The original Caryatids at the Acropolis Museum in Athens are modeled after women from Karyai who were famous for their upright posture and noble character. May 19, 2015

This model of the Erechtheum with the Porch of the Caryatids is at the Acropolis Museum in Athens. May 19, 2015

The ancient ruins in Athens are a part of the modern city’s landscape. Here’s the Arch of Hadrian, which can be found across a very busy street. Hadrian, a major benefactor of Athens after the Romans conquered the Greeks, built it in 132 A.D. to celebrate the completion of the Temp of Zeus, which is located behind the arch. May 19, 2015

The ruins of the Temple of Zeus in Athens. May 19, 2015

The Corinthian columns of the Temple of Zeus in Athens. May 19, 2015

While standing at the Temple of Zeus, I was still able to see the Parthenon in the Acropolis in Athens. May 19, 2015

This touristy area on Adrinou Street is called the Plaka in Athens. May 19, 2015

This beautiful bougainvillea caught my eye in the neighboring street of the Plaka shopping area in Athens. May 19, 2015

This touristy area on Adrinou Street is called the Plaka in Athens. May 19, 2015

Roadside shrines can be along the mainland roads in Greece. This shrine is just outside the ancient sacred site of Delphi. These shrines can be built in remembrance of a traffic victim but are often built by a survivor of a potentially tragic accident, or to publicly thank a saint for a benefit. This shrine is said to mark the death of a tour bus driver. May 20, 2015

The Treasury of the Athenians is a temple to commemorate the Greeks victory over the Persians at the Battle of the Marathon in 490 B.C. May 20, 2015

These Doric columns are from the Temple of Apollo on the site of the Oracle of Delphi. The priestess communicated with the spirit of Apollo who was considered the god of peace, order and personal virtue. May 20, 2014