A Trip to Athens – An Experience for Life

by Matthias Schmid

More than 7,500 years old and 2,500 km away from where I live – for several years, my inner traveller yearned to visit the birthplace of democracy. However, realizing this ambition always seemed out of reach as a young teenager until I was presented with a life-changing opportunity.

Last November, I found myself in the finals of the Certamen Carolinum, a renowned Latin competition hosted annually by the Association for the Promotion of Ancient Languages in Schools. The moment I was handed the main prize by Consul General Vassilis Koinis in the majestic halls of the “Aula Carolina” in Aachen, it finally sank in that my dream had just become reality, but I did not have the remotest idea of what to expect on this journey. At least not until Sunday (October 20th) afternoon when the Airbus A320’s wheels gently kissed the runaway of Athens International Airport.

When my family and I reached the “Coco-Mat Athens BC Hotel”, I couldn’t believe how close we were to the Acropolis. I was simply amazed every time I walked onto the balcony and observed the majestic building, particularly in the soft evening lights of Athens’ downtown.

After a rich breakfast, my family and I set off. At first, we used Google Maps, which meant staying on heavily congested roads, but then discovered the charms of the city by setting out on the more hilly, less-travelled paths. This choice required more patience and exertion, rewarded us however with an exquisite and consistent view over the city centre. As we trekked through the city, we visited sights like the Panathenaic Stadium, Agora Temple, Lykavittos Platform and many more, but also strolled around the cheerful aisles of the Monastiráki district, whose flair can hardly be described in words.

In the evenings, we were so exhausted from what we had discovered that we always took a seat at a restaurant nearby and let the day draw to a close by savouring the specialities of Greek cuisine.

It was a journey I will never forget. I am utterly grateful for all of the work the Greek Consulate General of Düsseldorf as well as its partners, Aegean Airlines and Coco-Mat Athens, put into making this journey possible and hope that all future winners of Certamen Carolinum are able to enjoy a similar experience next year and after.