18 Spectacular UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece

On the trail of UNESCO?

Greece boasts 18 World Heritage Sites. Sixteen of which are based on “cultural” criteria, and two are both “cultural” and “natural” criteria. There are an additional 14 on the tentative list.

Take a look at these wonders below and decide which one(s) fit into your next trip!

Acropolis of Athens

The crowning glory and symbol of the Ancient Greek civilization. Acropolis is the name of the “rock” that holds six monumental architectural masterpieces of ancient Greece still existing today:

The renowned Erechtheion (Porch of the Maidens also referred to as the Caryatids)
Temple of Athena Nike
the entrance or Propylaea
the theater of Dionysus
the theater of Herod Atticus
Last but not least the temple to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon. This has undoubtedly given the Acropolis the reputation that has surpassed countless centuries.

Universal symbols of classical Greek aesthetics, spirit and civilization. Perfect balance and in harmony with the natural landscape that surrounds them.

Planned out by Pericles and constructed around 5th century BC under guidance of Pheidias. Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1987.

2. Archaeological Site of Aigai (or Vergina)

Stunning remains of this first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia is the monumental palace with its impressive mosaics, lavishly decorated painted stuccoes, the theater and the city walls. There is also a burial ground with more than 300 tumuli, which date from the 11^th century B.C.

Some of the royal tombs discovered in 1978 have been identified as that of Philip II of Macedonia, father of Alexander the Great. He conquered all the Greek cities and his son expanded the Hellenistic world. The tombs of Euridice, mother of Philip II as well as his grandson Alexander IV have been unearthed as well.

Thanks to this excavation, historians were able to learn a lot about the ancient Macedonians, history and society and how they spread the Greek culture throughout the ancient world.

Located in the region of Central Macedonia, this site dates to the 1st millennium BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1996.

3. Archaeological Site of Delphi

The magnificent sanctuary of Delphi was the spiritual center of the Greek world. The superb location is the site of the sanctuary of Apollo, the Olympian god of light, knowledge and harmony.

Legend has it that Zeus released two eagles; one from the East and one from the West. Their meeting point was the site of Delphi considered to be the omphalos (navel) of the world, situated in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of Mount Parnassus, It was a symbol of Greek cultural unity from the 8th century BC onward and the religious and political influence over the whole of Greece increased by the 6th century BC.

Pilgrims from all over Greece would come to the site to consult the Pythia, the priestess of the God Apollo.

This harmonious relationship, between human-made and natural environment makes Delphi a unique and priceless legacy bequeathed by the ancient Greek world to generations to come.

The site located in Central Greece, dates from 8th century BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1987.

4. Archaeological Site of Mystras

“The Wonder of the Morea”, as it is known because of its beautiful structures has clear influences from “Helladic” school of Byzantine as well as Constantinople, Romanesque, Gothic architecture and Palaeologan Renaissance.

Built in 1249 by William II of Villehardouin, prince of Achaia, at the top of a 620m high hill overlooking Sparta, Mystras played an important role when it was surrendered to the Byzantine Empire in 1262, and later occupied by the Venetians.

One can undoubtedly see the various architectural influences in the structures of the palace, houses, streets, public squares and the fortifications as well as the magnificent frescoes from the Palaeologan Renaissance covering the church walls. After 1834 the inhabitants started to abandon Mystras leaving only the breathtaking medieval ruins, amidst a beautiful landscape.

Mystras is therefore a truly exceptional example of late Byzantine culture which influenced the rest of the Mediterranean world and beyond.

The site is located in Laconia, Peloponnese and constructed around 13th century AD. It was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1989.

5. Archaeological Site of Olympia

This is where the Olympic idea was born. The ancient Olympic Games that began in 776 BC made Olympia a unique universal symbol of peace, noble competition and values which remain unchanged to our days. One can see the vestiges of several sporting structures erected for the Olympic Games such as its famous stadium.

Olympia was also a center for the worship of Zeus. That is why one can see numerous sanctuaries and temples. For the Altis, the sacred grove and the center of the sanctuary, great artists such as Pheidias, have put their personal stamp of inspiration and creativity on some of the most magnificent works of art offering their unique artistic creations to the world.

Olympia is located in the Peloponnese in a natural setting of beauty and serenity.

The site dates from the 10th century BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1989.

6. Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns

Imposing ruins of two of the most influential cities of the Mycenean civilization which flourished between the 15th and 12th centuries BC. They played a vital role in the development of classical Greek culture. Significant architectural monuments are still visible today such as the Lion’s Gate and Treasury of Atreus at Mycenae which have been listed as “outstanding examples of human creative genius”.

These two cities inspired the famous poet Homer in his epic Iliad and the Odyssey. The citadel of Mycenae, was the kingdom of the mythical Agamemnon. Other characters of this civilization, notably Orestes, Elektra, Ifigeneia and Klytaimnestra have inspired many poets, writers and artists over the centuries.

The archaeological site of Tiryns which is not far from Mycenae is another excellent example of the Mycenaean civilization. The fortifications which surround the citadel, as well as the impressive walls built of enormous stones up to 8 meters thick and 13 meters high were, according to the Homeric epic, built by the mythical Cyclops, the one eyed giants from Lycia .Located in the Region of Argolis in the North-East Peloponnese.

The site dates from the 15th century BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1999.

7. Sacred Island of Delos

According to Greek mythology, this small island located in the center of the Aegean Sea is considered “the most sacred of all islands”. So sacred that they did not allow the dead to be buried there. Legend has it that Apollo and Artemis -Gods of day and night respectively were born there.

The entire island is one vast archaeological site where we can still see traces of various civilizations. The monuments that have been excavated from the Apollonian sanctuary and the town reflect the grandeur of the sacred island and illuminate past civilizations.

Due to its location in the center of the Aegean sea, it attracted commercial activity and was declared a free port of the eastern Mediterranean. It quickly became the greatest commercial center needed to build their luxurious dwellings. The richly decorated mosaic floors and frescoes are a testimony to this.

The site is located just off the island of Mykonos and dates from the 7th century BC and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1990.

8. Medieval City of Rhodes

One of the most beautiful examples of Gothic period architecture represented by the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Great Hospital and the Street of the Knights. The city was occupied from 1309 to 1523 by the Order of St John of Jerusalem who built a 4 kilometer long wall to protect themselves from invaders.

Throughout the years, other palaces and charitable foundations were constructed such as the Court of Commerce, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Hospice of St Catherine, among others. In the Lower Town we can find Byzantine construction of churches (later converted to Islamic mosques). We also see Gothic architecture coexisting with the Ottoman period such as public baths and other constructions.

Located in the island group of the Dodacanese, South Aegean, and dates around 1309 to 1523. The site was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1988.

9. Monasteries of Daphni, Hosios Loukas and Nea Moni of Chios

Three superb examples of the “Second golden age of Byzantine Art”. These three monasteries, are located in different parts of Greece but share the same architectural and aesthetic characteristics. They are all built on a cross-in-square plan with a large dome supported by squinches defining an octagonal space.

They are all splendidly decorated with marble, and mosaics on a gold background which is very characteristic of the epoque.

Daphni Monastery is located in Attica, near Athens, Hosios Loukas in Phocida, near Delphi, and the third on the island of Chios, in the Northern Aegean.

They all date back to the 11^th and 12^th century and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1990.

10. Old Town of Corfu

One can see remarkable examples of 15^th century Venetian engineering in the Old Town of Corfu, including two forts that were built to defend maritime trading during the time of the Ottoman Empire, (which by the way never managed to conquer Corfu partly due to the brilliant engineering of the forts by the Venetians). Due to its strategic location at the entrance of the Adriatic Sea the forts were often destroyed and rebuilt. Most recently under British rule in the 19^th century.

Within the Old Town we can see French, Austrian and Greek neoclassical influence in the structures. This unique system of fortification and in its neo-classical buildings places it alongside other major Mediterranean fortified port cities.

A pleasant stroll in the old city will make you feel like you are in Venice with its old buildings, narrow streets, flower filled balconies, 37 churches and clothes hanging out to dry drawn between buildings.

The island of Corfu is located in Ionian Islands and dates back to 8th century BC. It was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2007.

11. Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki

There are many monuments in Thessaloniki inscribed on the World Heritage list. Most are Christian/religious churches which reveal different magnificent mosaics and frescoes from the Byzantine period. There are also military edifices represented by the 4 km long city walls.

Being the northern capital of Greece and sea port, it was considered a cultural center and played an active role in artistic trends originating in Constantinople. The monuments were built over a long period of time from the 4^th to the 15 century and constitute a diachronic typological series. Because of their exceptional design and artistic value these monuments are considered among the most significant of the Byzantine period. The mosaics of the rotunda, St Demetrius and St David are among the great masterpieces of early Christian art.

Located in Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, and dates to 315 B.C . It was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1988.

12. Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos

Superb remains can still be seen of the Pythagoreion, an ancient fortified port with Greek and Roman monuments, the Heraion temple of the Ionian order, dedicated to the goddess Hera adorned with splendid sculptures, and the spectacular Eupalinus tunnel-aqueduct dating from the 6ty century BC. It fed water to the ancient city through a tunnel 1036 meters through the mountainside.

The island has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium B.C by various civilizations. It was an important political and cultural center due to its geographical location and established trade with mainland Greece and Asia Minor. Many great personalities are linked to Samos including the Pythagoras famous philosophers Pythagoras and Epicurus and Aristarchus, who first established the theory of the planet system in the 4th century BC.

Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos bear eloquent witness of the Ionian spirit. During its apogee in the 6th century BC the ancient

Located on Samos island in the North Aegean the site was Built in the 3rd millennium B.C. and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1992.

13. Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus

This site with its principal monuments is considered to be one of the most complete masterpieces of Hellenic architecture.

The Theatre of Epidaurus renowned for its exemplary acoustics continues to be used today for ancient drama performances. Combined with the Temples of Artemis and Asklepios, the Tholos, the Enkoimeterion and the Propylaia, this site illustrates the significance and power of the healing gods of the Hellenic and Roman worlds.

Located in the Peloponnese, the site dates from the 4th century and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1988.

14. Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae

This famous temple built in the 5^th century BC is one of the best-preserved monuments of classical Greek architecture. It combines all three ancient Greek architectural orders; Doric, Ionic and Corinthian – if fact it includes the oldest Corinthian capital yet found. Dedicated to the God of sun and healing, Apollo Epicurius by the Phigaleians, who believed he had protected them from plague and invasion.

The temple was not rediscovered until the 18th century which is why it has survived largely intact. Located in Messenia, Peloponnese, the site dates from the 5th century B.C. and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1986.

15. The Historic Centre (Chorá) with the Monastery of Saint-John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse on the Island of Pátmos

This is where the beloved disciple, Saint John the Theologian wrote his Gospel and the Apocalypse in 95 AD. As a result, it has been a place of pilgrimage ever since. Thousands visit the Cave of the Apocalypse where St John dictated the Book of Revelation to his disciples.

From the outside it has the appearance of a polygonal castle due to its towers and crenelations. By contrast, in the inside, small churches, chapels, and monastic cells, were built, thus creating an interesting architectural ensemble. It also houses remarkable collections of manuscripts, objects and icons.

It is the only Orthodox monastery where the town was built around its monastic fortifications but the monastery still had absolute dominance over the inhabitants.

Located on the island of Patmos in the South Aegean sea, this site dates back to the 10th century and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1999.

16. Archaeological Site of Philippi

Located at the foot of an acropolis in eastern Macedonia, with characteristics of the Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian periods.

Some of the most important monuments are the Walls and the Acropolis, coupled with the Theater and the Agora. This walled city was located on the famous route Via Egnatia which linked Europe and Asia. Founded in 356 BC by the Macedonian King Philip II, the city was shaped by the Roman Empire into a “small Rome” following the Battle of Philippi, in 42 BCE. The remains of its basilicas are a testimony to the early establishment of Christianity.

Located in Kavala, Eastern Macedonia, the site dates from the 4th century B.C. – 14th century A.D and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2016.

17. Meteora

Enormous columns of sandstone rock formations, rising naturally from the ground, housing 24 Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Built around the 11^th century, despite inconceivable difficulties.

These “columns of the sky” as they have been called were almost inaccessible.

Today only six remain standing and functioning as opposed to the other 18 are mainly in ruin. Stairways and paths have been cut into the rock formations to make them accessible to tourists. The monastic population in 2015 was 56. Their 16th-century frescoes mark a key stage in the development of post-Byzantine painting.

Located near Kalabaka in Thessaly and dates back to the 11th century and inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1988.

18. Mount Athos

A complex of about 20 Athonite monasteries which occupy the easternmost peninsula of Chalkidiki, jutting out into the Aegean Sea. Mount Athos has been considered an autonomous state since Byzantine times.

Women and children are forbidden on The ‘Holy Mountain’, and male visitors need a special visa to enter. There are around 2,000 monks living an ascetic life in Athos isolated from the rest of the world.

The monasteries boast collections of rare books, ancient documents, well-preserved artifacts and artworks of enormous historical value. Farming is an integral part of the monks’ life and they preserve plant species that are rare in the region.

Located in the easternmost peninsula of Chalkdidi in Central Macedonia. It dates back to 800 AD, and was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 1988.

There are 14 more sites on the Tentative List

Late Medieval Bastioned Fortifications in Greece (2014)
National Park of Dadia – Lefkimi – Souflion (2014)
Ancient Lavrion (2014)
Petrified Forest of Lesvos (2014)
Archaeological site of Ancient Messene (2014)
Minoan Palatial Centres (Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, Zakros, Kydonia) (2014)
Archaeological site of Nikopolis (2014)
The broader region of Mount Olympus (2014)
The Area of the Prespes Lakes: Megali and Mikri Prespa which includes Byzantine and post-Byzantine monuments (2014)
Gorge of Samaria National Park (2014)
Fortress of Spinalonga (2014)
Ancient Towers of the Aegean Sea (2014)
Zagorochoria – North Pindos National Park (2014)
Ancient Greek Theatres (2014)