Did You Know?

Did you know that Athens is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world? Its recorded history spans over 3,400 years, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe. Athens has been a significant center of civilization and culture since ancient times.

Did you know that Athens is known for its vibrant street art scene? The city is adorned with colorful and creative murals, graffiti, and street installations. Artists from around the world contribute to the ever-changing urban art landscape, making Athens a haven for street art enthusiasts.

Did you know that the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in Athens? The Acropolis is an ancient citadel situated on a rocky outcrop above the city. It houses several iconic ancient Greek structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea. It is a symbol of Athens and a testament to its rich history.

Did you know that Athens is often referred to as the "Cradle of Western Civilization"? It is widely regarded as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and theater. Many influential thinkers, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, lived and taught in Athens, shaping the foundations of Western thought.

Did you know that Athens hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896? The Olympics were revived in Athens to celebrate the connection to the ancient Olympic Games held in Olympia, Greece. Today, the Olympic flame is still lit in Olympia and carried to the host city of each Olympic Games.

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Mount Lycabettus

Woman or wolf? Mount Lycabettus in central Athens has two possible claims to fame, neither of which may be true. Myth tells us that when Athena was busy helping to carry stones to the Acropolis for the construction of her temple, she dropped a big one (make that huge) and it became Mount Lycabettus. Athena must have been one strong goddess. The other is that the name, which translated from the Greek means “the one hill that is walked by wolves” (lycos is Greek for wolf) suggests the mountain, more like a sizeable hill, was once inhabited by wolves. While that makes more sense, it remains that Mount Lycabettus is, at 300 metres (900 feet) above sea level, the highest point in Athens.

It’s a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Visitors can walk up the cretaceous limestone hill, a trip that takes 30 to 90 minutes depending upon one’s level of fitness, or use the funicular to ride up the side in comfort. At the top, which comprises two peaks, is situated a restaurant and open-air theatre. Concerts staged here feature local and international artists, the likes of B.B. King, Bjork and Black Sabbath, to name a few, proving the diversity of music presented.

The best part of Mount Lycabettus is the view. From atop the hill, one can get a real sense of the layout of the city of Athens, and plan a walking tour from there.