The Most Amazing Ancient Greek Ruins to Explore in Greece
When it comes to the list of the world’s most appealing travel destinations for outdoor adventurers and history lovers, Greece is definitely a front-runner. Greece offers a wide range of outdoor adventure travel opportunities for those seeking thrilling experiences and natural beauty such as Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the Greek gods, which is a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering.
The Zagori region in northern Greece offers picturesque trails, while Crete’s Samaria Gorge provides a challenging and rewarding hiking experience. Greece is of course also well known for its rich history and ancient ruins, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the fascinating world of ancient Greece.
The country’s ancient sites don’t just showcase the architectural and engineering marvels of the era, but they also provide an intriguing backdrop for anyone that likes doing things outdoors. You’ll be able to capture excellent video content, take amazing photographs, and have some truly unforgettable memories.
Greece’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes provide an abundance of thrilling activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you prefer land-based adventures or water-based pursuits, Greece has something to offer for every adventurer. But getting to do these outdoor activities among ancient ruins make Greece rather unique for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Here are some of the most amazing ancient Greek ruins to explore in Greece.
Acropolis of Athens
Located in the heart of Athens, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Greece. It is home to several magnificent ancient structures, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
The Acropolis of Athens dominates the city of Athens with its pure beauty that can be attributed to the architectural genius that went into it. Overlooking the capital city of the country, it’s hard to miss.
There are some worthwhile routes worth mentioning, with many visitors choosing to follow the route known as the Panathenaic Way down from the Acropolis of Athens, eventually leading to Agora Square. A site where it’s impossible not to feel the history around you, visiting the Acropolis of Athens is at the top of many travelers’ list of must see ancient sites in Greece.
Olympia
Located in the western Peloponnese region, Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, one of the most significant sporting events in ancient Greece. The site features the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the ancient stadium, and the Philippeion, an ancient circular memorial.
One of the most amazing sites you can see in Greece, Olympia Theatre played host to the first ever Olympic Games and is steeped in history. The Olympics are so iconic that millions of people tune in to watch it wherever it’s held. The games have a way of bringing the world together and showcasing the diverse range of nations, and there are movies like Race and Chariots of Fire as well as documentaries dedicated to famous athletes who have shone on the world’s biggest stage. There are even modern-day slot games, such as the Immortal Glory casino game, which are set in Ancient Greece with an Olympics theme.
Olympia has a rich history dating back to the 10th century BCE. The ancient Olympic Games were held here every four years from 776 BCE to 393 CE, attracting athletes from all over Greece. The site was dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, and served as a religious and cultural center.
Castle of Monolithos
Monolithos is a small village located on the southwestern coast of the beautiful island of Rhodes, in Greece. It is known for its picturesque setting, natural beauty, and the imposing Monolithos Castle that overlooks the village and the Aegean Sea.
Perched on a rocky hilltop, the castle dates back to the Byzantine period and served as a defensive fortress against invasions. Although the castle is mostly in ruins, its walls and towers still stand, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
If you’re keen to smash a picturesque hike and be rewarded for your efforts with a magical castle and amazing views once you reach the summit, then Castle of Monolithos is the standout option. You can access the 15th century castle by way of a staircase that has been carved into the rockface.
Temple of Apollo
Located in the archaeological site of Delphi, perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus in central Greece, it was considered the center of the world and was dedicated to the god Apollo.
The Temple of Apollo is where Ancient Greeks would venture to for answers in life and to seek wisdom from Apollo, the temple was a site for the community that didn’t just provide solace but also entertainment in the form of art, music, and other productions that were delivered to mass audiences here thanks to the site’s 5,000-seater amphitheatre.
The Temple of Apollo dates back to the 4th century BCE, although earlier temples were believed to have existed on the same site. Delphi was considered a sacred place in ancient Greece, renowned as the home of the Oracle of Delphi, where the god Apollo was believed to communicate his prophecies through a priestess known as the Pythia.
Knossos
Located on the island of Crete, Knossos is an ancient Minoan palace and a remarkable Bronze Age archaeological site. It is believed to be the legendary labyrinth of King Minos and the home of the Minotaur. The ruins showcase the advanced architectural and artistic achievements of the Minoan civilization.
One of Europe’s oldest cities, Knossos flourished between 2000 BCE and 1400 BCE. The Minoans, known for their maritime power, advanced architecture, and vibrant culture, made Knossos the political, economic, and religious center of their civilization.
The Palace of Knossos was a grand labyrinthine complex that covered an area of around 20,000 square meters. It featured multiple levels, courtyards, rooms, and intricate architectural designs. The palace was not only a royal residence but also a center for administration, ceremonies, and trade.
Today, Knossos is a major tourist attraction and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Visitors can explore the reconstructed portions of the palace complex, walk along the ancient pathways, and admire the colorful frescoes and intricate architectural details. Interpretative signage and guides help visitors understand the historical and cultural significance of the site.
