Athens - Catamarans
Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the most famous cities in the world. Today's Athens is a modern and large city. Ancient Athens was a powerful city-state and a famous center of education and science. It is named after the goddess from Greek mythology, Athena. Athens is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization due to its cultural contributions during the 5th and 4th centuries BC. From that period, many ancient buildings, works of art, etc. remain in Athens. The most famous is the Acropolis, which is recognized as one of the best examples of classical Greek art and architecture. The Acropolis took its final shape in the 5th century BC. The name Acropolis itself means "upper city", which was inhabited 5000 years before Christ and served as a natural defence against enemies due to its position. The Parthenon is a building on the Acropolis that reflects the majesty of Athens and Greece. About 10 km southwest of Athens is Piraeus, which merged with Athens, and is known for the largest passenger port in Europe, from which ships depart for most of the Greek islands. Athens has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and is also the hottest area of Greece. Many tourists come to Athens to admire the remains of ancient culture, but also to shop, taste Greek culinary specialties, and enjoy Greek folk music. The first Olympic Games were held in the city itself.