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The place and myth of AthensA remarkable, interesting, troubled, inspiring, place.
> >The place and myth of AthensThis amazing city gets little respect, it is attacked in guide books for many problems. It does have its problems, but some are merely in the eye of the beholder. (Essay and photos)
In a discussion list, several friends familiar with Athens listed their favorite places and activities in the city.
A short paragraph about current developments
What drives the place.
Images of the city.
An Athen's tradition.
General links to sites about Athens then and now.
Useful info for the traveler.
Athens Guide Books Worth reading.
Think we know more about building things then any generation before? Look at the "refinements" of the Parthenon and think again. Also see how we're slowly destroying it.
Roman Athens, Orthodox piety, and the place where the famous playwrights' work was performed in classical times.
Visit the Pnyx, the site of the ancient Assembly.
Ironically, this is the section I haven't really done anything with as yet.
A diverse city of museums, traffic jams, hospitality, balconies, ruins, government, views, outdoor dining, smog, music, protest rallies, immigrants and tourists.
A city of history: - and not just classical history - lying next to modern life.
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.
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.
A city many hate and urge you to reject, but is so livable and interesting for the tourist who is willing to look.
An international city with people from around the world, yet it remains distinctively Greek.
A city whose heart is the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis.
| Last modified 2/7/10; posted 2000; original content © 2010, 2000 John P. Nordin |