Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
6. HELLENIC FESTIVAL (JUN-SEP)
Ancient Greeks performed their timeless tragedies in the spectacular Odeon of
Herodes Atticus and the theatre of Epidauros. Now, every summer, the world's
greatest singers, dancers and actors perform under moonlight in these world-
renowned venues. Recent singers include the Harlem Gospel Choir, while Gerard
Depardieu and Isabella Rossellini have acted in performances of classical works at
Epidauros.
www.greekfestival.gr
7. LYKAVITTOS FESTIVAL (JUN-SEP)
Top music acts such as Bob Dylan, Phillip Glass and BB King perform in the theatre
nestled at the steep peak of Lykavittos Hill.
www.greekfestival.gr
8. ROCKWAVE (JUL)
This three-day festival is Greece's hottest music ticket of the year. The line-up in-
cludes huge Greek and international pop, rock and alternative acts.
9. FEAST OF THE VIRGIN (15 AUG)
Absolutely everything closes for the Assumption of the Virgin, which is second only
to Easter in the Orthodox calendar. The full cross-section of Greek womanhood
packs churches, as every “Maria” turns out to honour her namesake.
10. ATHENS MARATHON (EARLY NOV)
Athletes from around the world retrace the course of Pheidippidis, antiquity's most
celebrated runner. In 490 BC, the Greeks defeated the Persians at Marathon in a
historic battle for democracy. Pheidippidis ran the 42 km (26 miles) to Athens, an-
nounced the outcome (“Victory!”), then died of exhaustion. Today's runners have the
advantage of water stops and cheering crowds en route from Marathonas to the
Kal-
limarmaro Stadium
to ease the arduous feat.
