Greece is a hotspot for awe-inspiring landmarks which have earned UNESCO World Heritage site status. Planning your trip to Greece might seem overwhelming – there’s just too much to see and do! However, this list is a great place to start…
1. The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
The Sanctuary of Asklepios served as a shrine to Asklepios, the ancient Greek god of Medicine, and was the earliest organised sanatorium in the world. The ancient Greeks believed that health and wellbeing could be improved by attending dramatic performances, which is why a magnificent marble theatre is found at the sanctuary. Though built in the 4th century BC, almost 90% of it is made of its original material!
2. Delphi
According to myth, Zeus released two eagles from the two ends of the earth and they met at Delphi, marking it as the centre of the ancient world and one of its most sacred sites. It became the seat of the famed oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, whom it was wise to consult before any major decision. It is said that Alexander the Great made pilgrimage there, before starting his empire-building journey to the east.
3. The Old Town of Corfu
At various points in its history, Corfu has been occupied by the Venetians, the French and the British. Its two iconic medieval forts, the Palaio Frourio and Neo Frourio, stand monumental above the vibrant and beautiful town. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or solo, you won’t get bored in Corfu Town.
4. The Acropolis of Athens
If you haven’t been to the Acropolis, we’re sure you’ll recognise it as a universal image of Greece. Its monuments have stood the test of time for nearly 25 centuries!
5. Mystras
Situated on the slopes of Mount Taygetos, Mystras was the last Byzantine outpost in Greece. It remained inhabited throughout the Ottoman period, though after 1834 its residents moved into the newly built town of Sparti, leaving their quaint mountain village behind.
6. Delos
Delos is a tiny island in the middle of the Aegean Sea, only accessible by boat from nearby Cycladic islands. It is also an archaeological goldmine, having been a highly sacred site and the centre of commercial activity in the eastern Mediterranean from 167 BC.
7. Patmos
St John the Theologian wrote both his Gospel and the Book of Revelation at the Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos. In his honour, The Monastery of Saint John was built there in the 10th century AD. Patmos can also offer you the quintessential Greek island experience of sun, sea and relaxation.
8. Vergina
This small town in northern Greece has earned its UNESCO World Heritage status by being the site of the ancient kingdom of Aigai, the first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia. It was the home of the Temenid dynasty in the 9th century BC and the family of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC.
9. Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments of Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki , Greece’s second largest city, was founded in 315 BC and is filled with fascinating historical sights. Even if you aren’t all that interested in its many medieval landmarks, the buzzing city of Thessaloniki is still worth your time.
10. The Medieval City of Rhodes
Rhodes is the oldest inhabited medieval city in Europe – the fortifications which surround the town were built by the Order of St John in the 14th century! A walk through the town feels like a history lesson; you’ll be struck by the unique blend of Ottoman and Gothic architecture.
