Last Full Day in Athens: One More Lap Around the Acropolis
Walking 35-40 miles over the last several days did a number on my sore legs. At home, I also walk a lot, but with smooth sidewalks and streets I hardly have the soreness I do now. I’m going to attribute it to terrible beat up pathways. And, if it’s not that, it’s the slick marble that’s even worse with a little rain.
I do swivel my head around to capture as much of this wonderful ancient city, but looking down and watching my steps is imperative to keeping myself safe and upright.
A few days ago, I guy fell hard in front of me (near the Acropolis), and smashed his nose, blood gushing out everywhere. An ambulance was called, and he was whisked away right quick for help.I sure hope he is OKAY.
Before getting out and about this morning, it felt good to take it easy. Since I visited most of the top sites to see in Athens, my goal was to do the ring around the Acropolis one more time because I can never get enough of the awe and inspiration this place gives me.
While nearing the Acropolis, I went up a road I haven’t been on before, and to my surprise, there is a outcropping of large rocks and marble that overlooks the Western part of Athens’s - including a great view of the Stoa (old markets) in the Ancient Agora of Athens. I was there a few days ago, but couldn’t get the photo of the long building because of so many trees in front of it at eye level.
This location is also windy due to its height and there is nothing to block it. If you look back and up a smidge, it’s the Acropolis in all its glory, and actually not that far away! I took full advantage of taking more photos since the day was so beautiful; temperature around 70 degrees F and brilliant sunshine! How could I not?
A placard mentioned that this place, the Areopagus Hill or Mars Hill, is dedicated to Apostle Paul while he was in Athens praising the Athenians for their tireless piety and common origin of all nations, including: The Final Judgment and the Resurrection of the dead. Sobering stuff, right? It was because of Paul’s visit that at least two believers formed the first Christian community of Athens.
Taking my time, I loved meandering through the city streets, listening to the many languages being spoken, watching the crazy traffic (people on motorbikes go way too fast!), and perusing the many gift shops hawking all things either ancient look-a-likes, T-shirts announcing you were in Athens, jewelry, household goods and high end goods and more. It was fun looking, and I really enjoyed every last bit of Athens I could muster.
As I wrap up my last full day in Athens, I can’t help but smile thinking about all the miles I’ve covered on foot - even a 1/4 mile on a very famous track! I’ve explored famous landmarks, discovered hidden corners, navigated some pretty treacherous sidewalks, and eaten my fair share of delicious Greek salads!
But here’s what I loved most: the more I walked, the more familiar this ancient city became. I no longer needed to look at my phone/map every five minutes, because I began recognizing streets, shops, and places I’d passed days earlier. For a little while, I wasn’t just a tourist checking off the sights. I felt like I belonged here, even if only for a few days. I love that about travel!
My legs may be begging for mercy, but my heart is saying, “One more lap around the Acropolis!”
Athens, you’ve been one heck of a walk. And I loved every step of it. Well, almost every step. Those sidewalks? Not so much!
To close out the day, I went to my favorite restaurant for dinner (I love the Greek salads!). I know, there are so many good restaurants in this foodie city, so why did I go to the same one twice? The answer is because I liked it so much the first time, I wanted to go back a…again, and on my last night in the city.
Tomorrow, hopefully before I leave my flat, I can write about some musings I’ve been jotting down as I walked along the streets of Athens.
NOTE: My first photo is The Stoa of Attalos in the Ancient Agora of Athens. These covered walkways were gathering places for merchants, citizens, and philosophers. In fact, the philosophical school of Stoicism takes its name from another famous Athenian stoa—the Stoa Poikile, where Zeno taught. Who knew a walk through ancient Athens could lead to a little philosophy lesson?
bSoleille!
Terri
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