There must be 20 museums in and around the Plaka district alone. The traffic, and how people drive, still worthy of amazement. At least the smog is getting better.
A diverse city of museums, traffic jams, hospitality, balconies, ruins, government, views, outdoor dining, smog, music, protest rallies, immigrants and tourists.
Layer upon layer of history, from a thousand years before the Parthenon right up to the present. And they are still finding things.
A city of history - and not only classical history - lying next to modern life.
It's not as inexpensive as it used to be, sadly. But walking the Plaka is still fun, and you can get to so many things with a 5-15 min walk from a centrally located hotel.
A walkable city, inexpensive to enjoy, rich in attractions, whose most precious attractions are often found by accident or in the moments of ordinary living.
Somehow they managed not to build skyscrapers, and so you catch glimpses of the Acropolis from all over town. But, you should really go visit the Pnyx.
A city where the Parthenon floats above it all, a symbol of democracy, and - if one knows history - of conflict and tragedy. A symbol of possibilities and problems that is reflected in the modern city.
It's getting more international, and more homogonized globalized, sadly.
An international city with people from around the world, while it remains distinctively Greek.
It has a funky charm. [ shrug ] What can I say? I love the place.
A city many hate and urge you to avoid, but is so livable and interesting for the visitor who is willing to dig a little deeper.
What more could you ask for?
A city whose heart is the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis.
Last modified 2/21/14; posted 2000; original content © 2014, 20002 John P. Nordin