Explore the Acropolis when you take a boat charter in Greece
By Jenny Wilson published on 10 January 2016
A sailing holiday in Greece gives you the opportunity to explore some of this country’s loveliest islands; however, when you hire a boat charter in Greece, you will probably start your trip in Athens. This city has some truly spectacular sights but if you only have time to see one thing, be sure to visit the world-famous Acropolis.
It is no surprise that UNESCO has designated the Acropolis the symbol of world heritage. The entire complex is a testament to the incredible cultural, historical and philosophical influence that this ancient civilisation has had over the centuries. Dedicated to the cult of Athena, the goddess from whom the city takes its name, this series of buildings stands proud on the hilltop as a symbol of Greece’s enormous influence.
The site was first inhabited around 6,000 years ago and the earliest temples appeared in the Mycenaean period. By the eighth century BC the area was the focus of Athena worship and the remains of some of the buildings can still just about be seen today; however, it was the mid-fifth century BC that saw the beginning of Pericles’ vision for Athens begin to take shape. He transformed the site into a complex of temples dedicates to Athena in her various incarnations, such as Polias, guardian of the city; Promachos, goddess of war; and Nike, goddess of victory.
Despite the centuries of damage, it is easy to imagine how awe-inspiring these buildings must have been. The gleaming marble, sumptuous sculptures and elaborate friezes all bear testament to the skill of the artisans who worked to create this monument. The crowning glory of the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena Parthenos. Over the centuries it was used as a temple, a treasury, a Christian church and even a mosque.
An explosion in the late 17th century severely damaged the Parthenon and the later removal of the Parthenon Marbles by Lord Elgin also had an impact on the building’s beauty; however, the Acropolis and Parthenon remain one of the must-see sights not just of Greece but also of the world.
