Marathon And Thermopylae Tour 9-H

Start: We’ll collect you from your hotel or cruise ship terminal and whisk you away on a captivating journey through history. Our drive will meander through Athens’ intriguing northern suburbs, bound for Marathon.

Duration: 60 Minutes

Marathon

After an hour’s scenic trip, we’ll arrive at the hallowed ground where the renowned Marathon race was born, a legendary sporting event spanning 42,195 kilometers. The race’s legacy stems from this locale and is indelibly linked to the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC, a fierce clash between the Athenians and the Persians.

After the Athenians’ victory in the Battle of Marathon, a messenger named Pheidipides ran to Athens to deliver the news. Upon delivering the message, he collapsed and died from exhaustion. In honor of his heroic act, the Marathon race is held annually worldwide. At the site of the battle, you will find the burial mound of fallen Athenians.

To counter the superior numbers of the invading Persian army, Athenian general Miltiades strategically weakened his army’s center and strengthened the flanks. He believed his well-equipped infantrymen (hoplites) could hold their position in the middle while the more lightly armed Athenian flanks overwhelmed the Persian infantry. However, despite its initial collapse, the Athenian center resisted sufficiently long to allow the flanks to crush the Persian wings. This victory caused widespread confusion and retreat among the Persian forces. Read more…

Duration: 60 Minutes

Travel: After concluding our stop at Marathon, we will journey through the heart of Greece to arrive at the renowned Thermopylae, also known as the Hot Gates.

Thermopylae

Thermopylae, known for its hot sulfur springs, a source of its name “hot gates,” had mythological significance as an entry point to the underworld. Named Malis after its resident tribe, the Malians, this area has seen the Malian Gulf widen, creating a broader (over 8 km) coastal passage from its original narrowness (less than 100 meters). Thermopylae’s strategic location served as a critical battleground during the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BCE, as it provided the only land connection between Lokris and Thessaly.

This ancient battlefield witnessed numerous conflicts, most notably the Nazi-German invasion of Greece in 1941. It commemorates the valiant Greek troops who defended against the second Persian invasion under Great King Xerxes. A memorial honors the 700 Thespians who fought alongside the Spartans, and a monument stands in memory of King Leonidas. An information center provides insightful details for curious visitors.

On Kolonos Hill, across the way, the Spartans, true to their principles, fought valiantly until the end, defending the remains of their fallen king. Atop this humble hill, Simonides’ inscription stands as a solemn tribute and reminder: “Stranger passing by, tell the Spartans we lie here, honoring our sacred laws.” Read More …

Stop At King Leonidas Memorial

Next to the highway lies a monument honoring King Leonidas. The statue, perched on a memorial wall, features the inscription “Molon Lavei,” Greek for “Come and take them.” This phrase, attributed to Leonidas, symbolizes resistance and defiance. It’s believed he uttered these words in response to the Persian king’s demand to surrender. The subsequent battle, the Battle of Thermopylae, became legendary for its display of unwavering resistance.

Shortly after the battle, a small stone plaque was placed near the modern memorial. Written on the old plaque is the message: “Tell the Spartans that we died here, obeying their laws.” The ancient memorial, on a hill facing the national road from the modern memorial, is located in Kamena Vourla.

Apollonius of Cappadocia

In the early days of the Roman Empire, Apollonius, a wise man and teacher, visited Thermopylae. There, he was asked about the highest mountain. Instead of naming a physical mountain, he gave a symbolic response. He said that the true highest mountain was Kolonos, not because it was tallest, but because it represented the pinnacle of human virtue. He explained that at Kolonos, the idea of justice and the sacrifices made by good people had created a lasting symbol of human decency. This symbol, he believed, reached from the earth all the way to the stars.

Duration: 160 Minutes

Embark on a pilgrimage to Thermopylae’s hallowed battlefield. Marvel at the towering monument commemorating the valiant 300 Spartans, their courage eternally etched in stone. Gaze upon Leonidas’ imposing statue, its gaze fixed on Kolonos Hill, the site of their final, indomitable stand. Feel a profound sense of reverence and awe as you walk these hallowed grounds. Pay homage to the statue honoring the 700 valiant Thespian warriors. After this historical immersion, soothe your body and soul in the rejuvenating hot springs, where you can find peace and tranquility amidst the echoes of history.

Stop At: We’ll pause at the scenic seaside town of Kammena Vourla. While there, we’ll indulge in an authentic Greek lunch amidst the tranquil ambiance of the sparkling ocean waters.

Duration: 90 Minutes

Pass By: Upon our inevitable farewell, we will carry the extraordinary and unforgettable memories of  Marathon And Thermopylae Tour 8-H within our hearts.

Duration: 170 Minutes

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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.

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