Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture. It also happens to be one of the top travel destinations in the world.
Here are five interesting facts about this ancient city.
1. Birthplace of Democracy
Athens was the birthplace of democracy. The city-state of Athens was the first civilization to develop a system of democratic government, in which citizens had the power to make decisions through voting. This system served as a model for later democratic societies.
2. The Acropolis
The Acropolis of Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel that sits atop a hill in the center of Athens. It is home to several iconic ancient structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. These structures were built between the 5th and 4th centuries BCE and are considered some of the most important examples of ancient Greek architecture.
3. Philosophers and Playwrights
Athens is known for its intellectual and artistic achievements. In ancient times, Athens was a center of learning and the arts. Famous philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle lived and taught in the city, and it was also home to famous playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.
4. Olympic Games
The ancient Olympic Games were a religious festival held every four years in honor of the god Zeus. The games, which included athletic competitions, were first held in Olympia, but were later held in other cities, including Athens. The Olympic Games were so important to the ancient Greeks that they were even declared a “sacred truce” during which warring city-states would put down their arms to participate.
5. Continuously Inhabited
The city of Athens has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a rich history and culture that has been shaped by various civilizations, including the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.
