ATHENS IN DEPTH

OVERVIEW

The impact of Classical Greek culture, as developed in centres such as Athens, is difficult to overstate: the foundations of Western philosophy and politics, European canons of beauty, proportion and harmony in art, literary and poetic traditions, and an architectural style that would be emulated for millennia all come readily to mind. This new residential-style tour takes the lower visitor numbers of January as an opportunity to unpack and explore all that Athens has to offer.

The 12-day program explores the layers of Athens’ history through its historical epochs, beginning with the ancient city at the Acropolis and continuing to its political heart, markets, sacred precincts and popular districts. At key sites such as the Byzantine and Christian Museum and in the churches of Monastiraki, we understand the cultural shift that came with the advent of Christianity and admire outstanding Byzantine artefacts in private collections such as the Benaki Museum. From the monuments of the Ottoman city, including houses and private house museums, to the nineteenth-century Independence movement, we explore neighbourhoods like vibrant Kolonaki, in order to understand the bustling metropolis’ modern face.

The tour is based in a centrally-located hotel and the included meals are a select program of gastronomic experiences, showcasing the quality of Greek produce, and often in panoramic locations. The program is complemented by a day trip exploring the hinterland of the historic city, and a tour leader with expertise in Mediterranean archaeology and history.