Nerd Alert: 11 Best Sites to Visit in Greece for History Buffs
From castles to ancient temples, Greece's structures and history have stood the test of time. Explore the best historical sites in Greece for history buffs here.
In 2020, the number of tourists visiting Greece is expected to hit an all-time high.
Considered by many to be the birthplace of Western Civilization, it's no wonder that everyone is flocking to visit.
But with so many historical sites in Greece to choose from, how can you decide? Come with me and we'll explore 11 of the best historical places in Greece to visit.
The Best Historical Sites in Greece
The rich history of the ancient world is a gift that keeps on giving. Once you start to dig into it, the more you realize how complex, fascinating and nuanced it is.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in history is to visit the locations first hand. Taking educational trips to Greece is a great way to help structure your trip and ensure that you get to geek out on the historical landmarks in Greece as much as possible.
1. The Acropolis of Athens
No list of historical sites in Greece would be complete without mention of the legendary Athenian Acropolis.
While the site is believed to have been the location of the Mycenaean megaron, hardly anything of this palace survives. The most famous remains now that are visited by tourists from all over the world are a product of the building program of Pericles. These include the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Temple of the Athena Nike, and the Propylaia.
2. Mycanae
One of the major centers of Greek civilization between 1600 BC and 1100 BC, this ancient site once gave its name to the whole of Mycenean civilization.Check out the Lion Gate, the North Gate, and the Treasury of Atreus!
3. Delphi
the ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the center of the world.
Once home to the famous oracle of Delphi, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many people visit the temples and ruins at this site as a day trip from Athens.
4. The Palace of Knosos - Crete
At its peak, the palace and the city surrounding it were home to more than 100,000 people. Once the center of the Minoan civilization, Knossos has been called Europe's oldest city.
5. Acropolis of Rhodes
These ancient ruins in Greece date back to the Hellenistic Period and include the Temple of Apollo and the Nymphaia.
6. Ancient City of Kamiros - Rhodes
Inhabited by Mycenaean Greeks in the prehistoric period, this city was destroyed twice by earthquakes. Built on three different levels, this is definitely one of the sites in Greece to check out.
7. Corinth
While many of the remaining buildings are Roman and not Greek, Corinth was an important city in ancient Greece and historically fascinating.
8. The Sanctuary of Dion
Located on the grounds of Mount Olympus, even Alexander the Great visited the Sanctuary of Dion to make sacrifices to the gods.
9. Ancient Dodona
Until the rise of Christianity, this ancient site was an important religious sanctuary and at one point was home to the second most famous oracle in Greece.
10. Mystras
If you're a Byzantine Empire buff, check out Mystras, the most important town after Constantinople at the end of the Byzantine Empire.
11. Ancient Olympia
How can you not visit the site where the first Olympic Games were played? Starting in 776 BC, the Olympic Games became a critical part of ancient Greek culture.
The Stuff History Buff's Dreams Are Made Of
Whether you're interested in the ancient civilizations of the Mycenea or you're more fascinated by the Roman Empire, it's easy to fill up an itinerary on a trip to Greece.
With so many historical sites in Greece to choose from, you're probably going to have to plan more than one trip!
Be sure to check out the rest of our blog for travel tips and info. What are your favorite historical places in Greece? Let us know in the comments below!
