General and local Information

Athens is the capital city of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world, with recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. Here are some key points about Athens:

1. History: Athens is widely regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization and democracy. It was a major city-state in ancient Greece, notable for its cultural, intellectual, and political contributions. The city's historical significance includes contributions from figures like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

2. Landmarks: Athens is home to numerous historical landmarks and monuments. The most famous is the Acropolis, an ancient citadel that includes the Parthenon, which is dedicated to the goddess Athena, the city's namesake. Other significant sites include the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, and the Panathenaic Stadium.

3. Geography: Athens is located in the Attica region of Greece, near the Saronic Gulf. The city is surrounded by mountains (Parnitha, Penteli, and Hymettus) and is characterized by its hilly landscape. Mount Lycabettus is one of the highest points, offering panoramic views of the city.

4. Culture: Athens has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of ancient and modern influences. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, including theater, music, and dance. The city hosts numerous festivals and events, such as the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which features performances in ancient venues.

5. Economy: As Greece's largest city and economic hub, Athens plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. Key sectors include tourism, trade, finance, and services. The Port of Piraeus, located nearby, is one of the largest ports in Europe and serves as a major gateway for international trade.

6. Climate: Athens has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. July and August are typically the hottest months, while December and January are the coolest.

7. Modern City: Today, Athens is a bustling metropolis, combining its ancient history with modern amenities. The city underwent significant infrastructure improvements for the 2004 Summer Olympics, which included upgrades to public transportation, new roads, and renovations of historic areas.

8. Population: The population of the metropolitan area of Athens is approximately 3.15 million people, making it the largest city in Greece. The diverse population includes both Greek natives and immigrants from various parts of the world.

9. Museums: Athens is home to many notable museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum, the Acropolis Museum, and the Benaki Museum, which preserve and display a wide array of artifacts from Greece's ancient and modern history.

10. Transport: The city has an extensive public transport network, including buses, trams, and a modern metro system that not only serves as public transit but also showcases archaeological finds discovered during construction.

Athens continues to be an important center of culture, education, and tourism, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience its historical richness and vibrant contemporary life.

Some usefull links regarding Athens can be found below.

Visit Greece: Athens: https://www.visitgreece.gr/mainland/attica/athens/

Meteo: Climatic information around the Congrees venue: https://www.meteo.gr/cf-en.cfm?city_id=87

Museums & Antiquities of Athens: https://www.thisisathens.org/museums-and-antiquities

Transportation information in Athens: https://www.thisisathens.org/getting-around/public-transportation-metro-bus-tram and the 

Official transportation portal of Athens: https://www.oasa.gr/en/