Another warm and sunny day beckons.(Make that hot and humid) So we had a leisurely breakfast with Keran and Laurie, then hit the streets. One thing I am becoming convinced of – there are no flat streets in Athens – they incessantly uphill or downhill, never flat. While picturesque, they are also narrow and windy, and most of them are one-way.
Now this is what I mean:
I have just walked UP this thing, and that is just the final stage of the 20km slog (well it felt like 20km). Fortunately you frequently see lanes like this to ease the burden. (but it still slopes!!!)
Parliament House – Changing of the guard
Just before midday we stumbled on Parliament house. Now noon in an open plaza in Athens is HOT! And there are the poor guards dressed in traditional uniform standing stock still at attention.
Then the new shift is due. The local army guy then shepherds everyone behind the white line (actually a embedded section of marble in the cobblestones, but close enough). Now the fights begin to maintain the best vantage points. There is one doozy of a verbal clash between an English guy and a Greek lady(?). A lot of very loud shouting, hurled insults, and muttered expletive laden asides to respective companions.
Then more shoving and pushing, as they clear part of the line to let the new guys through. Sometimes weight has its own reward – I maintain my position.
The guards arrive (Hint: click on the green links to play movie)
First they need to be inspected to make sure they are fit for duty. I wonder what happens if they fail?
Then it’s time to leave
One thing that does make me wonder – with all this stomping and scraping all day – how does the marble survive???
After sweating myself dry at Parliament House, we continue our perambulations through the shopping centre of Athens. Finally I succumb to my thirst, and stop for a beer and coffee at a traditional Greek cafe. As it is way past Annie’s normal lunch time, we order the only food available – the really traditional Greek toasted ham and cheese sandwich, served with potato crisps.