Athens 101: Getting to Know Greece
The Greek city of Athens is one of the most enchanting cities in the world. Athens is not only the largest city and capital of Greece but also one of the leading cities of Europe. Athens was designated capital of the modern Greek state in 1834. Some of the most famous archaeological monuments are found in Athens which is also the place where the idea of democracy first evolved. Athens today is a modern cosmopolitan city with a population of around 3.5 million people residing within its urban limits. The city is the commercial, social, and financial nerve center of Greece.
The city of Athens is located within the Attica periphery. Mountains circle the city from the north and east. The Saronic Gulf is located at the southern and western ends of the city. The combination of a sunny year-round climate and mild winters make Athens an attractive tourist destination. The city of Athens has a large number of museums, theaters, concert halls, and famous sporting clubs. In addition it has a vibrant night life that beckons both locals as well as tourists.
The urban landscape of the city of Athens is a collage of several architectural styles such as Greco-Roman and Neo-Classical. The Syntagma Square is the central square in the city of Athens. The Parliament buildings are located here. The square is also a major junction from where all forms of public transportation can be easily availed for any point in Athens.
The successful hosting of the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens led to major infrastructural improvements in the city. These include upgradation of the Athens Metro system and inauguration of the Attiki Odos Motorway.
March 30th, 2009 at 9:31 am
I am planning a trip for this summer. Can you recommend anything? I am 21 years old, female and from Orlando, FL.
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