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****Questo articolo č rilasciato sotto
i termini della
GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atene http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atene Cronologia http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Atene&action=history AteneDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
Atene (in greco Αθήνα, traslitterato come Athína) č la capitale della Grecia e capoluogo dell’Attica. In antichitŕ il nome della cittŕ era Ἀθῆναι, plurale di Ἀθήνη, nome greco della dea Atena. Il nome nella forma moderna di Αθήνα fu ufficialmente adottato nel 1970. Fu la prima cittŕ ad adottare la prima forma di governo democratica attestata storicamente. Attualmente la cittŕ ha una popolazione di circa 750.000 abitanti, con un'area metropolitana estesa di circa 3.700.000 abitanti.
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Storia
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Origini di Atene nel mitoLa storia degli Ateniesi comincia con un mito. Gli abitanti di Atene, come della maggioranza delle persone di tutto il mondo e di tutti i tempi, affidano le proprie origini storiche a situazioni molto simili alle favole; ma non si trattava del tutto di storie inventate: erano un riflesso di veritŕ parziali, deformate e remote, di fatto irrecuperabili, trasmesse a voce da generazione a generazione per mezzo di canti e balli. In queste leggende l'origine di tutto era una dea, che in principio formava un tutt'uno con la cittŕ che creň, e dalla quale prende il nome: Atena. Č un nome molto antico, non greco, come indicato dalla sillaba finale -na, un suffisso etrusco. Atene sarebbe stata fondata dal leggendario Cecrope, che era un mezzo uomo e mezzo serpente. Il mito lo considera primo re di Atene.
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L'antica polis, cittŕ statoIl Partenone Atene ebbe origine come roccaforte acheo-micenea. Della sua storia prima del 594 a.C. si sa solo che vi fu un periodo monarchico (che ricalca la leggenda dei sette re di Roma) durante il quale regnarono dieci re di cui il primo fu Teseo mentre l’ultimo fu Codro, non piú seguito da altri monarchi pella sua ottima condotta (considerata irripetibile in un altro regnante futuro). In realtŕ questa č una leggenda; molto probabilmente infatti la fine della monarchia avvenne perché il potere non fosse concentrato nelle mani di un’unica persona. Quindi si passň da un governo monarchico ad oligarchico dove governavano i nove arconti (dal greco, “coloro che governano”) e il popolo (con sola funzione consultiva) mediante l’ekklesía. La situazione perň non era ancora del tutto stabile infatti nel 636-632 a.C. si verifica un colpo di stato e cominciano i primi conflitti a livello politico tra aristocrazia e demos (il popolo). Quindi nel 594 AC fu designato Solone come arconte con pieni poteri per arrivare ad una conciliazione. Ei fu il primo di una serie di importanti legislatori che si successero ad Atene Clistene, Efialte e Pericle, che segnarono le tappe che portarono alla democrazia. Nonostante Atene nel corso della storia fosse riuscita ad ottenere l’egemonia su tutta quanta la Grecia colla formazione della Lega Delio-Attica (477 a.C.), divenuta col tempo impero ateniese, era destinata a perdere questa posizione a causa della rovinosa guerra del Peloponneso, vero e proprio conflitto tra la lega ateniese e quella peloponnesiaca. Questa guerra trentennale (431-404 a.C.) si concluse quindi col declino della famosa polis, la quale non riuscí piú a tornare la potenza di un tempo. Nonostante Atene avesse formato una nuova Lega nel 377 a.C., l’egemonia sulla Grecia passň, dopo un periodo di continue guerre intestine, alla Macedonia coll’avanzare di Filippo II .
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EconomiaL’economia si basa prevalentemente sul turismo, poiché il numero di turisti annuale č abbastanza alto. Mentre invece l’agricoltura non č molto specializzata e non fornisce grandi ricavi economici. Nel nord si coltiva prevalentemente cotone, al centro sud verdure e patate. La pesca non č intensiva.
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TrasportiCariatidi dell'Eretteo L'aereoporto di Atene dal 2001 č l'Eleftherios Venizelos, a 27 km a est della cittŕ, ottimamente servito dalla nuova rete di trasporti pubblici, creata nel 2004 grazie ai contributi delle Olimpiadi. Č infatti raggiungibile tramite la nuova tangenziale Attiki Odos, la nuova rete di treni suburbani "Proastiakos" ed č collegato al centro cittŕ dalla linea 3 della metropolitana. L'aerostazione č all'avanguardia per quanto riguarda la sicurezza e i servizi offerti. Per quanto riguarda i trasporti urbani, notevole importanza č rivestita dalla rete metropolitana che conta 3 linee una delle quali collega l'asse nord-sud della cittŕ fino alla cittŕ del Pireo, porto piů importante della Grecia e, oramai, estrema propaggine di Atene. Le stazioni della metropolitana raccolgono ed espongono i principali reperti archeologici trovati durante la costruzione delle gallerie. Sono in servizio anche alcune linee di tram che collegano i vari sobborghi, e naturalmente varie linee di autobus e filobus.
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SportIl 18 maggio 1996 la 1Ş tappa del Giro d’Italia 1996 si č conclusa ad Atene con la vittoria di Silvio Martinello. Le Olimpiadi nacquero in grecia. Nel 2004 ad Atene si č svolta la XXVIII edizione dei Giochi Olimpici. Gli stadi Greci sono per la maggiorparte di proprietŕ delle societŕ sportive - a questa regola fanno eccezione lo stadio antico e moderno di Atene che sono pubblici. Tra gli sport piů diffusi ci sono in ordine Calcio, Basket e Volley.
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Luoghi di interesse
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Mitologia
Cecrope,
figlio della
Terra,
fu il primo re mitico della regione di cui Atene era il centro, l’Attica. Il figlio di Cecrope, Cranao, ebbe una figlia che andň in sposa a Anfizione, figlio di Deucalione e Pirra. Questi detronizzň il suocero e consacrň la cittŕ ad Atena, dandole il nome di Atene.
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Collegamenti esterni
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| Thanks to www.travelpuppy.com |
| Athens
Travel Guide Athens Travel Guide and Athens Travel Information - TravelPuppy.com Athens (Athina) named after Athena-the goddess of wisdom, who, according to legend, won the city after defeating Poseidon in a duel. The goddess’ triumph was celebrated by the construction of a temple on the Acropolis, the site of the city’s earliest settlement in Attica. As a city state, the coastal capital of Athens reached its glory days in the fifth century BC. The office of the statesman, Pericles, between 461BC and his death in 429BC, saw an extraordinary spate of construction resulting in many of the great classical buildings (the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Hephaisteion and the temple at Sounion) now regarded as icons of ancient Greece. Physical evidence of the city’s success was matched by accomplishments in the intellectual arts. Democracy was born, drama prospered and Socrates conceived the foundations of Western philosophy. Amazingly, although the cultural legacy of this period has influenced Western civilisation ever since, the classical age in Athens only lasted for five decades. Under the Macedonians and Romans, the city retained a privileged political and cultural position but became a prestigious backwater of the Empire rather than a major player. The birth of Christianity heralded a long period of occupation and decline, concluding in 1456 and four centuries of Turkish domination, which has left a permanent cultural mark on the city. By the end of the 18th century, Athens was suffering the indignity of having the artistic achievements of its classical past removed by prowling collectors. Modern Athens was born in 1834, when the city was reinstated as the capital of a newly independent Greece. Greek refugees flooded the city at the end of the Greek–Turkish war, increasing the population. After World War II, American capital funded a massive expansion and industrialisation programme. The speedy growth of the post-war years and the high temperatures of its Mediterranean climate have created a city that can often be polluted and could be described as an urban sprawl. Too much traffic creates a gridlock on the streets and noxious fumes (néfos) in the air, although great efforts are being made to reduce this. Visitors with visions of shiny marble and philosophers in white robes are understandably troubled that the architectural achievements of Athens’ classical past are surrounded by the unforgiving concrete of indiscriminate 20th-century urbanisation. Over 3 million visitors come to the city each year but the majority sees the sights as quickly as possible (as if fulfilling some cultural duty) before heading off for the easy hedonism of the Greek islands. However, Athens repays a closer acquaintance. In addition to the celebrated classical sites, the city boasts Byzantine, medieval and 19th-century monuments, as well as one of the finest museums in the world and areas of surprising natural beauty. In spite of the traffic, an appealing village-like quality becomes evident in the cafés, taverns, markets and the maze of streets around the Pláka. Furthermore, Athens has the most excellent restaurants and the most varied nightlife in the country and remains a major European centre of culture, celebrated each year at the Athens Festival. The metropolitan area, including the port at Piraeus, is beyond doubt the industrial and economic powerhouse of the country, while the return of the Olympic Games in 2004 is prompting a flurry of new development. Major projects include the new Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, the building of new sports venues, the extension of the Athens metro system, the upgrading of hotel accommodation and the revitalisation of the Piraeus port area. The world-famous National Archaeological Museum, which was closed for renovation through 2003, is due to reopen for the Olympics, although the long-awaited New Acropolis Museum has fallen way behind schedule. In addition, ancient sites within the city centre are being linked by a traffic-free ‘archaeological promenade’ intended to improve the urban environment for locals and visitors alike. ___________ Athens Culture Guide Athens Culture Guide - TravelPuppy.com Athens perhaps has the most long-standing and remarkable cultural heritage of any city in Europe. However, this pedigree is not restricted to past greatness – a continued interest for the arts is expressed annually at the Athens Festival. In 1985, Athens became the first European City of Culture in 1985.The idea to showcase the cultural achievements of cities around the continent was considered by Melina Mercouri, a Greek actress turned politician. The Ministry of Culture has detailed listings for forthcoming cultural events throughout Greece (predominantly in Athens). During the summer, tickets for all performances included within the Athens Festival and the Athens International Jazz and Blues Festival are sold at the Hellenic Festival Box Office, Panepistimiou 39 (tel: 210 322 1459), which is open Monday to Friday 0830-1600 and Saturday 0900-1400. Tickets to other cultural events are available for purchase from the venue box offices. Literary Notes This classical city is closely revisited through the classical authors. Of particular interest are The Histories (fifth century BC) by Herodotus, The Rise and Fall of Athens (first century) by Plutarch, The Histories (fifth century BC) by Herodotus, and History of the Peloponnesian War (fifth century BC) by Thucydides. The Greek mythology provides an indispensable background to the achievements of Classical Athens – the most celebrated sources being the Iliad and the Odyssey (ninth century BC) by Homer, as well as works by Hesiod. Classical drama is at its best on stage but it is also available to read in translation. Some of the main works include the tragedies: Prometheus Bound and the Oresteia (fifth century BC) trilogy by Aeschylus, Antigone, Oedipus Rex and Electra (fifth century BC) by Sophocles, Trojan Women and Iphigeneia in Taurus (fifth century BC) by Euripedes; and the comedies: The Frogs and The Birds (fifth century BC) by Aristophanes. More recent accounts of the city include The Longest Night – Chronicles of a Dead City (1985), a collection of stories by Petros Haris bringing to mind the atmosphere in Athens during World War II. The Nobel Prize winner Odysseus Elytis died in Athens in 1996. His poems can be read in English in The Collected Poems of Odysseus Elytis. Dinner with Persephone (1997) by the American poet Patricia Storace is an amusing sight of life in modern day Athens. ___________Athens Festival - Events Athens Festivals and Events Guide - TravelPuppy.com The following is a selection of festival - events: The Feast of St Basil, church services, 1 Jan, churches throughout the city Carnival, festivities and celebration, week before Orthodox Lent, Feb-Mar, throughout the city Independence Day, 25 Mar, Syntagma Square and throughout the city Labour Day, parades, 1 May, various venues Athens International Jazz and Blues Festival, Jun, Lykavittós Theatre Rally Acropolis, Jun, Acropolis Athens Festival, Jun-Sep, Herod Atticus Theatre and Lykavittós Theatre in the city centre, Veakio Amphiteheatre in Piraeus and the Epidaurus Amphitheatre International Sailing Regatta, Jul, Athens coast Rockwave Festival, one of the biggest rock festivals in Europe, late Jun, Athens coast Daphne Wine Festival, Jul-Aug, Daphne Athens Marathon, early Nov, from Marathon to the Panathenaic Stadium Óchi Day (Patriotic Day), parades, 28 Oct, Syntagma Square and throughout the city __________ Athens Getting Around Getting Around Athens - TravelPuppy.com Public Transport Athens Urban Transport Organisation (tel: 185;) runs the public transport in the city. The transport system, which was expanded for the Olympic Games, consists of trolley buses, buses, trams and a metro/electric train service. Public transport is inexpensive and extensive but often overcrowded. Tickets can be bought at bus terminals and some street kiosks (periptera) and must be validated in orange machines located on-board the buses or in the metro station. Failing to produce a validated ticket on request would result in a heavy fine. Monthly passes for the entire urban network is also available. Blue-and-white buses run daily – there is a limited night service on the major routes. The most visited parts of the city are served by numerous yellow trolley bus routes. In most cases, however, it is better to walk. The original electric train/metro line (Line 1) runs north-south between the suburb of Kifissia and the Piraeus Port. The metro network was expanded for the 2004 Olympics. Line 2 runs from Agios Antonios to Agios Dimitrios, with its new Acropolis station just 10-minutes below the upper city, while Line 3 now runs from Monastiraki all the way to Eleftherios Venizelos airport. In addition, three tram lines links the city centre and the coast: one runs from Syntagma to Neo Faliro; one from Syntagma to Glyfada; and the third between Neo Faliro and Glyfada. Taxis Numerous companies operate radio cabs in Athens, which can be reserved over the telephone. Reputable companies include Athina 1 (tel: 210 921 7942), Hellas (tel: 210 645 7000), Ermis (tel: 210 411 5200), and Ikaros (tel: 210 515 2800). Official yellow taxis with red-on-white number plates can be hailed on the street. When taxis are in heavy demand, it is common to share the ride (but not the fare) with other passengers. Tipping is not usual, although taxi drivers may expect to ‘keep the change’ when handed a note. Taxis in Athens are probably less costly than in any other European capital but unscrupulous drivers may occasionally try to overcharge naďve tourists, so it is wise for travellers to ensure that the meter is switched on and functioning before departure. Extra charges for baggage, trips to the airport and late-night journeys are explained in English on charts inside the taxis itself. Driving in the City In spite of the government’s efforts, the centre of Athens still has a traffic and pollution problem. The traffic-reduction scheme limits the number of motor vehicles from the commercial centre of Athens: cars with registration plates ending in an odd number are allowed only on odd numbered days of the month, while those ending in even numbers are allowed in only on even numbered days. This scheme applies from Monday mornings until Friday afternoons, and cars with foreign number plates are exempt. Parking is very difficult in central Athens, as it is restricted in many streets. Vehicles breaking these regulations may be towed away. Luxury hotels have their own garages, otherwise drivers can try the central but extremely crowded car park at Kathmonos Square (a 10-minute walk from Syntagma Square). The main parking lot on the outskirts of the city centre is at the new Olympic Stadium, at Irini. From here it is 25-minutes metro ride into the centre. For all these reasons, a car is more of a trouble than an asset in Athens, although visitors may wish to rent a car for a trip out of the city. Car Hire Regulations vary from company to company; however, in all cases drivers require a valid driving licence. A national driving licence is adequate for nationals of EU states. Other nationalities must obtain an International Driving Permit. The minimum age for hiring a car is from 21 to 25 years. Most car hire firms have offices in Athens and at the airport. Major providers include Avis (tel: 210 322 4951), Budget (tel: 210 921 4771), Europcar (tel: 210 924 8810) and Hertz (tel: 210 922 0102). Scooter & Bicycle Hire Scooters are a popular means of transport in Athens although riding a bicycle is not advised. Rent Moto, Robertou Gali 1, Makrigiani (tel: 210 923 4939), hires out scooters and bicycles. They have a second office in Piraeus. ______________Athens International Airport Athens International Airport - TravelPuppy.com Address Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Administration Building 17, Spata 19019, Greece Location The airport is located 33km (20 miles) southeast of Athens Country code 30 Telephone (0)210 353 0000 or 353 0001 Fax (0)10 353 0001 Email airport_info@aia.gr Website www.aia.gr Number of Terminals 2 Transfer between Terminals An underground walkway connects the Main Terminal with the Satellite Terminal. Driving Directions The airport is accessible via Attiki Odos, the Athens ring road. Car Parking There are spaces for around 4,700 cars at the airport. Short-term car parks P1 and P2 are located outside the Arrivals halls of the Main Terminal. The long-term car park P3 is connected to the Main Terminal building via a courtesy shuttle bus and by a pedestrian bridge over the main road. Parking is free of charge for 20 minutes in all car parks. Valet parking service is also available (tel: (0)210 353 4260). Car Hire Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar,National/Alamo and Sixt are all represented. They are located in Arrivals in the Main Terminal. Public Transport Rail A light railway service is planned between the Athens metro and the main railway station to the airport before the 2004 Olympic Games. Road Taxi: Taxis leave from outside the Arrivals level of the Main Terminal Building. Limousine: Limousines are available on request. Bus: Several bus routes connect the airport with Athens and Piraeus daily 24 hours. Some of them connect with the metro. Two KTEL express services run between the airport and Rafina and Markopoulo. Coach: KTEL coach services run to Lavrio, Keratea and Kalyvia; coaches depart from the Arrivals level of the Main Terminal, near door 5. Information and Help Desks The airport information line operates 24 hours/7days a week (tel: (0)210 353 0000). The Greek National Tourist Organisation (tel: (0)210 327 1000) is located in the Arrivals area of the Main Terminal and can provide information on tourism, transportation, hotels, attractions, airport shopping and conference facilities. Airport Facilities Money and communications The Main Terminal has bureaux de change, banks, automatic exchange machines and ATMs, as well as a post office. Courtesy telephones are located throughout the airport. Eating and drinking Most bars and restaurants are located in the Main Terminal. Shopping Shops, which are concentrated in the Main Terminal, include duty-free. Luggage Left-luggage (tel: (0)210 353 0352) and a lost property offices (tel: (0)210 353 0000) are located in Arrivals in the Main Terminal. A porter service is available 24 hours (tel: (0)210 353 0100). Other facilities Therese include first aid and baby changing rooms, as well as a pharmacy. Conference and Business Facilities The IT&T Business Centre (tel: (0)210 353 6416) has offices equipped with desktop PCs, Internet access, photocopy and fax machines, telephones, laser and colour printers, scanners and office supplies; the centre also has one conference room. In addition, there are meeting rooms to hire from the airport facility and administration department (tel: (0)210 353 6318). Conference facilities are also available at the Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel (tel: (0)210 354 4000). Disabled Facilities Facilities at the airport include easily accessible and text telephones, disabled toilets, dedicated check-in counters and rest areas, adapted walkways and lifts for visually-impaired travellers, lifts, Braille signage, tactile flooring, and an alarm system to alert visually and hearing-impaired passengers in case of emergency. Electric cars are available to transport disabled passengers between the two terminals, and there are around 90 disabled car parking spaces at the airport. Disabled passengers should inform the airline of any special assistance and needs, before they travel. Airport Hotels The Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel (tel: (0)210 354 4000) is located close to the Arrivals and Departure halls of the Main Terminal, as well as the Satellite Terminal. ____________Athens Nightlife Athens Nightlife - TravelPuppy.com Athens has a dynamic nightlife scene that takes place in the streets as well as in the hundreds of bars, tavernas and clubs all over the city. Bars open until around 0400 and nightclubs until 0400 or even 0600. The legal drinking age in clubs and bars is 18 years. Prices differ although punters can expect to pay around €6 for a beer or €8 for a whisky. Cover charges vary dramatically from place to place, often increasing at the weekend. Greeks dress informally but stylishly for a night out. Winter is the best time to enjoy the full range of after-dark entertainment, as numerous establishments move to the coast during the summer. For an authentic Athenian evening, find a bar or club offering rembétika or bouzouki music. Alternatively, numerous nightclubs and bars accommodate for international tastes. These are to be found mainly in the Thissio, Syntagma, Psirri and Kolonáki areas of central Athens, as well as in the suburbs, such as Glyfada, Vouliagméni, Kifissia, Voula and Varkiza. Kathimerini, an English-language insert available with the Herald Tribune, gives information on what’s on in Athens. Bars The most ‘happening’ area of town is Psirri, with its once down-at-heel workshops now being refurbished to create trendy bars and restaurants. Here, Soul, Evripidou 65, tops the league in terms of atmosphere, with a cocktail bar, lounge and restaurant in a spectacular courtyard with deep red walls and lush planting, plus a dance floor upstairs. A 5-minute walk away, Bee, on the corner of Miaouli and Themidos, still in Psirri, also combines drinking, pulling in a mixed gay crowd. To rub shoulders with the Athenian elite, try the upmarket area of Kolonaki. Business visitors favour Central, Platia Kolonki 14 (see Restaurants), while those in search of something more vivid should check out Mommy, Delphon 4, a glamorous bar-restaurant with 70s décor and a young, rich, trendy clientele. For a drink under the stars with an Acropolis view, try the open-air cafes lining Apostolou Pavlou in Thissio and Adrianou near Monastiraki. Casinos An hour’s drive west of Athens, in Loutraki, lies Loutraki Casino, Posseido 48, Loutraki, an impressive modern establishment that claims to be one of the largest casinos in Europe. On the contrary, on Mount Párnitha, the Parnes Casino operates in old-fashioned style from the Mont Parnes Hotel, 2 Karageorgi Servias (tel: 210 242 1234). A mountain cable car carries visitors up to the hotel, day and night. Evening dress and a valid passport are compulsory for both establishments. Clubs The city’s most fashionable nightclub, frequented by rich and glamorous under-40s, is Privilege at Deligianni 50 and Georganta in Kifissia, a smart suburb north of the city centre. Its former premises, in Psirri, are now occupied by the other big Athenian club, Venue at Ag Eleoussis and Kakourgodikiou, close to Monastiráki metro station. During summer, most of the big clubs, including these two, move out to the beach. Live Music For the best jazz in town, visit Halfnote Jazz Club, Trivonianou 17, Mets. Rock music enthusiasts might prefer the more informal Rodon, Marni 24, Omonia, staging live concerts. Many of Greece’s top bouzouki stars play at Diogenis Studio, Singrou 259, Nea Smirni. To hear genuine rembétika (blues sung by immigrants from Asia Minor who came to Greece in 1920s), try the notorious Stoa Athanaton in the arcade inside the Central Market. Music Many taverns, particularly in the Pláka, put on music and dance shows for tourists in the night. However, more genuine Greek music in Athens is rembétika (a kind of Greek blues, developed by refugees from Asia Minor in the 1920s; see Live Music in Nightlife). The city’s main orchestra is Athens State Orchestra, who holds many of their performances at the Mégaron Mousikis Athenon (Athens Concert Hall), Leofóros Vassilissis Sofías (tel: 210 728 2333). This contemporary venue hosts ballet, opera and classical music events, as well as conferences and exhibitions. The Greek National Opera is based at the Olympia Theatre, Akadimias 59-61 (tel: 210 361 2461), which also hosts musical events and operas performed by touring companies and musicians. Theatre The tragedies of Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripedes, and the comedies of Aristophanes represent the highpoints of ancient Greek theatre and heralded the birth of Western drama. Original performances were held in the Théatro Dionysou (Theatre of Dionysos), on the southern slopes of the Acropolis (see Key Attractions). Close by, the Odion Iródou Attikou (Odeon of Herod Atticus) is a Roman theatre from the second century AD, also known as the Herodeion (tel: 210 722 7209 or call Hellenic Festival Box Office, see above). The auditorium is usually only open on summer evenings for the Athens Festival, when it provides a remarkable setting for performances of music and classical drama. The outdoor Lykavittós theatre, on Lykavittós Hill (tel: 210 722 7209), hosts many plays and concerts throughout the summer. The National Theatre of Greece (tel: 210 528 8100) includes five theatre groups, which are based at Agiou Konstantinou 24-26 and Panepistimiou 48. Dance The Dora Stratou Dance Theatre (tel: 210 324 4395) was founded 35 years ago by a dancer and a devotee of Greek folk culture. Each evening May to September, the troupe, dressed in traditional costume, puts on a show of lively Greek song and dance at an open-air theatre on Filopáppou (Philopapps Hill), opposite the Acropolis. The National Ballet Company also performs in the Olympia Theatre (see Music above). Film Athens may not be Hollywood but, with over 100 traditional and modern cinemas throughout the city, the Greek capital is an outstanding place to see a film. Many are closed in summer when dozens of open-air screens take over to create on the spur-of-the-moment cinemas, such as Cine Paris, Kidathinaion 22, Plaka (tel: 210 324 8057); Cine Psirri, Sari 40, Psirri (tel: 210 324 7234); and Thission, Apostolou Paylou 7, Thissio (tel: 210 347 0980 or 342 0864). Asty, Korai 4, off Panepistimou (tel: 210 321 4998) shows art house movies. Films are shown in their original language. One of the most respected Greek film directors is Theo Angelopoulos whose works include the 1995 film To Vlemma tou Odyssea (Ulysses’ Gaze), starring Harvey Keitel. His 1998 film, Mia Aioniotita ke Mia Mera (Eternity and a Day), won the Palme D’Or at the 51st Cannes Film Festival. Another director to watch out for is Michael Cacoyannis – director of Zorba the Greek (1962). Nonetheless, for many people the all-time classic remains Never on Sunday (1960), filmed in the Piraeus Port area, directed by Jules Dassin and starring Melina Mercouri as a prostitute with a heart of gold. ____________Athens Shopping Athens Shopping Guide - TravelPuppy.com Athens’ busiest shopping street is the pedestrian-only Ermou, off Syntagma Square, where shoppers can pick up the season's newest souvenirs, clothing and accessories. The most upmarket shopping district in Athens is nearby Kolonáki, where designer boutiques (such as the Italian Versace and the newest Greek talent Eleftheriades) rub shoulders with chic restaurants and coffee shops. This area includes Tsakalof, one of the most posh streets in the world. Thankfully, Athens has not taken on mall culture and no huge retail emporiums taint the city's shopping scene. The city's best bookshop is the vast seven-storey Eleftheroudakis on Panepistimiou, which stocks excellent selection of English-language fiction, non-fiction and travel guides. There is a long tradition of silver and gold craftsmanship in Athens and jewellery made here can be for the most part of high quality. Jewellers are concentrated in chic Kolonáki, with the costly international outlets, such as Bulgari, lining Voukourestiou, while up-and-coming Greek designers, such as Elena Votsi, have shops in the surrounding side streets. Other good-value items include ceramics, spirits and leather goods. Typical Greek gifts include copper coffee pots, hand-woven rugs, known as flokati, virgin olive oil and honey, all of which can be found in the souvenir shops in Pláka. In Athens, there is a big market in reproduction of museum pieces and religious icons – the best places for visitors to purchase these are at the shops in the museums themselves. In the Monastiráki area, on the edge of Pláka, shops sell everything from combat army boots and second-hand books to ancient coins and fake designer sunglasses. Shops open out directly onto the street, bazaar style, while Sundays bring the Monastiráki Flea Market, 0800–1400, where goods range from carefully restored antique furniture to rather dubious bric-a-brac. Kentrikí Agorá (Central Market) is housed in a huge 19th-century metal structure near Omonia Square and opens early morning to early evening, often taking a break for siesta during summer, selling fresh fish, meat and fresh produce. Smaller markets exude out from the central building. Household items, fresh fruit and vegetables are sold weekly in Laiki (People’s Markets) all over Athens. Shops generally open Monday and Wednesday 0900-1430, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 0900-1330 and 1730-2030 and Saturday 0900-1500. Small, family-run shops may stay open as late as 2200, for the sale of food, drinks and newspapers. Bargains can be snapped up at the sales in August and February. Bargaining is standard practice in the tourist areas of Athens and is essential in order to avoid paying extortionate prices. Visitors from outside the EU, who have been in Greece for less than three months can claim back VAT of up to 18% on purchases over €120. A ‘tax-free cheque’ will be issued in the shop which is to be presented along with the receipt to customs when leaving the county. Global Refund can provide more information. __________Athens Sightseeing Athens Sightseeing Guide - TravelPuppy.com Modern Athens is separated into districts but Plateía Síndagmatos (Syntagma or Constitution Square) is the epicentre of the city – almost everything worth seeing in Athens is within half an hour’s walk from here. Landmarks that are unavoidable are Akrópoli (Acropolis) and Lykavittós Hill. The Pláka covers the area below the Acropolis, to the east of the Agorá. In spite of being heavily commercialised, this is the most pleasurable part of the city to explore on foot. Narrow winding streets are lined with 19th-century buildings, souvenir shops and bustling taverns. In particular, Anafiótika (at the base of the Acropolis) is a charming area that recreates the style and atmosphere of a Greek village. This area was settled by workers from the island of Anafi, who came to Athens to build a palace for King Otto. In addition to simply roving the streets or watching the world go by over a lengthy coffee, the highlights of the Pláka include numerous specialist museums. On the edge of this district, the Monastíraki bazaar is a mucky, bustling slice of authentic Athenian life, with neighbouring Psirri the currently fashionable area for bars, restaurants and nightlife. At the other end of the scale, the Kolonáki district on the edge of Lykavittós is fashionable and wealthy, providing a welcome retreat from the harder edges of the city. The tourist season lasts from April to October and is at its peak in August, when the city is crowded and often extremely hot. The Ministry of Culture’s website provides information for visitors about the main monuments in Athens. Tourist Information In 2004, the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) opened a new walk-in visitor’s centre at Amalias 26, close to Syntagma (tel: 210 331 0392). Opening times: (Winter) Mon-Fri 0900-1900; Sat-Sun 1000-1600. Summer: extended hours (to be confirmed). Head Office Tsocha 7, Ampelokipoi Tel: 210 870 7000. E-mail: info@gnto.gr Website: www.gnto.gr Passes It is possible to buy a block ticket for the ‘Archaeological Sites of Athens’. The ticket is valid for four days, costs €12 and can be bought at any of the participating sites. These include the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus, the Agorá, Kerameikós, the Roman Forum and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Key Attractions Akrópoli (Acropolis) The Acropolis (upper city) dominates the city’s skyline and any tourist’s itinerary. The name refers to the rocky projection that formed the site of the original settlement in Athens. Foundations for a temple dedicated to Athena were laid in 490 BC, however, work did not commence in earnest until the Golden Age of Pericles (461-429BC). The Acropolis site comprises the Acropolis Museum and four sacred buildings, all from the fifth century BC. The steep ascent to the summit leads to the Propylaea, a monumental gateway in the Ionic and Doric styles, which is the entrance to the site. The Temple of Athena Nike is to the left of the Propylaea – the original was smashed by Turkish forces in the 17th century but has been beautifully restored. The Parthenon is the biggest building on the Acropolis and an icon of Western civilisation. Built entirely from marble, the Parthenon was intended as a sanctuary for Athena and housed a statue (no longer existent) of the goddess. Despite the tourists, the perfect harmony of the structure is still overwhelming. The Erechtheion temple is a dual shrine to Athena and Poseidon-Erechtheus and was built on the site of the mythical battle between the two divine beings. The south side features a series of 6 support columns designed as maidens or caryatids. Due to severe environmental damage, the caryatids have been substituted by models. Acropolis Hill, centre of Athens Tel: 210 321 0219. Website: www.culture.gr Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); daily 0830-1500 (winter). Admission charge. Mouseío Akrópolis (Acropolis Museum) Countless treasures from the Acropolis can be found in the Acropolis Museum, in the southeast corner of the complex. 9 rooms house objects from the four buildings, including 5 original caryatids. Building work is in progress on the New Acropolis Museum, which will be located at the foot of the Acropolis Hill. An all-glass structure designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, the museum will be a new home for the statues and the artefacts from the Acropolis and hopefully persuade the British Museum in London to return the controversial Parthenon Marbles, seized by Lord Elgin in 1799. However, the new museum looks unlikely to be complete until 2007. Acropolis Hill, centre of Athens Tel: 210 323 6665 (museum). Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); Tue-Sun 0830-1500, Mon 1100-1700 (winter). Admission charge. Théatro Dionysou (Theatre of Dionysus) On the southern slopes of the Acropolis Hill, the Théatro Dionysou was home to the original performances of the tragedies of Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripedes and the comedies of Aristophanes. This stone auditorium, from the fourth century BC, held 17,000 viewers and the ruins remain one of the most atmospheric of Athens’ ancient sites. D Areopagitou, Plaka Tel: 210 322 4625. Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); daily 0830-1500 (winter). Admission charge. Agorá (Market) Even though the site is now a jumble of monuments and ruins from different periods, in Athens’ heyday the Agorá was the focus of city life, serving not only as a place of trade but also as the city’s political, administrative and cultural heart. Law courts, temples and public offices were based in this area, where ordinary Athenians, stall holders and merchants mingled with officials, politicians and philosophers. The site is dominated by the Hephaisteion (Temple of Haephaistos), from the 5th century BC, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece. The fascinating Museo ti Agoras (Museum of Agorá) contains an unusual array of everyday artefacts found in the area. It is housed in the Stoa Attalou (Stoa of Attalos). This two-storey structure from the 2nd century BC was restored by the American School of Archaeology and is thought to have been an early shopping arcade containing 42 shops. Adrianou 24, Monastiráki Tel: 210 331 0963. Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); daily 0800-1500 (winter). Admission charge. Ethnikó Archaiologikó Mouseio (National Archaeological Museum) Following an extensive renovation, this world-famous museum reopened in summer 2004. Housed in a late 19th-century building, it is unquestionably the best museum in Greece with one of the finest collections of ancient and classical Greek artefacts. Interesting pieces include the Mycenaen Collection featuring hordes of finely crafted gold work dating from between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, and the Bronze Collection, including an imposing larger-than-life bronze statue of Poseidon from 460BC. Refreshments are available in the museum café which overlooks the internal sculpture garden. Patission 44, Omonia Tel: 210 821 7717. Website: www.culture.gr Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); Mon 1030-1700, Tues-Sun 0830-1500 (winter). Admission charge. Vizantino Mouseio (Byzantine Museum) Housed in the grounds of a charming neo-classical villa, this museum reopened in summer 2004 after total renovation. The new open-plan exhibition space lies under the central courtyard, with exhibits presented in chronological order, tracing the development of the Byzantine Empire. Besides boasting one of the richest collections of icons in the world, the museum exhibits frescoes, mosaics, sculptural works and jewellery from the area that is now Greece, as well as from other regions of the former Byzantine Empire. Vassilissis Sofias 22, Kolonáki Tel: 210 723 2178. Opening hours: Tues-Sun 0830-1500. Admission charge. Mouseío Ellinikis Laikis Technis (Museum of Greek Folk Art) Lying on the edge of Pláka, this museum displays a huge and colourful collection of folk art that dates from 1650 onwards. Works are divided into specific sections devoted to costumes, weaving, embroidery, gold and silver jewellery, weaponry, woodwork, Greek shadow theatre and hand-painted ceramics. Highlights are the traditional costumes, set off against suggestive reconstructions of houses relating to their specific regions. An additional highlight is the Theofilis Room, the reconstruction of a house on the island of Lesvos, which was frescoed by Theofilis Hadjimichael (1868-1934). Kidathineon 17, Pláka Tel: 210 321 3018. Opening hours: Tues-Sun 1000-1400. Admission charge. Mouseío Ellinikón Mousikon Orgánon (Museum of Greek Musical Instruments) Housed in a renovated 19th-century mansion in the heart of Pláka, the Mouseío Ellinikón Mousikon Orgánon displays a compilation accumulated by the musicologist, Fivos Anoyanakis. This museum is a lot fun – each display case is accompanied by a headset, so that visitors can listen to the sound of the instruments. Films at the entrance feature their construction and performance. Information is provided in English. Diogenous 1-3, Pláka Tel: 210 362 9513. Opening hours: Tues and Thurs-Sun 1000-1400, Wed 1200-1800. Free admission. Mouseío Kykladikís kai Archaías Ellinikís Téchnis (Museum of Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art) The museum houses collections of Nikolas P Goulandris. Beautiful exhibits from the Cycladic civilisation (3000-2000BC) form the focal point of the collection but other artefacts cover the pre-Minoan Bronze Age and the post-Mycenaen age up to 700BC, and a new collection of Ancient Cypriot Art was added in 2004. The museum shop offers an outstanding selection of quality reproduction pieces, while the light and airy atrium café is a good place for coffee or a light lunch. Neofítou Dhouká 4, Kolonáki Tel: 210 722 8321. Website: www.cycladic.gr Opening hours: Mon and Wed-Fri 1000-1600, Sat 1000-1500. Admission charge. Panathinaiko Stádio (Panathenaic Stadium) The well-designed three-sided stone stadium was built in 1896, for the first of the modern-day Olympic Games. The design by Ernst Ziller was based on the plan of a 4th-century-BC stadium that originally stood on the site. During the 2004 Olympic Games, this stadium hosted the fencing competition and the marathon ended here. It shouldn’t be confused with the modern Olympic Stadium in the north of the city that formed the centre stage of the 2004 Olympics. Leoforos Ardhittou Opening hours: Daily dawn-dusk. Free admission. Olympieion (Temple of Olympian Zeus) Lying close to the National Gardens and Pláka, this was one of biggest temples in the ancient world, being dedicated to the god of all gods, Zeus. Building work began in 515BC, but was completed some 700 years later in AD131 under the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Today, 16 of the original 104 marble columns, which are 17m (56ft) high, live on. On the edge of the site stands the triumphal arch named Hadrian’s Arch. Leoforos Vas. Olgas and Amalias Tel: 210 922 6330. Opening hours: Daily 0800-1900 (summer); daily 0800-1500 (winter). Admission charge. Mouseio Benaki (Benaki Museum) The museum houses collections of Antonios Benakis (1873-1954), the son of a wealthy Greek from Alexandria, Egypt. Displayed in a neo-classical mansion, the collection traces the development of Greek art, from the Stone Age up to the 20th century, with jewellery, painting, ceramics, sculpture, furniture and costumes laid out in chronological order. There is a roof top terrace café and a museum shop selling reproductions of the exhibits that are on display. Vassilissis Sofias & Koumbari 1, Kolonaki Tel: 210 367 1000. Website: www.benaki.gr Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat 0900-1700; Thu 0900-2400; Sun 0900-1500. Admission charge (free Thu). Further Distractions Green Spaces The Ethnikós Kipos (National Gardens) are a welcome green sanctuary in the centre of the city. The gardens have peacocks and a small botanical museum. Another calm location is the Kerameikós Cemetery (currently closed for refurbishment although due to reopen in April 2004), named after the patron saint of potters and ceramics and dating from the 12th century BC. Tombstones range from the grand to the expressively simple. There is also a small museum on site, which houses the originals of some of the more precious tombstones that have been replaced with replicas in the actual cemetery. Ethnikós Kipos Amalias, Syntagma Tel: 210 721 1178. Kerameikós Cemetery and Museum Ermou 148, Kerameikós Tel: 210 346 3552. Mikrí Mitrópoli (Little Mitrópolis) Even though Megáli Mitrópoli (Great Mitrópolis), which serves as Athens’ cathedral, dominates the square of the same name, visitors may well prefer Mikrí Mitrópoli (Little Mitrópolis), an exquisite 12th-century church with a mystical atmosphere and charming name – Panaghía Gorgoepiíkoös (the Madonna who swiftly hears). Mitropoleos Square, Pláka Tel: 210 322 1308. __________ Athens Tours - Excursions Athens Tours Guide - TravelPuppy.com Walking Tours Athens is well suited to walking, as most of the places of interest are centrally located. The ‘Unification of Archaeological Sites’ now links the city’s ancient sites by a 4km (2.5-mile) traffic-free promenade: Dionissiou Areopagitou leads from the Acropolis metro station along the south side of the Acropolis to join Apostolou Pavlou which brings one to Thissio metro station. From here Adrianou runs east to Monastiraki, while Ermou runs west to Keramikos. For private guided tours, visitors are advised to contact the Association of Tourist Guides of Athens, Apollonas 9A (tel: 210 322 0090), which offers guides for individual and group tours and supplies licensed guides to the travel agencies. It is often more satisfactory to go it alone, equipped with a map and a guidebook. Syntagma Square makes a logical starting point. From here, visitors can either advance up Vassilissis Sofias and then left through the well-to-do district around Kolonáki Square and on to Lykavittós Hill, or go south along Amalias past the National Gardens, turning right towards the Pláka and the Acropolis. Another route to the Acropolis might start at the bazaar on Monastiráki Square, leading uphill past the Agorá. A stroll around the Pláka, using the main thoroughfares of Adrianou and Kidhathinaion for orientation, is equally rewarding. Bus Tours Several companies and travel agencies offer tailor-made tours for groups, whether walking or bus or a combination. For example, Fantasy Travel (tel: 210 331 0530) offer a condensed half-day ‘Athens Sightseeing Tour’, which is a bus tour with a variety of stops for walking about, including the Parliament building on Syntagma Square, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Excursions For a Half Day Temple of Poseidon Built in 444BC, the Temple of Poseidon (tel: 229 203 9363) stands on the tip of Cape Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, and is a magnificent sight, particularly when there is a good sunset. The coastal road from Athens offers a spectacular route to the ruins – by car or bus. From city centre, the regular local bus departs from Mavromateon, a side street next to the National Archaeological Museum. Excursions For a Whole Day Delphi Pilgrims visited Delphi until the 4th century AD, to seek advice from its well-known oracles. Located on dramatic cliffs to the west of Athens, the site includes the Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Way, a vast amphitheatre, a stadium and an excellent museum (tel: 226 508 2312). Regular buses make the 3-hour journey from terminal B at Liossion 260 in Athens. Argo-Saronic Islands For those short of time, an organised tour group is the best idea. Epirotiki Tours (tel: 210 429 1501) run a 1-day cruise around the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra, with a short stop at each. Peloponnese It is possible to take trips from Athens to the main classical sites in the Peloponnese, including Epidaurus, Corinth and Mycenae. Even though the modern town of Kórinthos (Corinth) is fairly unpleasant, the surrounding attractions include Ancient Corinth (the Roman capital of Greece) the acropolis of Acrocorinth and the Corinth Canal. The vast 4th century BC theatre at Epidaurus enjoys a spectacular setting, pin-drop acoustics and is extremely well preserved. It is used for the Epidaurus Festival in July and August. The site (tel: 275 302 2009) includes ruins of an extensive spa and sanctuary, as well as a museum. Regular buses make the journey from terminal A, Kifissou 100, in Athens. Although research suggests Mykínes (Mycenae) was probably not the home of Agamemnon, as some say, the site (tel: 275 107 6585) is undeniably impressive and remains one of the most popular in Greece. Highlights include the Royal Cemetery, the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus. Mycenae can be reached on the Náfplio bus from terminal A, Kifissou 100. Outdoors There are reasonable beaches south of Athens at Vouliagméni, Glyfada and Varkiza. Bus E22 from Akadimias goes to all three places. Alternatively, the mountains that surround the city offer outstanding opportunities for walking and hiking. Mount Párnitha, an hour’s drive north of the city, is easily reachable and has well-marked paths. |
