Attica is a historical region and the heart of Greece. Holidays in Athens and Attica Where was Attica located

The Attica Triangle is a tiny but very rich concentrate of Greece. Here there was a place for the ancient gods, brave heroes, outstanding philosophers. Democracy was born here and culture was created. A peninsula with amazing history and picturesque nature. The southeastern tip of the Balkan Peninsula, washed by three bays: Euboean, Saronic and Corinthian. Cape Sounion, which is the apex of the triangle, completes the beautiful picture of nature. Three mountains separate the base of Attica from the mainland: Pastra, Parnithos and Kythenonas (all over a kilometer high).

The peninsula is part of Central Greece. Attica is one of the seven administrative-territorial units, which is at the same time a historical and geographical region. Attica consists of the southeastern section of Greece, the Peloponnesian Trizinia (the Argolid peninsula, the predominant majority of the Argosaronic islands, as well as Kythera and Antikythera. The western border of the Delhi peninsula with the Peloponnese. The area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe region is 3808 sq. Km (this is about 3% of Greek lands). According to territory there are two speeches: Kafisos and Ilisos.

The population density of Attica is the highest among the Greek regions. This is explained by the fact that the capital of Athens is located on the peninsula, where a third of the population of the state lives. From a geographical point of view, Attica is divided into the Athenian periphery and other lands of the peninsula. The first includes all metropolitan municipalities.

Attica is an extremely important region for the country's economy. More than a third of the national gross product (38%) falls on the peninsula. The largest share here is the service sector, which is not surprising for tourist country. Industry occupies a little less, and a small, but not important, part is the agricultural sector (almost 2% of cultivated land is located here). Attica is 71% of the country's construction companies, 69% of processing enterprises and 58% of commercial organizations. Guests of the country also often choose Attica as a place of residence.

History

Historical data report that the settlement of Attica occurred during the Neolithic. Then its name was somewhat different: Akti, Aktiki. The first king of the lands was Kekrops, who united 12 separate tribes. It was then that the capital of Athens was created.

The history of the region, by and large, is the history of Athens. Then Athena argued with Poseidon for the patronage of the city. Having presented the inhabitants with an olive branch as a gift, she earned the favor of the people, and the city was named after her. No less useful was a gift from the god Dionysus, which has become a real symbol of Attica - a vine.

Finds found on the Acropolis and in numerous city-states located here only confirm the various myths that tell about ancient history region. The lands under Athens were united around 800 BC. e. Starting from the 8th century, Attica became the largest maritime and economic center. Under the tyrannical power of Peisistratus, the active development of the region began due to the promotion of trade to Sicily, Pontus Euxinus (now the Black Sea) and Egypt. Athens reached an artistic and cultural flourishing during this period, numerous monuments were erected that adorned the city.

Under a democratic government, Athens becomes the main city of Greece, being the center of the Attic state. It is here that the battles with the Persians flare up. The "golden" period of the capital is considered the era of the reign of Pericles. Science, art, culture, power - everything has reached its peak. The ancient Greek civilization received the most powerful centers: Eleusis, Megara, Egostenon, Pages. It was destroyed during the Peloponnesian War, and at the same time, the naval power of Athens fell into decline. From now on, Salamina and Attica were subordinate to the capital. A similar weakening of the Greek forces led to the conquest of the territories by the Macedonian troops. After almost 200 years, the state passed to the Romans, who, however, treated Athens with great respect, recognizing their significant contribution to the development of education.

The arrival of Christianity was a difficult period for Attica. Numerous destruction due to the raids of the Goths affected the appearance of Athens. The introduction of the Byzantine religion led to the closure of philosophical schools, and ancient temples became Christian shrines. After that, Attica many times passed into the power of various conquerors: Catalans, Neapolitans, Venetians, Turks. The latter overstepped the bounds of what was permitted, making the Parthenon a mosque, and the Erechtheion a harem. 1834 was the moment when Athens was declared the capital of Greece. Then the city was a small village, and the number of inhabitants did not even reach a thousand. All around you could only see that the ruins and stones. However, it was on the ruins of its former grandeur that they began to rebuild the city. New buildings harmoniously intertwined antiquity with modernity, restored the Acropolis. Following Athens, they took up the return to life of other parts of Attica, the importance of which was great in the ancient period: Sunion, Ramnund, Thorikos, Vravron, Eleusis, Marathon, Oropos, Porto Rafti.

Attica combines all the elements of Greek history. The Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Ottomans left their mark here, modernity also touched the region. These prints are fresh, as if history is marching along with the present time.

The proximity of beautiful resorts is a feature of Attica that tourists will appreciate. Paleo Faliro is located just 5 kilometers from the capital. There is not only a magnificent promenade and wonderful beaches, but also numerous cafes, bars, taverns, restaurants that open their doors to everyone who wants to have a good time. The resort's shops allow you to find souvenirs that will remind you of your trip when you return home, local goods and products known for their quality. Organized excursions on the Greek islands- another advantage of Paleo Faliro.

Vouliagmeni

Vouliagmeni is a luxury resort. Luxurious hotels, luxurious apartments, expensive villas are not the only advantage. unique lake with mineral healing springs allow you to relax with health benefits. Coniferous trees make the air clean, saturated with useful aromas.

Those who wish to heal can go to Loutraki. There are healing springs here, and a wonderful beneficial climate helps to feel a complete merger with nature. An interesting location is Cape Sounio. The extreme southern point of Attica makes it possible to see the temple of Poseidon, especially beautiful at sunset.

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Attica / Attica

Coastal Attica is located in the southern part of mainland Greece and is washed by the waters of three bays of the warm Aegean Sea at once (in the south - Saronic, in the east - Petalian, and in the northeast - Euboean). Its area is slightly less than 4 thousand square kilometers, and the nearest neighbors are Boeotia, Megaris and.

Holidays in Attica (Greece) will allow you to immerse yourself in wonderful world ancient Greek myths and wayward ancient gods, enjoy indescribably beautiful landscapes and get acquainted with many historical monuments.

On the territory of the region all year round warm and sunny. June to September average temperature is +28 degrees. In December-February, the thermometer does not fall below +15.

Attica (Greece): Attractions

Particular attention should be paid to the following places:

  • Located about 11 kilometers from Athens Monastery of Daphne. The church was built in the 6th century on the site of the sanctuary of the god Apollo and is surrounded by a small fortress. The main decorations of the interior are picturesque mosaics.
  • Eleusinian Temple of Demeter with an archaeological museum (from Athens 22 kilometers). Here, travelers can feel the special atmosphere and get acquainted with the ancient rites held in honor of the gods.
  • Unique Sanctuary of Poseidon at Cape Sounion (69 kilometers from Athens). From 440 BC, sacrifices were made here to the angry god of the sea. The massive building of the temple is framed by high narrow columns, which personifies the union of the earth with the sea.

Apart from historical monuments travelers who choose tours to Attica, Greece. impress with its nature.

So, the island of Hydra with its elite resorts is chosen by celebrities and wealthy Athenians for their holidays. Aegina Island is known for its luxurious beaches with transparent sea ​​water, the ghost town of Palaiochora and many ancient temples. And on Mount Immitos there is a temple hidden by a cypress grove with a healing spring.

In the cave of Penteli you can see the marble from which the Parthenon was created, and stalactites. Near the town of Peania is the natural cave of Kutuki.

The water of Lake Volyameni, located half a meter above sea level, is considered to be curative. Thanks to the hot springs, you can always swim here.

Where to stay

The most beautiful beach resorts are located on the coast of the region.

Greece has everything a modern tourist is looking for. This country caresses the sun 300 days a year, its borders are washed by 4 seas and surrounded by 1400 islands.

Greece invites you on exciting hikes through ancient ruins and museums where ancient treasures are kept. This one beckons sunny country its fruit groves and delicacies prepared from the gifts of the Mediterranean.

Greek beaches have earned the title of the best for relaxation in the whole world. Tourists flock here to sunbathe, spend time at youth discos, make unique photo shoots and enjoy the taste of fragrant olives.

One of these tourist spots is Attica. It is located in the heart of the country. This is the area where statehood was laid, and where the capital of Greece is located.

Attica in translation means "coastal country". Attica is located on a peninsula, which is washed on three sides by the bays of the Aegean, Euboean, Petalian and Saronic seas.

How to get to Attica

The best way to get to Attica is from Athens, where tourists are delivered by regular international flights from any country in the world.

And you can get to know this historical area better with the help of a developed public transport system.

The suburban bus station is located at 100, Kiffissou Street. From here, the KTEL Attikis transport company will deliver to the bus stations of Attica, one of which is located near the Acropolis, and the second on the Egyptian Square.

The schedule of local trains is available at Athens stations. In addition, ferry and air services operate to Attica.

Royal Olympic Hotel located within walking distance of the Acropolis. The luxuriously furnished rooms of the hotel offer magnificent views of the temple of Zeus or the fragrant garden with a swimming pool.

Poseidonion Grand Hotel located on the island of Spetses and is its attraction, due to its rich architecture. Rooms are stylishly furnished and add luxury to wooden floors. Room balconies overlook the seascape or flower garden.

  • 4* hotels


    Amalia Hotel is within walking distance to the Acropolis and the central square of Plaka. The hotel has been awarded the Green Key environmental badge for the use of natural toiletries, cleaning products and organic products.

    Herodion located at the foot of the Acropolis. Each room at this hotel is elegantly decorated. The rooftop garden features a magnificent garden where you can relax in the hot tubs and sun loungers overlooking Athens.

  • 3* hotels

    Hermes Hotel hid in a quiet area of ​​Plaka. It offers a spacious lounge for relaxation and a roof garden.

    Rooms at the hotel are decorated with modern furniture and light colours.

    Plaka Hotel located in the historical center of the capital of Greece. On the roof of the hotel there is a cafe-bar with an impressive view of the Acropolis.

  • Things to do in Attica: Sightseeing

    The lands of Attica have absorbed ancient legends and myths that come to life in the eyes of impressionable travelers.

    Read also: thermal springs in Greece: list, features, best resorts, indications and contraindications

    Walking through the sights, you can easily be transported to ancient times, when mortals were inhabited by almighty deities. Once in Attica, do not deny yourself the pleasure of visiting the following temples and monasteries and just interesting places:

    • Temple of Poseidon

      A unique building located on Cape Sounion. Sacraments and rituals were performed in this temple in order to appease the formidable sea god. The slender columns of the temple, which are framed by a massive structure, amaze the imagination. The building combines subtlety and grandeur, embodying the connection between land and sea.

    • Monastery of Daphne
      It can be found 10 kilometers from Athens. This building was erected on the site of the pagan temple of Daphne Apollo in the 6th century. Today the monastery has the status of a monument.

    • Engin Island

      This small island attracts with its luxurious beaches and clear sea water. It is located in the middle of the Sardonic Gulf. In history, this island is known for the fact that about 360 temples were built on it. Most of them have been wiped off the face of the earth, but travelers who love antiquity can get to the city of Palaiochora, considered a ghost, in which no one has lived for a long time.

    Attica is a historical region of Greece, which is located near modern capital. Spread on the picturesque peninsula of southeastern Greece, it served as the cradle ancient culture. It is difficult to imagine a more suitable place to explore Hellas and relax in the bosom of nature, among wonderful beaches, amazing mountains and emerald vegetation.

    Geographic features

    Atika on the map of Greece resembles a triangle that runs along sea ​​coast and extends to the central part of the country. In its open spaces is the capital, the port of Piraeus and several cozy resort towns. The area is predominantly hilly, surrounded by limestone and marble mountains. Their peaks are poorly covered with vegetation, but the intermountain plains amaze with all shades of dense greenery.

    The coastal part is very winding, it has numerous sandy beaches. The blue waters of the Sardonian Gulf wash the shores. The beaches are very clean and beautiful, many of them boast the blue flag, the highest environmental award for cleanliness and safety.

    Myths and historical facts

    From the few surviving sources, it follows that the first settlers, the Ionian Greeks, occupied the territory of Attica two millennia BC. Although Plato in his works claims that the inhabitants of Attica did not come from other lands, but always lived here. Numerous archaeological excavations testify to the fact that a person settled in this territory for a long time.

    Later, the society was divided into small communities, each of which worshiped a separate god. Periodically, wars arose between the settlements, which were also considered wars between the gods - the patrons of the communities. At the same time, the affected community and its god did not disappear completely, but the importance of one or another patron simply changed. Gradually, as a result of several internecine wars, a single pantheon was formed.

    After the expansion of Attica and the inclusion of Athens, next to the Acropolis and the temple of Athena, sanctuaries and other gods of indigenous settlements began to appear. Athens, on the other hand, turned into a bright pearl of Greece, where culture, art, philosophy actively developed, and new foundations of the state were formed.

    Sights of the region

    Attica - land with rich historical heritage- boasts many attractions. For the most part, these are the ruins of temples and other important structures, as well as places where the fate of the ancient Greeks was decided. Let us dwell only on a few of the most interesting sights of Attica.

    Temple of Poseidon- a majestic building, which is located on Cape Sounion - the southernmost point of Attica. It seems that the god of the seas is still washing the remains of his temple, which perched almost at a cliff at a height of 60 m. It is best to visit here in the late afternoon, when the rays of the setting sun pass through the preserved columns.

    Acropolis- the oldest fortress in Athens, which even today is awe-inspiring. Important historical events left a lot of traces on stone blocks. The Acropolis is a fairly large multi-level complex, where you can wander for a long time in search of unusual places and backdrops for photography.

    In the vicinity of Athens is Monastery of Daphne- Byzantine legacy of Greece. Initially, it was built in honor of Apollo, but later the monastery was taken over by Christians, then the building was used as a fortress wall and even as a psychiatric hospital.

    aegina- a small island off the coast of Attica in the Sardonic Gulf. Here you can endlessly admire the beautiful landscapes, as well as numerous churches. There are 365 religious buildings on a small stretch of land. Of no less interest is the abandoned city of Palaiochora.

    Near Athens, in the thick of a cypress forest, an ancient monastery hid. It is located at the base of Mount Imittos, next to the healing spring. The building is striking in size, beautiful architecture, mosaics and frescoes.

    Resorts of Attica

    After saturating your mind with sightseeing, it's time to head to the beach. Along the coast there are several cozy towns with developed infrastructure. They are grouped under the name « Athenian Riviera» . It is difficult to find a deserted or secluded corner here, but there is everything for comfortable rest: yacht clubs, bars, hotels and nightclubs.

    Just 15 km from the center of Athens is the famous Glyfada. Here you can have fun at night in numerous clubs, and during the day go to a huge golf course.

    Lagonissi– less noisy and very cozy resort. It is ideal for measured family vacation on the Aegean coast. Calm sea with a gentle bottom and a beach with fine sand make you forget about time. After lunch, you can take a walk through the dense lemon groves.

    Loutraki– a town where you can not only enjoy the calm beach holiday, but also to improve health in the famous clinics. The mild climate and healing springs will restore health and youth to everyone.

    Vouliagmeni- prestigious resort expensive hotels and luxury villas. The city has a lake of the same name, famous healing springs. With their help, it is possible to get rid of many serious diseases of the skin, bones, nervous system and reproductive organs. In the city there are beautiful coniferous forests.

    The maximum cosmetic effect will have rest in Sunione. There are many beauty centers that use cosmetics based on local herbs, flowers and mineral complexes.

    Things to do?

    Attica is a place where everyone will find something to do. Most tourists begin their acquaintance with sightseeing or relaxing on the famous beaches. In addition to passive lying on the shore and swimming, you can ride a scooter or water ski, as well as enjoy the views from a pleasure yacht.

    Adults and children alike will enjoy spending time in the water park. lovers underwater world can go scuba diving. There are several diving centers on the beaches.

    Connoisseurs of gambling and stormy nightlife will not go unnoticed. They can head to the bustling casino in Loutraki or the many nightclubs along the coast.

    shopping

    There are areas in Attica where people go shopping even from neighboring countries. Located in the center of Athens shopping centers and boutiques where you can buy jewelry and furs. In memory of this piece of paradise, people buy fragrant herbal teas, leather goods, cosmetics based on minerals and olive oil, oil itself and olives, as well as ceramic products from the masters of Marousi.

    How to get there?

    Since Athens, the capital of Greece, is located in Attica, there will be no problems with the flight. The city has a large international Airport, which receives direct flights from various parts of the world.

    You can get to more remote towns on comfortable regular buses or trains. They run regularly in the suburbs. In order not to depend on the schedule, you can rent a car and make own route acquaintance with the region.

    You can get to the island of Aegina by ferry from the port of Piraeus. It delivers passengers every hour from early morning until sunset.

    Attica- the very heart of Greece, the region of Greece, where Athens is located, which is the capital of the country and its main administrative center.
    There are many public and private beaches on the coast of Attica, and excellent resort hotels have been built. Almost all beaches are paid. The entrance fee ranges from 3 to 13 euros.
    Attiki-Akti beach. A very popular sandy beach located near Athens, with modern equipment, with deep clear water. Blue Flag Winner. On the territory there are wooden sunbeds, umbrellas, an ambulance station, changing cabins, showers.
    Varkiza beach. Sandy beach located on the southeast coast. This is the beach farthest from the center of Athens and not crowded enough. The beach has tennis and volleyball courts. There are also all conditions for water sports, waterslides, there is a playground, several bars.
    Akti Varkiza Beach is a fairly crowded beach with dense sand and calm waters. Nearby is a yacht club where you can take lessons in windsurfing, kayaking, swimming.
    The beaches of Voula are located on the southeast coast. Despite the fact that the beaches are quite expensive, they are mostly preferred by young people. Here you can play tennis, volleyball, go in for water sports, have a bite to eat at local snack bars.
    Apollones Aktes beach - private beach. On the territory: water slides, water sports sports, bar, sunbeds, umbrellas, playground, swimming pool, open-air evening concerts are held.
    Cape Sounion. Located 65 km from the center of Athens. Numerous sandy beaches stretch along the cape. On a clear day, at least 7 islands are visible from here.
    Chinyas is one of the best beaches Attica, located in the southeastern part of the famous Marathon. It is very popular and, accordingly, quite crowded; there are many windsurfers among vacationers. There is also a surf club.
    Vavron. A small town that previously belonged to the mythical king Kekrops, the founder of Athens. This is an interesting area with many cozy sandy beaches and the amazing Sanctuary of Artemis.
    Holidays in Attica is a great opportunity to combine acquaintance with the Athenian antiquities and relaxation at sea.
    Geography: Region Attica borders in the north with Central Greece and is washed in the south by the waters of the Saronic Gulf. Here are Athens - the capital of the Greek state, and Piraeus - the main sea ​​port country.

    Nature

    The greater part of Attica is covered with limestone and marble hills, and presently represents only bare, devoid of vegetation spaces. Only the higher parts of Cithaeron and Parnassus, as well as the northwestern slopes of Pentelikon, are covered with pine and spruce forests.

      Ponds and beaches

    • Favorable period for swimming: April-October
    • water is clean
    • sandy beach
    • the beaches are clean
    • rich underwater world
    • Mediterranean

    Infrastructure

    Attractions: Flooded with rays bright sun Attica is full of memories of the past. Here is the famous majestic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, 65 km. from Athens - one of the most impressive images of Greek architecture, the Byzantine monasteries of Daphni and Kesarjani.
    You can also visit the Temple of Demeter in Eleusis - ancient temple dedicated to the mysterious cult of the goddess Demeter and her daughter Persephone, in which the famous Eleusinian mysteries were held in ancient times. The temple has an archaeological museum. The temple is located 22 km from Athens.

      The shops

    • clothing stores
    • souvenir shops
    • European cuisine
    • international cuisine
    • grocery stores
    • restaurants

      Entertainment in the evening

    • discos
    • casino

      Entertainment during the day

    • water activities
    • museums

      Entertainment at night

    • night bars
    • water sports

    Basic information

    Attica is the region of Greece where Athens is located. Holidays in Attica are a great opportunity to combine acquaintance with Athenian antiquities and holidays at sea. There are many public and private beaches on the coast of Attica, and excellent resort hotels have been built. It is no coincidence that the surroundings of the town of Vouliagmeni are even nicknamed the "Athenian Riviera".

    • Summer time (validity period) +03:00 GMT (March-October)
    • Area (sq. km) 3808 km²
    • Religion Orthodoxy
    • Telephone code 8-10-30-(tel.)
    • Time zone (+00:00 GMT) +02:00 GMT
    • Population 3.827.624 people.
    • Power supply (voltage, socket type) 220 V
    • Language (official and spoken) Greek