THE CLASSICS
Visit the Acropolis and the nearby sites
The classical period was an era of unprecedented political and cultural achievement. In this period Athens reached its greatest political and cultural heights: the full development of the democratic system of government under the Athenian statesman Pericles; the building of the Parthenon on the Acropolis; the creation of the tragedies of Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripides; and the founding of the philosophical schools of Socrates and Plato.
Step back in time and gain a vivid insight into Athens’ classical past. In addition to the great monuments of classical Athens you will also learn about all major aspects of daily life - from food and sports to religion, education, and politics. You will see the houses people inhabited, admire the theater where the masterpieces of ancient drama were first performed; learn about the architecture of the Parthenon, discover the ruins of the state prison where Socrates was executed; or visit the Athenian Agora - the heart of ancient Athens where political, judicial, commercial, cultural and religious activities all found a place together.
"We turn aside to trace the footsteps left by ancient Time" - Aeschylus, The Suppliant Maidens. 533.
Text & route: Nicolas Nicolaides, Yannis Zaras
Image: "Parthenon after the rain, 1908", by Fred Boissonnas (1858-1946)
