Thunderstorms have been forecast for the rest of the week but the storms were forecast in the afternoon. Wed read, also, that we should visit the Acropolis early in the day; 1 to avoid the masses of tourists and 2 to avoid the heat of the afternoon. We also figured that wed avoid any afternoon storms. The plan was to get to the Acropolis about 8:30 am, talk our time there and then go to the museum. We thought wed get lunch at the caf in the museum then see visit the museum, enjoying cooler air and avoiding any rain.
We got up by 7, out the door by 8 and at the entry gate by 8:15. As there was no line we got right in and started our visit.
Walking up the path to the Acropolis is a not as steep as some hikes but still steep. However, there are many ruins and sites to divert ones attention so that it makes the walk up seem easier. There were temples, buildings for people to gather and a stadium all on 2 sides. Another side has houses built into the hill that we saw on a walk a few
We made lots of stops but then finally got to the top after a series of marble steps close to the top. When up the steps then you walk around the wall and there it is, the amazing entry. The entry is made larger as it is on the hill top so you are looking up. We were so lucky as not many people were there at all.
The Parthenon is a massive structure that is undergoing restoration. But even with the scaffolding along the side it is impressive. Just like the ancient time when it was built, one cannot go in, but with walls down inside we can see inside.
A 2nd favorite is the Erechtheion, a smaller, temple. There are wonderful sculptures on one side and because it is built partially on the side of the hill, the top floor is open to see into and the bottom floor is partially visible thru the door and window.
After wondering around for about 3 hours it started to get really hot on top and we noted that more people were entering. It was time to go down to
We made our way over to the Acropolis Museum where we knew it would be nice inside. Besides, the sky was getting darker and with thunderstorms in the forecast we thought wed be safer in there.
First things first, we were hungry and had read about the Museum Caf, that would be our first stop. After buying tickets we headed for the Caf.
Due to Covid, there is no indoor seating at the Caf, but the outdoor seating has a really nice view of the Acropolis. It was warm but we found a table under the awning so it wasnt so bad. With a nice cup of iced coffee, we were feeling fine and some food, we felt much better.
The museum is quite extensive with videos on the 3rd floor. There are several different videos and 1. It gives one a break from walking and standing and 2. They explain various things.
