Attica

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existence of separate principalities which lost their independence in Theseus's "synoecism". Although sanctuaries such as Eleusis with its mysteries and the temple of Poseidon on Cape Soúnion maintained their importance throughout antiquity, Athens increasingly developed into the political, cultural and economic center of Attica, helped by the proximity of the excellent natural harbor of Piraeus. Since Greece achieved its independence and Athens became its capital in 1834 a huge modern metropolis has spread far out over the central plain, and the olive-groves which once lay between Athens and Piraeus have long since disappeared. The plain of Eleusis has been disfigured by industrial installations, but the Marathón and Mesóyia plains have largely preserved their agricultural character. The coastal strips have been developed, and a whole string of seaside resorts has grown up between Athens and Soúnion. The east coast, south of Marathón, is also a popular holiday area.