Attika

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Kori

Attica borders Sterea Ellada (Central Greece) to the north and the Saronic Gulf to the south.

In Sounion, the sanctuaries of Poseidon and Athena, in Vravrona the sanctuary of Artemis, in Rhamnous that of Nemesis, in Marathon the famous victory of the Greeks against the Persians, in Eleusis (Elefsina) the sanctuary of Demeter, as well as Byzantine monuments such as Kaisariani and Daphni monasteries.

The visitor based in Athens can enjoy the sea or a mountain by travelling just a few kilometres.

Another special characteristic is the great variety of landscapes -from its beautiful mountains Parnitha, Penteli, and Hymettus to the seaside, teeming with life, especially in the summer, around the clock to daybreak.

ATHENS
The capital of Greece took its name from the goddess Athena, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. This is where democracy was born. This is where that marvel of architecture, the Parthenon was created. This is where art became inseparable from life and this is where Pericles gave the funerary speech, that monument of the spoken word.

Athens is the symbol of freedom, art, and democracy in the conscience of the civilized world.

In Athens memory never fades. Wherever you stand, wherever you turn, the city's long and rich history will be alive in front of you.

In the centre of town are two hills, the Acropolis with the monuments from the Age of Pericles, and Lycabettus with the picturesque chapel of Ai Giorgis.

Athens today is a modern city, alive and on the go. Modern but romantic as well, with busy streets and squares, shop windows a riot of colours, as well as little alleys in quiet, peaceful neighbourhoods such as Plaka and Metz.

In the countless shops, the visitor will find whatever he may need. In the tavernas and restaurants he can enjoy any taste sensation in the night clubs, pubs, discos, and bars he can drink and dance the night away. Because in Athens, the fun never stops before daylight.

PIRAEUS
Piraeus (Pireas) has been the port of Athens since antiquity. The modern city, built on top of the ancient city is a major shipping and financial centre. All the ships that link the capital with island Greece and the rest of the world leave from the historic port. Piraeus is to the southwest of Athens, about 10 km. from the centre of town. It is connected to the city busses and the Athens metro.

Beyond the port, the most impressive spots are the hills of Profitis llias and Kastela with their neoclassical mansions and modern buildings which look as if they are hanging over the sea.

Piraeus's little natural harbours are among its busiest and most touristy areas: Mikrolimano, Passalimani, Zea, Freatida and Hatzikiriakio. Countless seaside tavernas provide delicious seafood washed down with the uniquely Greek drink, ouzo. The fresh smell of the sea and the sounds made by the assortment of caiques, yachts and sailing ships, which are moored next to the tables, complete the enjoyment of the food.

SARONIC GULF ISLANDS

A group of small islands lies in the Saronic Gulf, to the south of Attica.

Aegina
Famous for its pottery, is covered with pistachio trees. Its beautiful green villages are surrounded by pine forests. Aegina is also the home to one of antiquity's most famous temples, to Aphaia.

Salamina
Closer to the mainland, is the largest island in the group. It has some beaches, the ruins of an acropolis, and the Phaneromeni monastery which has notable frescos.

Poros
A bit further out, its immaculate beaches slide out of the pine forest. The picturesque Zoodohou Pigis monastery is worth a visit.

Hydra
The island is famous for its maritime tradition, as is Spetses. The Hora is picturesque and beautiful, with high and colourful sea captains mansions lining the waterfront while a stark gray hill rises in the background. Between the mansions are narrow streets with tavernas and shops, where the foreigners gather after they reach the small port of this charming island.

Spetses
Charming horse-drawn carriages are the form of travel in style, as cars are not allowed on the cobbled streets. Bougainvilleas overflow the white - washed garden walls that enclose the pebbled yards of the mansions. Antique cannon decoratively guard the scenic harbour, and the d,ozens of shops and cafes that line the shore. Arresting, green beaches on the back side of the island can be reached by caiques.