ATHENS
Sunday, September 28th, Piraeus/Athens (Greece)
Very early morning. Ate breakfast on our own, meeting in the Princess Theater at 7:45 for the “City of Athens and the Acropolis” tour.
Began with a bus tour through Athens. So, why is Harry Truman’s statue there? Stopped at the first modern Olympic Stadium, built in 1896, and reused as the end of the marathon in the 2004 Olympics. Saw Hadrian’s Arch, the changing of the guard at Constitution Square, and much more.
Walked to the top of the Acropolis. Extremely cold and windy, unbelievable crowds, and lots of scaffolding and cranes, especially around the Parthenon; but wouldn’t have wanted to miss it. The Porch of the Caryatids impressed us all, as did the great views down into the Ancient Agora. Were able to see the Temple of Hephaestus, the best preserved ancient Greek temple in the world, as well as the Temple of Zeus, the steps where democracy was born, and the rock from which Paul preached. Still can’t believe he came all that way and never made it to the Acropolis!
After the Acropolis, we parted from the tour group and walked toward the Plaka. Maybe. Stopped and bought a Greek pretzel and donut to tide us over until lunch.
Lunched at yet another outdoor café, having baked feta for the first time. The lunch orders got screwed up when two sandwiches, Alan and Tom’s, came served on one plate. Alan almost didn’t get lunch - a Greek tragedy.
Walked to the metro via a sidewalk garage sale. Had to walk in the street and keep a close eye on traffic. Due to construction, the metro entrance was hard to see, and we pretty much just stumbled upon it.
Took the metro to the National Archaeological Museum - overwhelming. So much to see, but everyone was exhausted. Rode back to port, then had a long walk to the ship, where everyone parted ways.
Jo went to bed, even skipping dinner. Early night for all.
Here is a little video of our walk through the streets of Athens on the way to the museum. click here
First Modern Day Olympics 1896 - stadium where modern day olympics started
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Erechtheion - dedicated to Erichthonis, born of Earth and raised by Athena
Temple of Hephaestus - patron god of technology
National Archaeological Museum of Athens
 Aphrodite, Pan and Eros this statue was actually on Delos island that we visited later, 100 BC |
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 Aphrodite of Syracuses |
 I wrestled in high school! |
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 Poseidon |
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 Venus on a couch |
Wall paintings
Last Updated: 01/15/2010