From the iconic Acropolis rising logistically above the city to modest galleries and lively
bars and gritty downtown back streets, bustling Athens is a delightful quirky clash of past
and present, a city that confronts and surprises. Major urban renewal has breathed new life
into Athens historic center spectacularly reconcealing its ancient and modern faces with charming
carefree streets that wind along well trodden ancient paths, making it feel like you're
walking through a giant archaeological park.
Ancient monuments bask in the famous Attica light that softens the concrete sprawl. Amongst
the downtown Hurley Burley and traffic ridden roads, you'll find quiet shaded cafes and
delightful neighborhood squares, sophisticated shopping strips, quaint taverns and chic restaurants.
Admitted to see a modern high-rise office and apartment blocks, you'll find Byzantine
churches, restored neoclassical buildings and equal measures of grunge and grace. While
Athens' wealth of archaeological sites and museums remains its drawcard, it's the city's
vibe and mindset that enamors and surprises visitors. An infectious, restless energy permeates
this city, pavements bustle with Athenians reveling in the lively, alfresco cafes and
dining cultures while balmy summer nights have a seductive allure. Vibrant street life
creates a chaotic yet almost permanent festive atmosphere.
The city is empowered with its famous
Now, Greece has always been an interest to me.
Not only do I have a lot of Greek friends and love the Greek culture, the part of Toronto
where I live is a predominantly Greek area called Greek Town.
The area is known throughout the city for its taste at a Danforth Festival.
Majority of Greek names come from saints such as Dmitri, Dmitra, George, Georgia, the most
common being George, happens to have a church of the same name here in Athens, high up on
a hill.
Well, actually it's a mountain called Mount Lycavitius, which is where we'll start.
At 277 meters, 908 feet above sea level, the hill is the highest point in the city and
home to the 19th century Chapel of St. George.
There's also a theater and a restaurant behind it.
From here you get breathtaking views of Athens, the Acropolis Hill, and the Egg and Sea.
I spy with my little eye another protest, which sort of leads into why Greece is known
as the cradle of the West.
Well, it's not because of protests per se, but although the civilization of ancient
Greece is more than 2,500 years old, it influenced the way we in the West live today.
They attempted to explain the world through the laws of nature.
They made important discoveries in science.
They developed democracy where people governed themselves rather than being ruled by a king.
The Greeks also valued beauty and imagination.
They wrote many stories and plays that continue to be performed today.
The protesting falls in the vein of democracy, fairness, people governing themselves, etc.
I don't know what the purpose of this particular protest is, but I hope it all works out.
Next, we head up to Acropolis Hill.
