Athens Classic Marathon

Overview

The Athens Classic Marathon is a marathon event held in Athens, the capital of Greece.

This tournament, which started in 1972, started the marathon due to the origin of the marathon, and there are ups and downs at the 10km and 31km points, which are said to be one of the most difficult in the world. It is a course that runs toward Tajiam.

The stadium where the ancient Olympics were held has become a World Heritage site and remains in Olympia near Athens.

Come and feel the enthusiasm and hot battle of the old people.

#athenesclassicmarathon #marathoncourse #athens

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Course

The Athens Classic Marathon course is steeped in history and follows the legendary route of Pheidippides, the ancient Greek messenger who ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory over the Persians. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Historical Significance: The course is a unique opportunity to retrace the steps of a legendary figure and experience a piece of history firsthand.

Start and Initial Stretch: The marathon begins in the town of Marathon, a short distance from the original battlefield. Runners head out on a relatively flat course for the first twelve kilometers.

The Hills of Attica: After the initial flat section, the course enters into the more challenging part, with a series of gentle, rolling hills through the Attica countryside. The most significant climb comes around the 18km mark near Rafina.

Downward Descent and Scenic Beauty: Following the hills, runners enjoy a welcome descent towards Athens. This section offers scenic views of the Athenian cityscape and the surrounding countryside.

Urban Arrival and Grand Finale: Entering Athens, runners pass by iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic marathon in 1896. The finish line is located inside the stadium, providing a dramatic and historical conclusion to the race.

Here are some additional details to consider:

Total Distance: The standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometers (26.2 miles).
Terrain: A mix of flat sections, gentle rolling hills, and a final downhill stretch towards Athens.
Surface: The entire course is run on asphalt.

While the course has its challenges, especially with the hills, the historical significance and scenic beauty make it a truly unique and rewarding marathon experience.

You can find a map of the course on the Athens Classic Marathon website [Athens Classic Marathon Course Map] or see a video of the course to get a better understanding of the elevation changes [YouTube Athens Classic Marathon Course].

Landscape of the Athens Classic Marathon

elevation of the athens classic marathon

The charm of the city

Athens, the cradle of democracy and Western philosophy, holds a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and contemporary energy. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Athens so charming:

A Living Museum
Athens is an open-air museum, where remnants of the glorious past are woven into the fabric of the modern city. The iconic Acropolis, perched on a rocky hill, is the crowning jewel, showcasing architectural marvels like the Parthenon and the Temple of Erechtheion. Wandering through ancient Agora, the center of Athenian life in classical times, or visiting the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus transports you back in time.
Bustling Plaka
Nestled beneath the Acropolis lies Plaka, a charming neighborhood with narrow, cobbled streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Getting lost in the labyrinthine alleys and soaking in the lively atmosphere is a delightful experience.
Museum Treasures
Athens boasts world-class museums like the National Archaeological Museum, housing an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece. The Acropolis Museum showcases treasures specifically from the Acropolis itself. For those interested in everyday life in ancient Athens, the Agora Museum is a hidden gem.
Culinary Delights
Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and emphasis on olive oil, vegetables, and seafood. Sample delicious souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), melt-in-your-mouth moussaka (eggplant casserole), and flaky spanakopita (spinach pie). Don’t forget to try Greek yogurt with honey and fresh fruit for a refreshing dessert.
Vibrant Nightlife
Athens comes alive at night, with a buzzing bar scene concentrated in areas like Psirri and Koukaki. Enjoy rooftop bars with stunning city views, sip on a traditional Greek coffee at a local cafe, or listen to live music in a taverna (traditional restaurant).
Aegean Beaches
While Athens itself isn’t directly on the beach, a short trip away unveils the stunning Athenian Riviera. Relax on the golden sands of beaches like Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, or Vouliagmeni Lake (a unique thermal lagoon beach), and take a refreshing dip in the Aegean Sea.
Warm Hospitality
Greeks are known for their warm hospitality and laid-back attitude. A friendly smile and a “Yassas!” (Hello in Greek) can go a long way.