Explora la cultura de Athens: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de Athens a través de sus museos y monumentos.
Athens, the historic capital of Europe, is a city where 3,000 years of history coexist with a modern, vibrant and sometimes chaotic metropolis. Crowned by the Acropolis, a timeless testament to humanity's achievements, Athens' cityscape is a mix of ancient ruins, majestic temples and neoclassical neighborhoods. Cradle of democracy, philosophy and theater, walking through Athens is walking through the same streets as Socrates and Plato, in a city that pulsates with the energy of its cafes, its markets and its inexhaustible Mediterranean spirit.
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Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of Athens
The birthplace of Western theater and sculpture. Its museums house treasures of incalculable value.
Best of local culture
Museums & Galleries
Acropolis and Parthenon
The most important monument of Western civilization. A complex of temples and buildings on the 'sacred rock', dominated by the Parthenon.
Acropolis Museum
A world-class modern museum located at the foot of the Acropolis, housing its archaeological treasures. The Parthenon gallery on the top floor is spectacular.
Plaka neighborhood
The historic neighborhood in the shadow of the Acropolis, known as the 'Neighborhood of the Gods'. A labyrinth of neoclassical streets, shops and taverns.
Ancient Agora of Athens
The heart of ancient Athens, the center of political, commercial and social life. It houses the Temple of Hephaestus, the best preserved Greek temple.
Festivals & Events
Festival of Athens and Epidaurus
June-AugustGreece's main cultural festival, with world-class events.
August Moon Festival
August Full Moon NightMany of the city's archaeological sites and museums are open free of charge in the evenings with concerts and special events.
History
Origins
In the 5th century BC, during its Golden Age under the leadership of Pericles, Athens laid the foundations of Western civilization. Democracy, Western philosophy (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle), theater and historiography were born here. The Parthenon, built at this time, remains the supreme symbol of this legacy.
Development
After its heyday, Athens fell under Roman, Byzantine, and finally Ottoman rule. For centuries, it was a provincial city of little importance. Its renaissance began in 1834, when it was declared the capital of the newly independent kingdom of Greece, which prompted the construction of magnificent neoclassical buildings.
Modern era
The 20th century brought with it massive population growth and often chaotic urban development. The hosting of the 2004 Olympic Games was a catalyst for major infrastructure modernization, including a new airport and a modern metro system. Today, Athens is a bustling capital that faces modern challenges while living surrounded by its incomparable past.
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Culture
The birthplace of Western theater and sculpture. Its museums house treasures of incalculable value.
Heritage
Insurmountable. It is the starting point of the concepts of democracy, philosophy, science and art that define the Western world.
Architecture
A unique mix of the world's most important classical monuments, neoclassical buildings and an often chaotic urban fabric.
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The best views of the Acropolis
Climb Philopappos Hill at sunset. You will have the most spectacular and photogenic view of the Parthenon, with fewer people than at other viewpoints.
Visit a farmers market ('Laiki Agora')
Each neighborhood has its 'laiki' one day a week. It is a vibrant street market where locals buy fruits, vegetables and other fresh produce. An explosion of colors, smells and sounds.
Gestures: Yes and No
A slight downward movement of the head means 'yes'. A single upward movement of the head, often accompanied by a click of the tongue, means 'no'.
Relax
The pace of life is slower and more relaxed. Don't stress if the service is slow; It is part of the Mediterranean culture.
Protect yourself from the sun
In summer, the sun is very strong. Wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. Avoid visiting archaeological sites at midday.
Tap water is drinkable
Tap water in Athens is safe to drink.
Beware of pickpockets on the subway
They are the main security risk. They operate in the metro, especially on the line to/from the airport and at busy stations such as Syntagma and Monastiraki.
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