May 23, 2024

The day started with a spectacular sunrise that I watch from my balcony as it evolved from pink clouds to the bright sun. I believe that a sunrise is God’s promise for the day so I know this day is going to be incredible.

It’s a beautiful sunny but breezy day in Athens!

Athens is the most ancient of cities a fact that is hard to forget thanks to the dazzling presence of the Acropolis, an ancient temple that which looms majestically above the city from atop a hill.

As i walked up to the entrance of the Acropolis, I was overwhelmed with its beauty. I had seen it in pictures but to actually stand there and take in all of its details was incredibly humbling. I am in awe of how the workmen were able to create the structure with the tools they had available. Its 5th century BC wonders include the Temple of Athena Nike, the graceful Porch of the Caryatids, and its crowning glory – the Parthenon. The climb to the entrance is very steep and all marble so very slick!! So happy to have legs under me that can do it as I would have hated to miss it!! There are about 20,000 visitors a day so it is very crowded with impatient people. I found a quiet place in the back where few ventured to have time to think about the history of this incredible place and absorb its beauty.

Gotta love the police car guarding the entrance. Can you image a car chase????

The Acropolis Museum, which charters the dramatic history of the Acropolis is amazing and I could have spent all day there! When they were building the museum they found the ruins of ancient Athens and they preserved it and you can view it by walking on the plexiglass panels. I really want to participate in a dig that uncovers ancient treasures!!!

All too soon we headed to Plaka, a small neigherhood that captures the nostalgic feeling of old Athens in the labyrinth-like streets. We stopped for some traditional Greek ‘mezedes’, accompanied by a glass of local wine. Then we had time to wander the town.

We stayed in port for the evening so I was able to experience a traditional Greek dinner in town filled with delicious food and wine, and of course traditional Zorba the Greek dancing. The authentic Greek experience, started with a traditional ‘meze’ and the obligatory ouzo, followed by a feast of dolmades, Greek salad, and moussaka – all washed down with several glasses of wine. A local dance troupe performed a number of traditional dances with a few of the audience joining in. Yes, there was even plate smashing!!!

To end the evening with we treated to remarkable night-time views of the city including an iconic shot of the Acropolis illuminated in all her glory.

Absolutely a “Best day ever….so far”!!!

Tomorrow is a sea day so no blog unless something really fun happens! Next stop will be Olympia!

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