The Theatre, the Temple, the Stadium, the Plaka, and the Apollonia Lyra: Highlights from Our Final Day in Athens

Our final full day in Athens felt like the turning of a page—one last chapter filled with history, beauty, and meaning before the journey home. The weather was pleasant in the morning, and rain arrived in the afternoon.

After enjoying our final Greek breakfast buffet at the hotel, we boarded our bus and made our way into the heart of the city. As we drove, Emily pointed out several significant landmarks, including the ancient Temple of Olympian Zeus and the historic Arch of Hadrian, once marking the boundary between the old Greek city and the Roman expansion under Emperor Hadrian.

As we continued, we passed the Hellenic Parliament just in time to witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The precision, tradition, and symbolism of the ceremony offered a glimpse into the enduring pride of the Greek people.

Our driver then dropped us off on the south side of the Acropolis of Athens, where we began our ascent. Along the way, the Theatre of Dionysus, widely regarded as the birthplace of Greek drama—a reminder that storytelling has always been central to human culture. Then we passed remarkable ancient structures, including the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (often called the Herodian), the Sanctuary of Asclepius, and the Stoa of Eumenes. Each stone seemed to echo with centuries of history.

At last, we reached the summit and entered the sacred sanctuary of the Acropolis.

(photo by Diana Bernau)

There, standing against the skyline, was the magnificent Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena. Nearby, we saw the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatid columns, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea—the grand entrance to the Acropolis. And today, crowds of people from around the world were there to visit.

(photo by Diana Bernau)

It is impossible to stand in such a place and not feel the weight of history.

The ancient philosopher Pericles once described Athens as “the school of Hellas,” a center of learning, culture, and innovation. And yet, for all its achievements, it was also a place searching for truth.

That truth would later be proclaimed just below.

After descending from the Acropolis, we made our way to Areopagus (Mars Hill), where Paul the Apostle delivered one of his most famous messages (Acts 17). Surrounded by altars to many gods, Paul boldly spoke of the “unknown God” and revealed Him as the Creator of heaven and earth.

"God, who made the world and everything in it… is not served by human hands, as if He needed anything.” — Acts 17:24–25

Mars Hill represents a powerful intersection of faith and philosophy—a place where the gospel engaged the intellectual heart of the ancient world.

(Barry and Bill on Mars Hill- photo by Amanda Howard)

As rain clouds began to gather, we made our way back to the bus and continued with a driving tour of the city. Along the way, we passed the University of Athens, the Panathenaic Stadium—site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896—and several government buildings, embassies, and cultural landmarks, including Syntagma Square and the National Library.

Each site added another layer to our understanding of this remarkable city—where ancient history and modern life coexist side by side.

Eventually, it was time to say goodbye. We expressed our gratitude to Emily, presenting her with a gift as a token of appreciation. She has truly been one of the finest guides I’ve ever experienced—knowledgeable, engaging, and deeply committed to helping us understand both the history and the heart of Greece.

As the writer Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Emily helped us walk ancient paths—and see them with fresh eyes.

Afterward, many in our group chose to remain in the city and explore the Plaka, the charming historic district nestled beneath the Acropolis. Its narrow streets, vibrant shops, and inviting cafés provided the perfect setting to find gifts, souvenirs, and one last taste of Athens.

From temples to stadiums, from Mars Hill to the markets of Plaka, today was a tapestry of experiences—woven together by history, faith, and fellowship.

And as we prepare to return home, we carry with us more than memories.

We carry stories.
We carry lessons.
We carry faith strengthened by the journey.

Athens has given us a fitting finale—one that reminds us that while journeys may end, their impact endures.

At 6:00 p.m., we will gather for one final meal together at Apollonia Lyra Restaurant. Afterward, we will return to our rooms to pack for the journey home. Our wake-up call comes early—at 2:30 a.m.—as we begin our travels back. We go forward with tired bodies and invigorated minds, praying for safe travels and on-time flights as this unforgettable journey comes to a close.