Cape SounioInstead of the Acropolis Museum, I opted for the tour that visited the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. While I'm sure the Acropolis Museum is brilliant, the Temple of Poseidon was absolutely amazing.
For aficionados of Greek mythology, Cape Sounio was where Aegeus, King of Athens and father of the hero Theseus, killed himself by jumping off a cliff. The sea where he died still bears his name, the Aegean. All of this just because absent-minded Theseus forgot to change the sail of his ship. Although to be fair, had Theseus remembered to change the sail and his father lived, Aegeus would have probably ended up nothing more than a footnote in Greek mythology. So... good for Theseus for inadvertently causing his dad's name to live on posthumously... the part about him causing his dad's death? Not so good.
Cape Sounio is southeast of Athens, about an hour's drive. The coastal drive was lovely.Keep in mind that these photos were taken from inside the bus... The Aegean Sea is much more of a vibrant blue in person.
And there it is.
Stoically standing on the cliffs of Cape Sounio for the last two millennia, this temple has survived the test of time, not to mention the endless barrage of strong winds.
It was clear to everyone, once we arrived onsite, that Poseidon had graced us with his presence. Remarkably strong sea winds swept through the sacred grounds the entire time we were there. The winds were so strong that we could barely hear our guide who was standing mere meters away.
We could not have asked for a better experience.
The views from Cape Sounion.
A much better shot of the Aegean Sea and its many shades of blue.
Until we meet again!
Holy crap, that is unreal. I whole heartedly approve (not that you were at all waiting for it, lol) of your decision to see the Temple of Poseidon. I would probably make the same call if I'm ever lucky enough to be in that position.
ReplyDeleteIt was really something. Even my mom could feel the site's supernatural atmosphere.
DeleteI so wished you were there!