THE ATHENA-NIKE TEMPLE

As we entered the Acropolis, the first temple we saw was the Temple of Athena Nike, the goddess of victory. This temple, made completely of marble, was the earliest Ionic building to be built on the Acropolis.

While by itself, the temple of Athena Nike is not all that truly spectacular, it is many times viewed as a part of the Propylaia because of its southern position beside the magnificent entryway. The small Ionic marble temple was built by Callicrates for the goddess of victory, Athena Nike, and was probably completed between 427-424B.C.

When the temple was completed during the turmoil of the Peloponnesian War the Athenians added a protective parapet made of marble slabs. These slabs were finely decorated with reliefs depicting winged victories setting up trophies, or leading sacrificial animals to honor the goddess who was seated proudly on the rock.

OUR FIRST STOP - "A VISIT TO ACROPOLIS"

What would a visit to Greece be without going to the Acropolis? So, our first stop was the rock of Acropolis and the ruins of the Parthenon.

The rock of Acropolis is one of the most important icons of western civilization, attracting millions of tourists from all corners of the globe every year. Its iconic status today remains the same as when it was built 2,000 years ago ... a symbol of the emergence of democracy and civilization. Catching glimpses of these ancient ruins from the city below leaves you with both a sense of utter wonderment and also utter familiarity.

The Acropolis was the stronghold of the city and protected the people in ancient times during wars. It became the religious center of Athens. Many of these monuments, however, were destroyed during the second Persian War. Pericles, one of Athens greatest leaders, led the way in rebuilding many of these sites.

The Acropolis houses the ATHENA-NIKE TEMPLE, THE ERECTHIEON TEMPLE, and the PARTHENON.

DRIVING THROUGH THE CENTER OF ATHENS

We were also met and assisted by the Adriatic Tours’ representative and tour guide Fanny G. Georgiou (Call me “Mommy Faye”). She was very knowledgeable and prepared to respond to every challenge along our way. Our luggage was transferred to a grand touring bus with a skilled and friendly driver named Christos Badas.

After the introductory meeting, we drove through the center of Athens. Throughout our ride our guide told us tidbits of history and information. Driving in Athens and Greece is quite an experience. It is very crazy to say the least. Busses go any and every where. There were a few turns that we made that I was surprised we didn’t hit anyone. Then we had first taste of Greek food when we stopped at one of the cantinas in Athens.

DAY ONE: Saturday, 29 April 2006. ARRIVAL IN ATHENS

We made it, all 26 of us! We landed in Athens at 10:15 A.M. The city of Athens was not what I expected. The Athens International Airport was small and the surrounding countryside looked a lot like Las Vegas – dry and few trees on the surrounding hills. I don't think the Custom Officials even glanced at us before, during, or after they examined our passports. But the greatest mystery at one's final destination is whether one's luggage will appear on the baggage claim conveyor belt. Ours did!

After clearing customs it was really neat to see a guy holding a sign with our names on it. Not having to find a cab or bus to our hotel was super.

Pilgrim Participants in “Tracing the Footsteps of St. Paul” April 28-May 9, 2006

(Not in Order) Msgr. Ching Encinares, Sachi and Stanley Brzazgon, Aurora Caballero, Alice Canales, Steve and Peggy Crowe, Daniel de Leon, Pat Di’Angelis, Harry and Josie Gomez, Bernice Martin, Ann Josalle, Sharon Rockel, Rosemarie Langwith, Kathleen Mirabito, Flordelita May, Mos and Lori Pragides, Remy and Minda Ramos, Cely Santos, Dina Welch, Kathleen Ulrich, Arthene Ulrich, and Ann Doherty.