Much better weather today for our trip to the Acropolis. It is on the top of a huge rocky hill and can be soon from all across Athens. We walked up to the ticket office where enormous queues form in the summer, but there was no one in front of us and we got straight in.
On the way up we passed the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Mr Atticus was born in 101 ad, was very wealthy and built a massive outdoor theatre. It has been restored and hosts concerts with very famous artists.
What I am finding interesting is how many ancient Greek words are still in use today.
Then it was up to see the Parthenon, one of the world's most famous buildings.
It's about 2,500 years old, so not too surprising that it's having a few repairs at the moment.
There are quite a few other buildings on the Acropolis, and my favourite was called the Erechtheion. The best bit is the columns holding up a corner of the building in the shape of beautiful ladies, and called the Porch of the Caryatids.
It's a much more manageable size than the Parthenon and could even almost be called cosy.
Side view including pose by Darren and an ancient olive tree allegedly planted by the Goddess Athena.
After our visit we climbed a hill opposite to get a great view of the whole area.
Finally, we went to see the hourly changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier.
It's a strange ritual in interesting outfits. Apparently the slow march and raised legs are to get the circulation going again after standing totally still for an hour on duty. I don't know the background of the shoe pompoms, but it makes for a very nice photo or two.
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