Attica
borders Sterea Ellada (Central Greece) to the north and
the Saronic Gulf to the south.
Athens, the capital of Greece, and Piraeus, the major
port, are in Attica. The climate is Mediterranean, pleasant
and healthy due to its distinctive dryness. Washed by
the celebrated Attic light, it is full of memories of
the past.
In Sounion, the sanctuaries of Poseidon and Athena, in
Vravrona the sanctuary of Artemis, in Rhamnous that of
Nemesis, in Marathon the famous victory of the Greeks
against the Persians, in Eleusis (Elefsina) the sanctuary
of Demeter, as well as Byzantine monuments such as Kaisariani
and Daphni monasteries. The visitor based in Athens can
enjoy the sea or a mountain by travelling just a few kilometres.
Another special characteristic is the great variety of
landscapes -from its beautiful mountains Parnitha, Penteli,
and Hymettus to the seaside, teeming with life, especially
in the summer, around the clock to daybreak.
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ATHENS
:
The capital of Greece took its name from the goddess
Athena, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. This
is where democracy was born. This is where that marvel
of architecture, the Parthenon was created. This is
where art became inseparable from life and this is
where Pericles gave the funerary speech, that monument
of the spoken word. Athens is the symbol of freedom,
art, and democracy in the conscience of the civilized
world.
In Athens memory never fades. |
Wherever
you stand, wherever you turn, the city's long and rich
history will be alive in front of you. In the centre of
town are two hills, the Acropolis with the monuments from
the Age of Pericles, and Lycabettus with the picturesque
chapel of Ai Giorgis. Athens today is a modern city, alive
and on the go. Modern but romantic as well, with busy
streets and squares, shop windows a riot of colours, as
well as little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighbourhoods
such as Plaka and Metz.
In the countless shops, the visitor will find whatever
he may need. In the tavernas and restaurants he can enjoy
any taste sensation in the night clubs, pubs, discos,
and bars he can drink and dance the night away. Because
in Athens, the fun never stops before daylight.
PIRAEUS
Piraeus (Pireas) has been the port of Athens since antiquity.
The modern city, built on top of the ancient city is a
major shipping and financial centre. All the ships that
link the capital with island Greece and the rest of the
world leave from the historic port. Piraeus is to the
southwest of Athens, about 10 km. from the centre of town.
It is connected to the city busses and the Athens metro.
Beyond the port, the most impressive spots are the hills
of Profitis llias and Kastela with their neoclassical
mansions and modern buildings which look as if they are
hanging over the sea.
Piraeus's little natural harbours are among its busiest
and most touristy areas: Mikrolimano, Passalimani, Zea,
Freatida and Hatzikiriakio. Countless seaside tavernas
provide delicious seafood washed down with the uniquely
Greek drink, ouzo. The fresh smell of the sea and the
sounds made by the assortment of caiques, yachts and sailing
ships, which are moored next to the tables, complete the
enjoyment of the food.
SARONIC GULF ISLANDS
A group of small islands lies in the Saronic Gulf, to
the south of Attica.
Aegina
Famous for its pottery, is covered with pistachio trees.
Its beautiful green villages are surrounded by pine forests.
Aegina is also the home to one of antiquity's most famous
temples, to Aphaia.
Salamina
Closer to the mainland, is the largest island in the group.
It has some beaches, the ruins of an acropolis, and the
Phaneromeni monastery which has notable frescos.
Poros
A bit further out, its immaculate beaches slide out of
the pine forest. The picturesque Zoodohou Pigis monastery
is worth a visit.
Hydra
The island is famous for its maritime tradition, as is
Spetses. The Hora is picturesque and beautiful, with high
and colourful sea captains mansions lining the waterfront
while a stark gray hill rises in the background. Between
the mansions are narrow streets with tavernas and shops,
where the foreigners gather after they reach the small
port of this charming island.
Regions
Of Greece:
Attica
and Saronica Islands
Cyclades
Dodecanissa
Crete
Peloponissa
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