subject: Greece Hotels: Explore Ancient Worlds While On Holiday [print this page] Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, Greece is a must-see for lovers of ancient history. The countrys islands are jam-packed with remnants of ancient civilisations and offer access to numerous historical sites detailed in ancient Greek myths and stories. The Greece hotels available offer a broad range of accommodations in locations throughout the Greek Isles. Hotel staff can often help arrange excursions and visits to numerous popular sites as well as recommend lesser known hidden gems. Regardless of your specific itinerary, here are some renowned sites that history buffs shouldnt miss when visiting Greece.
The Acropolis, Athens
As one of the best-known buildings in the world and an iconic symbol of the Greek civilisation, the Acropolis guards the city of Athens from a large flat-topped mountain just outside of the city. It served as a place of shelter and defence since at least 6 BC and contains the ruins of numerous temples, including the Parthenondedicated to the goddess Athena, the alleged protector of Athens. Visitors to the Acropolis can enjoy the amazing view of the city of Athens, as well as explore the historical site and a museum of artefacts found on the site.
Delphi
Located near the legendary Mt. Parnassus, the mythical home of Pan and the nymphs, the ruins of Delphi hold immense historical significance. The ancient Greek civilisation believed that Delphi was the centre of the world with an oracle capable of fore-telling the destiny of kings and common people alike. Today, you can explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, as well as numerous treasures where people paid tithes to him. Numerous athletic statues still stand on the site, as does an ancient gymnasium, fountains and a historic theatre.
Knossos
This site holds the ruins of the ancient palace of King Minos, the king of the Minoan civilisation. Acknowledged as the philosophical and ceremonial capital of the Minoan people, Knossos is the largest Bronze-age site in Crete. Visitors can explore the maze of ruins at the heart of the ancient palace, often referred to as the 'Labryinth', where the Greek hero Theseus allegedly slew the half-man, half-bull minotaur.
Olympia
This sanctuary, located on Ilia at the base of Mt. Kronion, is known as the ancient site of the Olympic Games and the sacred place of the Greek God Zeus. Visitors to the site can explore numerous temples and treasures, as well as a gymnasium, hippodrome and stadium.
New archaeological sites are discovered in Greece on a regular basis so make sure to talk to the staff at your hotel for the must-see ruins in the area you choose. Whether you want a whirlwind tour of important Greek historical sites or leisurely discovery of just one or two, the array of superb Greece hotels on offer can ensure you get everything you want from your ancient explorations, and more.
by: Kate Taylor
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