Greece Trip - Lykavittos Hill & Friday Market

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Feb. 29 2008
Today, we visit both the Byzantine & Benaki Museums, they are located on the same street and neighborhood. A short walk through the National Garden gets us there. From the fall of Roman in 476 AD to the fall of Constantinople in 1453 the Byzantine Empire dominated the Mediterranean. The wealthy Orthodox Church was the most important political and artistic influence during the Byzantine era. This museum is filled with the legacy that was left behind. Tim is a huge fan of religious art, this was a great museum for him. The Benaki Museum gives a vast panoramic experience of Greek history, from Stone Age (7000 BC) through to the 20th century. There is a wonderful rooftop cafe at the Benaki, a really nice place to take a break.

From the museums, we head up to Lykavittos Hill. Again, Athens is surrounded by mountains and large hills. On the way to Lykavittos Hill, we pass through one of Athens most elite neighborhoods. The hills are very steep, steeper than Seattle or San Francisco, but it’s a pleasant hike to the funicular, which we take to the very top of Lykavittos Hill. We see many folks twice our age walking up..... so what can we do?

Once at the top of Lykavittos Hill, another lovely view of Athens and the ancient areas. We can see many rooftop pools in this neighborhood. Agios Georgios Church sits on top of Lykavittos Hill, the highest point in modern day Athens. Service is held both inside and out of this church, and the church can be seen from miles around. Every summer there are concerts held in the theater at the top of the hill, just under the church and cafe. There are a number of paths, but they are very steep. We ride the Funicular back down the hill and walk right into the Friday Market in the Kolonaki neighborhood. Athenians are busy buying fresh produce and other local favorites. A pleasant sight.

We get a good suggestion for dinner tonight and we enjoy some very fine lamb dinners. The evening walks have been so great! We feel very safe and encounter no problems. The ancient ruin sites are all lit at night and make the most beautiful backdrop around every corner.

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Photos

Palace Stray
This stray was chasing cars in front of the Presidential Palace.

Lykavittos Hill View
Amazing view from up here.

Lykavittos Hill Theater
There are a number of different concerts held here during the summer months.

Agios Georgios Church
On top of Lykavittos Hill.

Comments

[CM]

what a setting
what a setting for a concert - it's gorgeous!