Metropolitan Church of Athens Evangelismos Theotokou

“Gracing a little square that opens onto Ermoú Street, the Panaghia Kapnikaréa Church is a delightful place to visit. This beautiful little church was saved from demolition in the 19th century by the intervention of King Ludwig I of Bavaria. The church is a splendid example of architecture from the 11th-century Byzantine era. During this period, domed cruciform churches such as this one were typical. In the 12th century, the church was enhanced with a graceful entrance portico and a narthex featuring four pediments (built onto the western end). Inside, the church is decorated with 19th-century paintings created in the iconographic style of the Middle Byzantine period.”

“There’s something indescribably graceful about the Temple of Athena Nike that has been standing in a prominent spot on the Acropolis since 420 BC. Athena was the goddess of war and wisdom. Nike is the Greek word for victory. It was at this temple the ancient Greeks prayed for victory in a war against Sparta.”

“The most impressive parts of the Library can be viewed from the street near the Monastiraki station. It is worth going inside if you enjoy spotting a few Roman Mosaics. There are many cats here, so it's a great spot to keep kids entertained while you soak up the Roman Corynthian columns.”

“Odeon cafe is an all time cafe. Trendy among locals. Plays live piano/jazz sometimes”

“Watch the change of guards (evzones) every hour and especially on Sunday at 11am with the band.”