Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history spanning over 3,000 years.
The capital city is in the region of Attica, in the southern part of Greece, around 5 miles (8 km) inland from the Saronic Gulf. The post below aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the main landmarks in that amazing city
….as well as some of the surrounding wonders in the region, like the Holi Monastery of Daphni of the stunning Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion.
As it is not very far from Athens (180 kilometers -112 miles- northwest of Athens.), I’ll cover, as well, the mythic Delphi Archeological site, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in the region of Phocis.
Athens
Athens is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. It was a prominent city-state in ancient Greece and is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization.
Athens was a center of learning, philosophy, arts, and democracy. It is famous for its endless architectural marvels.
Today, Athens is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 3 million people. The city seamlessly blends its ancient past with its vibrant present, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
It is a destination that caters to history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the charm of this timeless city. It is obviously as well a paradise for photography. 🤩
You’ll find below many images to showcase some of the stunning ancient or modern landmarks of Athens, starting with the most famous one….
Acropolis
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a rocky outcrop above the city. It is one of the most iconic and significant archaeological sites in the world, representing the pinnacle of ancient Greek architecture and culture.
The Acropolis has a history dating back to ancient times, with the earliest traces of human occupation dating to the Neolithic period (around 4000-3000 BC). However, it is most renowned for its Golden Age during the 5th century BC, when it became the center of Athenian power, culture, and religion.
The Parthenon
The most famous structure on the Acropolis is the Parthenon, an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens. It was built between 447 BC and 438 BC during the Golden Age of Athens, under the supervision of the renowned architects Ictinus and Callicrates, with Phidias as the sculptor.
The Parthenon is a Doric-style temple, characterized by its sturdy columns with fluted shafts and simple capitals. It features eight columns on the facade and seventeen columns on each side, giving it a grand and majestic appearance.
It is considered a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture due to its harmonious proportions and optical refinements. Today, the Parthenon stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of the most visited and revered historical monuments in the world.
Temple of Erechtheion
The Temple of Erechtheion is situated to the north of the Parthenon and is one of the most well-known and architecturally significant structures on the Acropolis. It was built between 421 BC and 406 BC, during the same period as the construction of the Parthenon. It was dedicated to multiple deities, including Athena Polias, Poseidon, and Erechtheus (an ancient Athenian king).
The temple is characterized by its use of slender, scroll-like columns with volutes (spiral ornaments) at the top. Unlike the Doric order of the Parthenon, the Erechtheion’s Ionic order gives it a more delicate and graceful appearance.
One of the unique features of the Erechtheion is its asymmetrical design. The temple is not perfectly rectangular due to the irregularity of the ground and the multiple shrines and cults it was meant to house.
The east and north sides have porches with columns, while the west side has a larger porch known as the “Porch of the Maidens” or the “Porch of the Caryatids.”
The Porch of the Maidens is famous for its six female figures, known as Caryatids, which act as supporting columns. Each Caryatid is sculpted in high relief and stands over six feet tall, supporting the entablature with their heads and arms. Today, five of the original Caryatids are housed in the Acropolis Museum, and a replica stands in their place on the temple.
The Propylaea
The Propylaea is the monumental entrance and ceremonial gateway to the Acropolis. Its construction began in 437 BC, during the same period as the Parthenon, under the supervision of the architect Mnesicles. However, due to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War, the work was interrupted and never fully completed 😪.
It was designed to impress visitors with its grandeur and serve as a fitting prelude to the sacred and awe-inspiring structures of the Acropolis. The central part of the building features the Doric order, with six Doric columns across the front. The wings of the building have Ionic columns, known for their more slender and ornate design.
Over the centuries, the Propylaea suffered damage from various causes, including invasions, fires, and earthquakes. It underwent several reconstructions and restorations during its history.
Temple of Athena Nike
The Temple of Athena Nike is one of the smaller temples on the Acropolis but holds significant historical and architectural importance. It is strategically positioned on the southwest corner of the Acropolis, overlooking the Propylaea, the monumental entrance to the Acropolis.
The Temple of Athena Nike was built around 420 BC, during the Golden Age of Athens, following the conclusion of the Peloponnesian War. It was dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike, the “Victorious Athena,” who was worshipped as a protector and bringer of victory in battle.
The temple’s frieze, a decorative band running around the exterior, depicted scenes of battles between the Greeks and the Persians, as well as mythological figures, including Nike, the goddess of victory. Some of the original frieze fragments are now displayed in the Acropolis Museum.
Odeon of Herodes Atticus
The Herodion is an ancient Roman amphitheater located on the southern slope of the Acropolis. Was built in 161 AD and is one of the most well-preserved and impressive ancient theaters in the world.
The Odeon of Herodes Atticus has a three-story auditorium with a seating capacity of around 5,000 spectators. Today, it serves as the main venue for the Athens annual Arts Festival.
Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus, (also known as Lycabettos or Lykavittos) is one of the many hills that surround the ancient city and offers stunning panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding areas.
The summit of Mount Lycabettus stands at about 277 meters (909 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Athens. The hill is a popular spot to witness stunning sunset views over the city, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
Visitors have the option to either hike up to the top of the hill or take a funicular railway. You can capture some of the city landmarks from an aerial perspective, like the Kallimarmaro below.
At the top of Mount Lycabettus, there is a beautiful chapel dedicated to St. George, which adds to the charm of the area, especially with the evening golden light.
Note: I took out the many ugly antennas on the image 😅
There is a restaurant at the summit where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the breathtaking vistas. If you’re interested in photography, it is a good idea to book a table for dinner and enjoy the stunning twilight view from there 🤩.
Areopagus Hill
Continuing with some of the most amazing viewpoints over the Acropolis, the prominent rocky outcrop called Aeropagus Hill (also known as Mars Hill,) is another great one. The Areopagus Hill located northwest of the Acropolis offers breathtaking views of the archeological site,
it is good to synchronize your visit with sunset golden hours. Depending on the season, with a bit of luck -or good trip planning 🤨- the golden hour could be out of the opening hours of the Acropolis, allowing pictures of the Propylaiawithout the crowds 🤩
In ancient Athens, the Areopagus was the name of both the hill and the council of elders who met there to discuss important matters of the city-state’s governance.
The views of the city of Athens are great as well. Don’t miss the beautiful perspective over the Stoa of Attalos and the Holy Apostles church.
Philopappos Hill
One more stunning viewpoint over the Acropolis, this time from the southwest: Philopappos Hill.
The hill is named after Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince and Roman senator of Syrian descent who lived in the 2nd century AD. Philopappos was a benefactor of the city of Athens.
A monument(visible from Everywhere in Athens) was erected in Gaius Philopappo’s honor on the hill’s summit.
The hill is covered with pine trees, and there are walking trails and pathways that lead through the greenery. It is a great place for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the natural beauty of Athens.
Monastiraki square
Monastiraki Square is a bustling and vibrant square located in the historical center of Athens, near the neighborhood of Plaka and at the foothills of the Acropolis. From Monastiraki Square, you can enjoy excellent views of the Acropolis, particularly from some of the rooftop bars and restaurants in the area.
The name “Monastiraki” comes from the word “monastiráki,” which means “little monastery” in Greek. The square gets its name from the small monastery that used to exist in the area during the Byzantine era.
The square and its surrounding streets are often filled with street performers, artists, musicians, and entertainers. You can enjoy live music, dance performances, and other artistic displays as you explore the area.
From the rooftops, you can as well enjoy a great aerial perspective on some of the key landmarks, like the Temple of Hephaestus and the Agora of Athens.
Hadrian’s Library
Hadrian’s Library was constructed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. Hadrian was a lover of Greek culture and architecture, and he made significant contributions to the development and beautification of Athens during his reign.
The library followed the traditional Roman architectural style with elements of Greek influence. It had a rectangular layout and was surrounded by a colonnade with Corinthian columns. The main entrance featured a grand propylon (gateway).
Besides serving as a library, Hadrian’s Library also functioned as a cultural and educational center. It had lecture halls, meeting rooms, and spaces for public gatherings and philosophical discussions.
Hadrian’s Library fell into disrepair over the centuries…
During the Byzantine period, the building underwent several alterations, and its original purpose was lost. It was only in the 19th century, during archaeological excavations, that the remains of the library were rediscovered.
Tzisdarakis Mosque
The Tzisdarakis Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Ahmet Aga, is a notable mosque located on Monastiraki Square, next to Hadrian’s Library. It was constructed in the 18th century during the Ottoman era and served as a mosque until the early 20th century.
Kallimarmaro
The Panathenaic Stadium known as Kallimarmaro, dates back to the 4th century BC. It was originally constructed for the Panathenaic Games, which were part of the ancient religious festival known as the Panathenaia, dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens.
The stadium has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. The most notable renovation occurred in 144 AD when Herodes Atticus, a wealthy Athenian aristocrat, funded the reconstruction of the stadium in marble, giving it the name “Kallimarmaro,” which means “beautifully marbled” in Greek.
The Kallimarmaro is made entirely of white Pentelic marble and can seat approximately 50,000 spectators.
It hosted various athletic and religious events throughout ancient times, including foot races, chariot races, and the Panathenaic procession.
It was also the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 after it was excavated and restored for that purpose.
There is a small museum inside the stadium that exhibits artifacts related to the history of the site and the Olympic Games. The torches and posters from the games over the world are the most noticeable items.
Temple of Hephaestus
The Temple of Hephaestus, also known as the Hephaisteion, is located on the western side of the Agora. It was dedicated to Hephaestus, the ancient Greek god of fire, blacksmiths, and craftsmanship, and to Athena Ergane, the goddess of artisans and crafts.
Doric-style Temple was constructed around 450-415 BC during the Golden Age of Athens. It was designed by the architect Ictinus, who was also responsible for designing the Parthenon on the Acropolis.
The temple features a peristyle design with six columns on each end and thirteen columns on each side, totaling 34 Doric columns in all.
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Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several changes and repurposing. It served as a Christian church during the Byzantine period, and in the medieval era, it was known as the Church of Saint George Akamates. From nearby the temple, there is as well a great view over the Propylaea (Acropolis entrance) and the small Temple of Athena Nike.
Stoa of Attalos
The Stoa of Attaloswas originally constructed by King Attalos II of Pergamon around 150 BC. It is situated in the Ancient Agora of Athens, which was the central marketplace and civic center of the city during antiquity.
The Stoa of Attalos was a large, two-story building with a colonnaded facade. It measured approximately 115 meters (377 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) wide. The stoa was adorned with Doric and Ionic columns, creating a grand and impressive structure.
During its time of use, the Stoa of Attalos was primarily a place for merchants to conduct business. Additionally, the stoa was a gathering place for philosophical discussions and lectures. Today it is as well a great photography place 😊
Over time, the Stoa of Attalos fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned. In the 1950s, the American School of Classical Studies at Athens undertook a large-scale restoration project, reconstructing the stoa using the original materials and techniques. Today, it serves as a museum.
The museum displays various artifacts from the ancient Athenian marketplace, providing visitors with insights into the daily life and commercial activities of ancient Athens.
Church of the Holy Apostles
In the perimeter of the Agora, the Sacred Temple “Ieros Naos Agion Apostolon” is one of the oldest churches in the city (10th or 11th century).
The church follows a Byzantine architectural style and features beautiful frescoes and religious icons from different periods of its existence.
Hadrian’s Arch
The Arch of Hadrian is an ancient Roman triumphal arch that was built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited Athens in 131 AD. during his grand tour of the Roman Empire.
The arch is situated at the junction of two major ancient roads: One leading from the Roman Agora to the Olympieion and the road leading from the city to the Acropolis. It effectively served as a symbolic gateway between the ancient city and the newly built Roman sector of Athens.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
The construction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion) began in the 6th century BCE during the rule of the Athenian tyrant Peisistratus but was halted due to financial and political difficulties. It was fully completed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.
The Temple was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, and was intended to be the largest temple in ancient Greece.
Today, the Temple of Olympian Zeus stands as a majestic ruin, with 15 columns still standing. These columns provide a glimpse of the temple’s former grandeur and serve as a reminder of the immense scale and ambition of ancient Greek architecture.
National Library
The National Library is a prominent cultural institution and one of the largest and most important libraries in the country, housing an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and other valuable historical documents.
It was established in 1832, shortly after Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire. The first location of the library was in a room at the University of Athens, but over the years, it moved to various locations until it found its current home.
The main building of the National Library, right next to the iconic Panathenaic Stadium and is a significant architectural landmark, designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen in a neoclassical style.
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Next to the national library is the National University of Athens NKUA), the oldest and largest university in Greece. University’s history can be traced back to its establishment in 1837, shortly after Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire.
The university is named after its founder, King Otto of Greece, who was a member of the Bavarian House of Wittelsbach.
Academy of Athens
Next to the national library and university is the Academy of Athens, the highest research establishment in Greece, founded in 1926. It is not a university but rather an independent research institution with a focus on promoting scientific and scholarly advancement.
The building of the Academy of Athens is a remarkable neoclassical structure designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen and completed in 1887.
It was constructed in a neoclassical style, characterized by grandeur, symmetry, and the use of classical elements such as columns, porticos, and pediments. The façade of the building features impressive sculptures and carvings representing significant figures from Greek history, art, and culture.
Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens
The Holy Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary is the main cathedral of the Greek Orthodox Church in Athens. It is one of the most significant religious and historical landmarks in the city.
The church is located close to Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament Building. It is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, commemorating the biblical event when the Archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. A vertical panorama is the only way to give justice to that wonder 🥹.
The original church on this site was a small 11th-century Byzantine church dedicated to St. Eleftherios. However, in the mid-19th century, King Otto I of Greece decided to demolish the old church and build a larger and more imposing cathedral in its place. The interior is richly decorated with religious artwork, iconography, and beautiful frescoes.
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is part of a chain of interactive museums located in various cities around the world. It aims to provide visitors with a unique and engaging experience exploring the fascinating world of optical illusions and perception.
The museum showcases a variety of mind-bending optical illusions, holograms, and 3D exhibits. Visitors can interact with the exhibits, take photos, and participate in activities that challenge their perception and understanding of reality.
Clearly, it is a lot of fun …
So, it is really worth a visit, especially during a bad weather afternoon 😀
Evzones changing of the guard
The Presidential Guard, also known as the Evzones, is a ceremonial unit of the Hellenic Army responsible for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens. in front of the Greek Parliament Building in Syntagma Square
Changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most famous and iconic ceremonies in Athens. The changing of the guard ceremony takes place every hour, and a more elaborate and formal ceremony occurs at the top of each hour.
The Evzones wear a distinctive traditional uniform that dates back to the 19th century and is inspired by the clothing worn by Greek fighters during the Greek War of Independence. Their uniform includes a pleated white kilt called a fustanella, a white shirt with wide sleeves, a red cap with a black tassel, and black shoes with pom-poms.
During the ceremony, the outgoing and incoming guards perform a choreographed routine that includes high kicks and slow marching. The ceremony is highly precise and symbolic, reflecting the pride and honor associated with the Evzones’ role in guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Evzones are not just ceremonial guards; they are specially trained soldiers with combat skills. The guard duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a prestigious assignment within the Hellenic Army, and the Evzones undergo rigorous training to perform their duties.
The Zappeion
The Zappeion is an impressive building and garden located in the heart of Athens. That was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen and completed in 1888.
Zappeion Hall is an elegant neoclassical building that was originally constructed to host the events of the first modern Olympic Games, which took place in Athens in 1896. Today, it serves as a multipurpose exhibition and conference center.
The Zappeion Garden (also known as the National Garden), is a large public park situated right behind the Zappeion building. It covers an area of about 15.5 hectares and offers a peaceful and green oasis in the bustling city of Athens.
Inside the garden, you can find a variety of trees, plants, and flowers, as well as walking paths, benches, and small ponds. There are also several statues and monuments scattered throughout the garden, adding to its historical and artistic value.
Little Kook
“Little Kook” is a popular themed cafe located in the heart of Athens. It gained immense popularity for its unique and whimsical decor that changed with different themes throughout the year (images are from one of my trips there, end of September, hence the Halloween theme).
The cafe was known for its elaborate decorations, which included oversized decorations, colorful installations, and intricately designed settings that made visitors feel like they were stepping into a fairytale or a storybook.
Street Art
There are various locations to see vibrant street art throughout Athens so take the time of getting lost in small streets.
The streets north of Monastiraki offer great art. Other areas to check are as well Psyrri, Metaxourgeio, and Exarchia neighborhoods.
Delphi
The world-famous Delphi is an archaeological site situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in the region of Phocis, about 180 kilometers (112 miles) northwest of Athens.
In ancient times, Delphi was considered the center of the world in Greek mythology. According to the legend, Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the world, and they met at Delphi, marking it as the navel of the earth.
Here are some of the main landmarks in Delphi…
Temple of Appolo
The Temple of Apollo is one of the most significant and iconic structures at the archaeological site. It was a central and sacred place in ancient Greek religion and mythology, dedicated to the god Apollo.
That Doric-style temple was constructed during the 4th century BC on the remains of earlier temples that date back to the 7th century BC. It is overlooking the valley and was positioned in such a way that visitors to the oracle and other rituals could see it prominently as they approached the site.
The Temple of Apollo was home to the famous Oracle of Delphi, who was believed to be the conduit through which Apollo conveyed his prophecies and divine guidance. The Oracle, known as the Pythia, was a priestess who delivered her predictions in a trance-like state induced by inhaling natural gases emanating from a chasm beneath the temple.
The temple served as a focal point for the worship of Apollo, one of the major deities in ancient Greek religion. It attracted pilgrims and visitors from all over Greece, as well as foreigners seeking advice and guidance from the Oracle.
Pillar of Prusias II
The stele of Prusias, located to the northeast of the entrance of the temple of Apollo, has been fully restored.
The monument has been identified through an inscription mentioning that it was dedicated by the Aetolian League to honor King Prusias II of Bithynia, in northwestern Asia Minor
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Tripod of the Plateans
The Tripod of the Plateans was dedicated by the city-state of Plataea. The Plataeans erected the tripod as a votive offering to Apollo in gratitude for their victory over the Persians in the Battle of Plataea in 479 BC.
In honor of their triumph, the Plataeans decided to dedicate a bronze tripod at the Oracle of Delphi, which was a common practice among ancient Greek city-states to express their gratitude to the gods and seek their favor.
While the original Tripod of the Plateans is no longer extant, its existence is known through historical records and inscriptions.
Ancient theater
The Ancient Theater of Delphi is one of the most significant and well-preserved theaters from ancient Greece.
The theater follows the typical design, with a semicircular orchestra and a tiered seating arrangement for the audience. The theater could hold around 5,000 spectators, offering them a panoramic view of the sanctuary and the surrounding landscape.
The theater’s placement on the mountainside provided a stunning backdrop for performances, overlooking the sanctuary of Apollo and the Temple of Apollo. The natural acoustics of the site allowed for excellent sound projection.
Tholos of Athena Pronaia Temple
The Tholos of Athena Pronaia is situated to the northeast of the main sanctuary of Apollo. It dates back to the 4th century BC and is one of the most well-preserved and impressive structures in Delphi.
The Tholos is surrounded by a colonnade of Doric columns. The inner circular chamber is surrounded by 20 exterior Doric columns, and in the center, there was likely a circular shrine or altar. The roof of the Tholos was made of white marble, and it was covered with elaborate architectural decorations, such as sculptures and friezes. You can get nice aerial views from the Museum alley (with a long lens).
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It is believed to have had a religious function, possibly dedicated to Athena. It might have served as a place of worship, a treasury, or an administrative building for the sanctuary.
The Tholos of Athena Pronaia is a fascinating structure and offers great opportunities for travel or photography lovers.
Treasury of the Athenians
The “Treasury of the Athenians” is one of the most famous buildings at the Delphy Sanctuary of Apollo. It was one of the numerous treasuries constructed by various city-states to store valuable offerings and dedications to the god Apollo.
The treasuries were small, often ornate buildings that served both as storage spaces for precious objects and as a display of a city-state’s wealth and devotion to the gods. They were typically placed along the sacred way leading up to the Temple of Apollo, and each city-state constructed its treasury in a distinctive architectural style.
The Treasury of the Athenians was built by the city-state of Athens to demonstrate Athens’ gratitude and reverence for the Appolo god. The treasury was filled with valuable offerings, which could include statues, votive gifts, precious metals, and other valuable items.
Ancient Stadium
The Ancient Stadium of Delphi played a significant role in the Panhellenic Pythian Games, which were held in honor of Apollo every four years.
These games (second only to the Olympic Games in importance) attracted athletes from various Greek city-states. The stadium was constructed during the 5th century BC.
So, those are the main landmark but the site is large and full of other wonders so keep walking around 😀. Most people will visit from Athens and back but I would advise sleeping one night there in order to avoid the crowds, with a good afternoon and morning to appreciate that amazing place.
Delphi Museum
The site was excavated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and many artifacts from Delphi are now housed in the (beautiful) Delphi Archaeological Museum, near the entrance of the archeological site.
The Delphi Archaeological Museum showcases items spanning several centuries, from prehistoric times to the Roman period.
The exhibits primarily focus on the religious and cultural significance of Delphi in ancient times, as well as its role as a major religious center and the Oracle of Delphi.
Some of the notable artifacts you may find in the museum include statues, sculptures, architectural fragments, inscriptions, pottery, votive offerings, and other archaeological findings from the ancient site.
Among the most famous exhibits is the Charioteer of Delphi, a well-preserved bronze statue dating back to approximately 470 BC.
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Temple of Poseidon Sounion
The Archaeological Site of Sounion is situated at Cape Sounion, which is about 69 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Athens. The cape is located at the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula, overlooking the Aegean Sea.
The Temple of Poseidon at Sounion is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country and a popular tourist destination, known for its historical significance and stunning views of the Aegean Sea, especially during sunset.
I advise you to arrive early (before sunset), as the golden light over the columns is magical
The Temple of Poseidon is a Doric-style temple, constructed during the 5th century BC. It was built with locally quarried marble. It was dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea, storms, and earthquakes.
The Temple of Poseidon was constructed during the Golden Age of Athens, under the administration of the Athenian statesman Pericles. The temple’s position atop the rocky promontory of Cape Sounion made it visible from far out at sea. (The view at night or early morning from the beach is great as well)
To manage expectations, it is beautiful and very close to Athens so … it is more than crowded at sunset time as per the image below 🥲….
so, the tip is to arrive early, capture the sun rays through the columns and then exit to walk to the opposite hill from the entrance and enjoy magnificent views, with fewer crowds…
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Holi Monastery of Daphni
The Holy Monastery of Daphni is an important Byzantine monastery located 11 kilometers (7 miles) northwest of the city center of Athens, close to the town of Chaidari.
The Daphni Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally built in the 6th century AD on the site of an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Apollo Daphnaios. It was later converted into a Christian Monastery.
The interior of the Daphni Monastery is adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other religious figures.
These mosaics are considered masterpieces of Byzantine art.
The Holy Monastery of Daphni is a fascinating destination and might be a good stop if you go toward the Piraeus harbor to take a ferry…
So, I hope that the post will engage you to visit Athens and its region ☺️. If you are interested in other regions of Greece, please have a look at my posts: in the links below
SANTORINI ISLAND, A PEARL IN THE GREEK CYCLADES
NATURE & HUMAN-MADE WONDERS OF METEORA, GREECE
MILOS, THE STUNNING ISLAND OF COLORS OF THE GREEK CYCLADES
