A VISIT TO ATHENS
A VISIT TO ATHENS
| For only the second time in modern history, Greece hosted the Olympic Games from August 13-29, 2004. During the first ancient Olympic Games, held in 776 B.C., athletes competed in only five events: running, jumping, discus and javelin throw, and wrestling. This year, 10,500 athletes competed in 28 sporting events. |
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In Greece, all roads lead to Athens ... the country’s exciting cosmopolitan capital. It’s a city alive with ancient history and modern culture. | |
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| Raise your eyes nearly anywhere and you’re likely to be stopped in your tracks by the sight of the Acropolis, a 512 foot high flat top limestone hill. |
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| The Parthenon stands on the highest point of the Acropolis. It is the most architecturally sophisticated temple of its period, honoring the city’s patron goddess, Athena. | |
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| This architectural masterpiece was conceived by Pericles and erected between 447 and 438 B.C. by the brilliant sculptor Pheidias. |
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| In the Erechtheion Temple, built on the part of the Acropolis that was held most sacred, the six lovely maidens, the Caryatids, are delicately carved into the columns which support the Caryatid Porch. | |
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| Directly below the Acropolis is the immense 17,000 seat Theatre of Dionysos where once ancient and now modern performances are held. |
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| Another view looking across the city from the Acropolis is Mt. Lycavetos. |
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Photos by Demi Glennan & Kay Huston |
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