Greek Mythology Unveiled

Greek Mythology Unveiled

While many ancient societies had various myths, none are more prominent today than Greek myths and legends. Greek mythology is filled with legendary creatures like Cyclops and Medusa, while the gods and goddesses of Greece are immortalized through the retelling of their trials and conquests, inspiring some of the greatest fictional tales from Achilles’ superhuman powers to Athena’s olive tree. Ancient temples dedicated to Greek mythology figures can be discovered throughout the country. One of the best ways to explore this storied land is by following in the footsteps of the ancient gods for a grand tour of the fascinating legends and lore.

From the iconic Parthenon that looms over the capital city to Mount Olympus and Delphi, the site revered by the Greeks as the center of the Earth, get ready for an unforgettable adventure into the magical world of the ancients as you discover mythology in Greece.

The Acropolis ruins

Athens

With a recorded history spanning over 3,400 years, Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities. Few are as closely tied to the divine goddess of wisdom who gave her name to Athens. While Poseidon struck the Acropolis with his trident to open a well that supplied unlimited water, being the sea god, it was salty and undrinkable. Athena produced an olive tree deemed far more valuable. Today, the Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is its biggest draw. Greek mythology tours are available with local guides who can tell you all about the legends and the Gods.

For the perfect base to explore Athens’ mythology, stay in the Plaka district or the Makrigianni/Acropolis neighborhood. The latter is what most people envision when picturing the city, obviously home to Acropolis hill and its 5th-century BC monuments. It also hosts Athens’ top museum, the Acropolis Museum, with countless precious artifacts from the Acropolis. There are many shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, with pedestrianized Dionysiou Areopagitou one of the most famous streets. Plaka sits beneath the shadow of the Acropolis with colorful cobbled streets, providing an oasis in a busy metropolis with ancient ruins and family-run tavernas. We’d be happy to point you in the right direction of the best places to stay in Athens – get in touch today!

Delphi ruins in the summer

Delphi

UNESCO-listed Delphi is home to the oracle, one of Greek mythology’s most important. The site was revered by ancient Greeks as the center of the Earth and sits at the base of Mount Parnassus. As myth tells, Zeus released two eagles, one from the east and another from the west, with the spot they met to become Delphi. It was indeed the religious center of the ancient Greek world, and today, many structures are still visible. Here one can walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks along the Sacred Way, which travels from the site entrance to the Sanctuary of Apollo.

While it’s possible to do a day trip to Delphi from Athens, if you want to stay the night, there are several apartment rentals and small hotels in the town of Delphi. Some are perched high on the slopes providing fabulous views of Delphi, the mountains, and the sea. When looking for where to stay in Delphi, its worth considering small seaside towns like Galaxidi with its old captain’s mansions and beautiful neoclassical homes. Picturesque Nafpaktos has a pretty Venetian harbor and a number of outstanding hotels, including many budget-friendly options. Itea offers gorgeous views of the water and mountains on the horizon with several casual hotels.

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus

In Greek mythology, Mount Olympus was the home of the 12 gods and goddesses. The country’s highest mountain, it stands at nearly 9,600 feet and features deep gorges, alpine meadows, and lush forest. The ancient city of Dion at its base was an important religious center dedicated to Zeus and the gods. Most who visit come to hike the rugged mountain. While you might not spot the deities when you reach the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views. There are several places on the slopes that might make you feel as if Zeus invited you to dine in his palace. 

In terms of where to stay in Mount Olympus, like most mountains, you won’t find any hotels. There are, however, hostels for hikers spread around it. Most accommodation can be found in the surrounding valleys nearby. The small town of Litochoro is perched on the eastern slopes of the mountain that stretches out to the sea, providing the chance to be immersed in the splendor of nature that inspired the myths and legends, with some fabulous hotels that offer Mount Olympus views. 

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