Visiting Greece's Ancient City-States: Where Were They and What They Are Today

Athens. Sparta. We have heard these names since childhood. Ancient, enticing places that were the superpowers of their day. We know that Athens (the city of philosophers) still exists, but what about the other city-states that deserve equal recognition? Sparta was the military genius of the time. The name still sends shivers down modern backs. Corinth was a trading center, full of wealth and grandeur. Thebes, though not as important as its Greek neighbors, achieved glory from legends about its scrap with Sparta. Are any of these sites still in existence? Are they in ruins, or have modern cities grown up around the old ones?

Athens. Thousands of history-loving travelers throughout the years have chosen Athens as their destination. Though there is a somewhat modern flavor (witnessed by the flow of crowds and constant traffic) the Acropolis and its trademark Parthenon brings a sense of ancient times. Located in the region known as Attica, Athens is also home to the Temple of Olympian Zeus and various museums that showcase everything from art to history.

Other ancient sites in modern-day Athens include the Erechtheion (a temple worth the trip) and the Theater of Dionysos. Take an Athens Walking Tour to fully appreciate everything both old and new that the city has to offer. Visitors to Athens should spend at least a few days in the area, and don't forget to try the Greek specialties at a few of the local restaurants! Greece is a great place to experience new culinary sensations and Athens is no exception.

Sparta. Though most of the historical city has fallen into ruins, modern Sparta is located near the original site. Sparta is in the Laconia region of Greece. Unfortunately, there are very few ruins to explore, but even these places evoke a small sense of the city's ancient might. The Ancient Theater, Acropolis, and Temple of Artemis Orthia are a few places to explore, and you should not miss the Archaeological Museum of Sparta on your visit. It explains much of the history of the area and gives a better appreciation to those visiting the ruins.