Plaka: Athens

The place and myth of Athens

A remarkable place, if you know how to look, and how to avoid the problems.

A diverse city of museums, traffic jams, hospitality, balconies, ruins, views, dining, smog.

A city of history: and not just classical history, lying next to modern life.

A city inexpensive to visit, 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 come, yet it remains distinctively Greek.

A city whose heart is the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis.

About Athens

Places in Athens

	A defense of Athens This 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)
	The Pleasures of Athens In a discussion list, several friends familiar with Athens listed their favorite places and activities in the city. (A fairly long text-only note.)
	Athens Today A short paragraph about current developments
	Photo Gallery Images of the city

	The Parthenon 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.
	South of the Acropolis Roman Athens, Orthodox piety, and the place where the famous playwrights' work was performed in classical times.
	The Plaka [under construction]
	Athens on the Web General links to sites about Athens then and now. Practicalities Useful info for the traveler.