Temple of Athena Nike, Athens (must see)

Measuring a mere 11 feet (3.3 meters) in height, this small, jewel-box-like temple often escapes notice amid the grandeur of the Acropolis. Positioned atop the rock wall to the right of the Propylaea Gate, it comes into view as you enter the Acropolis from the upper right.

Despite being destroyed twice in its history, this temple has been meticulously reconstructed, using original masonry fragments. As a result, you can now appreciate its immaculate symmetrical design, featuring four Ionic columns at each end, just as it was in 420 BC. Back then Athenians gathered here to commemorate their victories over the Persians (the temple's frieze showcases scenes from the Battle of Plataea in 479 BC).

Designed by Kallikrates, the temple served dual roles as an observation point and an ancient shrine dedicated to the goddess of victory, Athena Nike. A remarkable sculpture of her graces the temple's balustrade. Unlike typical statues that usually depict the goddess with wings, this one is wingless, symbolizing the idea that victory will never leave the city.

Legend has it that the temple's location marks the spot where King Aegeus awaited his son, Theseus, from a mission to Crete to vanquish the Minotaur. Theseus promised that, if successful, upon his return, he would raise white sails on his ship (instead of the usual black). But Theseus forgot his pledge. When the king saw the black sails, he assumed that his son was killed and plunged into the sea, which today bears his name - the Aegean Sea.