Athens

After two weeks on the quiet coast, it was a real culture shock to step off the metro train and into the centre of Athens! Busy and noisy! We arrived just as the guards were performing an elaborate change, which involved a slow walk/dance. Very interesting and entertaining.

A short walk though nearby gardens got us to a walking tour of the city which Clare had put together, to encompass some of the main sights and points of interest.

Including some animal sights too! Terrapins in the water and parrots in the trees!

The site of the first Olympics - made completely out of marble! Incredible!





How on earth did that plinth get put up there? The buildings and monuments were staggering, both in age and construction.





At lunch, we stopped at a roof top cafe for a little 'snack', which turned out to be a feast!

Refuelled, we set out to see the Acropolis and more incredible building achievements from so long ago!

The city itself is vast. From a hilltop view point, we got a great view of it sprawling into the distance.

Some temples and builds had a small entry fee, but it was worth the five euro to get up close.



Amazing to think that this was where Aristotle, Plato and other bods used to discuss and debate ideas!





It mostly looked pretty solid...







There are 'newer' buildings too, but the old ones seemed the most impressive.





After a drink in a square with parrots flying overhead, followed by snacking on street food, we made our way back though the more 'modern' part of the city, where Christmas celebrations were still in full flow!

It was a bit tricky finding the right train, but once we had, it was an easy 35 minute ride away from the city buzz and back to the apartment that we were renting for the night, close to the airport.