According to Greek mythology humans were originally created with 4 legs, 4 arms and a head with 2 faces. Fearing their power, Zeus split them into two different parts, condemning them to spend their lives in search of their other halves. –Plato

It is in Athens where the most famous ancient myths come to life, stories about Gods and Goddesses such as Zeus (king of the Gods), Poseidon (God of the sea), Aphrodite (the Goddess of love and beauty) and many more.

It is in Athens where everything begun…

More than 3000 years ago, a building like no other was rising on the top of a cliff, an architectural wonder connecting the sky with the Earth, the Gods with the mortals, the myth with reality.

According to the greek mythology the name of the capital city was given after a rough competition between Poseidon and Athena, when the Goddess of wisdom won the hearts of the locals by offering them an olive tree as she touched the ground of Acropolis.

Nowadays the olive trees can be found everywhere around the city, representing not only the most sacred and beloved tree of Ancient Greece but also an important source of food, Modern Greece being the third largest producer of olive oil in the world.

Acropolis-a wonder of the world

Even though is not included on the list of the 7 wonders of the world (I “wonder” why), Acropolis can be considered a real masterpiece of ancient architecture. Just by standing in front of the huge columns you will experience an unique feeling of grandor like facing the Zeus himself.

What you have to know

Before planning your day trip to Acropolis take into consideration that you have to climb lot of stairs to reach the top. Bring comfortable clothes and shoes as the pavement can be very slippery (almost like the ice) and don’t follow my dress code as I am the best example of how not to be a tourist. Risking to injure my legs, I am wearing my fluffy sandals, celebrating their 15 country on the list…travel can get addicted even for the shoes, isn’t it?

Pay the 20 euro ticket for the visit and don’t forget to bring lot of water with you as it can get very hot on the top (I didn’t bring any).

The last but not the least, I visited Acropolis for more than 5 times so far and I can assure you that the best time to go up there is late in the afternoon. The heat is bearable and the sun its in the perfect position for some great instagram shots.

Suddenly her legs took root and her arms grew into long and slander branches. Apollo reached the laurel tree and still enamored with Daphne, held the tree in a special place in his heart.

Probably thinking that I am a Greek goddess just descended from the Heaven my well known Chinese fans are approaching me for pictures and I have to put my visit on hold for a while until the photo shoot its over.

Overwhelmed with the heat and the fame I decide to return to the mortals land but not before of admiring for the last time the mesmerizing view over the city. Thousands buildings stacked perfectly together like the piece of a puzzle, the blue sea kissing the horizon and the flag waving in the wind whispering stories long forgotten…this is Athens!

As above so bellow

At the foot of Acropolis, sixteen surviving columns stand proof of a great temple with a short lived glory, the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Just across the road, the Arch of Hadrian open the gates of one of the most animated streets of Athens, where traditional tavernas are inviting the costumers to taste delicious dishes. Greek salad and local beer its a must try before you go!

Smashing plates in Greece

Athens its a city like no other and even though its economy has been strongly shaken in the past few years, the prices remain affordable for everyone. Live music, good food but not so many broken plates like before. In the past, greeks used to smash the plates on the floor, believing that this practice would ward off the evil spirit and bring good luck instead.

For an unbelievable view over the city visit “A for Athens” or any other roof top restaurants located in the city center. Personally I prefer Sabbas which offers a great selection of traditional dishes, wines and desserts…the best I ever tried.

A for Athens

Sabbas