Attica - General Information

Attica

Attica (Attiki) borders Sterea Ellada to the north and the Saronic Gulf to the south. Athens, the capital of Greece, and Pireaus, the major port, are in Attica.

The climate is mediterranean, pleasant and healthy due to its distinctive dryness. Washed by the celebrated Attica light, it is full of memories of the past: 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 (Elfsina) the sanctuary of Demeter, as well as Byzantine monuments such as Kaisariani and Daphni monasteries. The visitor based in Athens can enjoy either sea or mountains by travelling just a few kilometres.

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

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 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 civilised world. In Athens the 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 there are two hills, the Acropolis with the monuments from the age of Pericles and Lycabetus with the picturesque chapel of Ag. Giorgis.


Athens today is a modern city, busy and vibrant. Modern but also romantic, with lively streets and squares, shop windows a riot of colours, and narrow streets in neighbourhoods such as Plaka and Mets.

Athens - Pottery pieces found in Athenian gift shops

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.

Pireaus

Pireaus (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 the islands of Greece and the rest of the world, leave from this historic port.

Piraeus is to the south-west of Athens, around 10km from the centre of town. It is connected to the city by buses and the Metro. Beyond the port, the most impressive spots are the hills of Profitis Ilias and Kastela with their neo-classical mansions and modern buildings which look as if they are hanging over the sea.

Piraeus' small natural harbours are among the busiest and most popular tourist 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 of an assortment of caiques, yachts and sailing ships, which are moored next to the tables, complete the ambience and atmosphere.

Saronic Gulf Islands

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

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

Salamina, is much closer to the mainland and is also the largest island in the group. It has beaches, the ruins of an acropolis, and the Phaneromeni monastery notable for its frescoes.

Poros, with its immaculate beaches sliding out of the pine forests and the picturesque Zoodohou Pigis monastery is well worth a visit.

Hydra (Idra) is next in line. The island is famous for its maritime tradition. Hora is picturesque and beautiful, with high and colourful sea captains mansions lining the waterfront while a stark grey hill rises in the background. Between the mansions are narrow streets with tavernas and shops, where people visit when they reach the small port of this charming island.

Spetses also famed for its maritime tradition, is furthest from Athens. Charming horse-drawn carriages are the form of travel, as cars are not allowed on the cobbled streets. Bougainvillaea flow over the white washed garden walls that enclose the pebbled yards of the mansions. Antique cannons decoratively guard the scenic harbour and the dozens of shops and cafes that line the shore. Arresting green beaches on the back of the island can be reached by caique.