In spite of the tremendous economic and political crisis that Greece is suffering since the end of 2009, its capital Athens, remains a charming place to visit with emblematic places and a peculiar contrast between past and present. The degradation of some streets and the need to restore and renovate several areas is unquestionable. However the city that once was the cradle of Western civilization and origin of democracy is still full of lovely plazas and lively bars.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT:

Gazi Neighborhood:

This neighborhood, next to the archaeological site of Keramikos, is the best area of ​​Athens to have something to drink at night. Its narrow streets, around an old gas factory converted into a cultural center, are full of bars and restaurants. It is a perfect place to enjoy a counterpoint of modernity after touring the ruins and museums of the Greek capital. One of the main attractions is the opportunity to enjoy the views of the Acropolis from one of its terraces while enjoying dinner or a cocktail.

The Parliament Palace:

The Greek Parliament is located in the famous Syntagma Square where the demonstrations are usually held. It is a good place to get oriented and there we can also attend a free tourist attraction: Changing of the Guard of the soldiers who guard the Parliament.

The Temple of Olympia Zeus:

Taking into account that when visiting Athens it is almost mandatory to visit its ruins, those of the Temple of Olympia Zeus are a good option. Although, what we will visit is nothing more than a reconstruction, the remains that are still preserved and are able to evoke the world-wide importance that came to have the building. Located next to the Hadrian Arch, the ruins impress by its size, since the height of each column is of 17 meters. The temple is located halfway between the Syntagma Square and Parthenon, making it easy to visit if we don't have much time.

The Acropolis and the Parthenon:

The Parthenon is one of the most important and representative monuments in all of Greece. Erected in the Acropolis between the years 447 and 438 a.c., rises spectacularly above Athens. However, before visiting the Acropolis, you must consider 2 things:

• If you visit Athens in summer, the temperatures are very likely to be above 30 degrees and in the Acropolis there is practically no shade to protect yourself from the sun.
• Most of the ruins that can be visited in the Acropolis are replicas of the original ruins. The original pieces are distributed by different museums around the world, including the Acropolis Museum.
  
  

Acropolis Museum:

An alternative to visiting the place where the Greek Acropolis was once erected is the Acropolis museum. In it, among other treasures of incalculable historical value, you'll find the original friezes of the Parthenon, since those exhibited in the Acropolis are a replica.

While it is true that we will not be treading the soil that housed the original ruins, we can observe its location through the large windows that illuminate the museum and inside the museum we will be much cooler.

Herodes Odeon Atticus:

Among the ancient Greeks, Odeon meant << theater intended for musical entertainment. Therefore the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is, as its name indicates, an old building built for the celebration of musical shows. Located at the foot of the Acropolis, was built between 160 and 174 a.c. By Herod Atticus, a rich Athenian philosopher, in memory of his deceased wife.

At present, theatrical performances and musical performances continue, such as some concerts during the Greek Festival. An authentic opportunity to enjoy a musical show in a unique place that will transport us in time.

---

Thank you very much for reading this post. I hope you liked it and that it will be useful if you visit Greece.

---