Acropolis Of Athens
Greece's modern city of Athens still beats around its ancient heart.
It was the place where Athenians came to worship their city's goddess, Athena. It was also a thriving hub for trade, the military, and even democracy. The Acropolis of Athens is so much more than the breathtaking Parthenon, but it's a good place to start. Built in the 5th century BCE, the Parthenon temple once contained a gigantic statue of Athena herself, where worshippers would come to lay gifts and sacrifices at her feet. The temple has decayed significantly since then, and it has been hit by a few Ottoman and Venetian cannonballs along the way, but what remains is as stunning now as it was back then.
To get to this world-famous landmark, take the metro to Akropoli station. Inside the station, there are replicas of the Parthenon Marbles, and even some archaeological finds to admire. Get out and walk towards the southern entrance to the Acropolis, as opposed to the main entrance, as the queues are considerably shorter there. It's also the best place to start - on your way up to the top of the hill, you'll pass by extensive remains of ancient Athens, where people really lived, worked, and worshipped. On the way, there's the Theatre of Dionysus, a stoa, and the awesome Odeon of Herodes Atticus, which is still in use as an arts venue.
When you have ascended the steps and passed under the imposing propylaea, you'll be greeted with a view of the iconic Parthenon - the moment you've been waiting for. But before you head straight over there, it's worth having a peek at the Athena Nike temple, which is remarkably well preserved for its age. Explore the edges of the great Parthenon and marvel at the ancient genius who built it, and listen to the wind rushing through the pillars.
Take a moment to turn away from the ancient stuff, and look into the modern-day city. The Acropolis is one of the highest points for miles around, so you should be able to see as far as the port of Piraeus, nearly ten kilometres (six miles) away. You can also spot the Greek Parliament, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and more ancient monuments close by. Notice how all the city's main streets lead towards you - despite being 2,500 years old, this monument is still at the centre of Athenian life.
Before you descend the hill to return to the modern, be sure to admire the Erechtheion, which features intricate and impressive pillars of Greek women. One of these was taken by Lord Elgin to decorate his home in Scotland, and it can now be seen in the British Museum.
To make the most of your Acropolis experience, the new Acropolis Museum, which was opened in 2009. is a must. Built to house every single artefact found on the hill and surrounding area, you'll find many archaeological wonders, such as colourful statues and pottery. Modern technology helps you to imagine what the Acropolis was once like in its heyday. However, the museum remains at the centre of a controversy concerning the return of the Parthenon (or Elgin) Marbles from Britain to Greece, with the Greek government hoping this modern venue will be a suitable home for their lost treasures.