Athens

Athens, city of the gods and birthplace of Western culture, is one of Europe's most intriguing cities where Classical antiquity co-exists with symbols of Christianity and modern European life. The author returns to the post-Olympic capital and takes us on lively walks through the neighbourhoods, unveiling the city's moods, exploring its culture, monuments and museums. She leads us up the Acropolis, through Plaka and the old Turkish quarter, into the Agora and Roman Forum, Byzantine churches and along the modern boulevards. To conclude, we go outside the city to view the surviving 11th century mosaics of Daphne Monastery (still being restored at time of writing), one of the masterpieces of the Byzantine Empire.

Helen Partovi-Fraser's Athens: The Hidden Gems vividly brings this stylish city, its culture and people to life.