Athens

L'Olympieion (Athènes) (30776483926)

Map athenian empire 431 BC-no

The Parthenon in Athens

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The Clocktower of Andronicus Cyrrhestes (Tower of the Winds) at night on May 19, 2021

At the Byzantine Monastery of Daphni on October 31, 2019

Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece. Located in the Attica region, Athens is known for its rich history, being the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. The city's historical significance is evident in its ancient monuments and works of art, the most famous being the Parthenon on the Acropolis of Athens, a symbol of the glory of ancient Greece.

History

Athens has a long history that dates back to the Neolithic age. By the 15th century BC, it had become a powerful city-state known for its cultural achievements during the 5th century BC, which is often referred to as the "Golden Age of Athens". Under the leadership of Pericles, Athens saw the construction of the Parthenon and experienced a flourishing of the arts, literature, and philosophy. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, three of history's most influential philosophers, were active in Athens during this period.

The city's power declined after its defeat by Sparta in the Peloponnesian War, but it remained an important cultural and educational center during Roman and Byzantine times. After falling under Ottoman rule, Athens was liberated in the 19th century and became the capital of the modern Greek state.

Geography

Athens is situated in the southern part of the mainland of Greece. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with the Saronic Gulf to the south. The Athens Metropolitan Area is home to over 3 million people, making it the most populous metropolitan area in Greece.

Culture

Athens is a city with a wealth of cultural heritage. It is home to many ancient monuments and museums, including the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, which houses the world's largest collection of Greek antiquities. The city's cultural calendar is filled with festivals, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

Economy

The economy of Athens is diverse, with sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and services playing significant roles. Tourism, in particular, is a vital industry, driven by the city's historical sites and cultural attractions.

Education

Athens is a center for education in Greece, hosting the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the Technical University of Athens, and other higher education institutions. These universities are among the oldest and most prestigious in the country, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Transport

The city has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trolleys, trams, and the Athens Metro. The Athens International Airport serves as the main gateway to the country for international travelers.

Sports

Athens has a rich sporting history and hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The city also hosted the 2004 Summer Olympics, which led to significant improvements in its infrastructure and sports facilities.

See Also

• History of Athens
• Culture of Greece
• Economy of Greece
• Education in Greece