12 Beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece Every History Lover Should Visit
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A land steeped in mythology, philosophy, and democracy, Greece is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. These include its beautiful 19 UNESCO World Heritage sites that date back centuries.
Due to its location, Greece was a crossroad for civilizations and as a result, these sites, scattered across the mainland and islands, showcase the incredible human achievements of these groups through the architecture, art, and cultural traditions.
While all 19 sites deserve recognition, this article focuses on the 12 most prominent and historically important. So, let’s travel back to a world of ancient temples, Byzantine monasteries, medieval towns, and archaeological wonders as we reveal the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece.
1. The Acropolis of Athens
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Sat proudly atop a hill overlooking the ancient city of Athens, the Acropolis stands as a timeless symbol of ancient Greece’s glory. This UNESCO World Heritage site, established in 1987, is a complex of temples, monuments, and theaters that represent the pinnacle of Athenian art and architecture.
The Parthenon, the most iconic structure on the Acropolis, is a testament to the genius of ancient architects and sculptors. Its Doric columns, intricate friezes, and harmonious proportions continue to inspire awe and admiration. Other notable structures include the Erechtheion, with its iconic Caryatid porch, and the Propylaea, the monumental gateway to the Acropolis.
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2. The Archaeological Site of Delphi
Tucked into the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once considered the center of the world. This sacred site, dedicated to the god Apollo, was home to the Oracle of Delphi, whose prophecies influenced the course of history.
The archaeological site of Delphi is a sprawling complex of temples, theaters, and treasuries that offer a glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Greece. The Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle resided, is the most well-known structure, while the theater and stadium hosted the Pythian Games to honor Apollo.
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3. The Medieval City of Rhodes
Rhodes gained its UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1988 thanks to its medieval city that transports its visitors back to the era of Crusades. The walled city’s narrowed streets, imposing fortifications, and grand palaces paint quite the picture of what life was like when the Knights of St John took control of the region.
The Palace of the Grand Master, a magnificent Gothic structure, is the most impressive building in the city. Other must-visit landmarks include the Street of the Knights, lined with medieval inns, and the Archaeological Museum, housed in the former Hospital of the Knights.
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4. The Meteora Monasteries
The monasteries found in Meteora look like they have been taken directly from a Hollywood blockbuster. Perched atop towering rock pillars, these Byzantine monasteries are believed to date back to the 14th century and were built by a monk named Saint Athanasios the Meteorite.
Accessible only by rope ladders or nets until the 20th century, the monasteries offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Inside you’ll discover interiors adorned with frescoes, icons, and other fascinating religious artifacts. Thankfully, today you can pay a visit to the sites via the comfort of a car or if you’re feeling adventurous, a hike.
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5. The Archaeological Site of Olympia
Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, is a sacred site that holds a special place in Greek history. This UNESCO World Heritage site, established in 1989, is home to the ruins of the ancient stadium, temples, and treasuries that once hosted the Panhellenic Games.
The Temple of Zeus, one of the largest temples in ancient Greece, once housed the colossal statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The stadium, where the Olympic Games were held every four years in honor of the King of Gods, is a reminder of the ancient Greeks’ passion for athletics and competition.
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6. The Archaeological Site of Mystras
Mystras, a deserted Byzantine city on the slopes of Mount Taygetos, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the final years of the Byzantine Empire. Its churches, palaces, and fortifications, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, are remarkably well-preserved, offering a real glimpse into the past.
The Palace of the Despots, the residence of the Byzantine emperors who ruled Mystras, is the most impressive structure in the city. The churches, adorned with frescoes and mosaics, are some of the finest examples of Byzantine art.
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7. The Old Town of Corfu
The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007, is a charming maze of narrow streets, Venetian-style buildings, and imposing fortresses. Its unique blend of architectural styles reflects the island’s rich history under Venetian, French, and British rule.
The Old Fortress, a Venetian masterpiece, dominates the cityscape, while the Liston, a French-inspired promenade, is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The Spianada, the largest square in Greece, is a testament to the British influence on the island with an area even called the ‘cricket court’, named after the inhabitant’s favorite pastime.
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8. The Archaeological Site of Delos
Delos, a small island in the Cyclades, was once a major religious and commercial center. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes the ruins of temples, sanctuaries, and houses that offer a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Greeks.
The Sanctuary of Apollo, the most important religious site on the island, is a complex of temples, altars, and treasuries that were dedicated to him. You’ll also want to make sure to visit the Terrace of the Lions, a row of five marble lions built before the 6th century BC to guard the sacred way.
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9. The Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae
Located in the mountains of Arcadia, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius is a beautiful gem showcasing fine ancient Greek architecture. Gaining UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1986, the famous temple was built for Apollo back in the 5th century BC.
The temple’s remote location and challenging terrain have helped to preserve its beauty and integrity. It is a bit of a journey to reach, with many winding roads to tackle, but the effort is well worth the reward. Away from the crowds, you can take in its historic architecture, intricate sculptures, and serene atmosphere.
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10. The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus
Dedicated to the god of medicine, Asklepios, Epidaurus was the center of medical treatment in ancient Greece. The site is home to the ruins of temples, hospitals, and a theater that shows off the ancient Greeks’ advanced knowledge of medicine and architecture.
The theater of Epidaurus, renowned for its acoustics and perfect proportions, is considered one of the finest ancient theaters in the world. The Asklepieion, the healing center of the sanctuary, is a complex of temples, baths, and sleeping quarters where patients once sought cures for their ailments.
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11. The Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas, and Nea Moni of Chios
The monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas, and Nea Moni of Chios date back to the Byzantine Empire and represent the pinnacle of the era’s art and architecture. Although geographically distant from each other, these three monasteries share the same aesthetic and architectural characteristics, with each site being adorned with stunning mosaics, frescoes, and marble decorations.
The mosaics of Daphni, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, are considered some of the finest examples of Byzantine art. The frescoes of Hosios Loukas, which display saints and biblical scenes, are equally impressive. Not to be outdone, Nea Moni monastery on Chios is known for its intricate mosaics and octagonal katholikon (its main church).
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12. The Archaeological Site of Mycenae and Tiryns
Mycenae and Tiryns, two fortified cities on the Peloponnese peninsula, were major centers of the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished between the 16th and 12th centuries BC. These UNESCO World Heritage sites, established in 1999, include the ruins of palaces, fortifications, and tombs that offer a glimpse into the lives of the Mycenaean rulers and their subjects.
Mycenae is home to the Lion Gate, an entrance with two carved lionesses, a palace ruin, and the Treasury of Atreus, a magnificent beehive-shaped tomb. Unfortunately, the palace ruin found in Tiryns is not as well preserved as its nearby neighbor but the underground cistern makes it well worth a visit when traveling in Greece.
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