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kcixcy

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My Greek husband LOVES history and we’re putting together an itinerary for our trip to Athens, any tips? He loves ancient history and modern history, so it doesn’t need to be about mythology and architecture (I know Athens is really popular for that).
 
Great question! Greece (and Athens) has so much history everywhere you look!

Here are a few places to consider in the Athens area (in no particular order):
- Acropolis/Parthenon
- Tourkovounia
- Athens War Museum
- Panathenaic Stadium
- Aristotle’s Lyceum

Hope this helps and hope you have a great time in Athens!

koukaki-neighborhood-athens-720x480.jpeg
 
For someone that loves history, Athens is the place to investigate the beginnings on which our modern society is based. Here are a few "must-visit" places:

Acropolis: goes without saying
Acropolis Museum: this museum is modern and innovative. It has a wide range of artefacts from the acropolis and surrounds and the best part is that there are archaeologists on the floor so you have direct access to people that really know their stuff.
Agora (both Greek and Roman): This was the hub of Athenian society.
Pnyx: the birthplace of democracy.
Socrates prison: you can see where the dude resided. This is on Philopapou hill where Pnyx is so you can just do a tour to check them both out.
National Archaeological Museum: artefacts from 4,000 BCE onwards. Even has Egyptian artefacts.
Benaki Museum: has more recent history from Byzantine to more modern history.

Just walk around Athens and you will come across archaeological sites that are right in the middle of the street. For example, the Pnyx and Socrates prison aren't behind a fence that you have to pay to get in. Others are Hadrian's Arch, Monument of Lysicrates, the Roman Baths on Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias and so much more!

Enjoy your trip!
 
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Your first spot on the list has to be the acropolis and the acropolis museum. The new museum is stunning, it’s so modern and has a super cool cafe on the rooftop.
 

Best shopping in Athens?

I'm planning a trip to Athens and I'm a bit of a shopaholic. I want to make the most of my time there and experience the best shopping the city has to offer.

From what I've heard, Athens is a treasure trove of markets, boutiques, and shops - but I'd really appreciate some local or experienced insights.

Could anyone recommend:
  • The best areas for unique, local finds?
  • Any specific stores known for quality Greek goods?
  • Tips for navigating the markets?
I've only done historical things in Athens and visited friends. I have never taken the time to shop, but I will have plenty of time in Athens over the summer.

This is what Athens looks like today!!

Athens air unhealthy as my friends informed me!

Ancient Eleusis Archaeological Site

I have been to Athens several times, and I didn't know this place existed. Ithas caught my interest due to its rich mythology and pivotal role in ancient Greek religious life.

I understand that Eleusis was a significant center for religious practices, most notably the Eleusinian Mysteries—secret ceremonies held in honor of Demeter and Persephone. However, my knowledge barely scratches the surface, and I’m eager to learn more before my visit.

Has anyone visited it? I don't know much about it and I am trying to figure out if it is worth it. I love Ancient Greek history and mythology and this has the potential to be interesting to me on a lot of different levels.

Interesting Museums I Like in Athens

Athens is rich with museums but there are a few I keep visiting when I get the chance. I always learn something new! My favorite is the museum at the Acropolis, which has a lot of information and artifacts from the area. Here's my list:
  1. The Acropolis Museum: Dominating this list is The Acropolis Museum, built to house every artifact found on the sacred rock of the Acropolis, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. A splendid blend of modern and ancient architecture, it holds an incredible array of sculptures and artifacts, including the Caryatids and the Parthenon Frieze.
  2. The National Archaeological Museum: As the largest museum in Greece, this is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. It boasts an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, spanning several millennia—pottery, jewelry, sculptures, and the Mask of Agamemnon.
  3. Benaki Museum: Representing various periods throughout Greek history, the Benaki Museum is a private foundation, nestled in the heart of downtown Athens. It offers a comprehensive view of Greek culture from its prehistoric times to the 20th century, with an emphasis on art and everyday objects.
  4. Museum of Cycladic Art: A unique gem in Athens, this museum is home to an exceptional collection of Cycladic art, mostly dating from the Bronze Age. These prehistoric sculptures, with their distinct minimalist aesthetics, are a fascinating window into the ancient Aegean world.
What museums do you like to visit in Athens?

Fun Side Trips While Staying in Athens

I've been to Athens. I have done side trips from Athens. Still, I love Rick Steve's work and I found this interesting! He visited some of the places I've seen, but frankly, he made me want to see them again. This was a fun watch!

One of the places I haven't been that he mentioned is Hydra. Such a cool-looking place.

Share and discuss your Athens photos, questions and experiences!

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