This is one of the most famous sites in Greece and epitomizes ancient democracy, art and philosophy. Evidence of human habitation on the Acropolis goes back to 4000 B.C. By the eighth century B.C., there was a temple standing on it dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. In the fifth century B.C. the ruler Pericles embarked on an extensive building project on the Acropolis. Tourists can see the Propylaia, Parthenon, Athena Nike temple and the Erechtheum.The Acropolis is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located about 110 miles from Athens, ancient Greeks believed Delphi was the center of the world. It was home to the ancient oracles, priestesses believed to channel the spirit of Apollo. Many ancient Greek kings consulted the oracles before making any major decisions. Places of interest to visit today are the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Athena and the Delphi Museum.
Akrotiri is found on the island of Santorini, one of the Cyclades Islands. Ancient Akrotiri was at its apogee of prosperity around 2000 B.C. under the Minoans, but it was devastated in 1450 B.C. when a volcano erupted. Akrotiri has been nicknamed the "Minoan Pompeii" because the entire city was buried under volcanic ash and therefore well preserved. Visitors can see frescoes in ancient homes and walk along Akrotiri's streets.
Located on the island of Crete, Knossos was its capital during the Minoan period. According to mythology, King Minos' palace and its famous Labyrinth, home to the Minotaur, stood here. Archaeological evidence shows a palace was built around 1900 B.C. and rebuilt several times. Its ruins can still be seen today. The Mycenaeans conquered Crete around 1375 B.C., marking the end of the Minoan period.
The island of Delos became the headquarters of the Delian League, a coalition of Greek cities formed in 478 B.C. during the Persian Wars and led by Athens. The island was most prosperous during the Hellenistic and Roman periods when it was a major port in the Mediterranean. It went into decline after the invasion by King Mithridates of Pontus in 88 B.C. Ancient sites include the Agora of Competialists and the Sanctuary of Dionysius. The Archaeological Museum houses many of the artifacts to be viewed in Delos.
