Athens/Athina Top 10

Zeus, Apollo, Poseidon, Aphrodite, Athena are legends in Greek mythology. Athena, daughter of Zeus, is known as the god of wisdom, philosophy, and weaving. She is the patron of Athens and where the city bears her name.

Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Socrates are among the better known philosophers and writers from Athens. And did you know that the Greeks not only invented the Olympics games, but they are also responsible for: Democracy, Theater, the Hippocratic Oath (the father of medicine, Hippocrates invented this oath that doctors still swear by today). The Greeks also invented the Catapult, even the Pap Smear. They were cutting edge for their time. The city has so much culture and history. Visiting this beautiful place is like going on a journey into the past.

Athens has more Archaeological sites than any city I've visited before. The most famous is the Acropolis. It's located at the top of a hill with The Parthenon (a tribute to the god Athena). If you are in Athens for only one day this is what needs to be seen. The Agora is another famous site known as the former heart and soul of the city where philosophers and city dwellers use to reside.

Churches, museums, and the National Gardens fill the city. Shopping is a big deal with the famous Plaka district where you can buy jewelry to Greek sandals to high-end items. There is also the famous Athens' Flea Market.

I loved being in the city and found it offered so much. The old and the new colliding. A taste of the East, West, and the Mediterranean...

Here is my take on the top 10 things I remember of this ancient city -
Athens Top 10:
10 - Acropolis/The Parthenon
9 - Shopping in the Plaka
8 - Dogs, known as the stray dog capital
7 - Greeks are shorter than most people
6 - Ancient Ruins
5 - Hot, humid weather over 100/F, 37/C!
4 - Greek olives, feta, and gyros = yummy!
3 - Graffiti - city graffiti everywhere
2 - Greek Sandals
1 - Do not anger a Greek by doing a yoga pose, they have tempers! I'm speaking from experience... ☺