The Acropolis and a Café Full of Cats 🥰

A special highlight of cities with metros is always the archaeological finds that come to light. Like in Rome, some of these discoveries have remained underground in Athens and are thus displayed. This includes the grave of a deceased person from the 4th century BC in the metro at Syntagma Square. While the many pottery pieces and ancient terracotta pipes are less striking, a burial evokes a strange, uncomfortable feeling…

Unfortunately, the excavation site of Kerameikos and the museum are currently closed for renovation. So, I spontaneously walked through the bustling streets of Plaka to the Acropolis hill. After a sweaty ascent, I was able to enjoy a breathtaking view of Athens and the Acropolis from the neighboring hill.

However, the temples of the Acropolis surpassed this view. The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, as well as the Parthenon and the Erechtheion are simply uniquely beautiful. The special location further emphasizes this impression. Their history began in the 5th century BC and has seen much splendor, destruction, and reconstruction since then.

The Parthenon, built in honor and gratitude to the goddess Athena, stands out in particular. Like some temples in Athens, the Parthenon was subjected to other religions in recent centuries and was even used as a Christian church.

After I could detach myself from the Acropolis, I went to the cat café in Athens. In collaboration with local animal shelters, cats are offered for adoption to their 'forever homes' here. It is always amazing how much animals, and in this case cats, can shape the atmosphere and can encourage people from different countries and languages to play together with them 🥰