Greece is a country rich in cultural and natural heritage, with a long and diverse history that spans from ancient times to the present day. Greece has 18 properties inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, 16 of which are cultural sites and two (Meteora and Mount Athos) are mixed, listed for both their natural and cultural significance. These sites represent the outstanding universal value of Greece’s heritage, which has influenced and inspired many civilizations and cultures around the world.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the UNESCO world heritage sites that are located in Greece and why they are important for their cultural, historical, or natural value. We will also provide some links to learn more about each site and how to visit them.
Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the most iconic and recognizable symbols of ancient Greece. It stands on a steep hill overlooking the city of Athens, and consists of several monuments built in the 5th century BCE during the golden age of Athenian democracy. The most famous of these monuments is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, patron of the city. The Acropolis also includes other temples, such as the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike, as well as sculptures, such as the Caryatids and the Frieze.
The Acropolis of Athens is a masterpiece of classical architecture and art, reflecting the ideals of harmony, proportion, balance, and beauty that influenced later generations. It is also a testimony of the political, cultural, and religious achievements of ancient Athens, which was the cradle of democracy, philosophy, science, and art in the Western world. The Acropolis has been a source of inspiration and admiration for centuries, and has been preserved and restored with respect and care.
To learn more about the Acropolis of Athens, visit
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/404
Archaeological Site of Delphi
Delphi was the site of the most famous oracle in ancient Greece, where people from all over the Mediterranean world came to seek advice from the god Apollo through his priestess, the Pythia. Delphi was also a major religious and cultural center, hosting festivals, games, competitions, and ceremonies that attracted thousands of visitors. Delphi was considered by the Greeks to be the “navel of the world”, as it was marked by a sacred stone called the Omphalos.
The archaeological site of Delphi includes the remains of temples, treasuries, altars, theaters, stadiums, monuments, and sculptures that date from the 8th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. The site showcases the artistic and architectural excellence of ancient Greece, as well as its spiritual and intellectual legacy. The site also features a stunning natural setting, surrounded by mountains and valleys that create a dramatic landscape.
To learn more about the archaeological site of Delphi, visit
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/393
Meteora
Meteora is a unique phenomenon of nature and human ingenuity. It consists of a series of towering rock formations that rise above the plain of Thessaly in central Greece. On top of these rocks, monks built monasteries from the 14th to the 16th centuries, creating a remarkable fusion of natural and cultural heritage. The monasteries were places of spiritual retreat, artistic expression, and social service. They also served as refuges during times of war and invasion.
Meteora is a spectacular example of how humans can adapt to and transform their environment in harmony with nature. It is also a testimony of the religious devotion and artistic creativity of Byzantine and post-Byzantine culture. The monasteries are still inhabited by monks and nuns who follow a traditional way of life. The site offers breathtaking views of the rocks and the surrounding landscape.
To learn more about Meteora, visit
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/455
Mount Athos
Mount Athos is a sacred mountain that has been dedicated to Christian Orthodox monasticism since the 10th century. It is home to 20 monasteries and about 2000 monks who live in isolation and follow a strict rule of prayer, fasting, and work. Mount Athos is also a treasure trove of art and culture, as it preserves a rich collection of manuscripts, icons, relics, frescoes, and other religious objects that span over a thousand years of history.
Mount Athos is a unique example of a living religious community that has maintained its autonomy and traditions for centuries. It is also a place of exceptional natural beauty, with diverse flora and fauna, and a pristine coastline. Mount Athos is accessible only by boat, and only male pilgrims are allowed to visit, after obtaining a special permit. The site is considered by many to be the spiritual heart of Orthodoxy.
To learn more about Mount Athos, visit
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/454
Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece
The sites mentioned above are only some of the UNESCO world heritage sites that are located in Greece. There are many more sites that deserve to be explored and appreciated, such as:
- The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, a remarkable example of ancient Greek temple architecture.
- The Archaeological Site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and a major sanctuary of Zeus.
- The Medieval City of Rhodes, a fortified town that reflects the influence of various cultures and civilizations.
- The Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessalonika, a group of churches and monuments that illustrate the development of Christian art and architecture.
- The Archaeological Site of Aigai (modern name Vergina), the ancient capital of Macedonia and the burial place of Alexander the Great’s father.
- The Archaeological Site of Mystras, a fortified city that was the last stronghold of Byzantium before its fall to the Ottomans.
- The Historic Centre (Chorá) with the Monastery of Saint-John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse on the Island of Pátmos, where Saint John wrote the Book of Revelation.
- The Old Town of Corfu, a blend of Venetian, French, British, and Greek architectural styles.
- The Archaeological Site of Philippi, a Roman colony founded by Philip II of Macedonia and an early center of Christianity.
To learn more about these and other UNESCO world heritage sites in Greece, visit
https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/GR
Conclusion
Greece is a country that offers a wealth of cultural and natural heritage that reflects its long and diverse history. The UNESCO world heritage sites in Greece are some of the most remarkable examples of human achievement and creativity in various fields and periods. They are also places that showcase the beauty and diversity of nature and its interaction with human culture. Visiting these sites is not only a way to learn about Greece’s past, but also to appreciate its present and future.
