Athens, Greece

The ship docked in the port of Piraeus. The well known sights of Athens are perhaps 30 minutes away.

Because we were unable to stop in Alexandria, we got to Athens early and were able to spend half a day on our own as well as some time with a tour that took us to the Acropolis. Of course, the Parthenon is the most recognizable building in western civilization. I regret to say that I didn't learn the names of the two other buildings on the Acropolis.

*	The welcome in Piraeus reminded us of the welcome in Honolulu --- there wasn't any. But we were a day early, which might explain it. And so many ships go in and out, perhaps the Queen Mary 2 isn't so special.
*	Seafaring is the major industry of Greece, even ahead of tourism, and it shows in the charm of the harbor. We were delighted just to sit on the deck with a glass of wine and watch the ships going in and out. Lots of ferries and some cruise ships. If there was a container terminal, it was out of sight.
*	The Plaka has some shopping and a large number of restaurants, all with outdoor seating. We were sorry that we had had lunch on the ship because the Plaka restaurants were so attractive.
*	From the Plaka, it was an easy walk to the ruins of the temple of Olympeion Zeus. Our tour guide said that the proportions of this temple are so out of proportion to the human figure, that it is not considered the best monument.
*	The proportions of the Parthenon are considered much more beautiful. In addition, the Parthenon is designed to appear perfectly regular by actually constructing it with columns that lean and a floor that is bowed in order to compensate for the optical illusions.
*	Blazo was much taken by what is left of the frieze at the roof.
*	The Odeon is where the Greeks of ancient times would come to sit through three plays at one sitting, sitting on stone benches. (Maybe they brought their own cushions.) Next stop: Civitavecchio, gateway to Rome, Italy.

*Hover over pictures marked with an asterisk to enlarge them.