TEMPLE OF OLYMPIAN ZEUS
Dedicated to Zeus head of the Olympian Gods, this colossal Temple pre-dates the Acropolis and is the largest ever constructed and home to one of the wonders of the ancient world; a gigantic statue of Zeus seated on a throne over 12 meters tall and encrusted with gold, ivory & Jewels. At the golden sandals of the god sat an olive oil reservoir that reflected on the statue making it appear that the god would rise up and lift of the temple roof. One can only imagine the impact it had on the visitors of the day over 2500 years before!
The starting point for the tour is located opposite the temple so you will start with the stories & myths surrounding Zeus and his influence on the citizens of Athens.
ACROPOLIS
Holiest site of Ancient Greece and crowned by the pinnacle of Classical Greece, the Parthenon which was richly decorated with the struggles of the gods, and the focus of the largest Athenian celebrations to the Goddess Athena. A short distance away lies the Erechtheion Temple, dedicated to both the God Poseidon and Goddess Athena who battled for the patronage of Athens.
Learn of their competition, uncover the riddles of the Parthenon, the events behind the myths and the relevance of these monuments both then and now in the lives of Athenians.
ANCIENT AGORA
EXTENDED TOUR ONLY. Our extended tour option includes site of the Ancient Agora. The epicentre of Ancient Greek life in the city. This is where the Athenians came to meet, trade and discuss the politics of the day, where Philosophers such as Plato spoke, where democracy itself was founded by the citizens and where many of the most important temples and dedications to the gods were made.
