Greece is not just a beautiful holiday destination for a nice summer holiday, but a country with a unique history and artistic heritage to discover in occasion of a cultural tour. Museums, archaeological sites, temples and ancient findings are everywhere and it is not easy to choose which ones deserve to be seen and visited in a few days. Some of them have even been recognized by UNESCO as "World Heritage Sites" because of the historical and artistic importance that they possess.
So why don't you plan to visit some of the best World Heritage Sites in occasion of your next trip? Here is a list of the top 7 places you must see during this amazing Greek tour, as well as some suggestions about the villas you might book during your stay!
1) The Acropolis
In the heart of Athens, there is a large hill overlooking the whole city presenting majestic buildings on its top. The Acropolis of Athens is the best-known and largest sanctuary of the town, which was erected in the fifth century BC. It includes some important monuments such as the Parthenon, the Propylaia, the Erechtheion and the Τemple of Athena Nike, which are some of the most iconic buildings of Ancient Greece. Dedicated to the cult of Athena Polias, it was a religious and political sites that must be seen at least once in a lifetime.
2) The Old Town of Corfu
The old town of Corfu was founded in the 8th century BC and is one of the island's main centres, as well as the capital of the Ionian Islands. It presents an important fortification as well as a beautiful port that was used for ancient trade. The mix of civilizations and cultures that influenced the city's development makes its aspect unique and slightly "Italian", as the Venetian influence was great. Walk along the narrow city streets, admire the charming stone buildings and relax staying at one of our holiday rentals in Corfu, like Villa di Giovanni !
3) Meteora
Meteora is a locality near the Plain of Thessaly hosting a unique site composed of various monasteries build 400 meters above the sea level, As well as being a major religious site for Christians and pilgrims, it is also one of the most photogenic places in Greece because of its special architecture. This "stone forest" is a spiritual place with a timeless beauty immersed in a magical landscape... don't miss it!
4) The Archaeological Site of Delphi
The beautiful Archaelogical Site of Delphi is located next to Mount Parnassos and was the home of the most famous Greek oracles. It includes two charming sanctuaries, dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and it was a religious, cultural and sports centre in ancient times. In fact, Delphi was considered the "centre of the world"! .
5) The Medieval city of Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town is a locality with an unspoiled beauty. Located in the heart of the island, it was largely influenced by the arrival of some knights belonging to the Order of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem in the 14th century, who introduced some Byzantine details to its Gothic Renaissance buildings.
6) Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
Epidaurus is nestled in a lovely valley in the Peloponnese and it was one of the most important healing centres of the Mediterranean. The site included more than 200 healing centres and people came from remote lands to receive the therapic treatments for spirit, body and soul. Epidaurus includes some wonderful temples and altars, among which there is the famous Sanctuary of Asklepios, a valuable testimony of Greek art considered the birthplace of medicine.
7) Olympia Archaeological Site
This is maybe one of the best-known archaelogical sites of the world. Olympia is the town were the first Olympic Games were held, and the wonderful stadium is still visible. Located in Western Peloponnese, it was an important religious and athletic centre dedicated to the cult of Zeus.
© Alice Pilastri
