Athens: the city and the people

The Centre of the World
Delphi was divined by Zeus, who released two eagles from opposite ends of the universe and saw where they crossed. Temple of Apollo contained the omphalos (navel-stone), marking the centre of the world and also the Oracle of Delphi. The Theatre, which was built in the 4th century BC, is one of the best preserved threatres of ancient Greece. The Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia was believed to protect the Temple of Apollo from invaders.

Cruise to three islands:
Hydra, Poros, Agena

Athens' gateway to the islands ~ Piraeus




Pasalimani
This large circular bay inaugurated as Athens' main naval base in the 5th century BC, the ancient harbour of Zea could accommodate 196 triremes. Today, up to 400 of the most impressive motor yachts in Greece moor here.

National Archaeological Museum
It is the best museum in Greece and one of the most exhilarating museums in the world. It is packed with famous, influential and beautiful works from the great Bronze Age to the Golden Age of Classical Athens and beyond.

Temple of Olympian Zeus
Though the temple's construction to the ruler of the pantheon began in 515 BC, it was eventually completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian 700 years afterwards. In AD 131 the Athenians built a Hadrian's Arch next to the temple, the west side of which inscribed "This is Athens, the ancient city of Theseus," and the east side "This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus", distinguishing the cities of ancient legend and modern reality.