The warm Mediterranean sun cast a golden glow over the ancient landscape of Greece, a land where history and nature intertwined in a tapestry of breathtaking beauty. As Emily stepped off the ferry onto the bustling port of Athens, she felt a sense of excitement and wonder. The air was filled with the scent of salty sea breeze mixed with the aroma of fresh olives and herbs from nearby markets. Narrow cobblestone streets wound their way through the city, lined with whitewashed buildings that seemed to glow in the sunlight, their blue shutters and balconies bursting with vibrant flowers. She wandered through the lively Plaka neighborhood, where street performers played lively tunes on traditional instruments, and vendors called out, offering handmade jewelry and local delicacies. The sound of laughter and chatter echoed around her as she paused in front of the iconic Parthenon, perched atop the Acropolis. This ancient temple, dedicated to Athena, seemed to watch over the city with a silent, stoic grace. Its towering columns, weathered yet majestic, told stories of centuries past when Greece was the cradle of democracy and philosophy. Beyond Athens, Emily traveled to the island of Santorini, famous for its stunning sunsets and dramatic cliffs. As she approached the town of Oia, she was greeted by rows of white buildings with blue domes that seemed to float against the backdrop of the deep blue Aegean Sea. Narrow pathways led her past cozy cafes where locals served fresh seafood and sweet baklava. From the edge of the cliff, she watched the sun dip below the horizon, filling the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. The view was like a living painting, changing with each passing moment. Further inland, Emily explored the rugged mountains and lush valleys of mainland Greece. She marveled at the ancient ruins of Delphi, where the oracle once offered prophecies from a sacred spring. The site was surrounded by towering pines and olive groves, filling the air with a fragrant scent. As she wandered among the columns and stone pathways, she imagined the ancient Greeks gathering here to seek guidance from their gods. Throughout her journey, Emily noticed how Greece’s natural beauty complemented its rich history. The crystal-clear waters of the Ionian and Aegean Seas sparkled under the sun, inviting swimmers and sailors alike. Olive trees, with their silvery leaves and gnarled trunks, stretched across the landscape, symbolizing peace and prosperity. The rugged mountains and fertile plains created a diverse terrain that supported a thriving culture for thousands of years. At every turn, Greece seemed to whisper stories of heroes, gods, and philosophers, woven into the very fabric of the land. Emily felt a deep connection to this place, where the past and present coexisted in harmony. She realized that Greece was not only a country of ancient ruins and beautiful scenery but also a living testament to the resilience and creativity of its people. As she watched the stars emerge over the Aegean Sea that night, she knew her journey through Greece would stay with her forever—a story of wonder, history, and the enduring beauty of a land that has inspired the world for centuries.

Answer the following questions based on the passage above.