Athens Christian 4-H Tour Of Paul

DESCRIPTION

In Athens, a Christian community existed since the time of Dionysus the Areopagite. From the 4th century, this community became more prominent. After 437, Theodosius’s suppression of ancient cults led to a surge in Christian followers in Greece. Paul’s second missionary journey marked a turning point in the country’s religious history.

Paul’s remarkable journey brought the Gospel to Europe, leading to the establishment of the first Christian churches on its soil. Through his missionary efforts, he transformed a pagan nation into the first Christian country in Europe. Greece became fertile ground for the seeds of Christianity planted by Paul, which continue to thrive today. His legacy is still evident in the biblical sites of Greece.

Paul

During his missionary journeys, Paul visited Athens, a renowned center for philosophy and culture. His presence in Athens, known for its great thinkers such as Socrates and Solon, presented a significant challenge in his ministry.

Paul came by himself to preach the real teachings of God, leaving Silas and Timothy behind in Macedonia. While travelers today marvel at the grandeur of the Acropolis and temple of Olympian Zeus, as well as the Agora and magnificent Stoas, Saint Paul was deeply troubled by the city’s rampant idolatry.

ITINERARY (break-down)

Start:  Our tour will begin at your chosen pick-up point, either at your Athens accommodation or at the cruise ship pier in Piraeus port. As we make our way to the Acropolis, we will pass through various notable areas, depending on your starting location.

• Duration: 15 Minutes average

Stop At The Acropolis

Our initial excursion begins at the iconic Acropolis hill, an unmissable attraction. Ascend to this historic landmark to witness its magnificent entrance, the Propylaea. This grand gateway serves as the portal to the sacred sanctuary dedicated to Athena, the city’s revered guardian deity.

Designed by Mnesicles using Pentelic marble, the Propylaea, located at the entrance to the Acropolis, showcased innovative architecture. On the southwest side of the Propylaea, atop a defensive wall, stands the Apteros Nike Temple, an Ionian structure dedicated to the goddess Athena Nike. Other notable buildings in the area include the Erechtheion, a temple honoring Poseidon and Athena, and the renowned Parthenon, the main temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The latter is currently undergoing restoration work..

From the Acropolis’ summit, you’ll behold the Theater of Dionysus, the birthplace of theatrical art, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a majestic Roman theater. Nestled at the Acropolis’ base, the Theater of Dionysus is renowned as the world’s oldest theater. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, located on the Acropolis’ southwestern slope, was erected in 161 AD and underwent restoration in 1950.

• Duration: 65 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Stop At  Mars hill

Long before the time of Dionysus the Areopagite, a small Christian community existed in Athens. In the 4th century, their influence grew stronger. Christianity’s popularity surged after Theodosius outlawed pagan cults in 437. The turning point in Greek religious history came with Paul’s second mission.

Paul’s momentous expedition brought the Word of God to Europe, leading to the establishment of the continent’s first Christian churches. His influence transformed the pagan nation of Greece into the first Christian stronghold in Europe, a legacy that has endured to this day. Greece became the fertile ground where the seeds of Christianity took root and continue to flourish today.

Paul

Paul’s legacy remains evident in the sacred sites of Greece associated with him. Athens, a prestigious city known for its renowned thinkers, became a notable location where Paul shared his teachings and left a lasting impact. This historic visit presented significant challenges during his missionary journey.

Paul’s legacy remains evident in the sacred sites of Greece associated with him. Athens, a prestigious city known for its renowned thinkers, became a notable location where Paul shared his teachings and left a lasting impact. This historic visit presented significant challenges during his missionary journey.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By Syntagma Square:

After the Acropolis, see vistas of the city heading towards the Melina’s Mercury statue, the famous Herodou Attikou street that leads you to the Acropolis museum and the Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrians Arch or else the Athens Gate, the national garden (ex-royal garden), the Plateia Syntagmatos Syntagma Square, the central square of Athens. The square is named after the Constitution that Otto, the first King of Greece, was obliged to grant after a popular and military uprising on 3 September 1843.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Stop At Hellenic Parliament

The Greek Parliament, officially called Voulí ton Ellínon, is the governing body of Greece. It operates from the former Royal Palace in Athens, facing Syntagma Square. The Parliament is Greece’s highest democratic authority, representing its citizens through elected members. Take the opportunity to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guard by the Euzones in front of the Parliament House, overlooking the city’s central square.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass by: Numismatic Museum of Athens, Attica shopping mall, the Catholic cathedral of Athens.

• Duration: 10 Minutes

Stop At The Catholic cathedral of Athens

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite, constructed from 1853 to 1887, stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Roman Catholicism in Athens. Notably, it served as the wedding venue for Spanish monarchs. The cathedral’s interior boasts a blend of marble adornments and ornate frescoes, striking a stylistic balance between the intricate embellishments of Orthodox churches and the relative simplicity of Catholic religious architecture.

Saint Dionysius of Athens, a renowned patron saint of the city, was a prominent judge who converted to Christianity. As the second Bishop of Athens, he left a lasting legacy. A church dedicated in his honor stands as the residence of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Athens, showcasing his esteemed role in the city’s spiritual and religious tapestry.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass By The Academy of Athens

The National Library of Greece is one of three architectural landmarks that form a “trilogy.” It was originally established as an Academy of Sciences, Humanities, and Fine Arts in 1926. The library was constructed in the late 1800s as the final component of the Architectural Trilogy of Athens, which also comprises the Academy and the University. The National Library is situated amidst notable landmarks such as the Kolokotronis statue, the Museum of Greek History, Constitution Square, the Russian Orthodox Church, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Zappeion Megaron, which holds cultural significance in Greek heritage and was a gift from Zappas to the state!

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At The Panathenaic Stadium

We’ll pause at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the inaugural modern Olympics commenced in 1896. This historic landmark, also known as the “Kalimarmaro” Stadium, is unique as it’s the only stadium globally constructed entirely from marble. Its initial incarnation, a simple racecourse, was erected around 330 BC by the Athenian statesman Lykourgos (Lycurgus), mainly for the Panathenaic Games.

The Panathenaic Stadium was the birthplace of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, hosting both the opening and closing ceremonies. It returned as an Olympic venue in 2004. Now, it marks the end of the Athens Classic Marathon each year and serves as the location where the Olympic flame is passed on to the host nation during the handover ceremony. Let’s capture some memories before moving on to our next destination.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By Kolonaki

Your tour will take you through the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki and the historic center of Athens. Along the way, you’ll pass: – War Museum – Byzantine Museum – Museum of Ancient Archaeological Cycladic Civilization – Council of State – Statue of Theodoros Kolokotronis – National Historical Museum – Constitution Square – Ermou Street (a major shopping street) – Plaka (the old part of Athens with charming streets lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops) – Metropolis Church – Monastiraki (a flea market) – Theseion

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Stop At Ancient Agora

In the heart of ancient Athens, the Agora marketplace has stood since the 6th century BC. Explore its architectural wonders like the Temple of Hephaestus, the oldest surviving temple in Greece. Take in the beauty of the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles. Delve into archaeological discoveries at the Museum of the Ancient Agora housed in the Stoa of Attalos. Extend your exploration to the charming neighborhood of Thiseio, where you can stroll amidst historical streets and vibrant markets.

The Agora played a central role in ancient Greek cities, serving as a vibrant hub for social, religious, and economic activities. It was a marketplace, a gathering place for religious rituals, and the seat of government and justice. In 51 A.D., Apostle Paul introduced Christianity to Greeks at the Agora. Other notable figures, such as Socrates, addressed the public there as the concept of democracy took shape. However, Socrates’ teachings later led to his indictment and execution at the nearby state prison in 399 B.C.

• Duration: 40 Minutes
• Admission Ticket: Not Included

Pass by:  Monastiraki, Athens, and Kolokotroni street (shopping area for budget items), Syntagma.
Best Greece Tours concludes this private excursion by returning you to your designated departure point, either your cruise ship or your hotel in Athens. This marks the end of our services for your tour.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

• Transfer offerd; Travelers pickup/drop off is offered.
• Pick up from; We will pick you up from any hotel or apartment in Athens center and Piraeus cruise port at the cruise ship pier!
• Info needed When booking make sure to include the address of your accommodation, or the name of the cruise line and the cruise ship!
• Pick up time; We propose to pick you up at 8 am in order to avoid traffic and crowed at the Acropolis.
• Drop off; We will drop you off at the same place we have picked you up or at any hotel in Athens center or cruise ship pier!

What is Included

• Professional driver with good knowledge of history and culture in Greece
• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle appropriate for the size of your group
• Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple day tours only)
• Flexible pick up time on request (proposed 08:00AM)
• Free Pick-up from and return to your hotel
• Free Pick-up & drop off from Piraeus cruise port
• Athens Airport transfers or pickup locations outside Athens: arranged on request with surcharge
• First class transport: By Mercedes E-Class or similar; Mercedes minivan or Mercedes minibus according to the size of your party. All new models come with full leather and A/C.
• Road tolls and local taxes
• Our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athina, Greece.
• Official licensed tour guide for guiding in archeological sites. Available on request with surcharge
• The private tour is 100% exclusive for your party

What is Excluded

• Entrance fees to the archaeological sites and museum
• Wine tasting fee (wine tours)
• Athens Airport transfer: arranged on request with a surcharge
• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and beverage
• Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost.

Tour Type

• Private tour - Shore Excursion
• Activity level: Moderate
• Departures: Daily

Restrictions

• Due to the high complexity and uncertainty of contemporary transportation, as well as unexpected situations, the planned itinerary can change at any moment and our choices may be affected by any social, economic or environmental phenomena!

Guaranteed Departures

• Best Greece Tours is proud to be the first in the industry to offer Guaranteed Departures . A guaranteed departure means; There is no minimum number of bookings required on a trip to run and that the tour will definitely operate on the day it is scheduled and will not be cancelled. All guaranteed departures will run except in the event of a natural disaster or other similarly disruptive event that is beyond our control. Our current collection of tours can take you to exciting places in Athens and around the world.

How will we use the information you wll give us about you!

• Passenger Detail; We need basic contact details so we can send appropriate booking information to you as well as make sure the supplier can contact you should they need to.
• Flight Details; We will need to know your exact travel details so they can track flight time as well as make sure they get you to and from your destination with no delay.
• Accommodation Details; We need to know your pick-up and drop-off address to ensure the right price and that we know exactly where to meet you or take you.
• Payment Details; We will pass your payment details to our secure payment provider, but we do not see or store any of these details on our website payment details.

Importantant information!

• Dress: religious and memorial sites: shoulders and knee must be covered.
• Terms & Conditions, F.A.Q , Privacy policy & Cookies
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• A voucher will be emailed to you with our contact numbers and all necessary information for your tour.
• This is your ticket and proof of purchase. On the day of tour please present a paper voucher in order to redeem your tour/activity.
• Itinerary (break-down)Due to the high complexity and uncertainty of contemporary transportation, as well as unexpected situations, the planned itinerary can change at any moment and our choices may be affected by any social, economic or environmental phenomena!

Persons with Disabilities

• Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora.
• In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• For guests who are full-time wheelchair users a ramp vehicle will be needed. Guests may remain in their wheelchair or scooter for the duration of the excursion. Wheelchair or scooter dimensions are required in order to confirm the correct vehicle!
• Wheelchair or small scooter folding type only. (Please note that disabled passengers must be able to board the vehicle independently or with the assistance of those in their party.)

Opening hours & Admission fees

• Opening Hours: Summer April 1st to October 31st from 08:00 AM to 07:30 PM
• Winter: November 1st to March 31st from 08:30 AM to 03:00 PM
• Free admission fees: Children under 18 & Students from E.U.
• Reduced admission fees: Citizens of the E.U. aged over 65 & Students from countries outside the E.U.

Free admission days

• March 6: In memory of deceased Minister of Tourism & visionary Melina Mercouri
• June 5: Environment international day
• April 18 : International monuments day
• May 18: International museums day
• September 27: International tourism day
• The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
• National Holidays
• Sundays in the period between 1 November and 31 March
• The first Sunday of every month, except for July, August and September
• NOTE: If the first Sunday is a holiday then the second is the free admission day

Holidays in Greece

• January 1: closed
• January 6: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• Shrove Monday: 08:30AM - 03:00 PM
• March 25: closed
• Good Friday: 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
• Holy Saturday: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• Easter Sunday: closed
• Easter Monday: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• May 1: closed
• Holy Spirit Day: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• 15 August 15: 08:30 AM - 03:00 PM
• October 28: 08:30 AM- 03:00 PM
• December 25 & 26: closed

• Sedans; Within 24 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 24 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• Minivan; Within 36 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 36 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• Minibus 10-20 seats; Within 96 hrs of travel 100% fee will apply. Outside of 96 hrs a €2 per person cancellation charge will apply.
• For all vehicles; No show mean, no refund