Take a journey into ancient Greece and go even farther than simply seeing their historic ruins. Step into Athens’ Archeon Gefsis (Ancient Tastes) Restaurant to experience the atmosphere and food of ancient times. After researching ancient Greek gastronomy, Archeon’s President, John Adamis has one of the most extensive libraries on that subject. His team studied translations of thousands of ancient writings in libraries and museums for over 2 years. The Archeon offers recipes from 2,500 years ago, in fact, they even have some of the classic meals enjoyed by Socrates. A number of recipes were based on the Luxury of Life, 15 volume Opus, by the 4th century BC Sicilian Greek Orchestrates. Ancient Greek cuisine is different from Greek cuisine- the spices, ingredients, combinations of ingredients, and way of cooking are unique.
The menu includes an exciting wide array of ancient cuisine with low fat sauces and healthy ingredients. Try the prime beef, lamb, pork, fish, or chicken. Honey and vinegar were used in abundance to create sweet and sour sauces, while fresh herbs and spices were the ancient’s favorites. You will not find Moussaka, tomatoes, pasta, rice, potatoes, coffee, cola, or sugar on the menu. Diners do not use forks but we are allowed a spoon and knife. Throughout the menu they quote Sophocles, Euripides, Aristotle, and other well known men of their time. “The source for all pleasures is the satisfaction of the stomach,” Epicurus, 341-270 BC.
The owners have kept within the authentic atmosphere of early Greece- the pillars, walls, torches, tables, frescoes, couches, altars, and everything in the restaurant have been taken from drawings. Even the waiters wear ankle length togas! They are quite knowledgeable about the cuisine and history of ancient Greece. When a group of 7 or more arrive, they are brought into a special room for a Recliner Symposium. Each of the guests are given Greek gowns, sandals, an ivy wreath, and can relax on wooden recliners. One person is elected King of the Symposium, and just like the early Greeks, the group can recreate the symposium of dining, talking, games, and mental stimulation. Archeon Gefsis (Ancient Tastes) Restaurant, (30)-210-523-9661, located in the Northern historic area of Metaxourgio, 22 Kodratou Street, Athens, Greece.
You should not miss the Changing of the Guard (Evzones) at the Parliament Building every Sunday, at 11 A. M. The soldiers wear their traditional white kilts, red and black caps, and red clogs with pompoms. Every other day they wear khaki uniforms and change every hour on the hour. The public is invited to watch the ceremonies. These Guards are trained not to show any reaction to people or anything around them.
While staying in Athens, I took a side trip to the Delphi archeological sites along the coast and through quaint villages. The most popular historic site in Greece is the Acropolis, Delphi rates second. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the center of the world, the place where heaven and earth met. It is exciting to get away from the big cities and into the country. Just 111 miles from Athens, the trip takes us to the world of Oedipus Rex, the Oracle of Delphi, and the stories of the Greek tragedies. Our tour stopped at the 11th century Ossios Lucas monastery and many other historic sites. Walking among the ruins were some of the most memorable moments of being here.
I found reasonable rates at very nice hotels in Athens. The Omonia Grand Hotel is located downtown within walking distance of shopping, museums, restaurants, and attractions. The Omonia has a very modern European “feeling” to their décor. They call it the first “hip” hotel in Greece. All rooms have a mini bar, direct dial telephone, satellite T. V., marble bathroom with telephone, are soundproof and air-conditioned. There is a bar, restaurant, business center, 24 hours currency exchange, and room service. The Omonia Grand Hotel is a Grecotel City Hotel, 2 Pireos Str, 105 52 Omonia Square, Athens.
