Famous for its classic arts and mythology, pretty islands and now for the debt crisis, Greece is one of the most historically rich countries one would wish to visit. There are many historical figures which are museum qualities and natural sceneries, geographical landmarks that depict the modern world and the ancient one. This is a walkthrough through some of the most beautiful sites you can visit in Greece whether you are a tourist planning your trip to the country or a virtual traveler.
1. The Acropolis of Athens
I also went for the Acropolis of Athens which is another World Heritage site and is a landmark that represents and epitomises Ancient Greece. Standing tall in the heart of the city of Athens, the Acropolis has many structures that have survived through ages and the most famous is the Parthenon. This temple is dedicated to Athena the gorgon, the god of wisdom, this temple displays the most marvelous example of Doric art and bear evidences of great sculpture work. Equally, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike located close by also provide glimpses about religious beliefs of the ancient world.
2. The Sanctuary of Delphi
On the southwestern edge of the lunar landscape of central Greece, the ancient city of Delphi microseconds on the slopes of mount Parnassus. Probably the most known feature of this site is the oracle which was believed to be giving visions inherited from the god Apollo. Tourist attractions in this city include the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre, the magnificent treasury of the Athenians amongst others. The perspectives of such expansive scenery with the gorgeous mountains looming in the distance cannot be compared to any other.
3. The Ancient City of Mycenae
Mycenae is an archaeological site of the city of the same name in the Argolis region of the northeastern Peloponnese and a ‘must-see’ when visiting Greece. Mycenae is situated in the north-eastern region of Peloponnese and it is one of the major centres of Mycenaean Greece which had a significant impact on the ancient Greek civilization. This site is famous for the Cyclopean walls, the Lion’s gate, and the so-called Treasury of Atreus or the Tomb of King Agamemnon. These are some structures that gives an excellent archaeological view of how pompous and culturally advance the Mycenaean civilization was.
4. The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
Located in Cape Sounion, the Temple of Poseidon is a unique masterpiece which is built on the cliff,turning towards the Aegean sea and is devoted to the Sea god Poseidon. This is the temple that was constructed in the 5th century BC and some of the remains are truly amazing especially when the sun is setting and hoping on the ruins give one a golden touch. The site features amazing view of the sea which makes the place an ideal center for taking beautiful photos.
5. The Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is located in Crete and is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site of the island which is related to the Minoan civilization. It is arguably well known for impressively intricate architectural design of the palace and its layouts, colourful frescoes, as well as a sophisticated water drainage system, which were in evidence during the ancient civilization. Specifically, this site is associated with the Minotaur and the story of the labyrinth, which creates rather mythological context to the historical relevance.
6. Meteora
One of kind destination, Meteora is a group of monasteries built on Hellenic rocks in central of Greece. This is the meaning of Meteora monasteries name- “suspended in the air” and this is how looking at these monasteries one would get the first impression seeing them as floating above the ground. These were constructed in the 14th and 15th century and existed as key Orthodox monastic institutions The Monasteries of Meteora are part of the new list of UNESCO World Heritage site. Meteora with its astonishing cliffs and stunning silence is a perfect place to visit not only because of its religious significance.
7. The Roman Agora and Hadrian’s Library
In Athens, apart from the Acropolis, one can also explore the Roman period of the country in the Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library. The Roman Agora was the main business and interaction place in the Roman period of Athens, while the Hadrian’s Library refers to the cultural and teaching place of Athens during the Rule of Hadrian, the emperor. Visiting such places also gets insights about the historical significance of Athens as a cosmopolitan city.
8. Santorini’s Caldera
In this sense the caldera of Santorini is not a historical site in the common understanding of the word – but it is one of the most spectacular natural sites in Greece. Located on the beautiful crescent shaped island created by volcanic eruption several thousands years ago, the caldera presents stunning views of the island’s white buildings and blue domed churches. Fira and Oia are two of the larger towns built on the rim of the caldera and give splendid view of the sunset and are very romantic.
Conclusion
Greece is the country in which every site, every ruin
is the story – the story of ancient glory of Athens or the enigmatic Oracle at
Delphi or the rugged spectacular breathtaking monasteries of Meteora. Both are
exquisite and model representations of ancient Greece, history, culture and
create a distinct identity for the edifices making the guests of the site to
feel history in their bones. When visiting these sites, you will get to learn
and understand more about Greece and how it has been able to maintain its rich
culture as well as the ancient beauty that still draws tourists to this
country.
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