Greek Civilization is not only credited for the beginnings of Democracy, but it was also the start of Western Civilization as we know it. The time of Aristotle, Pythagoras, Archimedes, and Aeschylus, among other notables, has given us the rudiments of philosophy, mathematics, science, and literature, respectively.

     Greek Civilization was centered around Athens during its heyday, but there were Greek colonies all over the Mediterranean. Some of these places still have ruins that can be explored and appreciated today.

    In the following paragraphs, there are photos from some of these locations which we have visited.

    Let’s begin in Athens where the Acropolis dominates the central part of the city. The Parthenon is considered one of the most beautiful buildings ever constructed, although much of its glory was destroyed by an explosion during the Turkish occupation of the city.

Parthenon

Another building on the Acropolis, the Erechtheon, contains the Karyatids, a unique set of columns shaped like maidens (the real ones are actually preserved in the Acropolis Museum).

Erechtheon

 From the Acropolis, visitors can look down into the ruins of the Greek Agora.

Greek Agora

 On another side of the Acropolis is the Odeon of Herodotus-Atticus.

Odeon of Herodotus-Atticus

 In another section of Athens is the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

 North of Athens is Delphi, the ancient home of the famous oracle. On the grounds is the Temple of Apollo.

Temple of Apollo, Delphi

The Greek islands are also replete with ruins. We were particularly impressed with Knossos Palace, on the island of Crete (actually the palace of Minoan leaders).

Knossos Palace

 There are even ceramic containers that once contained olive oil on display here from around 1000 BC.

Olive Oil Barrels at Knossos