DISCOVER ATHENS: History and interesting facts!
The last time you studied Greek history or learned anything about the city of Athens was probably for an exam on classical history; democracy, the Peloponnesian wars, philosophy and democracy, right? Don’t panic, we’re giving you a refresher course on the history of Athens and why this city remains so relevant and important to the world today. No tests, no pressure, just interesting facts about the World of Coffee 2023 host city.
Need-To-Know City Information
1. Athens, as Europe's oldest capital city, holds a significant place in history as one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its ancient roots and prominence in the ancient world give Athens a mythical and magical quality. Exploring Athens means walking in the footsteps of legendary figures from human history.
2. Since the late Neolithic Era, Athens has been a site of human habitation, predating the Golden Age of Athens by several millennia. The region of Athens has witnessed settlements dating back to 4500 to 4000 BC, and it emerged as an important center for the Mycenaeans during the Bronze Age. With its strategic location, access to the sea, and the natural fortress of the Acropolis, Athens became a thriving hub of trade during the Iron Age.
3. The name "Athens" is derived from the goddess Athena, and the city's naming has a beautiful myth associated with it. Athena and Poseidon competed to become the patron of Athens, and Athena's offering of an olive tree, symbolizing peace, won the contest. According to the geographer Pausanius, the sacred olive tree was believed to have been preserved on the Acropolis until the second century AD.
4. Athens proudly claims the title of being the birthplace of democracy, with its name itself reflecting the concept. Democracy originates from the Greek words "demos" meaning "the people" and "kratos" meaning "power" or "the state." Solon, the archon of Athens, initiated an assembly of citizens in 594 BC, marking the establishment of democracy. However, it's important to note that in ancient Athens, not all individuals could participate in the democratic process, as it was limited to adult males who owned property. Over time, the constitution was reformed by Cleisthenes, further enhancing the democratic nature of Ancient Athens.
5. The Golden Age of Athens, which occurred in the 4th century BC, was a period of peace and prosperity between the Persian Wars and the Peloponnesian Wars. During this era, Athens experienced a remarkable cultural flourishing, becoming the epitome of Ancient Athens in people's minds. It was during this peak period that the iconic Parthenon began its construction in 447 BC, followed by the additions of the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion to the Acropolis in later years.
6. Athens served as the cradle of philosophy, forming the foundation of its great ancient culture. The philosopher Plato founded the Academy in 387 BC, where notable figures like Aristotle studied. The ruins of Plato's Academy can still be visited today, and its significance has inspired centuries of imagination. One of the most famous frescoes of the Italian Renaissance painter Raphael, titled "The School of Athens," portrays this renowned institution. Additionally, Aristotle established his own school, the Lyceum, further contributing to the flourishing of philosophy in Athens.
7. Theater has always played a vital role in the life of ancient Athenians. Greek Tragedy emerged around 532 BC, followed by Comedy a little later in 490 BC. These theatrical performances took place during the Dionysia festival, dedicated to the god Dionysus. The slopes of the Acropolis housed the Ancient Theatre of Dionysus, where numerous Greek Tragedies and Comedies were staged. Interestingly, the Athenians of today still hold a deep love for theater, with around 150 theaters in Athens. Visitors can also enjoy performances at ancient theaters, such as the Herodes Atticus Theatre, creating a captivating cultural experience.
8. Despite not being the first capital of modern Greece, Athens gained its capital status due to its historical significance and iconic monuments. When Greece regained its independence after the Greek War of Independence, Athens had a modest population of 4,000-5,000 inhabitants and around 400 houses near the Acropolis in what is now known as Plaka. The initial capital of the modern Greek State was Nafplion, a prosperous city in the north of the Peloponnese. However, Athens was later chosen as the capital due to its immense importance and the deep connection it held with the Greek spirit through its history and monuments.
9. At one point in history, Athens had a king. Otto, also known as Othon, a Bavarian Prince, became the first King of Athens, ruling alongside his Queen Amalia. The monarchy persisted throughout most of modern Greek history, with its abolition finally taking place in 1973.
10. The process of constructing the Athens metro system took several years due to the fascinating archaeological findings unearthed along the way. Many of these discoveries are now on display within the metro stations themselves, transforming them into captivating in site museums that showcase the layered history of Athens. Among these stations, the Syntagma station is particularly renowned for its archaeological exhibits.
11. Athens is often referred to as the city of the "Seven Hills", a title claimed by several cities worldwide, including Rome, Lisbon, and San Francisco. Among the historic seven hills of Athens, the most famous is the Acropolis. However, the highest hill is Tourkovounia, towering at 373 meters. One must-visit hill is Lycabettus, a serene pine forest nestled in the heart of the city, leading up to an imposing rock. At its peak, visitors can savor a glass of chilled rosé or a delicious moussaka at a restaurant or café. Climbing further, they will reach the small chapel of St. George, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Athens, including the iconic Kalimarmaro stadium, the Parthenon, and even the port of Piraeus.
12. The port of Piraeus, initially fortified by the Athenian general Themistocles in 493 BC, holds great strategic importance. While its significance declined during the Middle Ages, it has regained its status as one of the busiest ports in Europe today. As of 2015, it ranked as the third busiest port for commercial traffic in the Mediterranean and continues to grow steadily.
13. English is widely spoken in Athens, with over half of the Greek population proficient in the language. This widespread English fluency enhances communication and facilitates interactions for visitors exploring the city.
