Mount Hymettus: The Green Lung of Athens, a Touching Journey Overlooking the Athenian Basin
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When people think of Athens, they often think of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and other magnificent historical sites. But few know that, hidden in the suburbs of Athens, lies a lush, verdant treasure: Mount Ymitos. On this trip to Athens, I decided to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Mount Ymitos, seeking tranquility and a sense of belonging.
Arriving at the foot of the mountain, I was greeted by rolling green hills, no longer a concrete jungle. The air was filled with the fragrance of pine trees and wildflowers, a stark contrast to the exhaust-filled air of the city. I chose a relatively easy route, and the scenery along the way was breathtaking. With blooming wildflowers and fluttering butterflies, it felt like stepping into a natural landscape.
The climb wasn't always smooth sailing; the path was sometimes steep and winding, requiring considerable stamina. But the scenery along the way kept me motivated and made me forget my fatigue. I admired the mountain scenery, breathed in the fresh air, and felt the charm of nature. Occasionally, I encountered locals strolling through the mountains. They greeted me warmly and shared their experiences and anecdotes.
Halfway up the mountain, I stopped to rest and gazed out over the Athens Basin. The sight before me was breathtaking: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the modern architecture all lay clearly before me. The sun shone on the Athens Basin, painting the entire city a golden hue, creating a beautiful scene. At that moment, I felt as if I were in the clouds, overlooking this historic city and taking in its charming blend of ancient and modern.
Continuing to climb, the path became steeper, requiring the use of both hands and feet. But the arduous climb was rewarded with even more magnificent views. Standing at the top, I could see the entire Athens Basin and the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The mountain breeze brought a cool breeze, refreshing my body and mind, and all my fatigue melted away.
At the summit, I discovered some ancient ruins, believed to belong to ancient Athenians. Though dilapidated, these ruins still exude a sense of history, allowing me to sense the passage of time and the vicissitudes of history. I sat beside the ruins, quietly absorbing the sediment of history and imagining what life must have been like for ancient Athenians here.
On my way down, I took a different route and discovered even more unexpected sights. For example, a stream hidden in the valley, its clear waters gurgling, birdsong, and the fragrance of flowers, teeming with life. I sat by the stream, listening to the murmur and feeling the tranquility and peace of nature.
After descending, I found a traditional Greek restaurant at the foot of the mountain and enjoyed a delicious lunch. The restaurant's dishes, featuring local specialties, were fresh and delicious, leaving me with a lasting impression. The restaurant's owner, a warm and welcoming elderly man, enthusiastically shared the history and culture of Mount Hymettus with me in his broken English.
This trip to Mount Hymettus allowed me to experience a unique charm of Athens. Here, there's no bustling city, only tranquil mountains, fresh air, and beautiful scenery. Mount Hymettus is more than just a mountain; it's a treasure trove of greenery. It allowed me to find a peaceful space amidst the bustling city and gave me a deeper understanding of Athens. I will always remember this tranquility, beauty, and the indescribable feeling of being moved. This journey was more than just a physical climb; it was a spiritual awakening. I believe this feeling will stay with me for the rest of my life.