Greece is a country in Europe located on the Balkan Peninsula and islands in the Aegean, Ionian, Libyan and Mediterranean seas. An ancient European state with an amazing culture and the greatest heritage of the past.
Greece attractions
A large number of tourists visit Greece to experience the history immortalized in monuments and historical sites. Excursion tours are very popular. Excursions around Greece are available at any time of the year, but it is preferable to come here in the spring. During this period there is no sweltering heat and little precipitation falls. Greece has a developed transport infrastructure; you can travel around it by public transport. You can also rent a car and see historical places by going on a road trip around Greece.
The northern and southern Greek capitals, Athens and Thessaloniki, contain the attractions of mainland Greece.
Note! The tourism center of Greece is Athens.
Athens is an ancient city; on its territory there are about 200 different museums and the Acropolis of Athens. Plaka is the oldest historical district, located at the foot of the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis. At the top of the rocky, flat-topped hill is the Temple of Nike Apteros, the Erechtheion and the famous Parthenon.
The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best preserved cathedrals of Ancient Greece.
The Temple of Zeus is the largest in Greece. One corner of the temple has survived, consisting of 14 columns topped with Corinthian capitals, 2 free-standing columns and one fallen.
Parthenon of ancient Greece
The panorama of Athens opens from Lykabettos Hill, the highest point in the surrounding area. At the top of the hill is the Chapel of St. George and an open-air theater where musical performances are held.
The Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum contains jewelry from different eras. The collection contains more than 4,000 exhibits: various jewelry, decorative objects made of precious metals and small sculptures.
The Archaeological Museum of Athens contains more than 20,000 exhibits from different eras: ancient ceramics, figurines, household utensils, bronzes and more.
Interesting! In the center of Athens there is a unique stadium known as Panathinaikos. The oldest building was built of white marble. After the restoration of some destroyed elements, the modern Olympic Games were held at the stadium.
Thessaloniki has its own acropolis with the remains of temples of the gods of Ancient Greece. You can visit the archaeological museum in the center, near the embankment, a few hundred meters from the famous White Tower. The museum contains finds from different periods of Thessaloniki's history. Here you can take a journey into the history of ancient Macedonia, starting from the end of the 6th century BC. e.
Not far from the Archaeological Museum is the Museum of Byzantine Culture. Its huge 11 halls tell in detail about the life of the Byzantine Empire. The museum displays about 3,000 unique relics, representing the intricacies of the formation, heyday and decline of the Byzantine Empire.
The famous White Tower of Thessaloniki
The famous White Tower, the symbol of Thessaloniki, has survived many bloody events. It was built by the Byzantines and served to protect the coastal zone from sea raids.
Saint Demetrius is considered the patron saint of the people of Thessaloniki. The five-nave Christian Basilica of St. Demetrius was erected in his honor.
Other short top descriptions of attractions
A huge number of Orthodox churches have been preserved on the territory of Greece, the most famous of which are the Meteora monasteries. In the northern part of Greece, near the town of Kalambaka, on top of giant rocks there is a complex of six active Orthodox monasteries. The place of hermitage has been known since the eleventh century. Climbing the steep rock used to be problematic, but now steps have been made in the rock for a safe climb. The monasteries are open to pilgrims and tourists from April to September and from November to March.
On the eastern peninsula of Halkidiki is the Orthodox shrine of Athos. The Athos peninsula extends 50 km in length and up to 12 km in width. There are 20 ancient monasteries scattered on the steep cliffs, similar to medieval castles, and many hermits' huts.
Note! Visiting monasteries is only possible for adult men of any religion. Women and children are prohibited from approaching closer than 500 m to the shore. Free camping is available for visitors' wives and children on the adjacent peninsula.
There is also something to see in the middle part of Halkidiki, Sithonia. Exotic trips include a visit to Turtle Island. Kelyfos, shaped like a turtle in the sea, is covered with pine and olive trees, with steep cliffs and caves. The sea off the coast amazes with the richness of natural fauna and flora. You can see colorful corals, seahorses, moray eels, sea anemones and scorpion fish.
Meteora Greece
It’s hard to imagine the sights of Greece without Mount Olympus. They are a National Wildlife Refuge. Mount Olympus is located in the northwestern part of the National Park. Thessaloniki is the closest place to Olympus. The height of Olympus is 2917 meters - the highest peak in Greece. Around the mountain there is a national park with rich flora and fauna.
Mycenae is the center of Bronze Age archaeological sites. The ancient ruins are located two kilometers from the modern town of Mycenae. Ruins of a palace with the famous Lion Gate.
Sparta is an ancient place, famous for the feat of 300 Spartans who withstood the onslaught of thousands of Persian armies in the 5th century. BC e. Its main attractions are the ruins of Ancient Sparta located in the vicinity. In ancient times, Sparta was known not only in Greece, but throughout Europe.
Olympia is the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, where the Olympic Games were held for many centuries. The ancient stadium is still the site of the lighting of the Olympic flame and a place of pilgrimage for tourists.
Note! The most important town in ancient Greece at the beginning of the century. e., Corinth, became one of the main centers of missionary activity of the Apostle Paul.
In ancient times, Epidaurus was a sacred hospital of the ancient world. A well-known attraction is the perfectly preserved ancient theater with unique acoustics, which is still in operation today.
Regions of Greece
Exciting sightseeing excursions can be taken to the resorts of Greece.
In Rhodes there is a fortress - a religious building of antiquity. Here was one of the Eight Wonders of the World, the Colossus of Rhodes, a giant statue of the ancient Greek sun god Helios. For many hundreds of years, the fortress reliably protected against Muslims. The Rhodes Acropolis is a place where the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, an amphitheater, and a stadium are preserved.
Interesting! The Palace of the Grand Masters was erected on the site of the former Temple of Helios and the Byzantine fortress that replaced it. The luxurious palace was used as a venue for ceremonial receptions and negotiations. Today there are two large exhibitions in the palace, telling about the times of the Crusaders and the life of the inhabitants in ancient times. The exhibition occupies more than 205 halls.
Rare museums and historical monuments are located in Crete, near the capital Heraklion.
On this territory, at the beginning of the last century, the Knossos Palace was excavated and partially restored.
The palace is considered the center of the Minoan civilization, which during the years of its prosperity was the most developed state in the world. The castle consisted of more than 1300 rooms. The Knossos Palace had to be rebuilt several times; it was destroyed by earthquakes, tsunamis and fires.
Knossos palace
The Samaria Gorge is the largest in Europe, with a length of about 18 kilometers. On the territory of the gorge there is a national park of the same name.
Ancient Delphi is located on the slope of Mount Parnassus. The Pythian Games took place here - pan-Greek celebrations in memory of the victory of Apollo over Python. The stadium where the Pythian Games took place has survived to this day. It was built from limestone from Mount Parnassus. The stadium accommodated about 7 thousand spectators.
The ruins remaining from the Temple of Apollo, an important architectural monument of this region, date back to the 4th century BC. e.
Greece is beautiful because lovers of various nightclubs, secluded beach holidays or sightseeing can come here.
Winter is good for lovers of skiing and carnivals. Spring is an ideal time for an excursion holiday: the air is not yet heated, everything is blooming and fragrant, everything is conducive to walks. From May to October is the optimal time to travel to Greece for a beach holiday. The national cuisine is one of the healthy ones and is famous for the variety of flavors of its dishes and generous portions.
Historical and architectural monuments found on the territory of Greece show how prosperous this state was. By visiting its sights you can learn and see why Greece is called the cradle of civilization.
Despite all the economic and political problems, Greece never ceases to attract and amaze travelers with its incredible natural beauty, ancient cultural monuments, biblical legends, luxurious resorts and the hospitality of the local people.
Large and detailed map of Greece attractions in Russian. Click to enlarge photo.
Another small tourist map of Greece in Russian.
Video: Sights of Greece. Top 10. More videos at the end of the article.
01. Athens is the cradle of Hellenic culture, which reached its peak two thousand years ago. This is the youngest capital of Europe, which at the same time is one of the oldest cities in the world. The names of the great tragedians Sophocles, Euripides, famous philosophers Socrates, Aristotle, orators Demosthenes, Pericles, Cleon are associated with the unique city. The main attractions include the old city, the port of Piraeus, the center of Athens and its suburbs.
02. Lake Melissani is an incredibly beautiful cave lake on the island of Kefalonia. They say that nymphs once lived here. The underground reservoir is illuminated through the cave dome, creating a unique play of light and darkness.
03. Mount Olympus is a mythological symbol of Greece, located in Thessaly. According to legends, it is a sacred place where ancient gods lived, led by the sky god Zeus. Today the national reserve is widely known in the world as a natural monument with a huge variety of unique plants and animals.
04. The island of Santorini (Thira) is the largest island of the archipelago of the same name and a popular tourist destination. The main city of the island, Santorini, is located like an amphitheater on a hilly slope. Its symbol is the snow-white temple of Agios Minas.
05. The island of Rhodes is the pearl of the Mediterranean. In the western part it is washed by the Aegean Sea. Known for its architectural and natural monuments.
06. Mount Athos is a monastic state in Greece, a place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians. They say that the Mother of God herself rules the “Holy Mountain,” purifying the thoughts and souls of people. The community includes 20 monasteries. Visits are allowed with special passes only to men.
07. Samaria Gorge is an 18 kilometer gorge located on the island of Crete. The national reserve is popular with hikers. The remains of temples dedicated to Apollo and Artemis have been found here.
08. The Theater of Delphi is the main attraction of the ancient city of Delphi, located on the famous Mount Parnassus. Dates from the 2nd century. BC. The archaeological reserve includes a theater, a stadium, a gallery-portico, treasuries of the Sifnosians and Athenians, and other buildings.
09. Monasteries – Meteora is a large monastic center in Greece, located on the tops of the mountains of Thessaly. Founded in the 10th century. Some rocks reach a height of 600 m and resemble pillars suspended in the air.
10. The Parthenon is the main temple of ancient Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena. A monument of ancient culture located on the Acropolis. The sculptural decoration of the building was carried out by the famous master Phidias. It is an example of a Doric temple made of Pentelic marble.
11. Lindos is a small town on Cape Krana in the southeastern part of the island of Rhodes. It is a unique archaeological site represented by the Acropolis.
12. Sparta was once an ancient Greek city in the Eurotas Valley (south of the Peloponnese peninsula). A classic example of an ancient oligarchic state. Today here you can see preserved fragments of ancient buildings, the Acropolis, and the theater.
13. Mykonos Island is part of the Cyclades archipelago, often called the island of windmills. There are many windmills, winding streets with snow-white houses and pelicans. According to legends, Mykonos is the habitat of the gods.
The ancient and majestic architectural monuments of Hellas can tell a lot about the events, the history of these lands and the glorious exploits of its heroes. Now Greece is one of the favorite holiday destinations not only among our compatriots, but also among tourists from all over the world. We'll tell you about eight of the most important and impressive sights of Ancient Greece, and why they should be included in your list of places you should definitely see when traveling around the country.
Acropolis of Athens
One of the main attractions, the calling card of the country and the material embodiment of the achievements of Greek civilization is the Acropolis, which is a rocky hill 156 meters high with a flat top. It was the residence of the king and the clergy; many temples were once erected on the territory, in which sacrifices were made to the gods and prayers were offered to them. The first buildings appeared here in archaic times.
Now the Acropolis is a Mecca for tourists; time here seems to have frozen in the impeccable beauty and grace of architectural forms. Many attractions of Ancient Greece are concentrated in this place: the Parthenon, the statue of Athena Promachos, Arreforion, Chalkoteka, Hekatompedon, Propylaea, etc.
In their reviews, travelers describe the Acropolis in literally two words: magnificent and delightful. They recommend devoting the whole day to exploring the hill and waiting for sunset - the most picturesque and mesmerizing time of the day.
Delphi
In the past, it was a city and a pan-Greek religious center with an oracle and a temple of Apollo, and now an extensive archaeological reserve. The ruins of the ancient city are located 9.5 km from the Gulf of Corinth on the slope of Mount Parnassus. This place is another complex that unites several outstanding attractions of Ancient Greece: the temple of Apollo, the temple of Athena Pronaia, an amphitheater and stadium, and an ancient gymnasium.
Once upon a time, the Greeks hurried to Delphi to find out what awaited them in the future and to unquestioningly follow the will of the gods. Now thousands of tourists flock here every year to enjoy the picturesque views and majestic architecture.
Knossos palace
It is impossible not to include in the list of the main attractions of Ancient Greece the masterpiece of Cretan architecture - the Palace of Knossos. The first mentions of it date back to the second millennium BC, it is the same age as Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. It is located near Heraklion, just 4 km from the coast of the Cretan Sea.
The Palace of Knossos is a complex system of rooms with a total area of 20 thousand m2. It was built from several types of stone. In ancient times, it had several floors and was a complex labyrinth consisting of living quarters, warehouses, kitchens, workshops, bathrooms, etc.
More than one legend is associated with the palace. According to legend, it was owned by the son of Zeus and Europe - Minos. It was here that the Athenian hero Theseus killed the Minotaur with the help of Ariadne's thread.
Burial in Vergina
Of all the attractions of Ancient Greece, this is perhaps the most unusual. In Central Macedonia there is a small town called Vergina with a population of about two thousand people. Its modern history began in 1922. Perhaps it would have remained an unknown settlement if in 1977 the rich burial of the Macedonian king Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great, had not been discovered here. In addition to his grave, two more were discovered. One of them contains unidentified remains, and the second, according to scientists, belongs to the son of A. Macedonian.
Magnificent frescoes, rich funeral gifts - all this, according to tourists, is in excellent condition and does not leave any visitor indifferent.
Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion
Since ancient times, Sounion has been the seat of two cults - Poseidon and Athena, who have always fought for the right to possess Attica. The Olympian gods were worshiped, and temples in their honor are not uncommon, so sometimes there is confusion about their location and names. The sights of Ancient Greece are varied and amazing, but the sanctuary of Poseidon on Cape Sounion, built in 490 BC. e., is impressive in its scale. Only the Doric marble columns have been well preserved to this day, but even they give an idea of the size of the temple.
In addition to the exceptional historical value of the place, tourists celebrate the unusually beautiful sunsets on the cape.
Theater in Epidaurus
The ancient Greek city of Epidaurus in the north-east of the Peloponnese is famous primarily for its theater, which stands out from the rest with its exceptional beauty and acoustics. It was built in 340-330. BC e. for the entertainment of noble residents of the asklepion and accommodated more than 15 thousand people. It is believed that of all the ancient Greek theaters, this one has been preserved almost in its original form. To this day, festivals and concerts are held on its stage.
Travelers call it grandiose even by modern standards. In their reviews, they recommend planning a visit to the theater in July-August. During this period, performances are held there as part of the Greek Festival.
Olympia
Do you dream of seeing the place where the Olympic Games were born? Then head to the ancient Greek Olympia - one of the largest sanctuaries in the Peloponnese. The city was built in honor of Zeus himself. Today it is an archaeological reserve with the ruins of the temples of Hera and Zeus, the ruins of early Christian basilicas, an ancient hippodrome and stadium. In total, the sanctuary includes 33 objects. It is here that the Olympic flame is lit, which is then delivered to the opening of the next Olympic Games.
In reviews, tourists compare Olympia with the Acropolis of Athens in terms of scale and splendor and recommend planning a visit not just for a couple of hours, but for the whole day.
Temple of Hephaestus in Athens
Hephaestus is the ancient Greek god of the blacksmith, patron of the craft. It is quite logical that his sanctuary should have special beauty and power. Located on the northwestern side of the Athenian agora, the Doric temple dedicated to Hephaestus is better preserved than all other ancient buildings. It was built in 449-415. BC e.
Travelers emphasize that Greece and its main attractions are, first of all, ancient temples. When visiting the capital of the country, you cannot pass by this austere and majestic building. The Temple of Hephaestus seems to have been carved out of a single block of stone.
Ancient Greek temples, acropolises, ruins and burials - all this mysteriously attracts people after thousands of years. Some of them appear on postcards and covers of guidebooks, while others are unfairly neglected. Majestic, beautiful, unique. Sometimes many of them defy description. The sights of Greece are not only monuments of national history, but also sources of information about how the ancient world lived and how it developed.
If you don’t know why Greece is called the cradle of civilization, you should definitely visit its sights. The ruins of ancient temples, amazing historical and architectural monuments show tourists how prosperous this state was. But the modern beauties of Greece also attract visitors - this is nature, beaches, and delicious local dishes. Don't know what to see in Greece? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of popular places in this country, which includes the most interesting sights of Greece.
What to see first in Greece
The centuries-old and eventful history of the country is the reason that there are a lot of attractions here. They are able to organize acquaintance with numerous tourist attractions - you can negotiate with them upon arrival or in advance, telling them about your preferences.
1. Acropolis of Athens (Athens)
Acropolis of AthensThe Acropolis has always been and still remains the calling card of Athens. Thousands of tourists come to this truly magical place every year who want to see with their own eyes the most interesting sights of Greece.
The Athenian Acropolis was able to withstand many natural disasters and destructive wars. Neither disasters nor people managed to destroy the historical structure, which amazes the imagination with its incredible forms and grandeur.
The first temples of the Acropolis were founded during archaic times. Afterwards, large-scale development of the hill began. At first this place was the residence of the king. Over time, it began to acquire architectural forms that have remained virtually untouched to this day. So gradually the Acropolis turned into a small town.
The sculptures that were located in the Acropolis were, for certain reasons, replaced with exact copies. Their originals are now in various museums in Europe. Now, instead of a majestic structure, there are only ruins. Architects are making attempts to restore individual elements of the most significant objects. It will take them many years to complete this project.
2. Panathinaikos (Athens)
Ancient Panathinaikos Stadium in Athens In the very heart of Athens there is a unique stadium of its kind, which is known to the world as Panathinaikos. Tourists pay special attention to this attraction of Greece. The oldest building was built of white marble. After the restoration of the destroyed elements, the first Olympic Games recorded in modern history were held at the stadium.
Travelers who are wondering what to visit in Greece should definitely visit Panathinaikos. In ancient times, the Panathenaic Games, which were considered the most important festival in Athens, were held in this stadium.
A major reconstruction of the stadium was carried out two centuries ago, immediately after its excavations. The work carried out was sponsored by the activist Zappas. He also financed the Olympic competitions in 1870 and 1875.
At the moment, Panathinaikos is used not only as a venue for sports competitions. The stadium also hosts various concerts and exhibitions dedicated to Greek culture. Therefore, while visiting this attraction, guests of Athens will be able to not only enjoy the views of the stadium, but also get to know its history better.
3. Temple of Olympian Zeus (Athens)
Ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens The list, which contains the sights of Greece, would not be complete if it did not include the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It is so large that it exceeds even the legendary Parthenon in size. Its construction lasted for 650 years. If you believe the famous myths, the temple was built on the site of the sanctuary of the ancestor of the Greeks, Deucalion.
Inside the architectural structure there were two huge statues. The first was made of ivory and gold. She personified the god of Olympus Zeus. The second was created in honor of Emperor Hadrian, who actively participated in the construction of the temple. Unfortunately, both statues were destroyed.
If a traveler doesn’t know what to see in Greece, then he should immediately go to Athens to visit the legendary Temple of Zeus.
Now the attraction is not in its best shape. Only one part of the temple has survived. According to assumptions, the structure was destroyed as a result of a strong earthquake. It was also probably dismantled for building materials.
The corner of the Temple of Zeus that has survived to this day consists of fourteen separate columns, two of which stand alone, and one is in a fallen state.
4. Palace of Knossos (Crete)
Knossos Palace - the place where the mythical Minotaur lived At the beginning of the last century, the Palace of Knossos was excavated and partially reconstructed, which occupies a leading position in the ranking of “Best Attractions in Greece”. Today it is one of the most visited places on the island of Crete, beloved by many tourists.
Historians consider the Palace of Knossos to be the center of the Minoan civilization, which during the years of its prosperity was the most developed state in the world. The palace consisted of more than 1,300 rooms - it is not difficult to guess that it occupied a huge area. His chambers could easily accommodate at least 12,000 people. If you believe the legends, Knossos in those days was the property of King Minos, whom many know from the myths about the famous Labyrinth and its eternal inhabitant, the Minotaur.
The Palace of Knossos had to be rebuilt several times, as it suffered greatly from earthquakes, tsunamis and fires. Two centuries ago, its large-scale reconstruction began. Archaeologist Evans, who discovered this landmark, was able to restore part of the legendary palace.
Today tourists have the opportunity to enjoy the unique architecture of that time. Evans did a good job of restoring the palace. Therefore, it is difficult for guests of the island to understand which of the existing buildings are the remains of an ancient structure, and which were recreated by the efforts of an archaeologist.
5. Temple of Apollo (Delphi)
Sacred place of Ancient Greece Temple of Apollo in Delphi In the city of Delphi, as in other resort areas, you can see interesting sights of Greece. The temple of Apollo is located here. All residents of the country had to raise money for its construction. The rulers of neighboring states also donated a large sum to the project. The rectangular structure was decorated with many pillars. Six of them were located on the facades, and fifteen were on the sides of the temple.
Many local excursions include a visit to this picturesque area. Unfortunately, the temple of Apollo has not survived to this day in its original form. Some of its parts had to be constantly restored due to collapses. During the restoration, the architects were guided by the previous construction plan, which included maintaining the shape and number of pillars.
Outside the temple you can see unusual friezes that are dedicated to the war between the centaurs and the Amazons. All the sculptural compositions of this place were created in violation of the classical form and proportions, due to which they attract the attention of tourists.
For a long time, tourists did not know about the existence of the Temple of Apollo, since it is remote from the main cities of Greece. However, over time it turned into an important architectural monument of this region.
Check out the beautiful places in Greece in this wonderful video!
6. Navagio Beach (Zakynthos Island)
Navagio beach on Zakynthos island Guests of the island of Zakynthos who are interested in the sights of Greece should definitely visit the unique Navagio beach. Travelers can only get here by ship, as this place is hidden from prying eyes.
Tourists who don't know what to see in Greece will be happy to visit Navagio, the pearl of this region. The local beach is covered with golden sand washed by crystal clear water. This is a real piece of paradise that you will never want to say goodbye to.
Navagio is also called the island of shipwrecks. This is because a smuggler's ship sank here in the past. It is still not known exactly why this happened.
The beach will delight travelers who want to take a break from noisy cities. After all, in these parts there is not even the slightest sign of civilization. Here a person begins to experience a certain isolation from the outside world, which fills him with peace and harmony. Navagio gives its guests a unique opportunity to merge with pristine nature.
When going to sunbathe, do not forget to take sunscreen and a hat with you. There is no other way to protect yourself from the sun's rays, since in clear weather there is absolutely no shade on the beach. So tourists should take care of their personal comfort in advance.
7. Meteora Monasteries (Kalambaka)
Complex of Meteora monasteries on the cliff tops of Thessaly In the northern part of Greece, near the city of Kalambaka, there is a unique place called Meteora. It is distinguished by its beauty and unusual history of appearance. In addition, there are several monasteries located here.
Under the influence of natural phenomena, over many millennia, huge stone pillars were formed, the height of which is from 300 to 600 m. Many modern climbers would not risk climbing such rocks, but this did not stop hermits from building temples there.
The sights of Greece rightfully include the Meteora monasteries. Six of them remain active now: four for men and two for women. Previously, getting to such places was problematic. You could climb the sheer cliff using a ladder, or you could be lifted in a basket using a winch. Now steps have been made in the rock for safe ascent.
The monasteries are open to pilgrims and tourists from April to September and from November to March. Arriving on weekends, you can visit all the monasteries, spending about an hour in each of them.
Restoration work has made ancient frescoes accessible for viewing. There are souvenir shops in the monasteries where you can buy something as a keepsake. The Meteora monasteries can be safely included in.
8. Lion Gate (Mycenae)
Lion Gate of the Acropolis at Mycenae Mycenae is one of the most ancient cities in Greece. When planning a trip to this country, do not miss the opportunity to visit it. Excavations in the vicinity of Mycenae are revealing new treasures, one of them is the Lion Gate . The guides will definitely tell you the history of this building.
Greek cities have their own peculiarity - they were built on a hill and protected by a powerful wall. The wall surrounding Mycenae was 900 m high and 6 to 10 m thick. The Lion Gate served as the main entrance. For their construction, four blocks weighing up to 20 tons were used. They were pre-processed, adjusting to each other in size. Above the gate there was a bas-relief with lions. According to some assumptions, he appeared a little later. Unfortunately, the heads of the animals have not survived to this day. But, according to archaeologists, they were made of gold and looked at those who entered the gate. The lions were not chosen by chance - they were considered a symbol of the Mycenaean dynasty that ruled at that time. The structure dates back to the 13th century BC.
9. Ancient Olympia (Peloponnese Peninsula)
Ancient Olympia in the Peloponnese If you are looking for what to see in Greece , visit Ancient Olympia - the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. You can come here at any time of the year. In winter you will have the opportunity to visit interesting places, and in summer you can also add relaxation on the beach.
Ancient Olympia is currently a nature reserve with museums and ancient temples located on its territory. It’s better to start getting acquainted with places located in the open air. Here it will be easy to feel the power of former buildings, including temples to Zeus, built in 470-456 BC. e., and Gere. The remains of the latter are considered the oldest and date back to 1096 BC. e.
In ancient times, people came here not only for competitions, but also to worship the gods. Near the Temple of Hera there was a stadium where the competitions took place. The Olympic flame is still lit here before the start of the games. To the west of the temple you can see the ruins of the Philippeion - a round building framed by columns. Construction was started by Philip II and completed by his son Alexander the Great. Not far from this place are the ruins of the administrative building of Ancient Olympia.
10. Mount Olympus (Thessaly region)
One of the most famous attractions of Greece - Mount Olympus - is located right on the picturesque shore of the Aegean Sea, in Thessaly. In reality, it would be easier to call Olympus three mountains. The highest mountain range includes three peaks: Mitikas, Scolio and Stefani. Each of them rises above ground level by almost 3000 meters.
The highest peak is Mytikas. It has a height of 2917 meters and falls into the picturesque abyss of Kazan. It is not surprising that the gods of Ancient Greece chose this picturesque place as their place of residence. The “Throne of Zeus” is still preserved here – the top of Stephanie resembles a luxurious throne.
Today it is difficult to imagine the sights of Greece without Mount Olympus. They are a National Nature Reserve and are protected by UNESCO. The status of a National Park was assigned to these beautiful places back in 1938. In 1981, UNESCO named the Mountains of the Gods of Greece "Part of the World Natural Heritage." The mountains received another status in 1985. Then they were recognized as part of the “Archaeological and Historical Heritage”.
The national park invites tourists to enjoy exquisite natural scenery. The mountains today are inhabited by mountain goats, hedgehogs, deer, squirrels, wolves, wild boars, and foxes. You can climb to Olympus using special lifts. Climbers conquer the peaks on their own.
Sights of Greece: what else to visit while in Greece
Absolutely all travelers talk about how amazing they are, and you can be one of them by simply studying the list of the most interesting attractions before traveling. Photos and descriptions will become important criteria when choosing where to go after arriving in the territory of Ancient Hellas.
11. Santorini Island (Aegean Sea, Cycledes archipelago)
Beautiful and romantic island of Santorini This small island is considered one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Greece. Legends say that in ancient times Santorini broke away from Libya as a result of a natural disaster or was created from a special piece of land split off from this country by the gods. When assessing what to see in Greece, you must definitely include the island of Santorini in this list.
Geologists' findings confirm this legend. The island became a reminder of an ancient geological catastrophe. The French geologist F. Fouquet called Santorini the Pompeii of the Aegean Sea. Scientists have established that the tectonic fault that highlighted this beautiful territory occurred in the Tertiary period.
The island was home to an ancient, advanced civilization that was buried by a volcanic eruption around 1500 BC. This catastrophe in those ancient times destroyed many cities of Crete.
The sights of Greece without this island would not be so romantic. Today Santorini continues to be a volcano. Moreover, it is the largest active volcano on the planet, the eruptions of which gradually made the general outlines of Santorini crescent-shaped. The island will delight tourists with its beautiful landscapes and incredibly pleasant climate.
12. Palace of the Grand Masters (Rhodes Island)
One of the legendary historical monuments of Greece, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is the Palace of the Grand Masters. The first owners and builders of the Palace were the legendary knights of the Order of St. John - the Hospitallers.
They ruled Rhodes from 1309 to 1522. That is, more than 200 years. It was from the Palace of the Grand Masters that during these two centuries they ruled virtually the entire territory of the Eastern Mediterranean. 19 masters sat here, on whose will all decisions made by the Hospitallers depended.
The beautiful island of Rhodes was previously the center of power in this territory. The Palace of the Grand Masters was erected on the site of the former Temple of Helios and the Byzantine fortress that replaced it. During the time of the Templars, the pompous and luxurious palace was used as a venue for ceremonial receptions and negotiations.
Today, the palace constantly hosts two major exhibitions. One tells about the times of the Crusaders. By examining the second one, you can learn about the life of the island’s inhabitants during antiquity. The exhibition occupies more than 205 halls.
13. Windmills of Mykonos (Cyclades Islands)
Mykonos - the island of windmills One of the main attractions and calling card of Mykonos island are the windmills. When the ship just approaches the shores of the island, you can see a breathtaking spectacle of rotating windmills.
The first mentions of mills were found in the notes of travelers who visited Greece in the 12th-13th centuries. Even then they amazed with their grandeur and beauty. This is not surprising, because the construction of such buildings required the same amount of effort as the construction of a huge sailing ship. Another important detail was the careful selection of the location for their construction. Typical of this area are mills in the form of round towers, built of stone. Thatch was most often used for the roof.
In ancient times there were more than 600 mills. They worked almost around the clock. The favorable location of the island contributed to the successful trade in flour. Now there are only 7 of them left, and even those are not used for their intended purpose. They contain exhibition halls, restaurants and cafes that can be visited by anyone. One of the mills is used as a hotel where tourists can spend an unforgettable time on one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
14. Melissani Cave Lake (Kefalonia Island)
The purest cave lake Melissani on the island of Kefalonia The Greek island of Kefalonia is famous for its various architectural monuments and amazing nature, which attracts tourists. What to visit in Greece and where you should definitely visit is of interest to many vacationers. The main attraction remains the lake in the Melissani cave. The water in it is so clean and transparent that you can see that you are ten meters deep.
The existence of the cave was discovered relatively recently, when a shepherd accidentally found it. This happened in 1951, after which excavations began in this place, and since 1963 the cave and lake were open to everyone.
The approximate size of the cave is 160x40 m, its entire territory is occupied by a lake. After the earthquake, part of the vaults was destroyed, resulting in an opening at the top that illuminates the cave. Another unusual phenomenon is water that is both salty and fresh. Salt water is brought in by currents from the Ionian Sea, located 14 km away.
Archaeological excavations have revealed that in ancient times this place was used to worship Pan, the god of fertility and shepherding. There is also a legend that the appearance of the lake is associated with the unrequited love of the nymph Melissana for the god Pan. Her shed tears turned into water. According to tradition, couples who visit this place must hold hands and lower them into the water together so that the love will be long and strong. And those who have not yet found their half are advised to wash themselves with lake water.
To enjoy all the beauty of the lake, you first need to go through a narrow corridor and get to the pier. It is best to do this at noon.
15. Valley of the Butterflies (Rhodes Island)
Tropical Wildlife Park - Butterfly Valley in Rhodes One of the most amazing places on the island of Rhodes is the Valley of the Butterflies. Local residents gave it their name - Petaloudes. This amazing reserve is located 30 km from the city of Rhodes and is a park near the gorge.
What to see in Greece and what place will you remember for a long time? If you ask this question, be sure to visit the reserve. Only here can one observe such a fantastic spectacle as myriads of multi-colored moths flocking together. They are attracted by the smell of styrax. During the day they usually sleep, perched on the branches of bushes or styrax trees. And a sharp sound or awkward movement is enough to wake up the red-winged beauties.
Butterflies gather during the mating season from May to September. They should not be disturbed at this time. For tourists hungry for new discoveries and knowledge, a museum has been created in the reserve.
In addition to butterflies, you can see lizards basking in the sun or some rare birds. They like to roost near waterfalls or on rocks.
You can get to the Valley of Butterflies by climbing the path leading up the mountain. The journey is not easy, and it is better to prepare comfortable shoes in advance. Those who make it to the top will be treated to another surprise - the opportunity to visit the seventeenth-century monastery built by Alexander Ypsilanti.
16. Achilleion Palace (Gastouri village)
Top view of Achilleion Palace on Corfu island Northern Greece hides limitless travel opportunities, endless sea expanses, picturesque mountains, and breathtaking gorges. The attractions of the north, however, are not limited to nature. On the island of Corfu, in the capital of Kerkyra, there is an architecturally significant monument - the Achilleion Palace, built at the end of the 19th century. The complex has a second name - “the palace of the sad empress”, which is associated with the history of the acquisition of these lands by Empress Elizabeth, who experienced a number of family tragedies and found solace in the tranquility of the picturesque region. In the palace garden, the princess, inspired by mythology, placed a number of sculptures of ancient Greek gods, and decorated the interior of the palace with wall paintings and carved furniture, the decor of which reproduces images of mythological characters. After a tour of Achilleion, from the shores of Corfu you can sail straight to the Italian shores and visit the sights of Italy - here the two countries are separated from each other by only a hundred kilometers of sea space.
17. Ancient Greek city of Delphi (Phocis region)
Ruins of a theater in the ancient Greek city of Delphi If you are exploring the sights of Ancient Greece briefly, without having the opportunity for a long tour, you should definitely visit Delphi - this is an ancient Greek religious center, the birthplace of numerous myths and legends, and now a large archaeological reserve. The ruins of former structures rest on the slope of Mount Parnassus, 10 kilometers from the Gulf of Corinth, at an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level. It’s hard to believe, but the ancient city is more than 3 thousand years old! Its rich history can be traced in such archaeological monuments as the Temple of Apollo with the Delphic Oracle, the Treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Athena Pronaia, the stadium, the amphitheater, and the ancient gymnasium. After wandering through the numerous ruins, you can go to the local museum of ancient Greek culture or go 1.5 km from the ancient city to a miniature town where there are hotels, restaurants and other amenities for guests.
18. Aquarium of Crete (Gourne)
People watch a shark in the Annatsach Aquarium of Crete When choosing attractions in Greece for children, your travel itinerary should definitely include a trip to the island of Crete, to the town of Gourne, which is famous among tourists for its giant aquarium, which is a complex of buildings with huge tanks where you can see a wide variety of marine fauna. In total, there are 60 exhibition containers, which are home to about 2.5 thousand different marine organisms, represented by approximately 250 species. The design of the tanks most accurately follows the natural topography of the seabed, which creates the feeling of being somewhere in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. A walk through the complex, equipped with beautiful lighting, turns into an exciting journey through the depths of the sea, which arouses genuine interest among both children and adults.
19. Medieval city of Rhodes
Panoramic view of medieval buildings of the city of Rhodes The historical treasure of Greece is the medieval city of Rhodes, a priceless open-air museum. In this city, everything from walls and gates to fortresses and temples preserves the rich history of the city and Greece as a whole. Rhodes was founded in the 5th century BC. and over its vast history it has experienced a series of striking events that left their mark on the city’s architecture. In general, the city consists of 2 parts: one of them is modern, with a developed tourist infrastructure, the second is ancient, the so-called Old Town. What can be seen today in the Old Town is a number of buildings dating back to the Middle Ages: powerful walls with 11 entrances, of which only 5 remain in working order, the oldest synagogue in the country from the 16th century, the immense Rhodes Fortress from the time of the Knightly Order, a church St. Panteleimon of the 14th century, the Acropolis with the remains of an ancient theater, and finally, the Colossus of Rhodes - more precisely, what is left of the monument to the ancient Greek god Helios.
20. Ancient city of Mystras (Sparta)
Metropolia - one of the oldest monasteries of the medieval city of Mystras In the southernmost part of mainland Greece, the Laconia region, there are two prominent ancient Greek cities - Sparta and Mystras. And if even people far from traveling have heard about the first, only researchers and a few tourists traveling within the Peloponnese are familiar with the second. Mystras, founded by the Crusaders in the 13th century, is located on the steep slopes of the Taygetos Mountains. Now it is an abandoned ghost town, which for many centuries has kept intact the most valuable historical monuments - the remains of houses, fortifications, churches, monasteries and the ruins of a medieval castle on a hill. Today Mystras is a small village that can be reached by car or bus from Sparta in a matter of minutes. In order to get to the protected archaeological zone, you will need to climb up from the settlement along one of two paths, one of which leads to the Upper City, the second to the lower buildings.
21. Holy Mount Athos (Chalkidiki Peninsula)
One of the twenty "ruling" monasteries on Mount Athos in Greece For any Christian, Holy Mount Athos is a place full of deepest meaning. This is the land of monasticism, a kind of state within a state, living according to its own spiritual laws. For example, the monks here use the old style calendar - the Julian, and their monastic republic is not subject to secular authority, but to the Patriarchate of Constantinople. This region is called the inheritance of the Most Holy Theotokos - the Virgin Mary protects the peace of the monastic brethren. In the lap of untouched Athonite nature there are twenty monasteries, among which one is Russian. An important point: only men can set foot on the holy land, and even they will have to obtain special permission for this. But do not forget that the land of Athos is divided into two parts - religious and ordinary, where women can also come. Since the coastline of the Halkidiki peninsula extends 20-30 km deep into the Aegean Sea, there are countless beaches concentrated here.
22. Acropolis of Lindos (Lindos)
Remains of the ancient temple of Athena of the 4th century BC on the southern edge of the acropolis in Linda For those who are traveling to Greece for the first time and have limited time, we recommend making a route of what to see in Greece in a week. It should include the most iconic, religious places that will form the overall portrait of this Balkan country. And one of them should definitely include the city of Lindos, located on the island of Rhodes not far from its capital. According to historical data, the ancient city was founded in the 12th century BC. Here, on the top of the hill, is the Acropolis, with a long staircase with many flights leading to the ancient buildings. The entire ancient city is located on several levels: interesting objects of the first level include relief rock carvings of the Podium and a ship, on the second there is a knight's fortress and a temple of Roman times, on the third - the Portico and the ruins of a Byzantine church, on the last - the temple of Athena of Lindia.
23. Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia Island)
Exotic Myrtos beach of the picturesque island of Kefalonia The Greek island of Kefalonia also has its own interesting places that are valued for their pristine natural beauty. These include Myrtos Beach - a cozy and secluded sandy corner by the sea, hidden among huge, green hills. Myrtos is one of the most picturesque and clean, from an environmental point of view, beaches in the world. The strip of sandy beach has a rounded shape, and from its western part in the evening there are excellent views of the sunset. Despite its pristine appearance, Myrtos is well equipped for relaxation - there are sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, bars, although the other part of it still remains untouched by civilization, representing an ideal place for complete isolation, silence and solitude. You can get to the beach along a paved road that leads to the coast itself, where there is a small parking lot.
24. Venetian harbor of Chania (Crete)
Venetian harbor in the city of Chania in northern Crete About 3 thousand islands surrounding the Balkan Peninsula are island Greece . The sights of Crete make a huge contribution to the country's treasury, due to the huge number of memorable sites and interesting objects collected on this island. The Venetian harbor of Chania is one of them. It was built in the 14th century during the period of Venetian rule, and today it is the heart of the Old Town of Chania. Only a few of them remain today from the ancient Venetian fortifications; the best preserved are the Firkas bastion, as well as the covered docks, the customs building, and finally, the recognizable symbol of Chania - the Egyptian lighthouse. Today, the harbor is one of the favorite places to relax - along the coastline there are many bars, restaurants and cafes, sitting in which you can not only taste Mediterranean cuisine, but also admire the beautiful sea panorama.
25. Samaria Gorge (Lefka Ori Mountains)
Hiking trail in the Samaria Gorge on the island of Crete Often, a trip to the cult places of Greece takes place in bustle and constant travel, which it is advisable to dilute with a more relaxing holiday - for example, by going to the island of Crete, where there are such non-tourist places in Greece that are famous for their pristine nature, with its inherent atmosphere of calm and detachment. One of these places is the Samaria Gorge, located in the Lefka Ori mountain range. It has the official status of a national park, and there are several hiking routes of varying difficulty, filled with the fantastic beauty of these places. Most of the gorge is made up of thickets of pines, oaks and cypresses, and more than 400 species of plants, mostly endemic. The total length of the gorge is about 13 kilometers, the height you need to climb varies from 200 to 1000 meters, and in total this unforgettable hike will take about 6 hours.
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Sights of Greece. The most interesting and main attractions of cities and regions of Greece: photos and descriptions, location and useful information for tourists. What you can see in Greece on the mainland and islands.
Heart, and main attraction of Greece in every sense - the capital, the city Athens. The city's name comes from the Greek goddess of wisdom, Athena. A city whose title as the cradle of Western civilization is undeniable. During a visit to Athens is the main point of the inspection program main attractions of Greece. The structure of the city is unique in that all the main attractions are concentrated in one place - the area of the Athens Acropolis. Great Greeks such as Socrates, Aristotle, Plato, Euripides, Sophocles and Aeschylus are associated with this historical place.
The Acropolis is located at an altitude of 156 meters on a rocky hill. In its immediate vicinity are the Theater of Dionysus, the National Archaeological Museum, the Temple of Zeus and many others.
Much north of the Greek capital is the ancient city of Delphi, which houses the magnificent Temple of Apollo, famous as the site of the Pythian Games. The temple is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and was a place of pilgrimage for many Greeks. Also located here are the Temple of Athena, the Stone of Sibyl and the “Navel of the Earth”.
The second largest city in Greece is also the capital of northern Macedonia. Thessaloniki is the oldest city in Europe. The city has a lot of greenery, squares and wonderful cozy streets. The city center is Platia Aristotelous and Platia Eleftherias squares, which are always filled with crowds of people. Also take a walk along the embankment, where there are many restaurants and cafes.
A peninsula whose name is heard every time interesting places in Greece are mentioned. The most famous place on the peninsula is the ruins of Olympia, where the Olympic Games were held. Here are the remains of the world's oldest stadium, where the world's first sporting competition was held in 776 BC. In the area adjacent to the stadium is the Olympic Village, which includes the Temple of Hera, a gymnasium and baths. In the northeastern part of the peninsula is the city of Epidaurus, famous for its ancient theater, the construction of which dates back to the 3rd century BC. The theater has been perfectly preserved and even today has excellent acoustics.
Mycenae
At a distance of 90 km in the direction of the southwest, Mycenae is located - one of the most important centers of ancient Greek culture. According to legend, the builder of the city was Perseus. This city was sung by the great Homer as “a kingdom drowning in gold and wealth.” The main attractions of Mycenae: the tomb of Agamemnon, the royal palace and the Lion Gate.
The main attractions of Greece - video
Olympus
Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, is located 100 kilometers from Thessaloniki. From mythology we know that for the Greeks this mountain was the “House of the Gods,” namely the dozens of main gods whom they worshiped. Geologically, Olympus is a mountain range consisting of 52 peaks, the highest of which is Mount Olympus (2,917 meters).
On the slopes of the mountain there is a magnificent National Park with beautiful plants.
Crete
The largest island located in Greek territorial waters. Known largely due to ancient myths. It was the center of the Minoan civilization, the oldest in Europe. One of the most important mythological moments in the history of the island is the myth of the Minotaur (man-bull) and the brave Theseus, who defeated him. The myth of Daedalus and Icarus is also directly related to the island of Crete.
Interesting places to visit in Greece are the island Santorini, famous for the eruption of the volcano of the same name and the beautiful lagoon formed on the site of the crater, and the island Rhodes, according to legend, turned by knights into a fortress in order to protect Christians from the aggression of pagans advancing from the east.
This was a short story about top tourist attractions in Greece. If you want to know more, go and see everything with your own eyes.
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