Travel authors tend to propose an optimum amount of time to spend in a city, typically ranging between 1 and 3 days. Whilst this might be applicable to holiday-makers, it doesn’t really apply to me.
As we know, I am not tied by the same time constraints and therefore my approach also offers me a slower pace meaning I don’t have to try and cram in the vast amount of attractions within the suggested time-frame often resulting in fatigue. So as I eluded to yesterday, today I did set off on my own to do what I’m here to do; explore! I put in a little research the night before to know that I wanted to visit The Ancient Agora and of course, The Acropolis. I also read that both these attractions could be photographed from height on top of Areopagus hill.
The weather was overcast (as you’ll see from the skyline in the first picture) but I didn’t mind this at all. Infact, for me it was perfect and is was neither hot or cold. Perfect conditions where your a newbie and you’re unsure what to pack each day.
The Ancient Agora is where ancient Greek democracy first came to life. In addition to being an area where people gathered to buy and sell all kinds of commodities, it was also a place where people came to discuss business, politics, current events etc.
Here are some notable monuments that have remained within the Agora:
The Temple of Hephaestus/The Theseion
Side view:
Other shots:
The view from Areopagus hill of part of The Acropolis:
Another view point from Areopagus hill but this time looking over of Mount Lycabettus:
It was now time to head to the Acropolis so here is the reverse view of Areopagus hill where I was previously having taken the above photo:
Here are some of the other impressive monuments on the Acropolis, including the Parthenon.
The Acropolis offers a naturally high vantage point over all of Athens:
All in all a fulfilling day. I look forward to doing more of today, tomorrow!
Have you been to Athens? Are there any other tourist attractions you think I should get in before I move on?
The unlikely traveller
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