Exarchate of Jerusalem in Athens, Benaki Museum, Mount Lycabettos

July 28

Today, our group gathered in front of the UINDY, Athens campus to go to the Exarchate of Jerusalem. We walked through the beautiful Plaka neighborhood, before we arrived at our destination.

Upon arrival, we entered a reception area where we were treated to refreshments. When we finished our food and drink, a tour guide briefed us, as Dr. Dimitriou translated, on the historical and religious significance of the site, as well as the Patriarchate of Jerusalem.

We then proceeded to the Agioi Anargyroi Church and finally the Museum, where we learned about the icons and religious artifacts. Before leaving, we saw the Holy Light, that lights up in Jerusalem every Easter and is distributed throughout Greece. Following our religious experience, we went to our customary lunch at our favorite Plaka Taverna.

In the afternoon, the Journey family returned to the classroom for Modern Greek Language and Greek Dance. In the Greek language class, students prepared for their midterm exam, by reviewing their vocabulary lists and spoken phrases. The Greek Dance class learned the history behind the Zembekiko and practiced the dance.

At the conclusion of the lessons, students met at the University of Indianapolis, Athens Campus and were briefed by Dr. Dimitriou about the world famous, Benaki Museum. Dr. Dimitriou discussed the wonderful archeological artifacts at the museum and went into depth about the Greek Independence Collection of artifacts, including the pistols of Lord Byron, the original Constitution and the original National Anthem and flags!

The Journey family then took the short walk to the museum, where they were given an informational pamphlet and time to explore the museum for a few hours.

After taking a group photo outside the museum, we walked to the beautiful Kolonaki neighborhood. There, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner and strolled by the high-end shops and boutiques.

Following our time in Kolonaki, we headed to Mount Lycabettos, which has a wonderful view of Athens. Once we reached the bottom of the hill, our group took a cable train to the top of the mountain. Upon reaching the summit, we enjoyed the beautiful view beside the Chapel of Saint George. Our group then headed to the restaurant area on the summit, where Dr. Dimitriou treated us to an ice cream dessert. After our dessert was complete, the Journey family returned to their apartments to relax after a busy day.