Tag: Athens attractions

Temple of Olympian Zeus: The great story and the long-unsolved mystery

Athens, brimming with remarkable attractions, is steeped in rich history, myths, and enigmatic tales. Among these, the Temple of Olympian Zeus stands out. This renowned landmark has been shrouded in mystery for years. Intriguingly, a single photograph sparked the enigma surrounding this popular site, which boasts its own illustrious past. The imposing buildings of Ernst Ziller in Athens Temple of Olympian Zeus: The great history of the monument of Athens To begin with, the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus housed one of the grandest temples of the ancient world, dedicated to ...

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Kolonaki: Tracing the History of Athens’ Aristocratic District

Kolonaki, a district in Athens, is more than just a neighborhood for the affluent. It’s a treasure trove of history, boasting some of the most iconic architecture in Athens. This area, while sophisticated, is undeniably beautiful. The unique sights you’ll encounter in Kolonaki are unparalleled in the metropolis of Athens. Upscale Kolonaki way back when herds grazed there Exploring Kolonaki and Its Boundaries Geographically, Kolonaki is a district in Athens that spans from Panepistimiou Street in the east to the Concert Hall. It extends south to Vasilissis Sofias Avenue and ...

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The imposing buildings of Ernst Ziller in Athens

Ernst Ziller, a German architect from Zerkowitz, Saxony, left an indelible mark on Athens with his buildings. His works are not just confined to the Greek capital but also extend to Hermoupolis of Syros, Patras, the archaeological museum of Milos, and Thessaloniki. Ziller was a man deeply immersed in arts, culture, history, and elegance. His greatest achievement lies in his ability to blend all these elements with his architectural talent. The architecture dedication was evident in his work, especially in Greece, where he worked from the 19th to the 20th ...

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What do the inscriptions on the Monument of the Unknown Soldier mean?

The Monument of the Unknown Soldier, situated in front of the Greek Parliament, is one of Athens’ most significant and enigmatic landmarks. Its mystery lies not in the identity of the soldier, but in the seemingly random arrangement of names etched into the stone. Many visitors are left puzzled by the lack of apparent order or consistency. However, the explanation is often simpler than one might think, saving the effort of racking one’s brain for an answer. Greek flag: Why is it blue and white, with nine stripes? The Monument ...

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Monastiraki: The treasures and secrets of Hephaestou Street

name Monastiraki is a historic square in the city of Athens, known as Monastiraki Square. For decades, it has served as a delightful and promising meeting spot for Athenians. After all, what better starting point could there be than the embrace of the Acropolis? A vibrant cobblestone carpet covers the square. This carpet made up of mosaic blocks of marble, stone, and carved cast iron, represents the diversity of Mediterranean cultures. The water-carrier, the iceman and other vanished professions of old Athens A blend of rhythms, eras, and cultures People ...

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Koukaki District: Does it really deserve all the hype that surrounds it?

Koukaki district is like a bed in many ways. It may seem like a stretch, but if you use your imagination, you can see how its long streets along Syggrou look like a big bed. This comparison is fitting because Koukaki got its name from Georgios Koukakis, who used to own a large iron bed factory. His factory was later taken over by Charles Fix, who expanded his famous brewery there in 1893. The district is also considered the “tail” of Athens’ center and Plaka. Athens: The neighborhood named after ...

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Why did this famous Athenian statue stay in the workshop for 38 years?

Athens, in many places, looks like an open museum with the various statues reminiscent of moments from the past. Many of them have their own story sometimes more straightforward and other times more strange. Like the story of a well-known statue of Athens that stayed in the workshop for 38 years. Which is it? It is called The woodcutter. The woodcutter and his story When you walk downwards the Herod Attikos street, a little before you reach Vasilissis Olgas avenue, you will see a marble statue in a clearing of ...

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The prison of Socrates: The cave in the heart of Athens

You may not be aware of some hidden gems in Athens and Attica, or you may have only heard their names but never seen them for yourself. One such place is the Cave of Athens, also known as the prison of Socrates. Many people doubt and deny that this cave was the actual place where Socrates was imprisoned, but the name has stuck. It is an ancient structure on Filopappou Hill in Athens with its own fascinating story. It is worth discovering the unique and mysterious places of Attica. Ancient, ...

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