Hi. I will be visiting the Acropolis with 4 young children (ages 8, 11, 12 & 12). We will likely have no more than an hour to spend there. Not enough time, for sure, but I know that is all the time we have, and I do want them to experience at least a little bit of this historic site. My question is: what are the most important and interesting things for us to see during this short time frame?
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
9248 posts
If I only had an hour and young children, I would be tempted to view the an acropolis from afar. And spend that hour elsewhere unless you can get there right when it opens.
Posted by
Sidney, BC, Canada
1065 posts
With only an hour consider taking them to one of the ancient theatres at the base of the Acropolis, I think they would enjoy that, especially as they are still used for performances. Or they might enjoy the archaeological park at the “back” of the Acropolis. Lots of ruins, usually relatively uncrowded and nice views looking up at the Acropolis. They will still get good views of the Acropolis/Pathenon as the walk up to the site.
It’s quite a climb up slippery marble steps to the main site and there can be quite a bottleneck at the top - you could spend your hour just getting up to and down from the site especially if you hit the cruise crowds.
Posted by
Moncton NB
1220 posts
An hour "on" the Acropolis is sufficient. Its a small area.
Problem is an hour "at" the Acropolis probably includes almost an hour of walking up, queuing, and walking down. Make sure you've got time for the whole process.
Posted by
3589 posts
I'm grateful to lindah for the question, and to Lesley for responding. I've been wondering about my ability to handle the steps to be "on" the Acropolis, and now I know that the adjacent archeological park will suit me just fine.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3498 posts
That "archeological park" is called the ANcient AGORA. You could look it up. If you want to know what it's all about -- not just a pile of rocks -- you might click on the R steves Link the the left hand corner of this forum page that says "Watch read Listen." If you click Listen, and Greece, then Athens -- you will find a FREE DOWNLOADABLE audio Guide that gives step-by-step description o the place, and the wonderful Buildilng thter called the Stoa of Atillos ... it is a good idea to listen to it BEFORE you take offonyour trip .. then you might be able to explaian things to your kids. If you want to.
Posted by
OP
new orleans
248 posts
Thank you all for this advice. I have decided to forgo getting tickets to the Acropolis & instead will spend time in Plaka where the kids can enjoy great views of this amazing structure.