Athens is the biggest city of Greece and it is also one of the biggest cities of Europe. The population of Athens is over 3 million people, which is almost 40% of the total population of the country. Athens is frequently called the centre of the world. In this city you can find almost anything - on one side this is a city of a rich cultural heritage, and on the other side Athens is a large scientific centre. By the way, don't forget that Athens has given birth to the Olympic Games. This tremendous city is full of surprises and contrasts.
The Acropolis and the Parthenon. The Acropolis is usually called the symbol of Athens. It is nearly impossible to find a place in the city, from which you won't be able to see the columns of its main temple - the Parthenon. In Greek the Acropolis means “the upper town”, and the Acropolis is actually built on a limestone plateau that 156m high. This plateau forms the Ancient town and is considered to be the main attraction of Athens. In order to enter the Acropolis, you will have to go through the ancient gates, which will lead you to the Propylaeum. You will see an ancient gallery – Pinacotheca - on the left side of the gates, and the smallest of the three temples of the Acropolis – the Temple of Athena Nike - on the right side. Currently, this temple is closed because of reconstruction works. The top of portico of the second temple - the temple of Erechtheion - is supported by columns made in the shape of young women, the famous caryatids. However, the Parthenon is, without a doubt, the most impressing temple of Athens. During the ancient times the temple was the location of a well-known wooden statue of Athena Parthenos, the protectress of the city. The statue was decorated with gold and elephants made of ivory.
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