Athens, the southernmost capital on the European mainland, is one of the world's oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. According to Greek mythology the city was named after Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom. Classical Athens was one of the most powerful city-states in ancient Greece. It was a centre for democracy, the arts, education and philosophy, and was highly influential throughout the European continent, particularly in Ancient Rome. For this reason it is often regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation and the birthplace of democracy.

According to myth, Athena brought this mountain to Athens “to build a protective wall in front of the Acropolis” and dropped it there.

With its height of 277 m, it is the highest elevation in the city center. At the summit is the small chapel Ágios Geórgios (St. George).

Seen from the Acropolis