acropolis

Why the Acropolis in Athens, Greece is special
The 2400-year-old Acropolis is the symbol of the ancient Greek civilization whose art, literature and zeal for democracy still influence our world today.

Acropolis tips and insights
Best time of day
If you're visiting Greece in the summer, I strongly recommend you arrive at the Acropolis when the gates open (8 a.m.) or in the late afternoon.

• You'll avoid ...
  The midday Athenian summer sun. It can be blistering hot.
  
• Fewer tourists
  The Acropolis won't be crawling with two-legged ants (tourists).
  
• Better photos
  There will be fewer tourists spoiling your shots. And the low-lying solar rays will give your photographs vivid hues.

Parthenon
The stunning Parthenon (see top-right section of photo) is the star attraction of the Acropolis complex.

Views of Athens
The Acropolis offers stunning views of Athens. One of the best viewpoints is near the Nike Temple.

Other main Acropolis attractions
The main tourism draws include:

• Caryatids
  They are a photogenic row of five statues of maidens supporting the porch of the Erechtheion Temple. (They are copies. Four of the originals are in the nearby Acropolis Museum. The other is in the British Museum in London.)
  
• Nike Temple
  This small, distinguished temple honors Athena.
  
• Propylaea
  The monumental entrance gateway to the Acropolis.

Also don't miss the Dionysus and Atticus Theatres. They are not on the outcropping but are carved into its lower slopes.

Location in Greece