In The Footsteps Of Greatness, and Fools

As I toured Athens today, I was again amazed by the tremendous wealth of historical treasure that is omnipresent here (and in so many parts of Europe).

Sure, the Acropolis towers over the city as a gemstone, but there are dozens (hundreds) of smaller buildings, sites, and relics scattered amongst the vibrant culture of the present.

Sadly, the same Acropolis serves as a testament to human folly. In the Autumn of 1687 some poor Venetian fool _following orders_ lobbed a mortar round into one of the world's greatest treasures. Some piece of human garbage ordered it. Somehow, they decided that their stupid little war (now entirely irrelevant) was worth destroying an irreplaceable monument to human art and architecture. What a terrible waste. ( read more here: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_the_Ac… )

But!
Restoration over the subsequent centuries offers us a glimpse of the splendor and it looks splendid at sunset.

I enjoyed meandering the streets and alleys, watching people, and hearing street musicians. Lunch and a nap were an excellent way to escape the midday heat (its almost body temp here today) and recoup from busy week of travel.

I'm a little sad that my plnning failed me w/re to seeing the Acropolis museum. I think that; would be worthwhile but it'll have to be another time. Didn't realise that they close at 5PM. Bummer.

I wrapped my strolling by sitting on a warm marble outcropping watching dogs walk their people with a view of the city and the hills spreading out in all directions. Just wonderful.Read more