This beautiful Greek city got its name in honor of the goddess of wisdom. Perhaps this is what influenced the fact that the history of Athens from the moment of its foundation to the present day is in the center of attention of people and countries.
Golden Age of Athens
The modern European capital is called the cradle of Greek culture, an important scientific and cultural center of Greece, during a period that began around 500 BC. It was then that the concept of "democracy" appeared and was formed, classical philosophy and theatrical art began to develop.
The history of Athens during this period cannot be described briefly, it can be noted that, on the one hand, the city was actively built, and not only in terms of architecture, but also the political system. On the other hand, this period is characterized by frequent changes of political leaders, a tough struggle for power within the country and opposition to external enemies, primarily the Persians.
History of Athens - from the Middle Ages to the present
In the 500s of our era, Athens begins to lose its former influence and greatness. Famous schools of thought are being closed down. A large center of science and culture is gradually turning into a provincial town. But even in this capacity, he is still of interest to his neighbors. At the beginning of the 13th century, the Duchy of Athens was formed. After 150 years, the city had to join the Ottoman Empire.
In 1821, the Greeks rebelled against the Ottomans and for a decade defended the right to freedom and self-determination. Since 1833, Athens became the capital of a new state - the Kingdom of Greece. A period of revival begins, although one can only dream of the former glory. The infrastructure is developing in the city, new streets, beautiful buildings and structures appear, ancient monuments are being restored.
Athens occupies a worthy place among other European capitals and is considered one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. This was facilitated by the Greco-Turkish treaty, according to which the mass return of the Athenians and their descendants to their homeland began.
The beginning of the twentieth century was remembered for the Athenians by the war with the Turks, the frequent change of government, the growing influence of the communists and the civil war in the 1940s. The Second World War did not pass by this beautiful European city, the German invaders occupied the city. After the war, a revival began, and the city developed at an accelerated pace, in 1981 the country joined the European Economic Community, which brought large investments.
