Within hours of arrival, you may be stricken with an affliction of the Gods. To many, symptoms manifest themselves as the taste of food merges with the piercing sound of a 12-string bouzouki; to others, a gripping epidemic under the mild amorous effect of ouzo.

You have learned about Athens from previous visitors. Word-of-mouth tells you that each vista is a kaleidoscope of history that never becomes routine. Many visitors are surprised by their first visit to the heart of democracy – they can hardly believe its magnificence.