A UNESCO World Heritage tour of Greece
Greece was among the most prominent of the ancient civilisations, and the archaeological remains dotted across the country stand testament to its former glory. Anybody who has picked up a Greek classic like Plato or Aristotle, or even dipped into a Grecian history book, will no doubt have been infected by the urge to discover more about this fascinating civilisation.
Now, with budget airlines servicing the country and companies like Holiday Autos offering cheap deals on car hire, it’s easy to visit the scenes of past glories. Before you begin your epic journey, make sure that you have a good guide book that will ensure you get the most out of Greece’s numerous attractions. On a more practical note, you should also check that you are well insured – driving around Greece can be hazardous, so it’s worth making sure your car insurance includes holiday cover. If not, a company like Co-operative Insurance offers cheap deals that should help keep your costs down. Once you’ve arranged the practicalities, here are the three UNESCO World Heritage monuments you just can’t miss.
The Athenian Acropolis
The most iconic symbol of Greece has been central to the country’s image for thousands of years. It was built in the fifth century BC and dedicated to the goddess Athena, although pottery shards show that the hill was inhabited as early as the Neolithic period. The most important buildings visible on the Acropolis today – the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion on the temple of Athena Nike, were erected during the time of Perikles under the supervision of the greatest architects, sculptors and artists of the time. They are well preserved, and provide a fascinating insight into ancient Greek society for the many tourists who visit each year.
The Temple of Apollo Epiourios
One of the most important buildings of antiquity, the temple of Apollo stands within the bare and rocky landscape of Bassae. It has been dated to proximately 400 BC, and is believed to be the work of the famous ancient architect Iktinos. Well worth a look, particularly for the beautiful frieze that runs along the temple walls.
Delphi
Any book on ancient Greek civilisation will mention the Oracle at Delphi – kings, generals and laymen all went there for advice on important personal and public matters. Delphi was regarded by the ancient Greeks as the centre of the world, and according to mythology it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus to find the navel of the world met. Now, the archaeological remains of the ancient sanctuary lie within stunning landscape and provide a rare chance to experience the embodiment of ancient legends.
Other UNESCO World Heritage must-sees in Greece include the ancient civilisation of Mycenae and Epidaurus, a small ancient city in the Peloponnese.
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