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It’s a very divisive city that people tend to either love or hate. Those who hate it tend to be people who fall into one of the following categories: - They expect Athens to be a bit like Rome - They expect all European cities to have a beautiful, historic appearance; either quaint or grand, or preferably both - They’re from neat, tidy and orderly societies and assume all EU countries are likewise - They stay in the wrong part of Athens, namely the area to the immediate west and north of Omonia Square.
If none of the above applies to you, then definitely go. Food, bars and vibe are among the best in Europe, and the beaches are just a tram ride away. The history aspect speaks for itself
can you elaborate more on the first point when comparing to Rome please?
Rome is one of the most magnificent cities on earth, its present-day appearance reflecting growth spurts during the Renaissance, Baroque and late-nineteenth-century periods.
Whereas Athens missed out on most of that. After its glory days, Athens declined and became little more than a backwater in the Ottoman Empire. When modern-day Greece was formed in 1821, Athens was the size of a large village. Most of its growth took place in the twentieth century for various historical reasons, and its architecture reflects that. People expect an ancient city. It is not. It is a modern city, with an ancient core. It’s more similar to other Eastern Mediterranean cities like Beirut and Tel Aviv than to Rome or, say, Madrid.
This is a very good article that explains more. And no one should be put off. Some cities are about looks; some about vibe. The latter category is infinitely more fun and interesting
this was amazing. thank you.