World Heritage Sites in Greece
It is high time that you planned your trip to Greece. Irrespective of the fact that this country boasts of various tourist locales, you should check out the world heritage sites first. A list of these sites is provided below for your convenience.
Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae: This well preserved, large, and classical temple is situated on a remote mountainside in the Peloponnese and is dedicated to the Greek God of healing. It was constructed during the middle of the fifth century BC. Apart from the combination of Corinthinian, Ionic, and Doric elements, this temple also boasts of the oldest Corinthinian capital found until now.
Archaeological Site of Delphi: Those who know about Delphi will tell you that this was the religious center of the ancient Greek world during the sixth century BC. In fact, this site is one of the most important of the ancient relics of Greece. Excavations at this site have unearthed settlements that date as far back as the Neolithic era.
The Acropolis, Athens: An archeologist’s delight, the Acropolis was the state sanctuary and the fortified citadel of the ancient city of Athens. In essence, the acropolis is a flat-topped rock that rises 150 meters above sea level in Athens city. The Acropolis along with its monuments form one of the largest artistic and architectural complex bestowed on the world by ancient Greece.
Mount Athos: Also referred to as the holy mountain, Mount Athos is out of bounds for women and children. It has been an Orthodox spiritual center since the year 1054 and boasts of numerous monasteries, twenty of which are currently occupied by monks. Known locally as Agion Oros, it is the oldest surviving monastic community in the world and dates back to the Byzantine times.
Meteora: Paths to hike and peaks to climb is what brings back tourists to Meteora every year. The monasteries atop the rock towers form an awesome sight. The way the structure is created forms an illusion that the rocks are suspended in the air. There are a total of 6 monasteries over here that are constructed on natural sandstone rock pillars.
Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki: Constructed from the fourth to the fifteenth century, the Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki are renowned for their significant early Christian art. Do not miss out viewing the mosaics of St. David, St. Demetrius and the Rotunda, which are considered great masterpieces.
Archaeological Site of Epidaurus: This site is a must visit for those who want to check out the uniqueness of ancient Greek construction. The excellent state of conservation of this Hellenistic structure, which boasts of perfect proportions and symmetry, makes it stand apart. This theatre also boasts of perfect acoustics through which the entire audience can hear every single word uttered by the orator without any need of any amplification equipment.
The other famous world heritage sites of Greece are:
- Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Lucas, and Nea Moni of Chios
- Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and TirynsMystras
- Archaeological Site of Olympia
- Archaeological Site of Vergina
- Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos
- Historical Sites on the Island of Patmos
- Medieval City of Rhodes
- Old Town of Corfu
- Delos