The Acropolis of Athens

The Acropolis of Athens, the most famous of the many acropolises in Greece, is situated approximately 500 feet above the coastal section of the city, on a flat, seven acre section of craggy limestone, offering stunning views of Athens and beyond.

Construction of the buildings was completed in just fifty years during the mid 5th century BC, although excavations of the area indicate that it was inhabited as early as 4000 BC. Over the years, it has survived wars, invasions, and earthquakes. During the Morean War between the Venetians and Ottomans in the 17th century, the Ottomans stored gun powder in the area. When the Venetians learned about the gunpowder they attacked, causing serious damage. It survived all this, and is still standing strong today.

Along the hike up to the ruins you’ll see the Theater Dionysus the home of the Greek Tragedy, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and other structures in various shapes and forms.

Once we reached the top, oh my, I was completely blown away to be in the presence of such an iconic place! Even the hundreds of visitors couldn’t quench my excitement. We took our time, wandered around, and theTravelsketcher got the opportunity to do a sketch.

On the way down, a man in front of us had some heated words (in Greek) with one of the workers who was continually reminding people not to touch the marble pillars. He walked a few feet away from her and immediately placed his hand directly on a pillar, and glanced back in her direction. She was looking in the other direction at that point. He was an older man, not a child or angst teenager, old enough to know better; sheesh! Incidentally, the marble used in the construction came from Mount Pentelicus about ten miles away. It had to be mined, hauled all that distance, then up the steep hill to its final resting place.

Over the years the Acropolis of Athens has served as a fortress, military base, and a major religious center for the worship of the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

The path is well worn and slippery in places, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. In fact, an elderly man walking not far from me, fell hard and landed flat on his front side. He was quite large and it took several of us to help him up. He insisted he was fine, but he fell hard. So be sure to use caution and watch your step.

Tickets run about 30€ each (that’s with our senior citizen discount) but are well worth the price. There is an elevator for those needing it. Be sure to bring water, as most of the approximately 30 minute hike is steep and exposed to full sun.

Seeing the Acropolis of Athens has been on my bucket list for years, and it did not disappoint. Have you been to the Acropolis? Even if you haven’t, I would love to hear from you.

Wishing you grand adventures,

Tricia