Christian Tour Of Paul’s steps in Athens and Corinth 8-h

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Christianity in Athens emerged during the time of Dionysus the Areopagite. From the 4th century onward, Christian presence grew more prominent. The spread of Christianity accelerated following Theodosius’s ban on pagan cults in 437. Paul’s second missionary journey played a pivotal role, establishing the first Christian churches in Europe and marking the beginning of Christianity’s westward expansion.

Through Paul’s efforts, a devout yet non-Christian nation became the initial Christian country on the European continent. Greece was transformed into a receptive environment for the spread of Christianity by Paul, and its influence can still be seen today in the historical sites associated with his presence.

Athens

In the historic city of Athens, renowned for its philosophers and thinkers, Paul faced a significant challenge as a missionary. He arrived alone, leaving Silas and Timothy behind, determined to spread the gospel in this center of reason and grandeur. Despite the impressive architecture like the Acropolis and Agora, Paul was troubled by the rampant idolatry prevalent in Athens.

ITINERARY (break-down)

Start:  Your tour will begin with a pick-up service at your preferred location, whether it’s your hotel in Athens, a specific address within the city, or the cruise ship pier at Piraeus port. As you make your way to the iconic Acropolis, you’ll have the opportunity to admire various landmarks and neighborhoods along the route, depending on your starting point.

• Duration: 20 Minutes average

Stop At: Embark on an unforgettable Greece tour that begins atop the iconic Acropolis hill in Athens. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the monumental Propylaea gateway, the grand entrance to the sacred site honoring Athena, the city’s protector. Marvel at the innovative design of this splendid structure, crafted from gleaming Pentelic marble by the renowned architect Mnesicles.

Just southwest of the Propylaea, the Propylaea is a rampart that protects the Acropolis’s main entrance. On this rampart, you will find the Ionian temple of Athena Nike, which is currently being restored. This temple was dedicated to Athena Nike, the goddess of victory. Next to it is the Erechtheion Temple, which was dedicated to Poseidon and Athena. Finally, there is the iconic Parthenon, the main temple dedicated to the virgin goddess Athena.

From the summit of the Acropolis, you’ll have breathtaking views of two iconic landmarks: the Theater of Dionysus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. The Theater of Dionysus, carved into the Acropolis’ foothills, holds the distinction of being the original birthplace of theater. Built in homage to the god Dionysus, this amphitheater has witnessed centuries of vibrant performances. Ushering you into a more recent era, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus stands majestically on the Acropolis’ southwestern slope. This Roman-style theater, constructed in 161 AD, underwent extensive renovations in 1950 and continues to host captivating musical events today.

• Duration: 60 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Stop At Mars hill.

Mars Hill; Even in the days of Dionysus the Areopagite, Athens had a modest Christian community. However, from the 4th century, their influence grew. After Theodosius outlawed all ancient religions in 437, the number of Christians increased dramatically. Paul’s second missionary journey was a key moment in the religious history of Greece.

Paul’s remarkable journey brought Christianity to Europe, establishing the first churches on the continent. He transformed a non-Christian nation, Greece, into the first Christian country in Europe. The legacy of Paul’s work is evident in Greece today, where the seeds of Christianity planted by him continue to flourish. The biblical sites associated with Paul’s presence remain a testament to his enduring influence.

Athens

Athens is one of the places where Paul was honored and blessed with his labor and his preaching. Apostle Paul’s visit to the historic and adorned city of Athens, cities of the great poets and philosophers like Socrates, Solon, Themistocles and so many more, and the birthplace of the Principle of Reasonableness, marks one of the most challenging parts of his career as a missionary. Paul arrived alone to teach the true Word of the Lord, while Silas and Timothy remained in Macedonia. Though modern visitors are impressed with the great buildings of the Acropolis and Olympian Zeus, the Agora, and the impressive Stoas, Saint Paul was stirred by the idolatry of the city.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By: Following our visit to the Acropolis, we’ll explore Melina’s Mercury statue, then proceed along the renowned Herodou Attikou Street to the Acropolis Museum and the Acropolis itself. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Gate, also known as the Athens Gate. The Zappeion Megaron holds historical significance in Greek heritage, a generous gift from Zappas to the state.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Stop At Panathenaic Stadium

We will take a photo break at the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the inaugural modern Olympic Games in 1896. The Panathenaic Stadium (also known as “Kallimarmaro”) is a notable attraction in Athens and unique in being entirely constructed from marble. It was built around 330 BC by Athenian statesman Lykourgos on the grounds of a former racetrack for the Panathenaic Games.

The Panathenaic Stadium, the first modern Olympic Games’ birthplace in 1896, also hosted the closing ceremonies. It played a role again in the 2004 Olympics. Now, it serves as the finish line for the yearly Athens Marathon and the location where the Olympic flame is given to the next host country. Capture some moments here before we move on.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By: See the statue of former US President Harry Truman, the glass Runner statue, the Megaron Concert Hall, and enjoy a tour through Kolonaki, Athens’ upscale district.

• Duration: 15 Minutes

Stop At Mount Lycabettus

Mount Lycabettus, a limestone peak towering 277 meters above Athens, is one of seven hills in the city. It features pine forests at its base and two peaks crowned by a chapel, theater, cafeteria, and restaurant. Despite being shorter than the Acropolis, Lycabettus’ abrupt rise from the city center makes it highly visible and a prominent landmark that cannot be overlooked.

Located in the heart of Athens, Lycabettus Hill is an irresistible attraction for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding climb. Its allure lies in the breathtaking panoramic vistas it offers from its summit, making it a popular destination for those with a free afternoon and a moderate fitness level.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass By: After visiting Lycabettus Hill, continue your drive through Kolonaki and the historic center of Athens. Pass by the War Museum, Byzantine Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, National Garden (formerly the royal garden), and Syntagma Square, the city’s central square. Its name commemorates the constitution that King Otto I of Greece was forced to grant after an uprising on September 3, 1843.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At Hellenic Parliament

The Greek Parliament, officially called the Voulí ton Ellínon, is located in the Old Royal Palace in Athens overlooking Syntagma Square. It is the highest democratic body in Greece and comprises elected Members of Parliament who represent the citizens. The Parliament is also the location of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Visitors can witness the ceremonial changing of the guard (Euzones) in front of the former palace, which now serves as the House of Parliament, overlooking Athens’ central square.

• Duration: 10 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass By: Stroll past these significant landmarks: * Numismatic Museum of Athens * Attica Shopping Mall * Catholic Cathedral of Athens Admire The Academy of Athens, part of the “architectural trilogy.” Established in 1926, it covers Sciences, Humanities, and Fine Arts. Visit the Kapodistrian University of Athens. Explore the National Library of Greece, the final installment of the “Architectural Trilogy,” a trio of neoclassical buildings along with the Academy and University.

Theophil Hansen designed the following buildings and structures in Athens: The National Museum, the Constitution Square, Ermou Street, Plaka, the central church (Metropolis), Monastiraki, and Theseion.

• Duration: 20 Minutes

Stop At Ancient Agora

In the 6th century BC, the Agora, an ancient marketplace, was established. Explore attractions such as the Temple of Hephaestus, one of Greece’s best-preserved temples, the Holy Apostles Byzantine church, and the Museum of the Ancient Agora, housed in the Stoa of Attalos. Take a scenic stroll through the Thiseio neighborhood. The Agora held great importance as the epicenter of ancient Greek society, serving as a hub for social, religious, and economic activities.

The Agora was the focal point of ancient Athens, serving as the central gathering place for civic activities such as political debates, religious rituals, and philosophical discussions. It was here that democracy took root, with renowned thinkers like Socrates addressing the public. The Agora also held religious significance and witnessed Apostle Paul introducing Christianity to the Greeks in 51 A.D. Sadly, it also became the stage for Socrates’ unjust indictment and execution in 399 BC.

• Duration: 30 Minutes
• Admission Ticket: Not Included

Pass By: Embarking on a scenic drive, we’ll traverse the captivating city of Athens and its environs. Along our journey, we’ll encounter the town of Megara, birthplace of King Bizas, from whom the Byzantine city derives its name. We’ll also pass through Efisna, renowned for its enigmatic Eleusinian mysteries. Our route will continue through charming resort towns such as Ag. Theodoroi and Kineta before culminating at the iconic Corinth Canal, a testament to human ingenuity.

• Duration: 90 Minutes

Stop At Corinth Canal

Corinth Canal Argolis is one of the most interesting Greek provinces, travel with us through time for this amazing one-day visit to ancient Corinth. The tour opens with a seaside drive passing coastal villages and the island of Salamis (the set of the historical naval battle between the Athenians and Persians). Our first pause is the Corinth Canal. Finally opened in 1894, separating the Peloponnese Peninsula from the rest of Greece while connecting the Saronic Gulf (Aegean Sea) to the Corinthian Sea (Ionian Sea).

During the tour, you’ll have opportunities to stretch your limbs. On selected days, you can opt for a picturesque walk along a pedestrian bridge overlooking the canal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may also have the option to bungee jump for a thrilling experience. THE BEMA OF SAINT PAUL

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Pass By: As we make our journey, we will pass by vibrant orange groves and sprawling olive orchards before arriving at the historic city of Corinth.

• Duration: 15 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Free

Stop For Lunch

Visit a cozy Greek eatery for a casual midday meal featuring genuine, home-cooked Greek fare. Please note that the cost of the meal is not included.

• Duration: 30 Minutes

Corinth

Discover the historic city of Corinth, where the Apostle Paul resided and spread his teachings for two years. Situated 76 kilometers west of Athens, Corinth is located on a narrow land bridge connecting the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. As a significant city in ancient Greece, Corinth played a crucial role in the missionary efforts of Paul. Inhabited as early as the Neolithic period, Corinth prospered as an influential Greek city-state from the 8th century BC until its conquest by the Romans in 146 BC. Today, Corinth stands as the second-largest city in the Peloponnese, attracting visitors with its captivating historical sites and unwavering tourist appeal.

Stop At Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos);

Your lunch break is included in the tour itinerary. Visit Ancient Corinth, positioned beneath the Acrocorinth hill, which houses the Venetian Castle, the most extensive and earliest castle in southern Greece. Explore the Roman Agora of Corinth, the temple honoring God Apollo, and the modest museum of the Ancient Corinth Agora. This location, not just historically and archaeologically fascinating, is also a crucial religious spot for Greece. In this renowned location, the Apostle Paul spread Christianity, was tried before a tribunal in the Agora, and founded the most well-organized Christian church of that time.

• Duration: 60 Minutes
• Admission Ticket Not Included

Pass By:  Akrokorinthos, renowned as the most ancient and expansive fortress in southern Greece, will be explored on our tour before we embark on our return journey to Athens, where our pilgrimage concludes.

• Duration: 80 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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