Did You Know?

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.

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.

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The Acropolis - A Beacon Of Ancient History

The Acropolis in Athens, Greece - a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient ruins and monuments such as the Parthenon and the Propylaea.

A visit to Athens is incomplete without also spending time at the Acropolis of Athens, generally known as simply “the Acropolis”. Set on a fairly high plateau on an aged mountain (more like a hill, hence the name which roughly translates as “highest point”), the site is a collection of ancient buildings like temples, theatres and sanctuaries used by the Greeks in their cultural heyday in the mid-400s BC. Here they worshipped and communed, and at the foot of the Acropolis they shopped in the Agora (market place).

The Acropolis of Athens was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Since 1975 it has undergone extensive renovations and restorations in order to preserve its buildings and their enduring heritage. But the Acropolis has suffered invasion, fire, cannonballs, pirates, pollution and general decay, so the revival is long-term, hopefully to be completed in 2020,(now extended to 2025 completion). The cost is beyond calculation at this point, but the value of the Acropolis is priceless.

Greek Statesman, Pericles, is to thank for the majority of the Acropolis. In the 400s BC he undertook to rebuild many of the original structures; these include the Parthenon, Erechtheum, Temple of Athena Nike, Propylaea, and Theatre of Dionysus. Although the Acropolis can be seen from a distance, the impact of being there, among the ancient, magnificent structures, is unparalleled.

The Acropolis of Athens does not have a specific street address like modern buildings. However, it is located in the heart of Athens, Greece, on Acropolis Hill. You can easily reach it by walking or public transportation.

Telephone: +30 210 3214172

Website: The Acropolis Official Website

Hours of operation: The Acropolis is generally open daily, with the following hours:

April to October: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

November to March: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Please note that the hours may change or the site may be closed on certain holidays or due to special events. It is always a good idea to check the official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.