Today, I explored Acropolis Hill, a “symbol of ancient Greek culture”. It’s a seriously beautiful place, which I plan to visit several times while in Athens! The walk to the monuments was a bit longer than the mapping apps show, but it was a good outing. I skipped the Acropolis Museum, but visited it in 2013.
Acropolis Hill and the surrounding area is normally besieged by summer tourists, but I only saw a handful of visitors. It was surreal to have such a magnificent attraction almost to yourself. Hot weather might have been partially to blame for the scarcity of visitors, and of course covid is still keeping tourists away.
I admired and photographed the splendid monuments from a distance and didn’t go inside the cordoned off area. I’ll save that for another visit, and will try to get a snapshot with the Acropolis.
Arch of Hadrian
On the way to Acropolis Hill, I visited Athens National Garden and the Arch of Hadrian. The arch is next to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a monument in the Plaka District. The temple is undergoing restoration.
Epidaurus Festival
I plan to attend a few live Epidaurus Festival concerts. They’re conducted at night on Acropolis Hill in the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheatre.
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“Acropolis of Athens and its monuments are universal symbols of the classical spirit and civilization. They form the greatest architectural and artistic complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity to the world.” UNESCO
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Acropolis Hill History
In the fifth century BC, “an exceptional group of architects, sculptors, and artists put into effect the ambitious plans of Athenian statesman Pericles. Under the guidance of Greek sculptor Pheidias, they transformed a rocky hill into a unique monument of thought and the arts”. Acropolis Hill monuments include:
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“Acropolis monuments are distinctly unique structures that evoke the ideals of Classical 5th century BC and represent the apex of ancient Greek architectural development. These monuments are the testimony of a precious part of the cultural heritage of humanity.” UNESCO
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Goddess Athena
The Parthenon was dedicated to Goddess Athena who had many impressive titles:
- Patron-Goddess of Athens
- Goddess of War
- Goddess of Wisdom
- Goddess of Victory
- Protective Goddess of Crafts
- Helper of Heroes
Greek Politicians and Artists
The Acropolis is “directly and tangibly associated with events and ideas that have never faded over the course of history”. Its monuments are “living testimonies of the achievements of Greek politicians who led the city to Democracy; the thought of Athenian philosophers, and the works of its architects”. I’ve never seen the area at night, and am looking forward to that!
