Friday, September 28, 2012


Sunday 28 September

Up early and first a trip out to Piraeno to check on parking re our trip to museum on Monday – seems okay so back into the city for our visit to the National Archaeological Museum. Here is traced the evolution of Greek art from the Neolithic era to Roman times. In the chamber of Mycenaean (where we visited from Tolon) we saw gold encrusted daggers sword vessel, jewel cases and the famous 18 carat gold death mask.

Also two exquisite gold drinking cups in the Repousse technique and representing the hunting and grazing of bulls. Next we walked through the chamber of the Archaic Art showing the development of statue work in burial chambers – perfect nude figures showing the increasing use of detail in body mussels. Next through the four chambers of classical art all from around the 5th century BC. The highlight here was the near perfect copper statue of Poseidon (Zeus) ready to hurl a bolt or trident.

This was found as recently as 1929 in the sea near Cape Artemission. Out into a patio for more examples of statues found under the sea. Back in again we walked through rooms displaying exciting pieces of sculpture. Pan, the nymphs etc. more wonderful bronze sculpture was seen, both large and small but the most beautiful statue is the jockey, boy of Marathon, riding a dolphin – remember Sophia Loren’s film boy on a dolphin.

Finally through halls displaying Mycenaean and Attic pottery urns. Before we left we bought two large colour prints to display on the wall in NZ. Next to the Flea Market on Ipratstou Street. Lots of stalls, lots of junk and some good items. A bought a bag and I got some worry beads. From there via the Royal Palace to see the guards in national costume and the National Park to the Acropolis.





 What a place, the superbly sculptured Parthenon (all pillar and roof are of such measurements that from any angle no perfect straight line is seen – even the columns vary 2-3 cms). This is a wonderful hill overlooking all Athens. No description just a plea to everyone – go walk around on your own – this is not a place for talk but thought and imagination. Tonight it’s off to see the sound and light and then a very early start tomorrow (8/8.30) for the island.

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