Architecture of Ancient Greece. Periodization. Characteristic. main monuments.
The history of architecture and culture of ancient Greece is divided into three periods.
1. Ancient period - archaic. Having repelled the invasion of the Persians, having liberated their lands, the Persians got the opportunity to freely create. 600-480 AD BC.
2. The heyday is a classic. Alexander the Great conquered vast territories with different cultures, the eclecticism of these cultures was the reason for the decline of Greek classical art. The heyday came after his death. 480-323 BC.
3. Late period - Hellenism. This period ended in the thirtieth year BC with the conquest of Ancient Egypt by the Romans, which was under Greek influence.
Greece is a country with a great architectural past, in which much attention was paid to the construction of temples. The Greeks in the construction of ancient temples in the archaic era replaced wood with white marble and yellowish limestone. Such material not only looked noble, but was also distinguished by its centuries-old durability. The image of the temple resembled the ancient dwelling of the Greeks, which in its shape resembled a rectangular structure. Further, the construction continued the well-known logical scheme - from simple to complex. Very soon the layout of each temple became individual. But some features still remained unchanged. For example, the stepped foundation of temples remained unchanged. The temple was a room without windows, which were surrounded by columns in several rows, and inside the building there was a statue of a deity. The columns supported the gable roof and floor beams. The people were not allowed to enter the temple, only the priests had the right to be present here, so everyone else admired its beauty from the outside.
Greek temples are different in their compositions, stylistic elements in each are used in a special way.
1. Distil - “temple in ants”. The earliest type of temple. It consists of a sanctuary, the front facade is a loggia, bounded along the edges by side walls (antami). Two columns were installed along the front pediment between the ants.
2. Forgiveness. It is similar to Antov, only not two, but four columns are installed on the facade.
3. Amphiprostyle or double prostyle. On both facades of the building there are porticos with 4 columns.
4. Peripter. Occurs most often. Columns surround the temple around the perimeter. There are six columns on both facades.
5. Dipter. A type of temple, on the side facades of which there were two rows of columns.
6. Pseudo-dipter. The same as Dipter, only without the inner row of columns.
7. Round peripter or Tholos. The sanctuary of such a temple has a cylindrical shape. The temple is surrounded by columns around the perimeter.
In Greek architecture, the types of columns and friezes were distinguished, which received the names of orders. The earliest Doric is associated with the culture of the Dorians who lived in mainland Greece. In the Doric order, powerful and short, tapering upwards, columns with flutes end in a capital with a square abacus and do not have a base. The Ionic order developed in insular and Asia Minor Greece. Ionic columns, thinner and more elongated, rest on a base and end with a capital carved from a rectangular block. The capital is formed by two curls (volutes). In most of the temples that have come down to us, Doric and Ionic orders are used. The Corinthian order appeared in Athens in the 5th century BC. e. The column is crowned with a magnificent capital, which is a curly shoots of acanthus. This order was widely used in the Hellenistic era. In construction, exceptional attention was paid to natural conditions, the greatest artistic fit of the building into the surrounding landscape. The noble forms of architecture of Ancient Greece are striking in our time. Although from a constructive point of view, everything was very simple. Only two elements were used: the bearing part (beams, lintels, slabs) and the bearing part (walls and columns).
Many different structures of a public nature were erected: palestras, stadiums, theaters, residential buildings. Theaters were built on hillsides, the stage was made across the slope, the stage was at the bottom. Residential buildings were built in such a way that a small rectangular courtyard was obtained in the center.
Main monuments: The pearl of Greece, of course, Athens. In addition to the Acropolis with the Parthenon temples, the Erechtheion with a portico of caryatids, the temple of Nike Apteros, in the city and its environs there are many living witnesses of antiquity - the propylaea, the temple of Hephaestus (Theseion), the monument of Lysicrates (334 BC). Tower of the Winds - built in 44 BC. weather station - bears the features not of Greek democracy, but of Roman imperial architecture. The Temple of Hera at Paestum (5th century) and the Temple of Hephaestus at Athens (Theseion) are the two best-preserved monuments. Much more survived other monuments of Ancient Greece - amphitheatres. Hewn in mountain slopes, they resisted destruction more strongly and amaze with their excellent acoustics. The amphitheaters in Epidaurus, Delphi, Athens, now empty, were once as crowded as cinemas and supermarkets are now. Theaters at that time were also religious, and not entertainment, structures.
23. Art of the Aegean World. Chronology. Geographic limits. general characteristics phenomena. Bibliography of the issue.
In the development of the culture of the peoples living in mediterranean sea Aegean culture played a big role. It developed on the islands and shores of the Aegean Sea, in the eastern Mediterranean, for almost two thousand years, from 3000 to 1200 BC. simultaneously with the art of Egypt and Mesopotamia. The island of Crete was the center of the Aegean culture. It also captured the Cyclades, the Peloponnese, where the cities of Mycenae, Pylos and Tiryns were located, and the western coast of Asia Minor, in the northern part of which Troy was located. The Aegean culture is also called Cretan-Mycenaean.
Cretan architecture was dominated by vast palace complexes. Among them is the Palace of Knossos (about 16,000 sq.m.). Its throne room was decorated with an emblem in the form of a double-sided ax-labrys, sacred in Crete. With its majestic architecture, it resembled ancient Egyptian temples with halls and open courtyards. In the center is a vast rectangular courtyard of ceremonial significance. Rooms with verandas, galleries, pools, colonnades, and stairs adjoined the courtyard from all sides. A distinctive feature of Cretan architecture was the lack of symmetry in the buildings. Wooden columns played an important role in the construction of palace interiors. They narrowed to the bottom without capitals, the color of the columns is red. All of them are covered with zigzag patterns, reinforcing the impression of a picturesque and dynamic solution to the space. There is a bathroom, plumbing, underground rooms - a labyrinth. Fresco painting in the form of friezes or panels.
The life of its inhabitants was depicted: solemn processions, ritual dances, people gathering bright flowers, cats hunting pheasants, fish among algae. The images are dynamic, colorful, the ornament is curled, spiral, splash of waves, wind. Dynamics is characteristic of Minoan art; frozen poses and self-absorption are alien to it. True transmission of human movement. The image of human figures is fragile, with a thin waist, the male figures are painted brown, the female figures are white. The paintings were dominated by bright, major colors. For the Cretans, nature was sacred because of its divinity. Everything divine is perfect, but nature is full of special beauty. Therefore, the Cretans often depicted flowering meadows instead of gods. The role of trees, herbs, flowers in this world was great, without them no human act could be imagined. The small plastic art of Crete, like painting, is exquisitely decorative and dynamic. These are figurines of animals (goats and kids, a bull, figures of graceful women). Ceramic vases are distinguished by subtle artistic taste. Perfection was achieved by the master of metal processing.
24. Art of the Minoan era. Chronology. Geographic limits. General characteristics of the phenomenon. Question bibliography
Minoan era 2600-1100 BC. The English archaeologist Arthur Evans, who excavated the palace of the legendary king Minos in Knossos, named the entire era and the unique civilization that developed during it after the latter. Three phases: 1) Early Minoan (2600-2000 BC), 2) Middle Minoan (2000-1600 BC) and 3) Late Minoan (1600-1100 BC) . Around 1900 BC the island is experiencing significant prosperity. At this time, the first palaces appeared in Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, Archana, Zakros and Kydonia. The Minoans paid special honors to the dead. The tombs discovered during the excavations were domed or carved into the rock - chamber, however, a large number of burials were also found in crevices, in small caves and on the coast. The dead were placed on wooden stretchers or in sarcophagi made of wood, clay or stone, and next to them were placed funeral gifts - objects used or generally loved by the deceased during their lifetime. Initially, the Minoans used a type of writing reminiscent of Egyptian hieroglyphics (each sign is indicated by an image of an animal or object). Then the Minoans began to use "Linear A", consisting of simplified images, and, finally, after 1450 BC. and the establishment of the dominance of the Achaeans, "linear writing B" became widespread. The highest creations of the Minoans were created in the field of fine art, which is distinguished by originality, grace and liveliness. Architecture flourished, the most significant examples of which are the palaces at Knossos, Phaistos, Zakros and Malia. The palatial building at Arhani, the palace at Agia Triada, the luxurious villas of nobles and landowners, and the simple dwellings of peasants and artisans should not be overlooked either. The frescoes that adorned the walls of palaces and villas deserve special mention. When after 1700 B.C. palaces were rebuilt, their walls were painted with magnificent scenes representing human images, landscapes, animals, ritual or funeral processions, competitions, etc. The architecture of the tombs and the picturesque decor of the sarcophagi are also remarkable. Characteristic works of Minoan art are ceramics and vase painting. Famous vases style "Kamares", characterized by rich colors and characteristic motifs. Finally, small Minoan plastic art, metalwork and jewelry art are known for many masterpieces of small forms.
25. Art of Mycenae. Painting. Architecture, arts and crafts. Peculiarities. Monuments
The Mycenaean culture was formed under the strong influence of the Cretan, acquiring, however, features that distinguish its monuments from the monuments of Crete itself. The murals in Tiryns, adjacent to Mycenae, are more schematic, less picturesque than in Knossos. The Cretan magical lightness has disappeared along with the incomparable Cretan elegance and pictorial craftsmanship.
The new features of the Mycenaean artistic genius are especially evident in architecture and monumental sculpture. Unlike the Cretan ones, the Mycenaean palace buildings are surrounded by fortified walls. Cyclopean masonry, so named for the huge size of the stones, which only fairy-tale giants can lift, gives the buildings a somewhat primitive, but impressive look. It is characteristic of both Mycenae and Tiryns.
Powerful stone walls do not allow the individual cells of the building to spread, as happens in the Knossos Palace, they collect the building together, turning it into a military fortress dominated by a central room - a megaron - with four internal columns supporting the roof and framing the hearth. Megarons of the kings in Mycenae and Tiryns, rectilinear in plan palace isolated buildings, consisting of an open vestibule with two pillars, a front room and a hall with a hearth in the middle, are considered the prototypes of the first Greek temples.
The gate leading to the Achaean citadels had an impressive appearance. The entrance to the acropolis of Mycenae - the famous Lion Gate - was decorated with a slab of golden yellow stone depicting two lionesses leaning with their front paws on a pedestal with a column resembling a Cretan one. The lionesses breathe with a confident power that Cretan art did not know.
Mycenaean ceramics are technically better than Cretan ones: the walls of the vessels are thinner, stronger than the paint, the manner of depicting the plot drawing seems careless, but the drawing itself, which served only as a decorative pattern in the ceramics of Crete, has now become the spokesman for a complex artistic idea. As on Cretan vases, images of marine motifs are especially frequent here, but octopuses, cuttlefish freeze and are schematized, gradually turning into a geometric ornament. Mycenaean and Tirynthian masters loved strict symmetry, schematic forms.
The features of clarity and completeness of form, tectonics and isolation, outlined in this ancient Greek art, will be further developed in young Greek art. They will manifest themselves in the plans of temples, similar to the megaron, in the early appearance of monumental painting, in some subjects, compositional techniques, and ceramic technology.
Despite the differences in arrangement, the interior of the Mycenaean palaces was typically Cretan. Here, too, the walls were covered with frescoes, although the artists showed much less ingenuity and imagination than before. Mycenae was dominated by battle and hunting scenes. The frescoes told about the life of kings and the aristocracy and almost nothing about the life of ordinary people.
Craftsmen of this period made linen, potters, along with amphoras and hydrias, made terracotta baths and many other vessels. The same was the case with furniture. Stone tables of various types are mentioned: inlaid with ebony, gold and silver, and ivory. Round, with a spiral ornament, with a different number of legs and so on.
At the beginning of the XII century BC. e. the states of the Aegean world are in decline. Starting from the north new wave Greek tribes - Dorians. This wave destroys the centers of the Aegean culture for several centuries, suspending the development of realistic art.
How do children's impressions differ from the impressions of an adult. When I was in Athens for the first time at school age, it seemed to me that the Acropolis is huge and endless, that you can walk around it forever, and that you will not see such a number of ruins of ancient buildings concentrated in one place anywhere else. But when I arrived there as an adult, I realized that either I already travel so often that it’s harder and harder for me to be impressed, or the Acropolis is really not that big, and one should be surprised that such a huge place happened in such a small area. the number of important historical events that influenced the course of the history of the world.
In general, even cities as huge by ancient standards as Athens or Rome now seem almost tiny. I mean the historical part of modern cities, of course. Almost all the most important things are within easy walking distance from each other, very convenient for tourists. On the other hand, if you think about the fact that the ancient Greeks once walked on these very stones, that Socrates, Plato, Plutarch were here ... - it becomes somehow a little uncomfortable.
From the modern bustling area of Monastiraki, the road to the Acropolis takes only 15-20 minutes, and even then at a leisurely pace. True, you have to go uphill all the time, because the Acropolis is located on a hill. The higher you climb, the better you can see the ancient buildings that have survived in the area: 
The first stop on the way is the hill of Ares, or Areopagus. Among the ancient Greeks, this place was known as the meeting place of the council of elders who ruled the city in ancient times. From here one of the most beautiful views of Athens opens. View from the Areopagus towards the Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus: 
Towards Pnyx Hill: 
Modern Athens is a fairly large city. Sometimes it's hard to believe that once life here was concentrated in a much smaller space. In the distance, you can see Lycabettus Hill - this is another fairly popular place for tourists with cameras. Below are paths among numerous ancient stones: it’s even a shame that so many buildings have not survived from those times: 
Traditional view from the Areopagus to the Acropolis, more precisely, to the Propylaea - the main gate of the Acropolis: 
And this is the view from the Acropolis to the Areopagus. This very small and uneven stone hill is the Areopagus, the place where important political and judicial decisions were once made. In size, by the way, it is somewhere the same as the famous stones lying in Central Park in New York. But the historical significance cannot be compared. 
The Parthenon is under chronic restoration. The ancient stones scattered across the territory of the Acropolis are trying to gather together and restore the building from them to the maximum. It is still difficult to say what will come of this venture, especially considering how much was taken from the Acropolis from Greece back in the Middle Ages. Elements of the Parthenon are now kept in Paris, the Vatican, Munich, Vienna, Copenhagen... And, of course, no one is going to return them to the Greeks. 
But for some reason the Erechtheion is not being restored. Although, maybe they will reach it in time: 
The famous portico of the Caryatids: 
The Acropolis is always quite crowded. It is understandable, because this is the most famous place in Athens. In scale modern world The Acropolis seems rather small. From this angle, almost the entire hill is visible: 
Meanwhile, even now a building of this magnitude seems grandiose: 
The flourishing and decline of civilizations is generally an interesting thing: once one of the greatest nations in Europe, it suddenly disappears. In rare paintings by Greek artists of the Middle Ages, you can see images of shepherds grazing goats on the top of the Acropolis: several centuries have passed since the collapse of Athens - and there seems to be no trace left of the ancient Greeks. The medieval inhabitants of Greece, probably, did not even know what kind of buildings they were standing on the hill. 
Traditional view of the city from the Acropolis: 
Below you can see the temple of Zeus: 
Herod's Odeon is a huge beautiful amphitheater built in the 2nd century AD, already under the Romans. An absolutely colossal project by those standards: this musical theater can accommodate up to six thousand people at the same time. The Greeks have recently refurbished the Herodeon, and now concerts are held there from time to time: 
Nearby is the theater of Dionysus, it is 5-6 centuries older than Herod's odeon, and was built in a typical Greek style: the Greeks always chose a natural hill for the construction of amphitheaters. 
Behind the theater of Dionysus you can see an ultra-modern building - this is the modern Acropolis Museum, which opened a couple of years ago: 
Let's go down to the theater of Dionysus: 
View from the theater to the Acropolis: 
Already somewhere at the exit from the territory of the Acropolis: 
The new modern Acropolis Museum is really good. True, at the time when I was there, it was not yet fully open. But even the part that was in the public domain was impressive: 
According to the plan, sculptures from the temples of the Acropolis, everything found on the hill, preserved fragments of the Parthenon, as well as copies of ancient works of art related to the Acropolis taken from Greece should be stored here. 
The opening of the museum was planned to coincide with the 2004 Olympic Games, but the Greeks, in their traditional manner, stretched out all the deadlines, did not deliver the project on time, and the construction of the museum building was completed only by the end of 2007, and the final transfer of all exhibits was completed only in the summer 2009, i.e. 5 years later than planned. 
The museum, however, turned out to be very good, and now, perhaps, it can compete even with the National Archaeological Museum, which until now was considered the main museum of the city. 
Well, to top it off - a short run towards the Temple of Zeus, which was visible from the Acropolis in the photographs above.
View from it towards the Acropolis: 
The temple of Zeus itself was once the largest temple in all of Greece. It was built over four centuries and completed construction only in the 2nd century. BC. Now only a single corner and a couple of columns at the other end of the temple remain from the temple. 
The most beautiful elements of the temple were taken from Athens to Rome by the ancient Romans. 
But even from these few columns, one can quite imagine the scale of the building: 
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (now Selçuk in Izmir, Turkey). Considered one of the seven wonders of the world. It was built in the middle of the 4th century. BC e., burned by Herostratus in 356 BC. e., several times subjected to restoration and reconstruction.
Periods in ancient Greek architecture
archaic period
In ancient Greek architecture, an archaic period is distinguished (7th century BC - 590 BC). During this period, the peoples inhabiting the territory of Ancient Greece created structures, the design principles of which formed the basis of later buildings. Samples of ancient Greek architecture of the archaic period are mainly preserved on the Apennine Peninsula, in Sicily, in Paestum, Selinunte, Agrigentum, Syracuse. The composition of archaic architectural ensembles was created by buildings located in a row.
Monuments of archaic ancient Greek architecture were the temples of Hera ("Basilica") in Paestum, Athens ("Demeter"). The temple of Hera ("Basilica") is made of tuff, its peculiarity lies in the odd number of massive columns on the end. The columns themselves thicken downwards, creating a feeling of "puffiness". The massiveness of the structure is combined with decorative stone carvings.
Temple of Hera at Paestum. Mid 6th c. BC.
Columns of the Temple of Hera at Paestum.
Early Classic period
The next stage in the development of ancient Greek architecture is early classical (590 BC - 470 BC). During this period, ancient Greek architecture was enriched with Egyptian and Asian elements that fit into the philosophy and religious beliefs of society. Structures became less elongated, proportions became more proportionate and less heavy. At that time, when installing the colonnade, they began to adhere to the ratio of the number of columns of the end and side facades of 6:13 or 8:17.
An example of ancient Greek architecture of the transitional period between the late archaic and early classics is the temple of Athena Aphaia on the island of Aegina (about 490 BC). It had small dimensions, the ratio of columns was 6:12. The temple was made of limestone, its walls were covered with paintings, the pediments were decorated with marble sculptures (now they are stored in the Munich Glyptothek - Münchener Glyptothek).
The temple at Selinunte in Sicily also belongs to the transitional period in ancient Greek architecture. It was still elongated and had a column ratio of 6:15. The columns themselves gave the impression of massive and overweight. Typical buildings of ancient Greek architecture of the early classics are the temple of Poseidon at Paestum and the temple of Zeus at Olympia (end of the 5th century BC). It is installed on a three-stage base. It has a low stylobate (the upper part of the stereobat - a stepped plinth on which the colonnade was erected), low wide steps, the ratio of massive columns with a thickening in the lower third is 6:14. The temple was built taking into account the peculiarities of visual perception. From a distance, he looks squat. As you approach the building, a feeling of its power and grandeur grows. Such a method of calculating the perception of an object as it moves away or approaches is typical for the architecture of the early classic period in ancient Greek architecture.
Temple of Poseidon at Paestum.
The Temple of Zeus at Olympia (468 and 456 BC) - the work of the architect Libon, was the largest temple in the Peloponnese ( southern part Balkan Peninsula). The temple was built from shell rock. The ratio of the columns is 6:13. On the pediments were depicted the chariot race of Pelops and Oenomaus, the battle of the Greeks with the centaurs, on the elements of the frieze - the exploits of Hercules.
Ruins of the Temple of Zeus at Olympia.
classical period
Classical period of ancient Greek architecture (470 BC - 338 BC). During this period, the improvement of style continued. Marble was used instead of sandstone. Buildings became lighter and more elegant. Examples of buildings of the classical period are the temple of Theseus in Athens, the temple in Illis (not preserved) and the temple of Apteros at the entrance to the necropolis of Athens.
Hellenic period
The Hellenistic period (338 BC - 180 BC) in ancient Greek architecture developed under the influence of Eastern motifs. Sample - the temple of Winged Athena in Tegea, the temple of Zeus in the city of Nemea. Many buildings with rich decorations were erected in Asia Minor, for example, the monument to King Mausolus, the temple of Athena in the city of Priene, the temple of Phoebus Didyma in the city of Mileet.
Ruins of the Temple of the Winged Athena in Teg.
Types of temples in ancient Greek architecture
Anty (antae) - ledges of the longitudinal walls of the building on both sides of the entrance, serving as a support for the cornice.
The earliest type of temple was distil (“temple in antah”). In terms of the temple - a rectangular or square room - intact, the front facade with an entrance, reminiscent of a loggia with side walls (antami). Between the ants on the front end there were two columns (hence the name: "distill", which means - "two-column").
Scheme of the temple in antah.
Temple in Antes - Treasury of the Athenians. Athens. late 6th - early 5th c. BC.
The temple is prostrate with one portico and columns at one end (columns replace antes).
A forgiving temple with an annex.
The temple is amphiprostyle with two porticoes with columns on two ends.
Temple of Nike Apteros with two porticos in the Acropolis. Athens. 449 - 420 BC Architect Kallikrat.
Peripteric temple - it is based on an amphiprostyle or prostyle structure, which stands on a high foundation and has a colonnade around the entire perimeter. An example is the Parthenon.
Parthenon. 447 - 438 BC Architects Iktin and Kallikrat.
The dipteric temple has a double row of colonnades along the perimeter. An example of a dipteric structure of ancient Greek architecture is the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus in 550 BC.
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus.
The temple is pseudo-peripteric - instead of columns, the perimeter of the building was decorated with semi-columns, which protruded half the diameter of the columns from the walls. The temple is pseudo-dipteric, in which, behind the outer row of columns along the perimeter, there were semi-columns protruding from the walls. Ancient Greek columns In ancient Greek architecture, the column played an important role, it served as a defining module - in accordance with its size, all the proportions of the structure and its decor were created. There are several types of columns. Doric columns had a diameter to height ratio of approximately 6:1. The column at the top is thinner than at the bottom. Below the middle, the column had a thickening. Often Doric ancient Greek columns were covered with vertical grooves - flutes, usually there were 16-20 of them. The columns were placed directly on the floor of the structure or mounted on a rectangular pedestal.
Drawing of the capital of a Doric column with flutes.
Volutes - curls on the capitals from the side of the facade. On the sides of the capitals, the volutes are interconnected by shafts - balusters resembling a scroll. The volutes are edged with convex rims, twisting in the form of a spiral, converging in the center into an "eye" - a small hemisphere.
Ancient Greek Ionic columns are more elegant than Doric ones, they were placed on a stylobate - a wide quadrangular foot, at the bottom of the columns there is a base of shafts separated by grooves. The Ionic column is covered with a large number of deep flutes (24 or more). The capital of the column is made in the form of two opposite volutes.
Ionic column.
The ancient Greek Corinthian column was distinguished by its special splendor. The capital of the Corinthian column is a basket surrounded by two rows of acanthus leaves; obliquely standing four volutes. The architects of the Roman Empire and the architects of the Renaissance made the Corinthian column a role model.
Corinthian capital.
The variety of buildings of ancient Greek architecture is united by a common constructive approach to construction, a system of proportions and elements that make it possible to identify this style at a glance.
Ancient Greece influenced many of the world's architectural styles over the centuries - for example, neoclassicism, so popular in the 19th century, was actually a revival of ancient Greek architecture. A significant number of world masterpieces were inspired by the architecture of Greece, in particular the ancient Greek style of the Doric, Ionic or Corinthian order.
The Minoan civilization flourished in Greek island Crete 27th to 15th century BC e. The most famous architectural structure of this period is the impressive palace city of Knossos, located on a hill and surrounded pine forests. It was divided into two courtyards: the West wing, where religious and official premises and East, which was used for internal needs.
Archaeologists have found the beautiful frescoes of Knossos almost intact under layers of ash, suggesting that the massive eruption of the Santorini volcano around 1450 BC was the cause of the destruction of the Minoan city. The frescoes are of bright colors and depict peaceful scenes from everyday life or illustrations of festivities. These paintings, coupled with the fact that the Minoan cities did not have fortified walls, prove that the Minoans, apparently, had good neighborly relations with other cultures and did not get involved in wars.
Other significant Minoan monuments in Crete are the palace cities of Phaestos and Zakros.
Mycenaean architecture
Mycenaean architecture, which flourished from 1600 to 1200 BC, is very different from Minoan architecture. Unlike the Minoans, who chose trade as the vector of development, Mycenaean society progressed thanks to the cult of war. The Mycenaeans were often involved in armed conflicts, so their cities had solid and high fortifications called Cyclopians, since it was believed that only the Cyclopes could lift the huge stones used to build them.
The protective fences of Mycenae and Tirinth have characteristic cyclopean walls. Also typical of the architecture of the Mycenaean period are vaulted tombs, where the king and high priests were usually buried. The most famous vaulted tomb is the treasury of Atreus in Mycenae, which is considered the tomb of King Agamemnon.
classical architecture
The ancient Greek civilization, now known as classical Greece, reached its peak around 500 BC. Greek builders developed three architectural orders using three different styles of columns.
Ionic order
The earliest known stone column belongs to the Doric order, and somewhat later the builders of the eastern part of Ionia developed their own style, called Ionic. Classical orders are not unique to each area, but are named after the part of the country where they were first discovered. The most elegant and latest style of ancient Greek architecture - Corinthian - became a mixture of Doric and Ionic.
temples
Ancient Greek classical architecture is characterized by unique marble temples. Throughout mainland Greece and the islands, there are many ancient temples dedicated to various gods, including the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, the Temple of Hephaestus at Athens, the Temple of Athena Aphaia at Aegina, and others.
The temple is the most common and well-known form of Greek public architecture. It did not fulfill the same function as the modern church, since the altar stood under open sky in the temenos, often right in front of the structure. Temples rather served as places to store treasures associated with the cult, and as a place for worshipers of the deity to leave their offerings, such as statues, armor, or weapons.
Parthenon in Athens The most significant Greek temple monument is the Parthenon, erected on sacred place Acropolis in Athens. The Parthenon, built between 447 and 438 BC. e., is a vivid example of the Doric and Ionic styles of architecture. This building was dedicated to the goddess Athena, the protector of the city: inside was a gigantic statue of Athena Parthenon, made by Phidias.
The Corinthian style was not so popular in classical architecture, but still in Athens there is a very significant monument built in the Corinthian style - in the city center.
Public buildings
Other architectural forms erected by the Greeks:
- the tholos (or circular temple), the best example of which is the Tholos of Theodore at Delphi, dedicated to Athena Pronia;
- propylon (porch), which forms the entrance to the temple sanctuaries (for example, the propylaea of the Athenian Acropolis);
- public fountains - buildings where women filled their jugs with water;
- stoa (or standing) - a long narrow gallery with an open colonnade on one side, there were rows of shops in the agora (shopping centers) of Greek cities (the fully restored gallery of the Stoa of Attalus can be seen in Athens).
In addition, in large Greek cities, palestras or gymnasiums were built, a sort of social centers for men. These open-air enclosed spaces were used for sports competitions and exercise.
In the cities there were bouleiterions, public buildings that served as a meeting place for the city council (bule). Since the Greeks did not use arches or domes, they could not build buildings with large interior spaces. Thus, the bouleiterion had rows of internal columns holding up the roof (hypostyle). To date, no examples of such buildings have been preserved.
Theaters
Finally, each city had a theater used both for public meetings and for dramatic performances. At first, these buildings were actually gathering places for people who wanted to take part in the ritual. For example, during festivities dedicated to the deity, people gathered in the theater to participate in offerings led by priests. With the invention of theater as an art form, dramatic performances became part of such religious celebrations.
The theater was usually located on a hillside outside the city and consisted of multi-level rows of seats arranged in a semicircle around the central performance area - the orchestra. Behind the orchestra was a low building called a skena, which served as a pantry and dressing room.
A number of Greek theaters have come down almost untouched to our time. The most famous of them is Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC. e., characterized by perfect symmetry and amazing acoustics. Other famous buildings are the Theater of Dionysus, which is considered the first theater in the world, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Both are located at the foot of the Acropolis.
Roman architecture
In the second century BC, the Romans conquered Greece and ushered in a new era in Greek architecture. Roman architecture became a mixture of ancient Greek, Phoenician and Etruscan styles, with little influence from other cultures of the Roman Empire. Athens has many buildings from the Roman period with characteristic arches and stone carvings. For example, the Arch of Hadrian, built in 132 AD to mark the boundaries between the old (classical) Athens and the new (Roman) part of the city.
Greece - small country, which has a colossal historical and cultural heritage. It was here that the formation of European civilization in the form in which we know it today began. And although many elements came from earlier eras, it was in Greece that many of the classical elements of science, art and medicine originated. And the Greek language served as a "donor" of many modern dialects, and not only at the level of individual words, but even writing and liturgical elements. Colossal historical heritage the country in most cases today is viewed relatively weakly - the turbulent history of this land destroyed many ancient cities and temples. Monuments of ancient civilization, for example, are much more outside the country itself, in the same Asia Minor. However, the land of Greece itself carries the spirit of its former greatness, and there are many monuments of later eras. And friendly people, unique traditions, picturesque settlements, warm climate, countless islands and long coastline attract millions of tourists every year.
When asked what Greece is primarily associated with, many will answer: the famous Athenian Acropolis. Others will remember rows of white houses rising in tiers against a turquoise sky. Fans of Mediterranean cuisine will answer differently: for them, Hellas is, first of all, the birthplace of moussaka melting in the mouth and lamb souvlaks washed down with retsina - white wine with the aroma of pine resin. Those who love solitude will find hard-to-reach corners under the Greek sky, and dreamy people are more likely to be attracted by Delphi, the Meteora monastery complex or the amphitheater in Epidaurus.
This country and all the iconic sights of Greece cannot be recognized by visiting here only once. Each city has its own characteristics - to get to know them, you need to come to Hellas again and again.
Athens. Sights of Athens
The main center of tourism in Greece is its capital - Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world, located in a bowl-shaped valley on the western coast of Attica, surrounded by the mountains of Egaleo, Parnita, Pendeli and Gimet (Imitos). The city itself was built somewhat chaotically and, due to its location in an intermountain basin, has a rather difficult ecological situation, but its beautiful ancient monuments and excellent museums attract millions of tourists here. The Acropolis and Lycabettus (Lycabettus) hills are considered the center of Athens, from which the city began more than 6 thousand years ago. The Acropolis of Athens is a symbol of ancient Greece. Already during the Mycenaean era (1600-1000 BC), a royal palace was built on top of this 155-meter rocky hill, surrounded by a Cyclopean wall (4.5 m thick), which, however, did not save the city from numerous destructions. The buildings that have survived to this day were built mainly in the 5th century BC. BC e. The monumental portal Propylaion (447-432 BC) served as the entrance to the Acropolis.
The pearl of the Acropolis is the Parthenon (5th century BC) - the temple of Athena Parthenos, which is a unique architectural structure - it is designed in such a way that its different-sized columns and the curvature of seemingly flat structures gives this huge building amazing lightness and proportionality. The colonnade ("peristyle") of 46 columns and the famous Parthenon frieze (now kept in the British Museum) set off the beautiful sculptural groups by the great Phidias, most of which have not survived to this day and are known only from copies. The Parthenon in its history was both a Christian temple and a powder warehouse, and only in the 19th century. a partial restoration of this unique monument began, which is still ongoing. The Pegille Theater (II century BC) has also been restored, in which festivals are now held and performances by ancient authors are staged, next to which lie the ruins of more ancient theater Dionysus.
Statistical indicators of Greece
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Next to the Parthenon is ancient place worship of the Athenians - a small classical temple Erechtheion (421-407 BC), built on the site of the Mycenaean royal palace. According to legend, it was at this place that the dispute between Athena and Poseidon for the right to patronize the city was resolved. In honor of this event, two temples were built under one roof. Of greatest interest is the "Portico of the Daughters" - six sculptures of Caryatids, one of which was taken out by the English ambassador to London (now stored in the British Museum), which gave rise to the legend of the crying of the remaining Caryatids heard in the night for their kidnapped sister.
The central part of the city is bounded by a triangle of Omonia (Consent), Syntagma (Constitution) and Monastyraki squares - this is the most crowded and always filled with tourists and businessmen district of the city. From Monastyraki with its first cathedral in the capital - Agios Eleftherios (XII century), to Syntagma Square, which is considered business center capital, you can walk past the church of Kapnikarei on a quiet pedestrian street Ermu to pay tribute to the memory of the Greek patriots at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is guarded by an honorary guard of "evzones" (national guard) in traditional Greek costumes. Next to the memorial rises majestic building Parliament (formerly - Royal Palace), behind which lies the luxurious royal park of Zappio, as well as, somewhat at a distance, the ruins of the temple of Olympian Zeus (530 BC - 129 AD) and the famous Arch of Hadrian. In no case should you miss the Panathenaic Stadium with 60 thousand seats built on the site of the old ancient stadium (330 BC), where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896, the Temple of Hephaestus (sometimes incorrectly called Thissio) - the most beautiful of the surviving ancient temples of Athens, as well as the ensemble of buildings of the National Academy, the University of Athens and the National Library on Panepistimiou Street, the Keramikos Necropolis, Klepsydra Andronicus from Kirra and the Roman Agora. Of the monuments of later eras, the church of Agios Apostoli (St. Apostles) in the area of the Ancient Agora, the church of Agioi Theodori (St. Theodore) on Klaftmonos Square or the church of Agios Georgios (St. George) on the top of Lycabettus Hill, on which you can take the funicular up to admire the magnificent panorama of the city.
Athens has 250 museums, galleries and more modern temple complexes. National Archaeological Museum- one of the richest museums in the world, which stores unique finds from all over the country (and from the islands of the Cyclades, Crete and Santorin), fine jewelry, including those found by Schliemann during the excavations of Mycenae. Only vases and amphoras are allotted a whole room here! The Byzantine Museum on Vasilissis Sofias Street is famous for the best collection of icons and mosaics in Europe, as well as other works by famous Byzantine sculptors and artists. The Benaki Museum was founded in 1930 by the collector A. Benakis and is famous for its rich collection of ancient Greek and Byzantine art, as well as for its expositions of Chinese porcelain, oriental jewelry and weapons. Also interesting are the Archaeological Museum of the Athenian Agora, the Museum natural history Goulandris, National Art Gallery, the Museum of Greek Folk Art and the Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments, as well as the Cultural Center of the Municipality of Athens (Theater Museum), the Museum of Cycladic and Ancient Greek Art, the Museum of the Holy Icons in the Archdiocese building, the Museum of Ceramics and many other collections.
Other sights of Greece
Peloponnese Peninsula
The mountainous Peloponnese peninsula, lying in the south of Greece, is one of the centers of Greek civilization, the "homeland" of many myths and a modern resort area. Be sure to visit ancient Corinth with its ruins of the temple of Apollo (VI century BC), the Roman agora, odeon and theater, or the ruins of the famous Lacedaemon (Sparta) with the remains of the acropolis, the temple of Athena (VI century BC) , numerous sanctuaries and a theater (I - II centuries AD).In the northern part of the Peloponnese, in the foothills of Agios Ilias, lies the center of one of the oldest civilizations in the world - the city and fortress of Mycenae, founded by the legendary Perseus. In 1870, the archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, relying on the texts of Homer's Iliad, began excavations in these places, and rediscovered the treasures of the "golden Mycenae" to the world. The fortress that surrounded the city was built from giant stone blocks, giving rise to the legend of the Cyclops who built it. Now, on the site of the legendary city, there is a museum famous for its "Lion's Gate", "Agamemnon's Tomb", royal palace, the royal cemetery and the ruins of numerous household buildings, and many gold items found during excavations are now stored in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
Olympia, ancient greek city in the northwestern part of the Peloponnese, it is the site of the ancient cult of Zeus and the birthplace of the Olympic Games in honor of Olympian Zeus. The existence of Olympia is rooted in antiquity - the first settlements here date back to the 3rd millennium BC. e., and the oldest architectural monuments- to the II millennium BC. e. At present, almost all the monuments of the Altis complex (Olympic temple and cult complex) have been uncovered, and these are such famous buildings as the remains of the sanctuary of Pelops over his grave (end of the 2nd millennium BC), the temple of Hera (7th century BC). e.), belonging to the "seven wonders of the world" sanctuary and oracle of Zeus (468-456 BC), portico Echo (VI century BC), palestra (III century BC .) and a gymnasium (II century BC), a number of temple treasuries, a bouleuterion (the meeting place of the Olympic Council, VI-V centuries BC), a stadium, more than 130 statues, the triumphal arch of Nero, baths and nymphs of the Roman period, and much more. Since the revival of the Games in 1896, the Olympic flame has been lit again in the ancient sanctuary of Olympia, from here it makes its journey to the venue of the next Olympics. In 1887, the Museum of Olympia was formed - one of the best collections of ancient art in the world.
Epidaurus, located 30 km. east of Nafplion, was famous for the sanctuary of Asclepius (Aesculapius, the god of healing) and its theater (4th century BC), which accommodated more than 14 thousand spectators and in which real ancient Greek dramas are still played every Friday. Also interesting are the local Historical Museum and "katogogoion" - a hotel for pilgrims and patients of the temple of Asclepius.
The fortress of Monemvasia (the legendary Malvasia, VI century) is located on a huge rock in the sea opposite the town of Gefira, with which it is connected by a unique structure - an ancient tunnel. The fortress itself and many Byzantine houses, which now house luxurious hotels, have survived to this day.
The first capital of independent Greece - Nafplion (165 km from Athens), is famous for its Turkish fortress of Palamidi, a small Venetian castle on an island at the entrance to the bay and picturesque alleys overgrown with poplars and olive trees. Now it is the starting point for numerous excursions in the Peloponnese and to the islands of Hydra, Spetses and Poros, as well as to Monemvasia. In the vicinity of Nafplio there are many good and clean beaches, the best of which stretch along the coast of the Saronic Gulf near the resort of Tolon. You can also relax on the wonderful sandy coasts of Kyllini, Kalogria, Ermionida, Porto Heli and Galatas, or in the picturesque mountain resorts Kalavrita and Vitina.
Macedonia
Macedonia is the largest and most fertile region of Greece. The famous Ancient Macedonia was born and flourished here, the most beautiful capes and bays of Halkidiki, mountains covered with green forests and fabulous beauty waterfalls, as well as thousands of archaeological sites world famous - Olynthos, Dion, Vergina, Pella, o.Thassos and Platamon.Thessaloniki - the capital of Macedonia and the second largest city in the country, was founded in 315 BC. e. and named after Thessaloniki, the sister of Alexander the Great. For my centuries of history Thessaloniki was the capital of many states, saw the glory of the Macedonians and the power of Rome, the invasions of the Celts and Mongols, survived five centuries of Turkish rule and numerous uprisings of the local population. The Roman triumphal arch of Galerius (Camara, 300 AD), a theater with stands and mosaic floors of Roman villas built on the site have survived to this day. ancient temple Caviro Roman Rotunda, itself subsequently rebuilt into the Christian church of St. George (IV century AD), the basilica of the patron saint of the city - St. Demetrius (V century AD, rebuilt in 1949), the temple of Achiropeitos (Not made by hands, V-VI centuries), the domed basilica of St. Sophia (V-VIII centuries), churches of Elijah Profitis (Prophet, 1360), St. Catherine (XIII century), Holy Apostles (XIV century) , built on the site of the ancient temple of Hephaestus, the temple of the Blessed Mother of God Halkeon (V century AD), the Vlatadov monastery (1351-1371), etc. The symbol of the city is Lefkos-Pyrgos (White Tower) - a former terrible Turkish prison that deserved even the name "Blood Tower". Now Thessaloniki is a large industrial and financial center of Greece, a venue for major international fairs, but in the vicinity of the city, on the coast of Thermaikos and Paralia Gulf, as well as on the peninsulas of Kassandria (Kasanfa), Sithonia and Athos, there are many beautiful resort places - Sani, Afytos , Nikiti, Sithonia, Kallithea, Litohoro, Sarti, Neos Marmaras, Porto Koufo and many others.
In the southeastern part of Halkidiki there is a holy place for every Orthodox person - Agion Oros (Holy Mount Athos, 2033 m.). The first large monastery, the Great Lavra (Lavra of St. Athanasius), was founded here in 963, in 1016 the first Russian monastery appeared - Xylourgou (later - St. Panteleimon), and now this "monastic state" has 20 monasteries with thick impregnable walls, many sketes and secluded cells. In accordance with the "golden bull" of Constantine the Monk (1060), access to Athos is still limited (permit is required, it is forbidden to stay overnight, women are not allowed to enter), but visiting these places is worth the effort - Athos is a real museum, unique treasures of great historical and artistic value are stored here.
Thessaly
The center of the country, the territory of ancient Thessaly, Aetolia and Epirus, was the center of the formation of the Dorian culture. The ancient monuments of this region are not as famous as Attica or Macedonia, but no less interesting.The modern capital of Thessaly - Larisa, attracts tourists with the acropolis on the hill of Agios Achillios, the ancient Christian basilica and the bishop's chambers (VI century), as well as the ruins of a three-aisled basilica with beautiful mosaics and wall paintings (IV-V centuries), the ancient Greek theater (II century BC), picturesque Alkazar Park, Thessaly Theater and many excellent museums. In the area are such interesting places, as the Kefalovriso cave, the international reserve in the Kilada valley, the "residence" of the ancient Greek gods - the city of Olympus (2917 m.), the churches of Aiu Georgiou (St. George), Agios Paraskevis (St. Paraskeva-Friday), Ayia- Athanasiou (St. Athanasius) and famous monastery Our Lady of Panagia Olymbiotis (XIV century), built on the site of an ancient Greek acropolis, numerous monuments of original local architecture in Tsaritsani and Ambelakia, as well as beautiful resort places in Agiokambos, Velika, Kokkino Nero, Karitsa, Stomio and Nea Messangala.
The sights of Karditsa are represented by the Church of Zoodohu-Pigis (Life-Giving Spring), the Archdiocese of Agia Konstantinou, the original Museum of Christianity and Pavsilipos Park. 18 km. southwest of Karditsa, at an altitude of 1150 and., is an important religious and cultural center of the country - the monastery of Moni Koronas. In the vicinity are the healing springs of Smokovos and Kets, famous for their unique architectural ensemble the town of Rendina, a vaulted burial of the Mycenaean period (1500 BC) in the vicinity of Georgiko, the ancient Greek settlements of Gomfi and Kierion, the monastery of Moni Petras ("on the rock") near Lambero and a beautiful artificial lake Tauropa.
The capital of ancient Thessaly and the modern district of Magnesia - Volos, lies in the depths of the Pagasitikos Gulf. Most of the ancient Greek monuments of the city have not survived to this day, but nevertheless, the churches of Aiu Constantinou, Aiu Nikolaou, Metamorphosis (Transfiguration) and Agios Triadas (Holy Trinity) in the Anavros area, the Archaeological Museum and the old miniature train, which are regularly makes flights to the picturesque slopes of Mount Pelion, on which, according to legend, the legendary centaurs lived. There are many beautiful resorts on the Magnesia peninsula - Chorefto, Kissos, Tsangarad, Mylopotamos, etc. This district also includes the Sporades Islands, almost all Northern part which has been declared a National Marine Park. The famous Euboea (Evia), the second largest island in the country, is famous for its thermal springs(3rd place in the world), cozy small beaches with the purest sand and many karst caves.
The city of Trikala (Homer's Trikki) is interesting for its Byzantine fortress and the old district of Varusi located under its walls, the archaeological reserve on the site of the ancient Greek Asklepion and the Municipal Art Gallery with a wonderful collection of icons of the 16th-19th centuries. In Kalambaka there is the majestic Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin with icons and wall paintings of rare beauty, as well as picturesque rock Theopetra, in the depths of which lies a cave with an archaeological site from the Stone Age period. Kalambaka serves as a starting point to the famous Holy Meteora - the second largest and most important monastery complex in the country after Athos. Built on the tops of grandiose rocks (up to 400 m), the impregnable monastic country of Meteora (from the Greek "meteoros" - floating in the air) became a haven for hermits as early as the 11th century.
Greek islands
The main attraction of the country is its islands. Usually the islands of Greece are divided into two groups - the Ionian Islands (the so-called Eptanis - "Seven Islands", including Corfu, Kefallinthia, Zakynthos and Lefkas) forming the western arc, the more numerous Aegean Islands, united in the Sporades, Cyclades and Dodecanese archipelagos . In the Saronic Gulf, there is another small island group - Argosaronica.
In the south of the Aegean Sea is the most big Island Greece - Crete (8.3 thousand sq. km.), One of the centers of the ancient Minoan culture (III-II thousand years BC), which had a huge impact on the culture of ancient Greece. On this island, covered with the legendary glory of ancient myths, Zeus was born, the palace of Minos and the famous Labyrinth of the Minotaur towered here. On its northern coast are the best beaches in Greece, and in the mountainous central regions - about 3 thousand caves, deep canyons and fertile valleys. The most picturesque are the Lasithi plateau irrigated by thousands of windmills, the longest gorge in Europe - Samaria, the only date forest in Europe in the regions of Vai and Preveli, as well as highest peak islands - the city of Ida (2456 m.).
The capital of Crete and at the same time the center of the largest region of the same name on the island is the city of Heraklion (Heraclion), named after the legendary Hercules. Once Heraklion was the main port of the Venetians in the eastern Mediterranean. The powerful defensive walls of the Fortress (XVI century), built around the "old city", have been well preserved to this day. But the main attraction of this major port- The Archaeological Museum, which holds unique frescoes from the palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, the famous "Phaistos Disc" and many sculptural forms. This is a one-of-a-kind collection of exhibits from the Minoan era, placed in strict chronological order, starting from the 6th millennium BC. e. and to "late Rome" (3rd century AD), which makes it possible to visually trace all six millennia of the history of civilization. After the museum, visit the Church of St. Catherine of Sinai with a museum of icons, the Venetian Basilica of St. Mark (1239) converted into a mosque with the Gallery of Modern Art, the Church of St. Titus (961) with the relics of this saint, the magnificent fountain of Morosini and the Venetian stock exchange which now houses the mayor's office.
Near Heraklion lie the ruins of ancient Knossos - the ancient city Crete and one of the first cities in Europe. The famous Palace of Knossos, the exact date of construction of which is lost in the darkness of centuries (most of the discovered premises date back to the 2nd millennium BC), appears in many ancient legends and myths as an example of luxury and grandeur. The remains of this colossal multi-storey structure, discovered by archaeologists, richly decorated with frescoes, reliefs and sculptures, are now partially reconstructed and are a wonderful open-air museum. No less interesting belonged to the brother of Minos palace complex in Phaistos (XVIII-XV centuries BC), the "royal villa" in Ayia Triada (not far from Phaistos), where a rich tomb with a painted sarcophagus was discovered (1550-1400 BC), the palace at Kato Zakros (eastern tip of the island) and the ruins of the Niru palace at Hani Kokkini.
Next to Phaistos lie the ruins of Gortyn, the Roman capital of Crete, where the remains of many buildings, the Odeon and the famous Gortyn codex carved on stone columns, have been preserved.
Around Heraklion, there are many monuments from other eras - in Malia (Malia, 34 km east of Heraklion) there is another Minoan palace (1900 BC), in which an ornament in the form of two golden bees was found - the symbols of Crete. Vrontisian monastery(1400 AD) is famous for its frescoes and a fountain depicting Adam and Eve in paradise, and the Varsamoner Monastery (XIV century) is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Crete. 20 km. from Heraklion lie the resorts of Gouves and Stalida with excellent beaches, and 26 km. to the north is best resort northern Crete - Hersonissos, next to which is one of the largest water parks in Europe in the resort area of Elounda. Rhodes - largest island Dodecanese group ("twelve islands"), lying in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea near the coast of Asia Minor. Here once stood the Colossus of Rhodes - one of the seven wonders of the world, ships of the crusaders were loaded in its ports, its land saw great battles and powerful empires. Now it's worldwide famous resort with superb developed infrastructure tourism. The capital of the island - the city and port of Rhodes, is located on its northern tip. Founded in ancient times by the Greeks, in the Middle Ages it was almost completely rebuilt by the knights of the Order of St. John (Hospitallers) - powerful (up to 12 m thick) fortress walls (XIV century), the Palace of the Grand Masters (Castello, XIV century) were built. with the museum now located in it, the Palace of the Admirals (XV century), the buildings of the residences of the order on Ippoton (Knights) Street, the Castellania shopping center, the Small Palace and the Gothic chapel with a statue of Our Lady. The Suleiman Mosque with an excellent library, the Sultan Mustafa Mosque and the Turkish baths that are still in operation remained from Turkish rule. You should definitely visit the ancient port (Port of Mandraki) with its fortress of St. Nicholas, windmills and statues of deer - the symbols of Rhodes, as well as the archaeological area on Mount Smith, the churches of St. George and St. Paraskeva Pyatnitsa, the largest Catholic church of Rhodes - Church of Our Lady Chora and Byzantine Trinity Church.
Located in the building of the former knight's hospital (XV century), the Archaeological Museum is famous for its antique collection, the Ethnographic Museum has a rich exposition of furniture, ceramics and traditional folk crafts, and the Pinakothek (City Art Gallery) presents works by contemporary artists. Be sure to visit the famous "Valley of the Butterflies", where thousands of these exotic insects live in natural conditions, among beautiful groves, streams and waterfalls.
The Ionian Islands (Kefalonia, Kerkyra, Zakynthos and Lefkas) lie off the western coast of Greece. The island of Kerkyra (Corfu) is the northernmost and most beautiful of them. Immersed in greenery and flooded with a generous sun, with indented, like lace, the shores of the bays, the island is repeatedly sung in myths as the "country of feacs", in which the Argonauts found refuge after returning from a campaign for the Golden Fleece. Since ancient times, this land has inspired many poets and artists, and today it has become one of the most fashionable resorts in Greece. The best beaches the islands are in the area of Gouvia, Kastoria, Messonghi, Paralia Katerinis, Sidari and Roda. In the capital of the island - Kerkyra, you should definitely visit the Old (Marine, XII-XVI centuries) and New (Coast, XVII centuries) fortresses built by the Venetians, visit the beautiful main square of the city - Spianada and Cathedral St. Spyridon (1590) with the relics of the patron saint of the city, walk through the quarters of "kadunia" (" Old city"- the largest medieval complex in Greece, protected by the state), see the Municipality (XVII century), " old palace"Regenda (1819) with triumphal arches and the amazing Liston building." calling card"of the city is considered the monastery of Blachernae in Kanoni (4 km. south of the capital), also visit the baroque palace of San Giacomo, the Achillio palace (1890) in Gastouri with a magnificent park and museum, the well-preserved monastery of Our Lady of Platytera, the Byzantine Museum and The Museum of Asian Art, the picturesque hill of Bella Vista and the medieval fortresses in Gardiki, Kassiopi, Paleokastritsa and Angelokastro (Fortress of the Angels, XIII century.) Of the ancient monuments, the stone "pediment of the Gorgon" (585 BC), which previously adorned the Doric temple of Artemis, is of interest. BC), a fragment of the pediment of the temple with the image of Dionysus, copper sculptures of Aphrodite, etc. In total, there are more than 800 churches and monasteries on this island.
