One AMONG MANY

The pathway segregating the mortals and the immortals, is perhaps the only passage connecting Heaven to Earth. The stairways leading to Parthenon evokes mysticism in every soul stepping through it.

Greece is glorious and so is its mythology. Wrapped within the sweet smell and the curved finesse of acanthus flower, its history and philosophy delves deeper.

Reflecting the gorgeousness of the goddess of wisdom and war – Athena – every corner of Athens, from the sacred Parthenon, serving as her temple, to the olive trees belonging to her, highlights the aura, power and grace of Greek Gods, all having their share well-preserved in this part of the globe.

The beauty of the city is best adored by foot, as it evokes a vibrant feeling of the dominant past that remains ever present.

Ponder a while to demarcate the thin line to where the mythology ends and the history begins; as the magnanimous monuments, cobbled alleys and the tales that veil them makes it a deliberate challenge.

A stroll along the streets of Athens provides a glimpse of the impressive Corinthian columns of the Temple of Zeus.

Witness the Tsoliades (the Royal Guards) guarding the Monument of Unknown Soldiers in their perfect stillness. At the time of the changing of guards, their slow-motion march invites people to watch them in awe.

Guarding the Tomb of Unknown Soldiers and the Presidential Mansion in Athens, these Presidential Guards adornes the traditional Evzone’s uniform. They switch position every fifteen minutes in an highly synchronised slow artful movement

What makes these ceremonial uniform even more remarkable are, the Farion (scarlet headdress with long black tassel), Fustanella (pleated skirt like garment) with 400 pleats representing 400 years of Ottoman rule and the Tsarouchia (leather clogs with black pompoms and 60 to 120 nails under their sole).

The colour of the uniform changes with the change in season. The Guard in this picture flaunts the everyday summer uniform.

Be it the crumbling ancient relics, historic boulevard or the quintessence of Olympic Games; all graciously juxtaposes both ancient culture and modern existence. Over the ages, this land, with its influential olden charisma continue to express a welcoming smile.

Don’t Miss Out On: 

The integral part of the country’s morphology, Greek islands are known for their romantic sunsets and pristine beaches. While island hopper frequents Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, to feel the Greek quintessence; there are a few other like Hydra and Aegina holding unparalleled exotic appeal. 

The port city of Piraeus ferried us to the best island gateways. Twelve kilometres from Monastiraki (centre of Athens), this port is just a few minutes away by metro and local taxi.

A luxury day cruise from Piraeus sails to Hydra, Aegina islands for an exquisite day trip. An hour and a half from the coast of Athens, the cruise anchored by the café-ringed harbour of Hydra, we were washed ashore to witness the most unspoiled spot. 

Cars are off-limits in this part of the world, making it a car-free zone. Three cobbled streets meander through the village from the port. A donkey ride or a stroll through the island’s tranquil lanes is the only way to know Hydra. While donkeys wait for you at the Tombazi Street to take you on a ride across Hydra, Mialouli Street leads to the clock tower and the monastery. The third street Lignou goes up to the village of Kamini. Restaurants, shops, art studios and galleries are lined up along the steep stone streets. Artistically rich, this port village remarkably displays and sells Greek artists’ masterpieces. 

It is perhaps the most stunning village carved with white-washed stone houses and mansions, turquoise blue waters, a rich history, the cobbled stone alleyways and a slow-moving life.

A forty minutes boat ride from Piraeus, Aegina is yet another idyllic island. Closest to Athens, its pine-clad hills throw up a scenic view. Seemingly untouched, this fertile wedge has pistachio trees planted everywhere. A bag full of fresh pistachio is a must buy from this island. Pistachio products like pistachio butter, pistachio cream, pistachio oil, pistachio paste with their unique flavours coats the palate with a scrumptious pleasure. Farmed and manufactured locally by local growers and manufacturers, these products are sealed with a delicious genuinity.

Known for its natural beauty, Aegina also highlights the famous Aphaia temple. This temple is considered to complete the so-called “Holy Triangle” along with the Parthenon (Acropolis) and the Temple of Poseidon (Sounion). Catch a glimpse of Athens from atop the Mesagro hill famed for the Aphaia temple.

Aegina’s picturesque harbour, Pedrika is a charming fishing village, with restaurants and café fencing its coast. Relish the authentic Greek-style sumptuous seafood sitting next to the pristine azure Aegean Sea, after a bold dip in its cool blue depth. 

Highlight: 

The oldest district of the city, Plaka remains magnetic. Attracting travelers to spin through its alley an innumerable times, Plaka is more than what you expect it to hold for you. The flea market at Monastiraki sells some of the most eclectic souvenirs. Try some authentic Greek salad, tzatziki (yoghurt and cucumber dip), souvlaki (wraps), moussaka (baked dish based on eggplant and minced lamb), fresh olives, fish and octopus served at restaurants located along the narrow zigzagging cobbled steps.

A UNESCO Heritage site, Acropolis commands the surrounding plain land. A lazy walk through Plaka, while braving the crowds and climbing the hilltop lay paerched the view of the religious centre where the Parthenon (temple dedicated to Goddess Athena) was built. It stands spectacular.

Theatre of Herod Atticus, located near the temple, still holds performances. Displaying the wonders of art and Greek history, the National Archeological Museum is considered to be a significant attraction. 

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Greece boasts a rich tradition of the sport. The U-shaped Panathenaic Stadium in Athens is the oldest Olympic venue and is just twenty minutes’ walk from the city centre.

A labyrinth – this part of Athens certainly maintains its deliberate tendency to make the travelers get lost and so is its tiny halt – Plaka.

Souvenirs: 

Leather shoes and bags, Grecian urn, bouzouki (musical instrument), olive oil and fresh olives, fresh pistachios from Aegina Island.

The must to-dos:

• Walk thorugh Plaka to feel the Greek vibes
• Take a day cruise to nearby islands
• Witness the change of Presidential Guards near the Tomb of Unknown Soldiers
• Indulge in Greek delicacies
• Complete your “Holy Triangle” tour – Parthenon, Aphaia Temple and Temple of Poseidon

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