Kekrops (Kekrops), founder of Athens, half-man, half-snake, who resolved the dispute between Athena and Poseidon. Athens Founder of Athens and first Athenian king

Among the capitals of the ancient civilizations of the world, there is no city that, like Athens, existed for 15 centuries. And it still exists today as the capital of Greece, as the cultural center of the country, as a city in which the past is inextricably linked with the present.

The influence of Athens on European and world culture cannot be overestimated. Literature, religion, philosophy, poetry, theater, architecture, sculpture, first of the Roman Empire, and then of Europe, are the direct heirs of Greek culture. Such global concepts of humanity as democracy and the constitution are also of Greek origin. Just like modern sport, which “comes” from the Greek Olympic Games.

Of course, without Greek culture and its capital Athens, the modern world would be different.

Antique period

In the history of Athens, the myths of ancient Greece are intertwined with reality. No wonder.
The city, named after the beloved daughter of Zeus, already in the era of Mycenaean culture, in the 13th century BC, was large and famous in the ancient world, the cultural and political center of Greece.

Theseus is considered the founder of Athens. It is he who is credited with liberating the Athenians from the tribute that the city paid to Minos, the ruler of Crete. Theseus united the scattered cities - policies around Athens into a single city - state. But Theseus had no worthy successors, and after his death power in Athens passed to several wealthy aristocratic families.

In 594 BC. A significant event occurred not only in the history of Athens, but also in the history of all mankind. Athens received a Constitution, a Supreme Court and a People's Assembly.
Three branches of government have survived to this day!

A hundred years later, wars with the Persians began. Athens supported the revolt of numerous Greek cities in Asia Minor. The Persian army landed in a small force in the city of Marathon, near Athens.

Running a marathon distance is equal to the distance between the city of Marathon and Athens. The messenger ran through it to warn the city of the impending danger, and died, reporting the Persian invasion.

To this day, marathon running is carried out in memory of this event; this discipline is included in the program of the Olympic Games. Thanks to the heroism of the Greek who warned the Athenians, and the leadership of the commander Miltiades, the Athenians won this battle.

Ten years later, the great Persian king Xerxes with a huge army won the battle of Thermopylae. The story of the 300 Spartans is one of the episodes of this legendary battle. The brave Spartans held off Xerxes' army while the Greeks gathered forces. But it did not help.

The Persian army entered Athens; all the beautiful temples of the city were destroyed.

But after victory in a naval battle, in which the Greeks, under the leadership of the Athenian strategist Themistocles, destroyed the Persian fleet, the war ended in complete victory for the Greeks.

Themistocles was not only an outstanding commander, but also an excellent politician. On his initiative, Athens was surrounded by defensive walls, the port of Piraeus (until today the most important port in Greece) was built, and the city became a strong maritime power.

Golden age

The magnificent monuments of Athens, especially the Parthenon, date back to the period of greatest prosperity of the city-state, the so-called Golden Age. This period dates back to the 5th century BC, during the reign of Pericles.

The greatest architectural monument, the Parthenon, was built under Pericles, which made his name legendary.
The Golden Age of Athens is the time of the great philosophers Anaxagoras and Socrates, historians whose works are still cited today, after so many centuries, Herodotus and Thucydides.

The poets and playwrights Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus are not only not forgotten, but performances based on their plays are still staged today. Time has no power over the achievements of the great Greeks. Their names are popular and known in the world, along with the names of their contemporaries.

Athens after the Golden Age

Unfortunately, the Golden Age of Athens was not long, it was interrupted by two wars with Sparta from 431 to 404 BC. These wars were for supremacy over the Greek states.

With defeat in these wars, Athens lost its political influence, but remained the cultural capital of the ancient world. The names of Praxiteles, Demosthenes, Plato and Xenophon are associated with this period.

In the 3rd century BC. a new disaster befell Athens. The invasion of the army that became powerful Macedonia, led by Philip II, and then by his son Alexander the Great, led to the decline of Athens.

In 146 BC. Greece was conquered by the Romans. Consul Sulla in 86 BC. brought a huge number of great works of art from Athens. But for almost 5 centuries after this, philosophical schools existed in Athens, which made it possible, after all the predatory invasions, to be the center of the ancient world.

It was only after the schools were closed in 529 AD. Athens fell into final decline. For a long time, the great city became a small provincial town of the Byzantine Empire.

Under the Turkish yoke

The Ottoman Empire replaced the Byzantine Empire. Muslim Turks had little interest in the values ​​of ancient culture. In 1458 they captured Athens. Many ancient buildings, architectural monuments and entire areas were destroyed from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

The fate of the city was most negatively affected by the wars between the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. In the 17th century, during the storming of Athens by the Venetians, the Parthenon was destroyed.

By the end of the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire had lost its power, and all the countries that were part of it by that time began to fight for independence. Greece was no exception.

In 1833, Athens again became the capital of a country reviving after the yoke. It was hard to imagine that the ruined and small village was once a great city-state. The country entered a time of monarchy, which was soon replaced by a constitutional monarchy.

Scientists struggled with the mystery of this temple for a long time, and after many years of research, the secret was found in the special arrangement of the columns. The main decoration of the temple is the statue of Athena - in the 5th century BC. They took her to Constantinople, and there she died in a fire.

The history of the Acropolis is the legends and myths of Ancient Greece. Here Aegeus, in a fit of despair, in anticipation of his son Theseus, threw himself into the sea. Where Poseidon argued with Athena, it was built, with the sanctuary of Pandora, magnificent sculptures of the Caryatids, which are the columns of the temple.

The favorite food of the Greeks is various meats, fish and seafood.

During the day, tourists usually spend time on excursions. In the evening you can relax in one of the countless restaurants, cafes, bars and taverns.

In the Vari area, where there are several popular taverns, you can try “lamb on a spit”. Magnificent and cocrezzi are served in all taverns in the area. It’s not for nothing that these taverns are called “glutton rows.” The average bill for four will be about 100 euros.

For lovers of antiquity, the Archeon Gevsis restaurant offers ancient cuisine recreated from sources.
The interior of the restaurant and the dining area create the illusion of the ancient world. Tourists dress in tunics, wash their feet with rose water, and finally a laurel wreath is placed on their heads.
Restaurant address: Kodratou, Athens, Grees.
Telephone: +30 210 5239661.

Seafood and seafood dishes can be tasted in taverns near Piraeus. It's not cheap, but very tasty. The average bill, depending on the selected delicacies, is from 30 euros per person.

Strophy's meat restaurant is located on the roof of an old mansion not far away. Dinner with a view of the Parthenon, delicious meat, local wine - what else could a tired tourist dream of on a hot evening?

Restaurant address: Rovertou Galli 25 P.C. 11742 Athens.
Telephone: +210 92141130.

Athens is a tourist city. Therefore, prices are high on routes and in restaurants visited by tourists. But if you deviate a little from the tourist path and find, then the prices are several times lower.

So budget prices for breakfast, lunch and dinner are: 162 – 243 rubles, 162 – 324 rubles, 325 – 500 rubles, respectively. A liter of local wine is 205 – 285 rubles, 0.33 of beer is 41 – 164 rubles. Cheap, tasty and satisfying.

Cultural life of Athens

Athens, like ancient times, is today not only the capital of the country, but also the cultural center of Greece.
Here it is National Opera of Greece, concert halls, theaters.

The opera received state status only in 1939. Today it is the largest theater in the country whose repertoire includes operas, ballets, operettas, symphonic opera concerts, classical music concerts, and children's plays.

Theater address: Greece, Athens, 59 Akadimias st.
Telephone: 30 210 3643725

Lycabettos Theater- unusual. It is located on the top of a hill above the city. The theater is not a repertory theater, does not have its own troupe, but is rented out for concerts by world rock and pop music stars.

Palace of Music in Athens built in 1961.
The appearance of such a modern hall was made possible thanks to the participation of many organizations, the Greek government, the National Bank, and individuals.
The Palace has several concert halls, music and multimedia libraries.
Advanced technologies were used during the construction of the Palace of Music. The concerts that regularly take place here are a notable event in the cultural life of the capital.

Address: Vasilissis Sophias and Kokkali Avenue, Athens.
Telephone:(+30)21072-82-333.
Web site: www.megaron.gr.

Athens nightlife

Nightlife in Athens is vibrant, varied and interesting. Bars, discos, clubs offer programs for every taste: national Greek music, jazz, rock, soul - whatever your heart desires.

One of the most popular and beloved clubs in Athens “Villa Mercedes”, which is located in the city center, offers dance music of a variety of styles.

The club has a good dance floor and a well-equipped stage, where famous DJs Armin Van Buuren, ERIC PRYDZ and David Guetta perform. Themed parties are often held here.

Many tourists spend the evening under the Acropolis. The performance called “Sound and Light” is a beautiful and unforgettable spectacle. You can see it from a cafe on Plaka. In the taverns of the old town you can listen to a folklore program.

Club - Berlin Club - during the day an ordinary cafe. In the evening this place turns into a wonderful rock and roll club.
The dance floor is always crowded. Famous DJs often work at the club.
There is a bar with a wide range of drinks and snacks.
The club is open until 4 am.
Address: Agias Paraskevis 72, Bournazi Square.
Prices: cocktails in Athens nightclubs cost from 7 to 12 euros, a bottle of wine from 50-80 to 100 euros, a bottle of whiskey costs from 80 to 200 euros. At most clubs, your entrance ticket entitles you to a free drink.

In Athens and the immediate vicinity of the capital there are several dozen nightclubs, not counting taverns with folklore dance programs.
It is impossible to describe them all. But the perfect end to the evening is a visit to a nightclub, where you can dance, listen to music and drink a good cocktail.

Where to stay

There are more than 200 hotels in Athens, designed to suit all tastes and financial capabilities of tourists. The choice is not easy, but we will try to help you make it.
We invite you to get acquainted with some popular hotels in the Greek capital, located in its very center.

Crowne Plaza Athens City Center Hotel

This five star hotel is for lovers of luxury.
Located almost 3 kilometers from the center, in a quiet location. Metro station nearby.

The range of services is typical for a high-star hotel: fitness room, sauna, rooftop pool.
Price of accommodation depends on the type of room, and starts from 6715 rubles.
Reservations can be made directly through the hotel's website.

Address: Michalacopoulou Street 50, Athens, 11528 Greece.

Novus City Hotel

Located just a kilometer from the center, close to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis. Has a 4 star category.

Prices per night in a double room start from 4751 rubles and increase depending on the room category to 7206 rubles. Breakfast is included in the price.
The hotel has a swimming pool, spa services, restaurant, free parking.

Address: 23, Karolou.Str., Athens

Athens Center Square Hotel

A small three-star hotel 400 meters from the city center near the central market is perfect for shopping lovers.
The market starts right at the door.

The advantage is the magnificent view of the Acropolis, which opens from some rooms - they, of course, cost more.
Minimum price for a room 5924 rubles.

Hotel address: 15 Aristogitonos Street & corner of Athinas 7 Kapnikareas, 10552.

Economy Hotel

The 2-star hotel for budget tourists is located just half a kilometer from the most popular attractions of the capital - the Parthenon, the Kotzia Museum, and the Agora.

Price for double room per night is 3363 rubles, breakfast is included in the price.

Hotel address: 5, Kleisthenous str, Athens

Hotel Alma

This 2-star hotel is located 900 meters from the very center of Athens and is probably the most economical of all the hotel businesses operating in the heart of the Greek capital.

Double room price is 2810 rubles. Tourists in their reviews note the cleanliness of the rooms and the consistency of the price/quality ratio.
Most tourists go to Athens not at all to spend time in the rooms, but the hotel is quite comfortable for an overnight stay.

Address: 5 Dorou Str Gr, 10432, Athens.

Where to go in emergency situations

Unfortunately, travel is not always without incident. You can lose documents, get sick, or find yourself in a situation that requires police intervention.
In case of emergency, it is necessary to have telephone numbers to contact the relevant services.

If you lose your documents, you need to contact the Consular Section of the Russian Embassy in Greece:
Athens, 152 32 Chalandri, st. Tzawella 5, tel.: 210 671-19-45, telephones: 210 671-19-06, 210 672-88-49, 210 671-19-35, 210 674-97-08.

For health problems:

You must contact the telephone numbers indicated in the health insurance policy, which is mandatory for obtaining a Schengen visa.
Only doctors called by these numbers provide medical care free of charge! Any other medical services for Russian tourists are paid.

The police number is 100, the fire department is 199, and roadside assistance is 104. However, do not forget that not everyone in Greece speaks English.

Athens is one of the most interesting tourist cities in the world. Rich history, architectural monuments, museums, restaurants and taverns, beaches and nightclubs - everything in the capital offers a varied, interesting holiday.

There is no city in Europe that is like Athens. This applies to ancient monuments and the most complex historical path along which the Greek capital passed. Having been reborn, Athens has become a modern cultural center of Greece and a major European city full of contrasts. Here, ancient ruins coexist with luxury hotels, and the bustling center is just a stone's throw away from idyllic beaches.

Geography of Athens: what the capital of Greece is like

Athens is located in Central Greece (Attica), surrounded by the mountains of Parnitha, Ymittos, Pendeli and Aigaleo. The city and agglomeration cover an area of ​​410 sq. km, and the population with its suburbs totals more than 3 million inhabitants. Although this figure is conditional, because numerous students, repatriates and migrants flock to the Greek capital.

The city is divided into 7 districts. However, it is unofficially customary to divide Athens into historical districts, the most famous of which are Kolonaki, Plaka, Monastiraki and Exarchia.

History of the city of Athens

The history of Athens is so ancient that the exact age of the city cannot be established. We only know that it is the oldest currently inhabited city in Europe. The origins of Athens are linked to mythology. According to legend, they appeared as a result of a dispute between Poseidon and Athena over the right to make the best gift to the first king of the city, Cecrops. The goddess of wisdom won, and she became the patroness of the city.

In antiquity, Athens, along with Sparta, played a leading role in the life of Greece. Here democracy was formed and the art of theater emerged. The city-state was home to outstanding creators, artists, speakers and politicians. Prosperity continued until the Peloponnesian Wars, which resulted in the defeat of Athens. They forever lost their leading position, although they finally turned into an ordinary provincial city with the rise of the Roman Empire and the advent of Christianity.

In the Middle Ages, French, Italian and Byzantine knights claimed the right to own Athens. In the 15th century, the city became part of the Ottoman Empire. Subsequently, the wars between the Turks and the Venetians further weakened the city - the population decreased, many historical monuments were destroyed.

Only in 1833 the city managed to become the Greek capital and a new era began. The University of Athens, Syntagma Square and the National Park appeared, and the first Olympic Games of modern times were held.

Today Athens is a metropolis and a major transport hub in Greece with vibrant nightlife, ancient monuments, and a host of cultural events. The city has developed trolleybus and bus networks, a metro and an international airport, which annually receives 16 million passengers.

Best season to visit Athens

The right time to visit Athens depends entirely on the purpose of the tourist. One thing is for sure: the Greek capital is a year-round destination, attractive in any season.

If you want to explore the city without queues and heat, and also have a large selection of hotels, it is better to come in January-April or October-November. However, it is worth considering that during the low season, some restaurants are closed and attractions change their schedules. June-September are considered the busiest months. Numerous crowds of tourists pour into the bustle of Athens. Although there is no better time to combine sightseeing tourism and relaxation on the coast.

Athens - attractions

The goal of any tourist in Athens is the Acropolis with many historical monuments. Among the main ones is the Theater of Dionysus, which hosted competitions for the authors of tragedies and other cultural events in Athens. The outstanding monument of the Acropolis, the Erechtheion, will give a complete picture of the architecture of the Ionian order. And the scale of the Parthenon will allow you to appreciate the works of the best architects and builders of antiquity. All the original finds of the Acropolis can be seen in its New Museum, which owns a huge collection of statues, bas-reliefs and religious objects.

However, beautiful ancient structures have been preserved not only on the Acropolis. On the Agora, which in ancient times was considered the center of city life, is the Temple of Hephaestus. It survived largely due to the fact that a church was organized here in Byzantine times. At the southern end of the Agora is the Odeon, which resembles a Roman amphitheater. The Athens Festival is held here every year.

Tourists enjoy spending time in Plaka. This is the oldest district of Athens with colorful architecture, many ancient buildings, narrow streets and shops. The laid-back atmosphere makes Plaka one of the most charming places in the city.

65 km from the city is Cape Sounion, which is worth visiting for two reasons. Firstly, the temple of Poseidon and fragments of the temple of Athena have been preserved here. Secondly, in Sounion you can watch sunsets of amazing beauty. In addition, the cape is shrouded in legends. It was in this place, according to myths, that Aegeus threw himself into the sea.

Athens: sea and beaches

Near the metropolis there are a number of good beaches that Athenians flock to after work or on weekends. The suburb of Glyfada is the most popular destination. The sandy coast of this resort is ideal for a family holiday. Some beaches are free, others are well equipped and charge a fee to visit.

In the suburbs of Athens there is Mati Beach and the adjacent Agios Andreas. The coast is strewn with pebbles and equipped with sun loungers. There are taverns and water attractions here.

The beaches of Vouliagmeni invite you to relax after a long day. They are 23 km away from the city. On the coast there are restaurants and tennis courts, and children's playgrounds are equipped. Fans of wild beaches on Vouliagmeni will love the town of Limanaki with its exotic nature and clear sea.

How to get to Athens

The main transport gates of the Greek capital are the Eleftherios Venizelos Airport and the port of Piraeus. The most convenient way to get to Athens is by air. The airport receives regular flights and charters from many countries. Directly from the terminal, several points in Athens can be reached by any of the six buses that operate.

Taxi at Eleftherios Venizelos airport.

Port of Piraeus.

Piraeus connects Athens with all popular destinations within Greece and beyond. From the port to the center you can take buses No. 49, 40 (to Syntagma and Omonia) or prefer the metro (Green Line).

This truly legendary Greek city is famous throughout the world. The capital of ancient and modern Greece has experienced great ups and no less epic falls throughout its history. Like a Phoenix, Athens was reborn after devastating wars, conquests and natural disasters. At the same time, the Greeks managed to preserve part of the city’s historical heritage: today the ruins of the Acropolis and the remains of ancient sculptures coexist with fashionable hotels and modern shopping centers. The features of the most important Greek polis will be discussed in today’s material.

The history of these glorious places goes back almost ten thousand years. The exact date of the founding of the city of Athens is unknown, but according to the widespread version, settlements appeared here in 7 thousand BC. They were located in the southern part of Attica, where there are low mountains covering a valley with settlements on three sides.

The founder of Athens is considered the first ruler in the Athenian kingdom - King Kekropos, who was half man, half snake. According to legend, when choosing a patron of the city, he asked the gods a simple task: to make a useful gift. Poseidon gave him a fountain, but the water in it turned out to be salty and undrinkable. And the goddess Athena gifted the new polis with a tree with unusual fruits - olives. Kekrop chose a gift from the goddess, in whose honor the city of Athens was named.

Athens reached its apogee of glory in the 5th century BC. Actually from 500 to 300 BC. All of Ancient Greece reached the golden age of development, and its capital became the cradle of culture, economics and politics. However, the political system of the Greek country was such that Athens was not so much the capital of Greece, but acted as an independent state. Polis remained the most important center of ancient times until the rise of the Roman Empire.

In the third century AD, Athens lost its former grandeur and became a provincial town. Then there are long centuries of constant wars and conquests by foreign troops, leading to the looting, destruction and even burning of Athens. A new round of the city’s history begins only in the 19th century, when the Greeks managed to free themselves from the dictates of the Ottoman Empire.

Since 1833, Athens has been the official capital of Greece. Having achieved independence, the Greek kingdom begins to develop rapidly. King Otto of Bavaria intended to return the country to its former greatness and restore the prestige of the capital. To do this, architects were called to Athens who designed several city streets and public buildings in the neoclassical style (including the University of Athens, the National Park, Syntagma Square, etc.). Gradually the city regained its former appearance and in 1896 the first modern Olympic Games were held here in the new stadium.

The 20th century is marked by the beginning of archaeological excavations, which help restore the heritage of ancient Greece. In the 1920s, the Greeks signed an agreement with the Turks on the exchange of populations, as a result of which a wave of immigrants rolled into Athens. Added to this are the treaties on the Balkan Wars that were successful for the Greeks, after the conclusion of which the territory and population of the country, incl. Athens doubles in size.

During World War II, the city fell under German occupation, but after the war it again continued its rapid development. The construction and industrial boom of the mid-20th century, at the beginning of the 21st century, leads to transport and environmental problems. To date, some of them have been successfully resolved, which was greatly facilitated by the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Modern Athens is a dynamic city that combines ancient heritage with the vibrant and vibrant life of 21st century Europe. There are many nightclubs, branded stores, entertainment centers and tourist hotels. But above all this, the ancient Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Parthenon and the remains of ancient theaters still rise.

Geographical location

Athens is located on mainland Greece, in the south of the Balkan Peninsula. Polis is located on the central plain of Attica, surrounded by mountains and the Saronic Gulf. Over the years of active development and settlement, the city has come close to these natural boundaries. So further expansion of the urban area is practically impossible.

Greece is southeastern Europe, and Athens is one of the southernmost European cities. But you are unlikely to need a map of European countries, but a map of the city of Athens will be useful to any traveler. The city is very large, so getting around without a street map is quite difficult.

Population

Everyone knows what a glorious capital Greece is and what the main attractions of Athens are called. But few people know that the population of the city of Athens accounts for 1/3 of the total population of the country! Just think about it: a third of the state’s residents live in one city.

The permanent population in Athens in 2017 is more than 3.5 million people, while the total number of residents of Greece in the same year is 10.9 million people. At the same time, migrants and part of the local population registered in other regions also live in the capital city. Their number can be approximately estimated at another 500 thousand people. This is how capacious the Greek capital is.

Climate

Like the rest of the country, Athens is influenced by the Mediterranean climate. It provides a consistently sunny, hot summer and a long autumn, which in fact smoothly turns into spring. Winter frosts are rare in the region.

The area where Athens is located has low humidity, so the summer heat can be tolerated comfortably. Summer temperatures reach +30°C and above. Rainy days are most common in autumn, but precipitation is very rare in summer.

How to get to Athens

The Greek capital can be reached by plane, ferry and land transport.

The city's air harbor is called Eleftherios Venizelos. Upon arrival at Athens airport, it is very easy to go straight to the city center. There is a metro line from the terminal, and numerous buses and commuter trains depart from the airport to the city.

The port of Piraeus is the sea gate to the capital Athens. Foreign ships dock here, as well as an endless stream of local ferries of various capacities. Please note that in winter, ship schedules are often disrupted by the vagaries of the weather.

You can get to Athens by car or bus along numerous highways and routes. The distance, travel time and comfort of the route naturally depend on the starting point of departure.

The best time of year to visit Athens is difficult to determine. Spring and summer have the hottest temperatures and peak season, but the cost of holidays is also higher. In autumn and winter, the demand for holidays is lower, but the weather conditions are worse. However, if you search hard, you can find a hot offer and go on vacation in Greece and Athens at a discount. To do this, look through the calendar of low prices for air tickets and online services for selecting tours and accommodation.

Athens travel guide

Here our material about holidays in Athens comes to the equator, and from dry facts and theory we begin to move on to tourist practice, i.e. walks around the city. Next, we will tell you about the most interesting places in Athens and the unique sights of Greece that have been preserved in the capital city. We will also touch on the nuances and subtleties of Athens tourism and, of course, talk about hotels in Athens.

Sea and beaches in Athens

In the suburbs of the capital there are many coastal villages with well-groomed and equipped coastlines. The following local beaches are the most popular among tourists:

• Voula;
• Asteros;
• Faliron;
• Alimas;
• Akti Vouliagmeni.

The best time for a beach holiday in the Greek capital is July-August. You can get to the coast by public transport. In most cases, it is more convenient to take tram No. 3, because the lines run along the coastal zone. Bus number 122 runs to Vouliagmeni.

Districts of Athens

The Greek capital city is divided into seven districts, but tourists are advised to settle only in the center of Athens. This is dictated both by the developed infrastructure and proximity of attractions, and by security issues.

Plaka

The most historically significant area of ​​the city, located at the foot of the Acropolis. It is especially atmospheric in Anafiotika, the western part of Plaka. Here, narrow cobbled streets and low white houses traditional for Greek architecture create the impression of truly Ancient Hellas.

The area has a very developed tourist infrastructure: many cafes, taverns, shops, hotels and entertainment. The historical heritage of the area is also rich. Here you can get acquainted with ancient monuments, as well as sights from the times of Byzantine and Turkish rule.

Monastiraki

Another oldest district of the city, very close to the Acropolis.

Monastiraki is actually a large commercial and historical center of the city. Famous landmarks are located here: the Tower of the Winds, the Fethias Mosque, the Library of Hadrian. And what a beautiful panorama opens onto the Acropolis from the local Keramix (ancient cemetery). You won’t find another such view of Ancient Hellas in the entire city.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the local market and the myriad of shops on Ermou Street. Lovers of shopping and sales should definitely stay here.

Thisio

Calm and peaceful area, actually a park area. Here you can take a break from the noisy bustle of the city and enjoy the coolness of the local parks. At the same time, the geographical location of the area allows easy access to the center of Athens, located several hundred meters to the east.

Thisio also has many cultural options. In this area you can:

• look at the ruins of the Agora complex;
• take a walk along the pedestrian street named after Apostle Paul;
• go to Pnyx Hill;
• visit the Athens Conservatory, Observatory and Dora Stratou Theater.

And don’t forget about the local shops, shops, cafes and taverns.

Syntagma

The name of the area was given by the historical square, which is called the heart of Athens. It is from here that excursions to historical Plaka and Monastiraki, as well as just walks around the city, begin.

Near Syntagma is the National History Museum, which is the former parliament building. And on the square itself there is a modern parliament, which is a kind of landmark of these places. Tourists can view the facade and some rooms of the building, as well as follow the solemn ritual of the changing of the guard.

Syntagma is also famous for its National Park, where you can enjoy the silence and views of nature.

Safety in Athens

We have already answered the questions about when is the best time to go to Athens and where is the best place to live in the capital. Now let's talk about how to behave in this huge Greek polis.

General rules

The capital of Greece is crowded, and this circumstance sometimes plays into the hands of scammers and robbers. To avoid getting into an unpleasant situation, try to always keep an eye on your belongings and follow these small tips:

1. Keep bags at the front, not at the back or side;
2. Don't put valuables in your back pockets;
3. Don’t walk around the city with backpacks (it’s easier to steal from your back);
4. Do not wedge yourself into crowds of protesters and demonstrators so as not to be detained by the police.
5. On public transport, be prepared and keep your bag in sight.

Which areas are best not to go to?

Like any large metropolis, Athens is fraught with dangerous neighborhoods and their unreliable inhabitants. There are many beggars, homeless people and thieves on the distant streets of the city. In particular, the area around Omonia Square, especially Sotheklos Street, is notorious for Athens. At night, the port streets of Piraeus, the vicinity of the Larissa railway station and Karassaki Square are dangerous for tourists.

Neighborhoods of Athens

In addition to exploring the capital itself, you can also go on a trip to the suburbs. The capital's surroundings are distinguished by both natural pearls and their own historical attractions. So, here you can see the Averof floating museum, conquer Mount Parnitha, visit the zoological park or take a sea cruise to the islands of Aegina or Hydra.

And if the distance of 70 km does not scare you, then you should go to Cape Sounion and explore the Temple of Poseidon. Even the ruins of the building make a strong impression, and what was here in antiquity is comparable only to the Parthenon.

How to get around the city

It must be said that the transport system of Athens is well developed, but it does not always save you from debilitating traffic jams.

A single ticket is valid for buses, trolleybuses, trams, metro and trains within the city limits. For 1.4 euros you can make a 90-minute trip with transfers to any mode of transport. Also on sale are daily tickets for 4.5 €, and a 5-day ticket costs 9 €.

Trams

The total length of tram lines in Athens is 27 km. A long line runs along the coast, and in the center there is a branch to the Syntagma area. There are 3 routes in the city:

• No. 3 Neo-Falira - Voula;
• No. 4 Syntagma – Neo-Falira;
• No. 5 Syntagma – Voula.

The rails are laid along separate streets, so Athens trams are not afraid of citywide traffic jams.

Buses

By bus you can travel not only around the Greek capital, but also around its suburbs. The bus fleet consists of 1,800 vehicles, and the number of routes reaches 300.

As an important note, we note that in Greece all stops are made only upon request. You need to carefully monitor the road in order to have time to press the “stop” button and get off at your stop. If you are waiting for a bus on the street, then you should wave your hand to get the driver to stop.

Metro

Another type of transport with which you do not risk getting stuck in traffic jams. The metro connects all major transport hubs: the port, railway station and airport. There are 3 branches in total in the city:

• No. 1 Piraeus – Kifissia (green);
• No. 2 Antoupoli – Elliniko (red);
• No. 3 Agia Marina – Airport (blue).

Please note that there are no turnstiles in the Greek metro. But the ticket must be validated and kept for the entire trip, because... Controllers work on the routes.

Taxi

Official taxis are yellow cars with checkered lines and the Ταξί sign. Cars may be of different brands, but they are all equipped with meters, which are used to pay for the trip. The main tariffs are as follows:

• In the city 0.7 € per km;
• Suburb 1.2€ per km;
• Boarding + 1.2 € to the trip amount;
• Phone call + 2 € to the trip amount.

At night, rates double. Be careful when traveling, because... There are often drivers who want to “earn extra money” from tourists by increasing their road bill.

Rent a Car

There are many rental agencies in the city, but we would recommend renting a car only for out-of-town trips. Athens has heavy traffic, frequent traffic jams and parking problems, so a rented car can only become an extra burden. Outside the city, a personal car, on the contrary, has an advantage over the confusing public transport schedule.

Sights of Athens

The Greek capital is incredibly rich in unique monuments and cultural recreation facilities.

Museums

There are more than 250 exhibitions with various exhibits in the city. But the most interesting museums are:

• Acropolis;
• Agora;
• Archaeological Museum;
• Ship "Averof";
• Museum of Cycladic Art.

During high season, museum exhibitions are open to the public every day.

Tourist streets

Churches and temples

There are also countless religious buildings in the city. Ancient culture has been preserved to this day: the Acropolis and its numerous temples. There are also many Orthodox churches in Athens: the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Monastery of Daphne, the Temple of St. George. There are also Muslim monuments in the city. A striking example is the Tsisdaraki mosque.

Excursions

From Athens you can go on an excursion to any corner of Greece. If you do not want to leave the capital for a long time, then a boat trip to the neighboring islands would be an excellent option.

Recreation and entertainment

There is plenty to do in Athens besides cultural recreation.

Shopping, shops, souvenirs

There are several dozen shops on Ermu Street, incl. brand boutiques H&M, Zara, Benetton and much more. Here you can buy quality items from European manufacturers.

It is better to buy souvenirs and gifts in small shops and local markets. Handmade items made from ceramics or textiles will be an original gift. Prices in Athens are high, but don't forget that Greeks are always willing to bargain.

Cuisine and restaurants

The capital's restaurants offer tourists local cuisine and popular dishes from other countries of the world. There are a lot of cafes and taverns in the city, but if you only want the best cuisine with gourmet dishes, we recommend visiting Petrino, Lalloudes, Garbi and To Kofenio.

Clubs and nightlife

At night, life in the capital never ceases to be in full swing. For regulars of dance floors and fiery parties, there are the best nightclubs in the city:

• Villa Mercedes
• Baronda;
• Venue;

Most establishments maintain a dress code (evening wear). Entrance to the parties is paid, and on average is about 10 euros per person.

Young tourists in Athens will find it no less interesting than adults. Moreover, if the family stays in a hotel with a games room, animators and a children's menu.

In the city, children will be entertained by visiting the water park, planetarium, zoo and various attractions. The children also like to explore the ruins of ancient buildings. But here you need to carefully monitor the child so that the child does not harm either the ruins or himself.

Popular hotels in Athens

There are more than 2,000 hotels, inns and apartments of various classes in the Greek capital. It is hardly possible to select the best housing from this list. We can only note those hotels to which tourists express more trust and warm regard. These are establishments such as:

Holidays in Athens are varied and exciting; no tourist will be bored here. The disadvantages of the metropolis cannot be kept silent: crowded conditions, environmental problems, traffic congestion and street hooliganism. But if you take into account the recommendations listed in the material and carefully plan your vacation, the trip will leave only pleasant impressions in your memory. Happy travels and unforgettable adventures!

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Capital of Greece. The city already existed in the Mycenaean era, 1600-1200. BC e. The name is presumably associated with the language of the Pelasgians, pre-Greek. inhabitants of the Balkan Peninsula, where it meant a hill, a hill. The name was rethought by the Greeks... Geographical encyclopedia

The capital of Greece, one of its oldest cities. In Ancient Greece, Athens was a city state (polis), which played a leading role in its history and culture. Athens is located in Attica. In the 16th - 13th centuries. BC. on the rocky Acropolis there was a fortified... ... Historical Dictionary

Athens- Athens. Acropolis. ATHENS, capital (since 1834) of Greece. 748 thousand inhabitants. Located on the Attica Peninsula, in a hilly valley near the Aegean Sea. International Airport. Metropolitan. A large commercial, industrial and cultural center. Mechanical engineering... ... Illustrated Encyclopedic Dictionary

Capital of Greece, adm. c. Attica region. 748 thousand inhabitants (1991). Together with the port of Piraeus and its suburbs, Athens forms Greater Athens with the population of St. 3 million people. An important transport hub. Elinikon International Airport. Greater Athens gives St. 2/3… … Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

- (Athenae, αὶ Αθη̃ναι). The main city of Attica and the greatest city in all of ancient Greece. The oldest part of the city was first called Cecropia. since, according to legend, it was built by Kekrops, the first king of Attica; Later this place was named... Encyclopedia of Mythology

- (Athenai), capital of Greece. Located on the Attica Peninsula, near the Aegean Sea, in a picturesque hilly valley. According to legend, it was founded in the 16th-13th centuries. BC e. In Ancient Greece, the city was a state, a major economic, political and... ... Art encyclopedia

ATHENS, capital (since 1834) of Greece. 748 thousand inhabitants. Located on the Attica Peninsula, in a hilly valley near the Aegean Sea. International Airport. Metropolitan. A large commercial, industrial and cultural center. Mechanical engineering (including... ... Modern encyclopedia

Athens, capital of Attica in Dr. Greece, named after the goddess Athena, is one of the most famous centers of science and art of the ancient world. When ap. Paul arrived in A. (Acts 17:15ff.), the apogee of the glory of this city was left behind: the main trade. became the center... Brockhaus Biblical Encyclopedia

Ancient, city state (polis) in Attica (region in Greece), which played a leading role in the economic, political and cultural life of Greece; an example of ancient democracy, which reached its peak under Pericles (2nd half of the 5th century BC) ... Modern encyclopedia

Famous for its works of art and science, the city of ancient Greece, the main city in the Attica region. Greek culture flourished here. science and art, and here is the arena of activity of many famous Athenians. Currently the capital of Greece. Complete dictionary... ... Dictionary of foreign words of the Russian language

Noun, number of synonyms: 2 posidonia (4) capital (274) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Synonym dictionary

Books

• Athens. Between Sky and Sea, Philippe Plisson. “Indeed, we Greeks are the world’s first navigators, and we entrusted Philip Plisson with the creation of this magnificent album. In it, Athens, and, in fact, the whole of Attica, looks... Publisher: Art-Rodnik,
• Athens. Between sky and sea. , Philip Plisson. `Indeed, we Greeks are the world's first navigators, and we have entrusted Philippe Plisson with the creation of this magnificent album. In it, Athens, and, in fact, all of Attica, look... Series: Photo Albums Publisher: Art-Rodnik, Manufacturer:

KEKROP KEKROP

(Κέκροφ, b. Κέκροπος), in Greek mythology, the Athenian king, autochthon (born of the earth). His appearance - half-man and half-snake - indicates the deep antiquity and chthonism of the image. Having become the first king of Attica, K. named the country after his own name, Cecropia. Under him, a dispute arose between Poseidon and Athena for the possession of Attica; competing in gifts to the inhabitants of Attica, Poseidon knocked out a source of water, and Athena planted an olive tree (Apollod. III 14, 1). K. and Aglavra are the parents of Erisichthon (died childless) and three daughters: Aglavra, Hersa and Pandrosa (III 14, 1-2), who died in madness (see Art. Aglavra).
A.T.-G.

(Source: “Myths of the Peoples of the World.”)

Kekrop

Son of Gaia, first king of Attica, founder of its twelve cities. He was generated by mother earth Gaia and, like all creatures that came out of the earth, had the appearance of a half-man, half-animal: the upper part was human, and the lower part was dragon. During the reign of Cecrops, the main city of Attica began to be named after Athena. Father of the goddess Pandrosa, Aglavra and other daughters. Also the father of Pandion (by Mediadusa).

// ON THE. Kuhn: CECROPE, ERICHTHONIUS AND ERECHTHEUS

(Source: “Myths of Ancient Greece. Dictionary-reference book.” EdwART, 2009.)

See what "KEKROP" is in other dictionaries:

Kekrop- (Greek Kekrops) in Greek mythology, the Athenian deity of the earth; considered the son of Gaia and the founder of Athens, as well as the first Athenian king. Ancient sculptors depicted K. as a strong man with a snake tail instead of legs (a symbol of autochthony).... ... Ancient world. Dictionary-reference book.

KECROP Dictionary-reference book on Ancient Greece and Rome, on mythology

KECROP- The mythological first king of Attica, often depicted as a half-man, half-serpent, to emphasize that he is the son of the Earth (cf. Erechthea). It was believed that he was a benefactor of humanity and a judge in the dispute between Athena and Poseidon for the possession of Attica. Athena... ... List of Ancient Greek names

Kekrops is the name of two mythical kings of Athens: Kekrops (son of Gaia), or Kekrops I. Kekrops (son of Erechtheus), or Kekrops II ... Wikipedia

Kekrop- in Greek myth. Athenian king, autochthon (born on earth). His appearance, half-man and half-snake, indicates the deep antiquity and chthonism of the image. Having become the first king of Attica, K. named the country after his name. Cecropia. There was an argument in front of him... Ancient world. encyclopedic Dictionary

Kekrop- in Greek mythology, the first king of Attica, Augohthon (born on the earth), the progenitor of the inhabitants of Apic. He was depicted as looking like a half-man, half-snake. According to myth, he resolved the dispute between Poseidon and Athena for the possession of Agtika and decided it in favor of Athena... Dictionary of Antiquity

Kekrop- mit. in the old Greek mythology: snake man, founder and gradator on Atina, especially on the Acropolis, and recorder on the kultot on the goddess of Atina ... Macedonian dictionary

The founder of great Athens and its Acropolis was the earth-born Cecrops (1). The earth gave birth to him as a half-man and half-snake. His body ended in a huge snake tail. Cecrops founded Athens in Attica at a time when they were arguing for power over all... ... Encyclopedia of Mythology

Kekrops. Kekrops, Kekrops (Greek: Κέκροψ) culture hero of Greek mythology. According to legend, the founder and first king of Attica, born of Gaia, according to a less popular version, the son of Hephaestus. A contemporary of Triops, Phaeton died under him and happened... ... Wikipedia

Kekrop, Kekrops- (Greek) - Athenian king, half-man, half-snake, father of Erysichthon, Aglavra, Hersa, Pandrosa. Legend considers K. the first king of Attica to call the country Cecropia. K. was depicted as a powerful man with a snake's tail instead of legs. There was an argument in front of him... Mythological dictionary

Books

• Legends and myths of Ancient Greece, Nikolai Kun. “Legends and Myths of Ancient Greece” is an amazing timeless book by Nikolai Albertovich Kuhn, one of the authoritative Soviet scientists of the first half of the twentieth century, who studied... Publisher: