Exploración Épica: La Ruta Clásica de Grecia

About the destination: Athens takes its name after the goddess of wisdom Athena, who is celebrated by the magnificent Acropolis, which overlooks the modern, cosmopolitan city that Athens is today. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities and it is the birthplace of western philosophy, democracy and theater. Up to this date, the Greek capital remains a major worldwide centre of culture, with its historic centre, iconic classical sites and museums filled with ancient Greece artefacts. The Acropolis, crowned by the emblematic Parthenon, has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars were banned from the historic centre, which has become the most striking pedestrian promenade in Europe. In this archeological Park, visitors will witness the contrasting nature of this ancient metropolis being able to visit the New Acropolis Museum, a high-tech modern structure with light and airy exhibition spaces as well as the National Archaeological Museum, the largest archeological museum in Greece built in the 19th century and devoted to ancient Greek art. The Acropolis and Mount Lycavittos, the city’s highest points, are used as orientation since they are visible from most places in the Plaka, the old historical neighborhood. The Plaka is under the Acropolis and stretches almost to Syntagma, home of to the Greek Parliament. For a taste of the hedonistic Athenian lifestyle one should visit Monastiraki, where locals go to eat, drink and mingle. The night time belongs to Psirri, a vibrant neighbourhood known for its bars, live music venues and exciting nightclubs. Southeast of the city centre, a glorious stretch of coast affords dreamy views over the glistening blue Aegean Sea. Surely few European capitals can claim sandy beaches and clean water for swimming within such easy access. Athens therefore offers the best of both worlds – a fantastic city break as well as a lazy beach holiday. Athenians are surprisingly friendly and outgoing and their enthusiasm for life’s pleasurable pursuits is so infectious that even the stiffest traveler will take time out for endless coffees and evening strolls, dine out until late and enjoy the city’s nightlife, long after the rest of Europe has gone to bed.

About the destination: Corinth is an ancient city and former municipality in Corinthia, Peloponnese, which is located in south-central Greece. Since the 2011 local government reform it is part of the municipality of Corinth, of which it is the seat and a municipal unit. It is the capital of Corinthia. It was founded as Nea Korinthos or New Corinth (Νέα Κόρινθος) in 1858 after an earthquake destroyed the existing settlement of Corinth, which had developed in and around the site of ancient Corinth. Located about 78 kilometres (48 mi) west of Athens, Corinth is surrounded by the coastal townlets of (clockwise) Lechaio, Isthmia, Kechries, and the inland townlets of Examilia and the archaeological site and village of ancient Corinth. Natural features around the city include the narrow coastal plain of Vocha, the Corinthian Gulf, the Isthmus of Corinth cut by its canal, the Saronic Gulf, the Oneia Mountains, and the monolithic rock of Acrocorinth, where the medieval acropolis was built.

About the destination: Nauplia or Nauplion (modern Greek Ναύπλιο, Náfplio) is a city of Greece, capital of the peripheral unit of Argolis and important port of the Argolic gulf (also called Gulf of Nauplia) with 14 203 inhabitants in 2011. It is situated in the municipality of same name, that in the year 2011 had a population of 33 356 inhabitants.

About the destination: Mycenae is an archaeological site near Mykines in Argolis, north-eastern Peloponnese, Greece. It is located about 120 kilometres (75 miles) south-west of Athens; 11 kilometres (7 miles) north of Argos; and 48 kilometres (30 miles) south of Corinth. The site is 19 kilometres (12 miles) inland from the Saronic Gulf and built upon a hill rising 900 feet (274 metres) above sea level. In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centres of Greek civilization, a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece, Crete, the Cyclades and parts of southwest Anatolia. The period of Greek history from about 1600 BC to about 1100 BC is called Mycenaean in reference to Mycenae. At its peak in 1350 BC, the citadel and lower town had a population of 30,000 and an area of 32 hectares. The first correct identification of Mycenae in modern literature was during a survey conducted by Francesco Grimani, commissioned by the Provveditore Generale of the Kingdom of the Morea in 1700, who used Pausanias's description of the Lion Gate to identify the ruins of Mycenae.

About the destination: The current municipality of Epidaurus was formed in 2011 by merging the former municipalities of Epidaurus and Asklipieío, which became municipal units. Its capital is the village of Lygourió, in the peripheral unit of Asklipieío.1 The municipality has an area of ​​340.4 km22 and 8115 inhabitants in the 2011 census.

About the destination: Nauplia or Nauplion (modern Greek Ναύπλιο, Náfplio) is a city of Greece, capital of the peripheral unit of Argolis and important port of the Argolic gulf (also called Gulf of Nauplia) with 14 203 inhabitants in 2011. It is situated in the municipality of same name, that in the year 2011 had a population of 33 356 inhabitants.

About the destination: Visit the mystical tower town of Mystras (in the Peloponese) located six kilometres of the city of Sparta, and let yourself be captivated by this destination’s medieval splendour. Wander around the castle city and sense through the silence the city's sheer grandeur: the Palace of the Despots (Anaktora), the Houses of Laskaris and Frangopoulos, the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Dimitrios and the impressive Monasteries of Our Lady Pantánassa. Stroll leisurely through the Kástro (the Frankish Castle), the Upper Town and the Lower Town whose architecture creates a dreamy setting. A visit to the Archaeological Museum will help you get a deep insight into the rich history of the area.

About the destination: Sparta, officially Sparti, is a city in Laconia, Greece. In the center of the city there is the Archaeological Museum and in the North West end is the Tomb of Leonidas, also known as Leonidaion and there is a tavern in front of the temple named Leonidas. North of the modern city start the ruins of the ancient Sparta. Exiting the Acropolis by the North Gate there are the remains of the earliest ancient walls, the Heroon and the Altar of Lycourgos, whereas to the East there is the Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia. The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil in the South West end highlights the culture of the olive and the technology of olive production. The city of Sparta enjoys a sunny and warm Mediterranean climate Points of cultural interest: Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil Archaeological Museum of Sparta Archaeological Museum of Mystras The Manousakeio Museum of urban and folk life Koumantareios Art Gallery of Sparta

About the destination: Kalamata is located on the Ionian Sea, toward the center of the Gulf of Messinia, and towards the eastern side this town lies the little high though famous mountains of Mount Taygetus, culminating in the Mani peninsula and separates to the Laconia Messinia, taking Laconia capital to Sparta. Kalamata has an important tourist port (very frequented by boats); and it is, on the other hand, the biggest shopping centre of the Peloponnese after Patras. Apart from archeological remains, this city has a discreet seaside attraction that takes place mainly in the environments.

About the destination: Pylos is a city in Messenia, Peloponnese, Greece. The area of Pylos has a variety of landscapes to visit, with their own marvelous geomorphological history. It was a significant kingdom in Mycenaean Greece, with remains of the so-called "Palace of Nestor" excavated nearby, named after Nestor, the king of Pylos in Homer's Iliad.  Boat tour around the area of Sphacteria. Boattrips are offered in the harbour of Pylos. The boat trips bring you to the lighthouse at the entrance of the bay of Navarino or Sphacteria. Top 10 things to see in and around Pylos:    Bay of Voidokilia.   "New" (Turkish) Castle of Pylos   "Old" (Frankish-Venetian) Castle of Pylos (Palaiokastro)   Lagoon of Gialova. a Natura 2000 site with unique fauna and flora   Cave of Nestor (south of bay of Voidokilia). mentioned in Homer's Odyssey Bay of Navarino. Palace of Nestor The Tholos Harbour of Pylos. Sunset over the Bay of Navarino and Sphacteria or at Gargaliani beach

About the destination: Olympia is a town in Peloponnese. This was the site of the original Olympic Games. The games, held every four years in honor of the Greek god Zeus, lasted through the entire Classical Age. The central sanctuary or Altis included temples, altars, shrines, and public buildings for both religious and profane purposes. The flame for each modern Olympic Games is still lit in the town, by a reflection of sunlight in a parabolic mirror, and carried by torch to the place where the games are to be held.

About the destination: Patras is Greece's third largest urban area and the regional capital of Western Greece, in northern Peloponnese, west of Athens. The city is built at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon, overlooking the Gulf of Patras. Patras' core settlement has a history spanning four millennia, in the Roman period it had become a cosmopolitan center of the eastern Mediterranean. Dubbed as Greece's Gate to the West, Patras is a commercial hub, while its busy port is a nodal point for trade and communication with Italy and the rest of Western Europe. Every year, in February, the city hosts one of Europe's largest and most colourful carnivals. It was European Capital of Culture in 2006. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Rio-Antirio bridge officially the Charilaos Trikoupis bridge. • The Archaeological Museum. The museum has startling architecture, including an entrance made of silver-hued titanium that is shaped like a flying saucer on steroids. • The Roman Odeon. • The Faro which is the symbol of the city. The lighthouse has a cafe underneath it with a large television where they broadcast mostly soccer games for people to come and watch while enjoying a beverage of their choice. There is a playground right outside of the cafe for children to play in. The cafe is next to the water, so one can sit next to the windows and enjoy the waves crashing against the wall. • The Turkish hot baths. • Plateia Yioryiou (George Sq.). Sit at a cafe and take in the facades of the handsome neoclassical theater and banks on the square. • The Municipal Galery of Patras, founded in 1988 housed on the ground floor of the Municipal Library, beside the Old Town Hall, a location with many historical memories.

About the destination: Arta is a city in northwestern Greece, capital of the regional unit of Arta, which is part of Epirus region. The city was known in ancient times as Ambracia . Arta is known for the medieval bridge over the Arachthos River. Arta is also known for its ancient sites from the era of Pyrrhus of Epirus and its well-preserved 13th-century castle. Arta's Byzantine history is reflected in its many Byzantine churches; perhaps the best known is the Panagia Paregoretissa (Mother of God the Consoling), built about 1290 by Despot Nikephoros I Komnenos Doukas.

About the destination: Ioannina is an important tourist destination in Greece. The lake Pamvotida, with its still waters and its small island, is a natural monument, around which the entire area lives and breathes. The strong cultural traditions of the town, home to a number of great novelists and poets, and the artistic and intellectual events which are organized throughout the year, give visitors the opportunity to get to know the roots of the intellectual life of Epirus. Wonderful buildings like the House Matei Hussein, the Ottoman mosque of Veli Pasha and the entire historic centre of the town are unique attractions.

About the destination: Metsovo, a lively mountain town in Epirus, with its diverse history, traditions and customs is a popular winter holiday destination. This tree-shaded village, retaining its traditional character, dots the mountain side below Katara Col (Katara pass) in the Mountain Range of Pindos. It is full of life throughout the year generously offering you its natural surrounding beauties. The soothing sound of water always on the move adds to the majestic atmosphere. Half hidden in the fog or wrapped in a snow blanket as winter sets in; Metsovo practically looks like a painting. Particularly during winter, the famous vlach village, birthplace of various national benefactors (Tositsas, Stournaras, Averof etc.), is Epirus’ beloved holiday destination.

About the destination: Kalabaka is a municipality in the Trikala regional unit, part of Thessaly in Greece. The Meteora monasteries are located in the town. Kalambaka is the northwestern terminal of the old Thessaly Railways, now part of OSE. Kalabaka was voted as one of the most beautiful places in Greece. Nearby Meteora, and it's cliff top monasteries is the main tourist attraction at city

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Macedonia, Greece, the picturesque town of Veria beckons travelers with its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and stunning architecture. Known as "Little Jerusalem" for its once thriving Jewish community, Veria offers a unique blend of historical eras, from remnants of the Ottoman Empire to Byzantine churches, all set against the backdrop of the verdant Pierian Mountains. Begin your journey through Veria with a stroll through the old Jewish Quarter of Barbouta, where the cobblestone streets whisper stories of the past. The area is home to the Jewish Synagogue, one of the oldest in Greece, serving as a poignant reminder of the city’s multicultural heritage. As you wander, admire the traditional mansions with their distinctive Ottoman-influenced architecture and the flowing waters of the Tripotamos River, which add to the serene atmosphere of the town. No visit to Veria would be complete without exploring the Byzantine wonders scattered throughout. The Church of the Resurrection of Christ, with its exquisite frescoes and the awe-inspiring Church of Saint Patapios, are just a few examples of the many religious treasures to be discovered. The Archaeological Museum of Veria offers a dive into the ancient world with artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period, while the Byzantine Museum displays a collection of icons and ecclesiastical items that showcase the city's deep religious roots. For a taste of local life, head to the vibrant marketplaces where you can sample regional delicacies such as juicy olives, rich cheeses, and sweet pastries. And if your visit aligns with the cherry season, don't miss the opportunity to try Veria's famous cherries, celebrated throughout Greece for their flavor. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Veria is a hidden gem that offers a truly authentic Greek experience.

About the destination: Giannitsa is the largest city in the regional unit of Pella and the capital of the Pella municipality, in the region of Central Macedonia in northern Greece. The city is located in the center of Macedonia between Mount Paiko and the plain of Giannitsa, and is the economic, commercial and industrial center of the Pella regional unit. The focus of the social life of the city is at the central pedestrian street, where people gather to eat and drink or to take a walk. Giannitsa was one of the first cities that founded Open Theatre (3000 seats) and became an institution for cultural events and big names in theater and music, every year, the last month of summer giving a culture festival character . Also various theatrical and musical events take place in a closed theater located internally of the Cultural Centre which has a modern architecture.

About the destination: The Thessaloniki Peripheral Unit is an administrative division of Greece that is part of the region of Central Macedonia. It comprises the area around the city of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in the country. This peripheral unit extends along the coast of the Gulf of Thessaloniki and covers both urban and rural areas. In addition to the city of Thessaloniki, the peripheral unit has several municipalities and smaller localities that include both urban and rural areas. These areas offer a combination of coastal landscapes, hills and nearby mountains, such as Mount Olympus. The outlying unit of Thessaloniki is known for its cultural heritage and rich history. In the city of Thessaloniki, important historical sites can be found, such as the White Tower, the Rotunda of Galerius, the church of St. Demetrius and numerous museums housing artifacts and art from different historical periods. In addition to its historical heritage, the peripheral unit also offers a lively cultural life. The city of Thessaloniki hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Thessaloniki International Film Festival and the Thessaloniki Ancient Theatre Festival. These events attract artists and visitors from all over the world. Thessaloniki's peripheral unit also boasts beautiful beaches along its coastline, where residents and visitors can enjoy the Mediterranean Sea and water-related activities. In short, the Thessaloniki Peripheral Unit is a diverse region that combines a rich history, cultural heritage, coastal landscapes and lively urban life. Both the city of Thessaloniki and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of experiences for those visiting or living in this part of Greece.

About the destination: Volos is the 5th biggest city and 3d largest port in Greece, situated in Thessaly. Its history has left its mark on the entire city in the form of splendid buildings. The present-day city has spread out along the coast, incorporating old resorts, like Agria in the east and Soros in the west. The Achilleio cinema, a place of living culture that has remained open from 1925 to the present day. Volos castle, in the present-day district of Palia, in the west of the city, is also an important tourist attraction in this city.

About the destination: Delphi, ancient town and seat of the most important Greek temple and oracle of Apollo. It lay in the territory of Phocis on the steep lower slope of Mount Parnassus, about 6 miles (10 km) from the Gulf of Corinth. Delphi is now a major archaeological site with well-preserved ruins. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Delphi was considered by the ancient Greeks to be the centre of the world.

About the destination: Thebes is a city in Boeotia, Central Greece and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and the third oldest in Europe. It is the largest city in Boeotia and a major center for the area. It played an important role in Greek myths, as the site of the stories of Cadmus, Oedipus, Dionysus, Heracles and others. Archaeological excavations in and around Thebes have revealed a Mycenaean settlement and clay tablets written in the Linear B script, indicating the importance of the site in the Bronze Age. Thebes was the largest city of the ancient region of Boeotia and was the leader of the Boeotian confederacy. It was a major rival of ancient Athens, and sided with the Persians during the 480 BC invasion under Xerxes I. Theban forces under the command of Epaminondas ended Spartan hegemony at the Battle of Leuctra in 371 BC, with the Sacred Band of Thebes, an elite military unit of male lovers celebrated as instrumental there. Macedonia would rise in power at the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BC, bringing decisive victory to Philip II over an alliance of Thebes and Athens. Thebes was a major force in Greek history prior to its destruction by Alexander the Great in 335 BC, and was the most dominant city-state at the time of the Macedonian conquest of Greece. During the Byzantine period, the city was famous for its silks. The modern city contains an archaeological museum, the remains of the Cadmea (Bronze Age and forward citadel), and scattered ancient remains. Modern Thebes is the largest town of the regional unit of Boeotia.

About the destination: Athens takes its name after the goddess of wisdom Athena, who is celebrated by the magnificent Acropolis, which overlooks the modern, cosmopolitan city that Athens is today. Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities and it is the birthplace of western philosophy, democracy and theater. Up to this date, the Greek capital remains a major worldwide centre of culture, with its historic centre, iconic classical sites and museums filled with ancient Greece artefacts. The Acropolis, crowned by the emblematic Parthenon, has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cars were banned from the historic centre, which has become the most striking pedestrian promenade in Europe. In this archeological Park, visitors will witness the contrasting nature of this ancient metropolis being able to visit the New Acropolis Museum, a high-tech modern structure with light and airy exhibition spaces as well as the National Archaeological Museum, the largest archeological museum in Greece built in the 19th century and devoted to ancient Greek art. The Acropolis and Mount Lycavittos, the city’s highest points, are used as orientation since they are visible from most places in the Plaka, the old historical neighborhood. The Plaka is under the Acropolis and stretches almost to Syntagma, home of to the Greek Parliament. For a taste of the hedonistic Athenian lifestyle one should visit Monastiraki, where locals go to eat, drink and mingle. The night time belongs to Psirri, a vibrant neighbourhood known for its bars, live music venues and exciting nightclubs. Southeast of the city centre, a glorious stretch of coast affords dreamy views over the glistening blue Aegean Sea. Surely few European capitals can claim sandy beaches and clean water for swimming within such easy access. Athens therefore offers the best of both worlds – a fantastic city break as well as a lazy beach holiday. Athenians are surprisingly friendly and outgoing and their enthusiasm for life’s pleasurable pursuits is so infectious that even the stiffest traveler will take time out for endless coffees and evening strolls, dine out until late and enjoy the city’s nightlife, long after the rest of Europe has gone to bed.