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The largest and capital city of Greece, Athens (population 745,514) is one of
the world's oldest cities. Its history spanning over about 3000
years, Athens is now a bustling and metropolitan city. This city
is Greece's economic, financial, industrial, political and cultural
centre. The ancient Athens was a major centre for the arts,
education and philosophy, and was also the birthplace of democracy.
Athens was then home to Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum.
The birthplace of many fine politicians, philosophers and writers -- of
which include Sophocles, Pericles and Socrates. A cradle of
Western civilization, much of the classical Athens era is still evident to this
day: ancient works of art such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon.
Having been inhabited by people for at least 4,500 years, the 4th and 5th
Century BC is when Athens laid much of the foundation for early Western
civilization.
Sprawling across the central plain of Attica
in a warm Mediterranean climate, the city is one of the world's main hubs for
archaeological research. For this reason alone, it is very wise
for travelers to visit the National Archaeological Museum-- boasting
some of the most important artifacts from a variety of locations around
Greece. With the richest collection of artifacts from Greek
history worldwide, it houses pieces dating from prehistoric times to the late
antiquities. Several other museums are available, including the
the Cycladic Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, the Byzantine
Museum, as well as museums at the ancient Agora, Acropolis, and
Kerameikos. To experience some of the artistic culture,
there are countless options to explore. Athens has 148 theatrical
stages, of which include the famous Herodes Atticus Theatre.
This theatre is home to the Athens Festival, running from October to May
annually. With so many important historical sites in Athens, one
that cannot be missed is the world-famous Acropolis. The Acropolis
is a flat-topped rock that sits high above the city, with beautiful vistas from
every direction. Also known as Cecropia named after the legendary
serpent-man, the first Athenian king. Dating back to the 6th
Millennium BC, there is no doubt that this structure held great megaron in its
early days. Numerous temples lie on its grounds, including the
Temple of Athena Nike-- for the goddess of victory, and a grand outdoor
stage called the Theatre of Dionysus-- for the god of plays and
wine. Feel the footsteps of great men and women as you walk
through these important streets, and don't miss any of the ancient beauty that
Athens has to offer!
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