Today's Athens, the capital of Greece, is a bustling, modernized city, but reminders of its glorious past are ever apparent atop of the Acropolis in the shape of the Parthenon, Areopagus, Propylaia and other ancient ruins. These remains can be traced back to 500 BC after Persia was defeated and a glorious Greek period began in which great architectural, artistic and philosophical achievements occurred including the existence of Plato and Socrates. Athens will be host to the 2004 Summer Olympic Games (August 13 - 29), a responsibility was has led to great improvements in their infrastructure, including a new subway system, airport and highways. These games are returning to where they were first held some 2,700 years ago.

Parthenon (Parhenonas): Jewel of the Athens skyline. Located atop the Acropolis. Completed in 438 BC. Has 17 columns on each side which were made to taper and bulge to counteract the natural tendency of the eye to make buildings appear crooked.

Ancient Agora (Achaia Agora): At the foot of the Acropolis. Was center of Athens society. Marketplace and social area. Plato lectured students on Socrates' teachings here.

Plaka: Colorful neighborhood of churches, cobblestone walkways, neoclassical houses, narrow streets, gardens and shops.

National Archeological Museum: Contains Roman and Greek artifacts including Poseidon, the 6 1/2 foot tall bronze sculpture made in 470 BC.

Lykavittos Hill: The highest point in Athens, visible from almost every part of the city. Despite the fact that it dynamically springs up out of the basin, it surprisingly did not attract much attention from ancient writers and historians.

Cheap Flights to Athens: April/May/June and September/October are the best times to visit Athens in terms of great weather and smaller crowds. However, to get the best travel deal possible, October through April is the off-peak travel period and when the best flight rates are available. Remember to set your arrival/departure dates for Monday through Thursday.