Ancient Treasures
Greece is one of the most versatile tourist destinations in Europe. Favoured by clubbers, archaeologists and culture vultures alike, it truly does have something to offer everyone.
One of the most rewarding ways to see the country is by exploring its national treasures: a tour of historically and spiritually significant sites will put you in touch with the Greece’s true nature while also allowing you to explore its beautiful scenery along the way.
But where should you start? Here are three not-to-be-missed Grecian attractions.
Mars Hill
Located northwest of the Athenian Acropolis, the ‘Hill of Ares’ or ‘Mars Hill’ is the location of one of St. Paul’s most famous sermons, ‘The Unknown God’. It also functioned in classical times as the main homicide court of the city – in legend, Ares was tried here by the gods for the murder of Poseidon’s son Alirrothios. At the foot of the hill was a temple, dedicated to the Erinyes, where murderes sought sanctuary to avoid being brought o justice for their actions.
Gortyna
During Roman times, this city served as the capital of Crete. It had a population of nearly 100,000, and boasted city walls nearly six miles long. In addition to having ancient significance – it was here that Zeus was said to have married Europa – it also has Biblical connections. The Basilica of St Titus in Gortyna marks the traditional location of St. Titus’ martyrdom, while also representing one of the best remaining examples of an early Christian basilica in Greece.
Corinth
One of Greece’s most ancient cities, Corinth lies around 50 miles west of Athens on the Peloponnese. The site was inhabited as early as 5000BC, and was a major Ancient Greek city until it was destroyed in 146BC by the Romans. It was then rebuilt and used as the Roman capital of Greece, before welcoming the Apostle Paul in the first century AD.
Now, visitors can see the ruins of ancient Corinth, a short drive from the modern city, and view the Temple of Aphrodite on the Acrocorinth. Other notable sites include the Temple of Appollo, built on a hill overlooking the marketplace, and the Berma, where St. Paul had to plead his case to the Roman governor Gallio in 52AD
Of course, these Grecian treasures are only the very start of what the country has to offer: other places of significance include Philippi, and important pilgrimage stop, and the Monastery of St. John the Divine on the island of Patmos. Most visitors to Greece will be best off flying to Athens and then hiring a car from there – budget airlines service the city from a number of UK airports.
Keep your holiday costs low by comparing accommodation and flight prices using a price comparison site, and taking out travel insurance separately with a provider like AA Travel.