“Wow!”
“Look at that!”
“Mama Mia!”
“Don’t miss the Ferry!”
“Can you believe we’re really here?”
Our objective for today was to power-walk to the metro to get to the ancient/modern port of Peiraeus to take the ferry to the island of Aegina. Upon reaching the port at Aegina, we took a bus to the sanctuary of Aphaia which was our first chance to get up close and personal with a true ancient temple site. It was a bit disappointing not to be able to actually enter the temple, but the ruins were still amazing. The shear size of the blocks and columns was breathtaking and the fact that we were sitting on fallen stones from the temple during our lecture made the experience all the more tangible.
Temple of Aphaia at Aegina
We listened to Professor Richter read about Cockrell whisking away the pedimental sculpture and tried to envision the marbles in their original position on the temple. If only the marbles could be returned to the site. Someone else has obviously wished for this as well because, while waiting for the bus back down to the port, we found amazing post cards which show one picture of the temple as it stands today, but when you tilt it back, it shows a reconstruction of the temple as it probably looked in antiquity. We made a quick trip to the temple of Apollo to marvel at the one standing column from which the port of Kolonna gets its unique name. Here we finally got our chance to sit among the actual ruins and soak in the feeling of antiquity. 
Single Column at the Temple of Apollo at Kolonna Port, Aegina
By this time were were thinking more of food than prehistoric settlements, so we urged our professor to let us explore the wonders of Greek seafood. The octopus was quite popular, even as a hair gel, as Michelle can attest to. The smelts on the other hand, were not so popular as no one could get past eating the faces except for Prof. Richter and Jenny. They just could not understand everyone’s reluctance. After lunch and a rousing rendition of John Denver’s “Country Roads” by a well-traveled local, we were left to our own devices and set loose upon an unsuspecting populace. Over the next few hours, everyone explored the port, shops and ice cream. We met a few amazing locals like the shopkeeper who even offered to hold our stuff while we walked around, figuring we would come back to buy more stuff and possibly bring friends.
Our favorite shopkeeper!
We learned the value of timeliness when we boarded the ferry back to Peiraeus when the ferry took off just moments after docking. Once settled many decided to recreate the pile of puppies pose from yesterday while we dutifully worked on our blog entry, although Jenny took a moment to snap a photo for posterity.
The famous “Pile of Puppies” pose!
We returned to the hotel by way of the Benaki Museum. We admit we did not fully appreciate the exquisite Byzantine and Greek art due to our preoccupation with sleep, food and sore feet, not necessarily in that order. From here, we go to read our next assignment, write in our journals and get a good night’s sleep in preparation for tomorrow’s adventure.
Kalinichta - Jenny and Lindsay
8 responses so far ↓
Joy Powell // January 11, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Wow is right! I’m looking forward to pictures; I could NOT find Brynn in the group - I know she’s there.
No way could I eat the Smelts’ faces either
Love you - have a great time. Aunt Joy
Barb Little // January 12, 2007 at 2:31 am
It sounds like you all hit the road running—literally! We’re so glad you arrived safely and are having a terrific time. Thanks for the update—can’t wait to see the “pile of puppies” pic..
Larry and Barb Little
Denita Wray // January 12, 2007 at 1:05 pm
Loved reading your blogs … and wish I was there! Am a little concerned this morning after hearing reports of a bombing at the US Embassy in Athens, so please post something soon to let us know you’re all okay. Jenny, e-mail if you can. So glad you all were able to take this amazing trip. Peace and blessings, Denita
Becky Bryant // January 12, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Good to hear from you. Sounds like a wonderful trip. The news from Athens this morning is distrubing. We will continue our prayers for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Meritha’s Aunt Becky
Meritha-Love You!
Lorraine Fleck // January 12, 2007 at 7:02 pm
To those here in the U.S. who are concerned about the incident at the U.S. embassy in Athens this morning, we are happy to report that all members of the Hollins group are safe and well. Their hotel is on the opposite side of Athens from the embassy and their travels today (Friday) took them outside the city. They will be leaving Athens for other parts of Greece on Sunday. I have been able to talk with or leave messages for all parents except one, to assure them that their daughters are safe. I know that there are lots of others out there who will be concerned, so I am taking advantage of the blog to let you all know that all is well with the Hollins group.
Lorraine Fleck
Director of International Programs
Rhonda Spangler // January 12, 2007 at 7:35 pm
Glad to hear that everyone is ok. Sounds like
you all are having a good time. Can’t wait to
see the pictures. Stay safe and we will keep
everyone in our prayers.
Rhonda and G.C. Spangler
Ashley’s Parents
Ashley we Love You!
A'alyvyne, Jenny's friend // January 12, 2007 at 9:01 pm
Wow Folks–am I jealous!!! Looks fabulous, sounds fabulous, with even more to come, I am sure. Glad to hear you all are safe–keep taking/posting the pics, they are really great!!!
I hope all those ancient gods over there watch over you!!!! Happy travels and safe returns.
Debbie Tiller // January 13, 2007 at 2:39 pm
I was relieved to talk to Lorraine yesterday it was a good idea to have her give us all an update. I am sure like other parents we were watching the news. Christie didn’t call yesterday as expected but I have not heard any bad news so I want to think it had to do with international phone lines. Can’t wait to see more pics and msgs. Its comforting to know the group is safe and having fun experiencing the local culture.
Christie We Love You and miss you - call soon!!!
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