Spotlight on Athens

Athens--the name brings to mind buildings with tall, white columns and statues of Greek gods and goddesses. Museums take visitors back to the time of ancient Greece. When visiting the city, visitors feel like they're in the middle of a history lesson. 　
The Acropolis, or "high city," stands on a hill overlooking the city. Western civilization's most important ancient monument was built by Pericles, the leader of Athens from 461-429 B.C. He spared no expense when he constructed the buildings of the Acropolis. He used only the best materials, architects and artists. His artists created huge statues of marble and covered them with gold and jewels. Sadly, only ruins remain of this "high city" of temples.　

But a visit to Athens is more than a lesson in ancient history. Modern Athens hums with activity. The city offers every modern convenience. 
One thing that hasn't changed since ancient times, though, is Greek hospitality. Ancient Greeks believed that a stranger might be a god in disguise. Therefore, they always treated strangers kindly. Nowhere else in Europe will you find people who invite complete strangers to their homes for coffee or dinner. 　　 
If you do go to a Greek home for dinner, do your best to eat everything on your plate. Uneaten food insults the cook. Taking second helpings is the best way to show how much you enjoy the meal.