May 12, 2009: Athens
We were able to sleep in today since we didn’t have to be done eating and ready to go until 9:30. At this time, we began our very long hike through the city and up Lykavittos Hill to see Agios Georgios Church and a great view of Athens. We could see the Parthenon from a higher point as well. After a rest at the top, we headed back to the hotel for some free time before lunch. Next, we walked to the National Archaeological Museum, and spent a few hours admiring the collections inside. It seemed like the museum went on forever; there were rooms everywhere. After a quick break at the hotel, we headed to the Plaka for some shopping. We spent a few hours looking at the shops. Many of us purchased souvenirs. Then it was time to head back to the hotel for a great dinner and free time for the rest of the night.
Group at the Agios Georgios Church.
Agios Georgios Church atop Lykavittos Hill.
View of the Acropolis and the distant harbor at Piraeus from Lykavittos Hill.
Stephen and Amy admiring the supposed death mask of Agammemnon in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
The death mask of Agammemnon.
The Antikythera Mechanism is thought to be the first analog computer. It dates back to 80 B.C. and was discovered in a shipwreck.
Dan looking at some pottery shards in the museum.
Corinthian pottery in the museum.