“You will never do anything in this world without courage” Aristotle
Sadly, my visit to the city of Athens has come to an end but I had the best time…even in winter! The food was incredible, the people were extremely kind and welcoming, and the historical sites were mind-blowing. I definitely want to come back when it’s warmer and explore more of what Greece has to offer. Especially the islands.
My last few days I spent walking around the city and stuffing my face with homemade pastries, marinated meat skewers, and gyros in between visits to the ancient ruins. What a way to live!
My first stop on one of my last mornings in town was to see the remains of Aristotle’s Lyceum.
I know it doesn’t look like much now, but these hallowed grounds are the site of the philosophical school founded by Aristotle in 335 BC. Some of the greatest minds studied and debated philosophy and science on this piece of Earth.
On another afternoon I strolled the grounds of the Ancient Agora of Athens.
Inside the complex is a museum filled with amazing artifacts and sculptures. These were a few of my favorites. I loved the way the light hit them and made them come alive. The detail is incredible.
Below is one of the first jury selection machines. The original on the left and a replica on the right.
Kleroteria were allotment machines made from slabs of wood or stone. In the face of each slab were columns of narrow slots aligned in horizontal rows. Into the slots were inserted the bronze identification tickets (pinakia) carried by the citizens who were eligible for jury service. On the left side of the face there was a metal tube the top of which terminated in a funnel shaped mouth. Into the tube were poured a number of black or white bronze balls in random order. By means of a crank the balls could be released one by one. Depending on whether a white or a black ball emerged all the citizens represented by one horizontal row of pinakia were accepted or rejected for jury service that day. Kleroteria stood at the entrance to every court.
I hiked up to the Temple of Hephaestus and the views of the city were magical. It felt like a movie.
I passed through the Arch of Hadrian on my way to Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Unfortunately for me, Zeus’ temple is under construction but for the long term, it’s a good thing.
So much walking and admiring beautiful scenery will make a gal hungry so I stopped by the Farmer’s Market and it smelled amazing! It is citrus season here in Greece. The oranges are so juicy and flavorful. I bought a pomegranate as well and it was perfect with my yogurt.
On my last night in town, I spent it like any other longterm traveler…at the laundromat. I met a lovely fellow and owner of the establishment named George. He was excited to talk to an American who had lived in NYC. He told me that many years ago he did something totally out of character for him that took a lot of courage. He spent six months in Queens. When I said, “It must have been for a woman if you spent six months in Queens.” We laughed. He blushed. He gave me a cookie and said, “You’re right, it was for a woman. Best six months of my life.” ❤️ I love to hear a good love story while the clothes dry.
Be like George, get out there and see the world…and maybe fall in love along the way. Athens is an enchanting city to do just that. It’s must visit for anyone who loves food, history, beautiful surroundings, and lovely people. I’ll be back!
Good Things List
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Fresh citrus fruit
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Beautiful views
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Love stories
Much love & gratitude. Namaste 🙏
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The fruit carts around town are filled with gorgeous fruits.
