Before we left Athens we experienced summer like crowds. Compare these photos of the Pantheon on our evening walk w/ the 10am visit accompanied by our tour guide.
Stadium where first modern Olympics were held in 1896 is the largest marble stadium ever built. It was refurbished for the 2004 games. The Original Olympics held from 776-393 BC.
50+mph winds changed our itinerary. We had to spent time in safe harbors. We saw most of the islands on our itinerary but never got to Crete.
We did love blue and white Santorini.
The Bachelor TV program was being filmed in Santorini that day – imagine being the couple getting to know each other as you’re being followed and filmed.
Wreaths for May Day wreaths with ribbons adorned homes and stores. Easter wreaths were ribbon-less.
Civilization in Delos began about 3000BC. ‘Midst the Greek and Roman ruins was a wildflower extravaganza.
The lions of Delos are elegant and memorable. More looting and sadly, the missing cat is in the Louvre.
Jackie O’s favorite island, Mykonos, has become an upscale tourist trap.
Life on board ship included about 25 great people and too much delicious food.
And Greek dancing on a VERY windy deck.
Many, MANY Greek Orthodox churches everywhere. Many relics for the faithful to kiss.
Greeks encourage shopping.
The Mycenaen settlement goes back to 1600BC – a never looted grave contained this famous death mask discoverers attributed to the legendary king of Mycenae, Agamemnon.
This grave in a mound is called Agamemnon’s Tomb. It is highly doubtful that this is the grave of Agamemnon but clearly was the resting place of important people.
Jerry was particularly taken by the ruins of Mycenae . It was King Agamemnon’s brother Menelaus who was married to the abducted Spartan princess Helen. Agamemnon called on all the city-states of Greece to join forces to retaliate resulting in the Trojan War.
Nafplio, seaside town on the Peloponnese, maintains its 19th century charm, no white Greek Island here.
Laid back Hydra has no vehicles, but charming walks and restaurants.
Sunsets were most always beautiful from our ship as we wined and dined.
Home now where the sunsets are often beautiful without the Aegean.