Acropolis

GeoTagged, [N25.72243, W32.61264]

The Acropolis is a mountain smack in the middle of Athens. We walked around for half a day without seeing it, but as soon as we got onto our hotel's roof, we couldn't believe we had missed it. On top of the Acropolis is one of the most famous ancient temple still in existence, the Parthenon. One entire side has been dismantled for restoration, so you will notice scaffolding in many of the pictures. Sadly, a giant steel crane is right in the middle of the temple, so if anyone is considering coming to Athens, I'd wait a few years until they finish. Fortunately, they left the other side intact so that you can still block out the view of most of the scaffolding and appreciate the immensity of the columns. There are also a number of other temples, buildings, arches, etc to be seen on and around the Acropolis.


GeoTagged, [N25.72243, W32.61264]

This is the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This is the theater from which Oedipus Rex first opened, and it is still in use today. We were able to get tickets for opening night of Aida coming up on Sunday. We're really excited since we've never seen an opera before, and it will be interesting to see how the open Greek theater style affects the acoustics.


GeoTagged, [N25.72243, W32.61264]
Another shot of the Acropolis.


GeoTagged, [N37.97546, W23.73167]
Random ruins in the National Garden where we had a picnic. We have started a little backgammon tournament, and I maintain that Scott is only winning because the dice are loaded. He has been rolling an inordinate amount of doubles. He is white below.




The Temple of Olympian Zeus. This is part of a larger complex of buildings including more temples, Roman baths, and Byzantine houses. This is the last building left standing.



Notice the Acropolis in the background.



One of my favorite things about cities with ancient ruins is that they light their monuments at night. There is no better evening entertainment than walking with a gelato in hand and looking at famous monuments at night.


GeoTagged, [N37.97546, W23.73167]

Wish you were here!!
- Anna