Athens (continued)

9/14/01

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Once on top of the Acropolis (about a twenty minute walk), we were presented with a spectacular view of Athens in all directions and then we saw the Parthenon in all its glory (248).  Work began on the building in 447 BC and was completed in just nine years.  All columns swell in the middle and lean slightly inward, creating the grandeur of one of the world's most famous buildings.  Over the years, this temple has been much damaged and it has served as a church, a mosque and an arsenal.

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Various views from the top of the Acropolis, including Lykavittos Hill (254), at 910 feet, the tallest point in Athens. On top sits the Chapel of St. George, built in the 19th century. The Greek flag at the top of the Acropolis flew at half staff (257), as did flags throughout Europe, honoring the victims of the terrorist attacks.  At lunch this day, and throughout Europe, a several minute period of silence was observed. 

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Two theaters were visible from the top of the Acropolis and are at the base of the hill. One is the Theater of Dionysos (263), built about 330 BC.  The other is the Theater of Herodes Atticus (265-266).  This theater was restored in 1955 and is still used today for concerts, one of which was being set up as we visited.

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