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Athens has an ancient, lived-in look as befits a city that has been inhabited for over 7000 years. There are ruins in unexpected places throughout the city. What first appears to be a modern street will have fenced off areas containing ancient ruins. One can meander through the flea market and bazaar at Monastiraki, the hundreds of tiny Byzantine churches, and the fascinating boutiques of Pláka.

Athens’ vast array of ancient treasures includes the National Archaeological Museum’s collection of Mycenaean gold, the classical bronze statues, and the beautiful frescoes from Akrotiri, the Minoan Pompeii on the island of Santorini. Athens' sunshine and pleasant climate give visitors the opportunity to travel to this city during any season. Average daytime temperatures range from 52F in January to 92F in August. During the summer the beaches are filled with Athenians and others. Athens is a city both rich in culture and contrasts.