Day at Sea – November 1st -- Then Piraeus [Athens] – November 2nd

Pireaus is actually one of the largest cities in Greece and has been the port of Athens since ancient times.

This stop was one of the primary reasons for this trip.  Athens!  We had heard about it forever and were anxious to see it in person.  We were not disappointed!  Athens is of course regarded as the Cradle of Western Civilization, and we are still much influenced by Greek literature, architecture, and philosophy. 

We took a guided tour of the Acropolis, which is a natural high point of the city and visible from

Here we are about to enter the Acropolis.

many parts of the city below.  Our guide was extremely good; she balanced a lot of factual  information with time for independent exploration.   Just climbing the stairs of the Prophylaia between impressive Doric and Ionic columns to enter the Acropolis was awe inspiring.

First stop was the Parthenon, the temple to

In front of the Parthenon.

Athena, patron goddess of Athens.  It is impressive for its size as well as its architecture.   Time and the elements have had a definite impact; it was once brightly painted but now the remaining fluted marble columns are a creamy color.  Here, as in many other places, restoration is in process.

Opposite the Parthenon is the Erechtheian.  It is a smaller and more delicate than the Parthenon, but also extraordinary.  In its Porch of the Caryatids, six, larger than life statues of

The  Erechtheian and  the Caryatids

maidens (now replicas), support the entire weight of the porch’s roof on their heads (while appearing to remain relaxed and charming).

Just walking around in the Acropolis was an experience we will long remember!

Our guide also pointed out the Theater of Dionysus, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.  We were definitely on the verge of “Antiquity Overload.”

Then our guide mercifully took us to Old Town Athens and an area called the Plaka.  Here we had lunch in the shade of trees at an interesting café and then explored the maze of narrow, winding streets with their small shops and tavernas until it was time to return to the ship.

What an amazing day!