If you want to see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, you can go to Greece. You will experience incredible hospitality and a laid-back lifestyle you will love. And if you want to switch things up a bit and visit a few historical sites during your stay, Greece will not disappoint. Known as the cradle of civilization, Greece was highly influential in ancient times. Nations fought over its territory for thousands of years, and this rich history is evident everywhere. It will be hard to decide what to visit first. So, to help you on your journey, I will share some of my favorite historical sites in Greece to visit.
The Acropolis
The list of historical sites in Greece to visit has to begin with the Acropolis. It’s the first image that pops into our minds at the mention of this beautiful country. It is also one of the most recognizable historic sited worldwide. It is a symbol of the monumental achievements of Ancient Greek civilization.
Located right above the country’s capital, Athens, the Acropolis is a collection of several buildings and monuments, the most famous of which are the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaia, and the temple of Athena Nike.
While you are there, you can also visit the Acropolis Museum, where you can see an incredible display of artifacts from the Acropolis. You will be mesmerized by the craftsmanship of the artists of that time, their amazing attention to detail, and their unique aesthetic.
This is the place worth splurging on souvenirs, and since sending postcards is not in vogue anymore, you can consider shipping small packages internationally. If you send some souvenirs home while you are still visiting incredible sites, you will surprise your friends and family in a unique way.
Delphi
If you are staying in Athens, you can organize a day trip to the center of the Earth. Delphi was one of the most important places for the Ancient Greeks. It was a sanctuary and a place people from all over the ancient world would travel to so they could listen to the famous Oracle of Delphi. Priestess Pythia was the voice of the Oracle, and she would give a cryptic prophecy to whoever wanted to learn about the future.
Today, this wonderful historical site has a UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can walk among the ruins and see the ancient theatre, stadium, and the Temple of Apollo.
Meteora
If you want to experience something entirely otherworldly, visit Meteora. The landscape is mesmerizing, and the monasteries built on top of the monumental rock pillars are a one-of-a-kind sight. These monasteries represented the connection between the Greek people and the Orthodox faith.
Mycenae
Considered the first truly Greek civilization, the Mycenaean civilization was at the peak of its influence between the 15th and 13th century BC. After its disappearance around 1200 BC, myths and legends, such as the Trojan War ones, kept its memory alive.
Today, people from all over the world come to see the remains of the Cyclopean Walls, the famous Lion’s Gate, and the Treasury.
Epidaurus
It is the place travelers usually visit after Mycenae. Epidaurus is the most famous for the open theatre that has fantastic acoustics. The site was dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. People traveled to this sanctuary to be cured of their ailments.
Olympia
The place where the first Olympic games were held in 776 BC in honor of Greek deity Zeus. is a popular attraction among travelers. It was a vibrant and prosperous city that can be seen in sites such as the Treasuries and the Temple of Hera, the oldest surviving structure on the site. The archeological site of Olympia is pretty large, and there is a lot to see. You can also visit the museum where you can find a whole treasure of information.
The Grandmasters Palace
This palace of the Knights Hospitaller of St John dates back to the 14the century. It was the famous Christian and military order base until the Ottomans came in 1522. Today, the castle is a museum containing works primarily from the early Christian period to the Ottoman arrival.
Corinth Canal
Corinth Canal is one of the most popular and famous landmarks in Greece, but it’s not more than a place you stop to take a breathtaking photo. It would be best to include it as a spot to drop by on your travels around the Peloponnese. While beautiful, it really isn’t worth a whole day’s drive for a few minutes’ visit. Still, it would be a shame not to see it.
The Temple of Hephaestus
Hephaestus is a Greek deity of fire, sculpture, and blacksmiths, and this temple is a site of worship of him. It is an imposing structure well-worth a visit that dates back to the 5th century BC. The temple later became a part of the Church of Agios Georgios, which is in excellent condition.
Mystras
In 1248-1249, William II of Villehardouin, a prince of Achaea, decided to build a stronghold on the top of a hill overlooking the city of Sparta as a defense from the Byzantines. Today, Mystras is another item on the UNESCO World Heritage list and an important archeological site. Visitors can see the ruins of the castle, some roads, the walls of the fortress, many Byzantine churches, and a monastery, all while enjoying the spectacular landscape.
There is also the Mystras Museum nearby, where you can see items found on the site.
Many palaces, churches, houses, the famous fortress, and other structures were some of the most incredible architectural gems of their time. People also called them the wonders of Morea.
These are some of the most famous historical sites in Greece. One article couldn’t possibly include all there is to see in this historically significant country. Moreover, each of the landmarks deserves an article for itself. That is the only way to get a glimpse of the rich history Greece has to show off.
About the author:
Pauline Sharp is an aspiring travel journalist who spends most of her time on the road. Although there is no destination she would refuse, she is most intrigued by Europe and its secrets. While traveling, she typically doesn’t like to take the easy way out, as she believes this is how the most extraordinary stories are born.
