and arrived at Bedbox Hostel (around 30 usd per night). The place was very welcoming, with a bar conveniently located right there in the lobby. This is where I was to have my first taste of Ouzo. ​

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Strolling into those Pages of History

I awoke early the next morning to hit the town wide open. I had spent my first night sampling many of the local beverages that Greece had to offer and was in need of a pick me up. After a large coffee and breakfast pastry, I was ready to begin my journey toward the Acropolis. The area around Monastiraki Station is full of eateries, souvenir shops, and sights to behold. Around each corner you will find traces of ancient history mixed in seamlessly within the bustle of modern life. 

Continue south and see the remains of Hadrian's Library. Just a little further and you will reach the Roman Forum where you can check out the Tower of the Winds. Constructed sometime around 100 BC, this is often referred to as the first meteorological station. It was equipped with a sundial, weather vane, and the engravings of eight directional wind deities.

At the southeastern foot of the large centerpiece for which Athens is so famously known, there is a museum that showcases the archaeological history of the area. I recommend that you get to the museum around opening time and spend a couple of hours looking at the exhibits before beginning you climb toward the Parthenon. 

After thoroughly exploring the museum (no photography allowed), it was now time to begin my climb toward the area where legends were forged. As I made my way up the winding trail, I soon encountered a multitude of amazing photo opportunities. Along the way you will have countless views of the city and sights below, as the Athens landscape is dotted with ruins such as the Temple of Asclepius and the Theater of Dionysus. 

Half way up the path was the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an impressive amphitheater that words cannot properly describe. This amazing sight was followed by the grand staircase ascending to what is known as the The Propylaea. This is the gate way that grants visitors entrance into that infamous realm of days past. The feeling one gets while wandering these ancient grounds can only be described as awe inspiring. With camera in hand, I couldn't decide whether to shoot of just admire. 

Unfortunately, The Parthenon was under going a fairly unsightly restoration, but the nearby Porch of the Caryatids provided one of the photo opportunities that I had been seeking. These six maiden statues serve as columns supporting a section of the old Temple of Athena. ​

There is much more to see in the surrounding area. Filopappou Hill is just a short walk away. In this expansive park you will find trails leading to many sites of historical significance, such as The Prison of Socrates and The Sanctuary of Pan. Allow yourself plenty of time to explore, as it could easily consume an entire day just walking around the Ancient Agora. 

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Downtown Sights & Food

One thing you should know about Athens, is that many attractions seem to have very brief hours of operation. This could have been due to the off season, but many museums and temples were opening around 9:30 am and then closed about 3:30 pm. Because of this, you may need to plan your day carefully so that you don't miss out on being at the right place at the right time. I learned this the hard way by strolling the town during the day, only to arrive at The Athenian Agora at closing time. 

The National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum is just a few blocks north of Omonia Square. Inside you will find a plethora of ancient Greek artifacts ranging from Neolithic sculptures to the Death Mask of Agamemnon. There is also an interactive display featuring the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient clockwork device that sailors used to astrologically navigate the sea. My advice is to get here early and allow yourself plenty of time to take in all these amazing exhibits. For more information, you can visit the official website of The National Archaeological Museum of Greece. 

Death Mask of Agamemnon

Antikythera Mechanism

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Later in the evening is the perfect time to eat and explore. While museums closed early in the day, shops and restaurants were open much later. The labyrinthian streets of Athens may be a bit confusing, but they offer an endless array of dining and shopping delight. During my stay, I enjoyed souvlaki, gyros, and dolmathakia. I even ate at some places that I would later search for, but never again find. 

Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

Kostas Restaurant

dolmathakia (grape leaves stuffed with rice)

If you are looking to party late at night, you need to hop on the metro and head toward Kerameikos Square. This area is full of night clubs and bars, such as the heavy metal hangout The Intrepid Fox (where I sampled way too many local brews). It's a fun part of town, but be warned the metro does not run all night, so you may have to find a taxi or you'll be in for a long and interesting walk. 

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The Oracle of Delphi

Many legends have radiated from this majestic mountain region. It was here above the clouds that people once traveled from as far away as Egypt to receive their fortunes from the Pythian priestesses at the Temple of Apollo (600 BC) . Along the winding pathway to the temple, you will first pass by the Treasury of Athenians. This is where offerings were once collected and placed on display. Visitors would then be admitted to the sanctuary for consultation with the high priestess. Evidence suggests that these Oracles may have received their otherworldly powers from being high on the gasses that seep out of the chasm beneath this mysterious location. This could also help to explain why there were multiple priestesses (with such short lifespans) assigned to this elevated title.  

Temple of Apollo

Treasury of Athenians

Delphi also has a museum on site that features artifacts recovered from those very grounds. The displays within help to elaborate on the history of this mysterious place. I was especially intrigued by the sculpture of the Sphinx of Naxos that seems to transcend cultural and mythological boundaries. This mighty work of art dates back to about 560 BC. It once stood on top of a large column watching over The Temple of Apollo. 

Bronze Helmets

Sphinx of Naxos

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Crossing into the Land of Sparta

On my last full day in Greece, I headed off on a tour that took us across the Corinth Canal to visit the late bronze age kingdom of Mycenae (1700-1100 BC). This amazing feat of engineering connects the Gulf of Corinth with The Saronic Gulf, ultimately providing ships with passage between The Ionian and Aegean seas. Ancient plans for this project date back almost 3,000 years. The canal in use today was completed in 1893. 

Corinth Canal

The legendary King Menelaus ruled over Sparta, while his brother Agamemnon was King of Mycenae. Both of which were key players in the Trojan War. ​It was here at Mycenae, that Agamemnon was killed by his wife, Clytemnestra, after returning home from battle. His death was later avenged by his daughter Electra. 

The Lion Gate

Upon arrival, you will pass through The Lion Gate. You will then begin your ascent to the summit to gain a view of the surrounding area. This was one of the sites unearthed by the German businessman Heinrich Schliemann. Many consider Schliemann to be a butcher in the world of archaeology, as he had no formal training in what is referred to as a destructive science. Most artifacts were removed after their unearthing. The nearby museum features many replicas of these lost artifacts, along with a thorough history of the site and its excavations. The most impressive of the original pieces are now on display at The National Archaeology Museum in Athens.

view of the city walls

model of the palace

Our next stop was the nearby Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon. The support stone above the entrance is a solid piece estimated at around 120 tons. It is amazing that such stonework could have been accomplished in those times. Legend has it that these mighty structures were built with the assistance of cyclopean giants, but human ingenuity and a little elbow grease may offer a more logical explanation. 

Entrance to Tomb

Support Stone

Soon after, we were having lunch at a restaurant named in honor of King Menelaus himself. I had the roasted lamb and fries, served with fresh baked bread, and paired with a glass of red wine. I was also given a large locally grown orange for desert. The meal was truly fit for a king, but served at a price that even a commoner such as myself could afford.

Our next brief stop was in the coastal town of Nafplion, which was the capital of the First Hellenic Republic. As you can tell from the photos, the weather had not exactly been on our side. The wind raged and the waves crashed ashore as I admired the harbor fortress in the distance. This seems like an amazing place to explore, and I would love to do so on a more pleasant day. 

​We concluded our day at the Amphitheater of Epidaurus. This venue was erected in the 4th century BC and dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine. This enormous theater has a seating capacity of around 14,000 people, and the acoustics are equally impressive. The rain had been ever present, but could not detract from the awe-inspiring moments that this tour provided. An amazing end to another amazing adventure. 

Amphitheater of Epidaurus

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My visit to Greece had been an amazing experience. This was the off season of January in which you can find even more amazing prices. 

Package deal on Expedia : 654 usd - flight + 5 night in hostel
Most tours range between : 60 - 120 euros - half / full day
Food can be super cheap : 3 euros for a lite snack & 10 for a good meal 

Book Your Trip Here

As cheap as this was, I must admit that I would prefer better weather. I do look forward to returning during a warmer season for a chance to check out the islands. ​