Start off at the metro station make for the center of the city for breakfast. The slick, clean stations were constructed for the 2004 Summer Olympic games. Glass cases display ancient artifacts found while digging the tunnels for the metro.
A tasty fresh salad and espresso are a fine start to the already sweltering day.
First sight stumbled upon is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Arrival is perfectly timed to witness the change of the guards. The uniforms are uniquely adorned with various tassels and pleats.
The full effect of the uniform cannot be understood until viewing the giant enlisted men.
The soldier in charge takes a minute to arrange and wipe sweat from the guards' brows.
Duck into the Athens National Gardens to stay out of the sun. Water fixtures, busts, mosaics, and birds abound.
Wet head in a fountain, great comfort.
Royal relaxation in the garden ruins.
Opposite the gardens is the Temple of Zeus, but at a cost of 8 Euros each, the view from the fence is suitable.
Keeping cool is easiest with a wet head at Hadrian's Arch.
A first look at the Acropolis.
An aimless walk ends up at yet another piece of history, Panathinaiko Stadium. The original ancient construction was excavated and refurbished for the 1870 games and was also featured as the archery venue for the 2004 games.
To the Ancient Street of the Tripods, used to be lined with monuments such as these that were given as awards in dramatic contests. This Choragic Monument was erected in 335 BC.
The actual ancient Street of the Tripods below the modern street level.
A nearby Greek Orthodox Christian church.
At the Church of the Rock, an interesting path through traditional white plaster homes winds upward to the Acropolis.
View of the Acropolis from below.
The urban sprawl of Athens.
A rest at Hadrian's Library to cool off with beers and a snack. Glance in some clothing shops to meet more friendly Greeks.
Back to the metro and on to our cool, dark room at Zorba's.
Outside on our windowsill, a pigeon has built a nest!
After a rest, down to the hostel bar where an ex-patriot New Yorker, Lomanis, plays some familiar tunes, and we are treated to the national drink, Ouzo!
After a rest, down to the hostel bar where an ex-patriot New Yorker, Lomanis, plays some familiar tunes, and we are treated to the national drink, Ouzo!
A few hours later, we have become fast friends with the staff and guests- Shade (from Jordan), Alejandra (from Mexico), George (from Brazil), Adam (from Ohio), and Yuki (from Japan).
Take the metro together to Monastiriki district to drink and dance! After, a karaoke bar where some new Athenian friends dedicate to us a serenade of Pink Floyd's “Wish You Were Here”.
(Photo thanks to Adam and Yuki!)
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