Greek history is a captivating journey through the annals of time, offering profound insights into the foundations of Western civilization. From the legendary tales of gods and heroes to the philosophical musings of brilliant minds, Greek history is a rich tapestry that continues to shape our understanding of the world. In this article, we'll delve into the top five reasons why exploring Greek history is not only an intellectual adventure but also a key to unlocking the mysteries of our present.

1. Foundations of Democracy 

One of the most enduring legacies of ancient Greece is the concept of democracy. The city-state of Athens, in particular, laid the groundwork for a political system where citizens had a say in decision-making. Understanding the origins of democracy in ancient Greece provides us with valuable insights into the evolution of governance, helping us appreciate the complexities and strengths of modern democratic societies.

2. Epic Myths and Legends

The tales of Greek mythology are woven into the fabric of Western literature and culture. From the heroic exploits of Achilles in the Trojan War to the cunning adventures of Odysseus, these myths offer timeless lessons about the human condition. Exploring Greek mythology allows us to connect with universal themes of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of greatness, resonating across generations and enriching our understanding of storytelling.

3. Philosophical Pioneers

Ancient Greek philosophers, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, are intellectual giants whose ideas continue to influence philosophy, science, and ethics. By examining their profound insights into the nature of existence, morality, and the pursuit of knowledge, we gain a deeper appreciation for the roots of Western thought. These philosophical foundations remain relevant, inspiring ongoing discussions about the meaning of life and the nature of truth.

4. Architectural Marvels

The Greeks were master architects, creating enduring structures that showcased their ingenuity and aesthetic sensibilities. The Parthenon in Athens, for example, stands as a testament to classical Greek architecture. Studying these ancient structures not only provides a glimpse into the technological prowess of the time but also offers a lens through which we can appreciate the impact of design and aesthetics on our built environment today.

5. Cultural and Artistic Influence

Greek art, drama, and literature have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. From the tragedies of Aeschylus and Sophocles to the timeless sculptures depicting idealized human forms, Greek artistic achievements remain influential. Exploring these cultural treasures enhances our understanding of artistic expression, beauty, and the human experience, fostering a connection between the past and present.

Greek history serves as a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a profound understanding of the roots of Western civilization. From the birth of democracy to the philosophical musings of brilliant minds, the impact of Greek history on our world today is immeasurable. By exploring the timeless tales, wisdom, and achievements of ancient Greece, we embark on a journey that enriches our perspectives, connecting us with the enduring legacy of this remarkable civilization.

Prepare to be captivated by the splendidly renovated neoclassical gem at 24 Perikleous Street, situated in the enchanting Terpsithea neighborhood of Piraeus. Unveiling a fusion of history and modernity, this architectural masterpiece is not just a mansion; it's a vibrant hub buzzing with educational, recreational, and cultural activities, inviting both public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to partake in its allure.

In the heart of Piraeus's historical center, a mere stone's throw from the Archaeological Museum, stands the Ziller mansion—an elegant residence erected in 1899 by the renowned architect Ernst Ziller. This distinguished architect, celebrated for crafting a series of neoclassical marvels in Piraeus, once counted King George I and Queen Olga among the illustrious guests in one of his creations. Notably, Ziller himself resided in this very neighborhood.

In its heyday, the district served as the bustling port of Piraeus, earning the moniker "neighborhood of the captains" due to its proximity to the sea. Now, this meticulously renovated neoclassical house, spanning an impressive 605.89 sq. m., stands as a living testament to its historic legacy.

The grandeur of this architectural wonder, adorned with breathtaking ceiling decorations, classical elements, and an undeniable stately charm, is truly impressive. Spread across three floors, with the ground floor encompassing 150.30 sq.m., the first and second floors totaling 157.17 sq.m., and the third floor, with an additional outdoor area, measuring 133.22 sq.m.

Inquiries are welcomed through phone calls at 2104513086 or 6947612210 and via email at 24perikleous@gmail.com. Convenient parking is available in close proximity at Skuze 26, making your visit to this historical treasure effortlessly accessible. 

Originally published in Greek on: iefimerida.gr

Translated by: Codico Lab

On October 24, 1963, the Swedish Academy announced Giorgos Seferis as its laureate for the Nobel Prize. Sixty years after that historic occasion, the Benaki Museum holds the opening of the exhibition entitled “George Seferis: sixty years later," dedicated to the historic anniversary of the announcement itself and the award ceremony that followed it, on December 10, 1963.

Built around Seferis’ Nobel Prize, which belongs in the permanent collection of the Ghika Gallery, the exhibition presents a range of artefacts and photographic documents. It comprises three units: The first pertains to the day of the announcement, the second centres on the evening of the award ceremony, and the last is dedicated to its aftermath and features relevant press articles, letters, and telegrams of congratulations. Posters, newspapers of the day, and visual and audio documents displayed alongside personal objects of the poet’s create an environment that evokes the magnitude of the event and showcases his personality.

The material making up the exhibition derives from Seferis’ archive, which is held at the Gennadius Library, the collections of the Benaki Museum, and private collections.

IN COLLABORATION WITH the Swedish Embassy in Athens

Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 10:00 - 18:00

The exhibition entitled “Good night, I love you” tries to highlight the personality of the great diva both on and off the stage. It is based on personal memorabilia and dresses of Maria Callas from the collection of Nikos Charalampopoulos. It is complemented by a sample costume made by Yannis Tsarouchis for the performance of the opera Medea at Epidaurus, by four models of Lila de Nobili’s costumes from the performance of La Traviata at La Scala in Milan, a model of Piero Toschi’s costume for Pasolini’s Medea and by models of costumes made by Yannis Tsarouchis, loans from foundations and private individuals.

 

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday / 10:00 – 18:00

Guided Tour: Open Sundays at 16:00 (with queueing system)

Since ancient times, Athens has attracted people to visit, live, or study. From the early post-war years, Athens became a tourist destination, with iconic buildings such as the Hilton symbolizing this effort, even if it usually functioned as just a stopover before the islands. But in recent years, the city has experienced an unprecedented tourist boom. For some foreigners, the city has become a place of residence, from digital nomads to artists and curators. The city is changing at a rapid pace; empty buildings have taken on new life and form; businesses are opening; forgotten neighborhoods are popping up; and new jobs are being created. At the same time, however, rents are rising to high and unsustainable levels, as is the overall cost of living for permanent residents, while Athens' infrastructure remains incomplete even in the most basic areas, such as pavements, with the otherwise problematic public space of the city being given over to all kinds of private, commercial use.

But what is the reality of Athens today, behind the windows of hotels and cafes, beyond the foreign publications that present it as the ideal combination of chaos and history, beach and art? Athens is constantly changing and receiving people and their worlds, shaping and being shaped by them. Athens is travel and escape, experiences and emotions, smells and tastes, photo clicks and Instagram poses; it is beauty and ugliness together, happy moments and misery.

Fourteen artists present their response to this question in various media, answering an open call put out by FokiaNou Art Space. Participants: Neva Bergemann, Sofia Charoni, Mary Cox, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Sidan Ghazi, Constantina Halkias, Maria Karassavidou, Panos Liapis, Christos Movidis, Despoina Pantazi, Geeta Roopnarine, Stephanie Sampson, Stella Sevastopoulos, and Kiveli Zachariou.

Opening days and hours: Thursday to Saturday, 17.00–20.00

Curated by Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris

FokiaNou Art Space is an artist-run project space in the intimacy of a small apartment in an old building in the center of Athens. The space encourages collaborative creative efforts between Greek and foreign artists, thereby promoting and supporting the local art community. The space hosts exhibitions, workshops and projects under the direction of two artists, Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris. 

When planning your shopping excursions, it's essential to know about the diverse opening hours observed across different regions and types of stores.

 

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the bustling shopping scene in Athens.

Opening Hours in Large Cities & Shopping Malls

In the vibrant centers of large cities, as well as large municipalities, stores typically follow continuous opening hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This trend extends to renowned brands, department stores, and shopping malls, which typically operate from 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Small Neighborhood Shop Hours

For most smaller and suburban stores, the working hours follow a unique schedule. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, you can shop during split shifts from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and then again from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. On Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, these shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Supermarkets

Supermarkets operate on continuous shifts, typically from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and until 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Banking Hours

Banks in Greece operate from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Sunday Shopping in Greece

On Sundays, shops selling food, drinks, and fuel are typically open from 07:00 to 22:00. Moreover, since 2018, specific regions have allowed commercial stores to open every Sunday from May to October.

 

In 2024, mark your calendar for special Sundays, including those during sales periods, Black Friday, and the festive season. Shops will remain open the following Sundays: 

• The first Sunday of the winter sales: January 14th
• The second Sunday of the winter sales: January 21st
• Palm Sunday: April 28
• The first Sunday of the summer sales: July 14
• The first Sunday after Black Friday: November 29
• The penultimate Sunday before Christmas: December 15
• The last Sunday before Christmas: December 22
• The last Sunday of the year: December 29

Supermarkets' Sunday Policies

Supermarkets may formulate individual policies regarding Sunday operations. During sale periods, most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, while they remain open during festive periods like Christmas and Easter.

During public holidays, shops remain closed. In 2024, public holidays in Greece include:

• New Year’s Day: January 1
• Epiphany: January 6
• Clean Monday (Ash Monday): March 18
• Greek Independence Day: March 25
• Orthodox Good Friday: May 1 (shops are open but close early)
• Orthodox Easter: May 3
• Orthodox Easter Monday: May 5
• Pentecost Monday: May 6
• Day of the Holy Spirit: June 23 - June 24
• Assumption of the Virgin Mary: August 15
• "Oxi" Day (National Holiday): October 28
• Christmas & Boxing Day: December 25 & 26

Festive Hours

For around 3 weeks leading up to the end of the year, stores in Greece embrace the festive season by opening daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This provides customers with ample time to find the perfect gifts and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. A similar schedule is observed for the 10 days leading up to Easter. However, it's essential to note exceptions during Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday when stores follow a different schedule.

Please be aware that opening hours, especially during holidays and special occasions, are subject to change. We highly recommend double-checking the current schedules before embarking on your next shopping spree. This ensures you make the most of your time and enjoy a stress-free and delightful shopping experience.

Happy shopping!

In 2024, the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne celebrates a significant historical milestone, inviting guests to immerse themselves in unforgettable experiences of high aesthetics, luxury, and hospitality.

Since its establishment in 1874, the Hotel Grande Bretagne, a distinguished member of the Luxury Collection, has stood as the epitome of Greek hospitality. It has written its history of timeless elegance, paralleling the evolution of Athens. As one of the world's few hotels boasting 150 years of continuous operation, it proudly holds the title of a landmark for Athenian society. Its reputation as a favored host for heads of state, royalty, and dignitaries remains unwavering over time.

In 2024, the hotel commemorates its 150th anniversary in grand style, extending an invitation to guests for a series of Always Grand experiences that seamlessly blend high aesthetics, luxury, and authentic Greek hospitality.

This year, the hotel presents a captivating narrative of its history through interactive activities, tours, exhibitions, and other engagements that span every chapter of its illustrious journey. Nestled in the heart of Athens, it serves as a reminder of its pivotal role in shaping the past, present, and future of urban lifestyle and professional hospitality in the country.

A favored destination for those seeking elegance, the hotel offers guests in 2024 an opportunity to delve into its special relationship with the world of Art & Design. In collaboration with top brands synonymous with high aesthetics, it crafts exquisite collectibles inspired by its unique imprint on memory and time.

In celebration of its 150th anniversary, a series of events spotlight the hotel's timeless position as a symbol of hospitality, illuminating Athenian nights and days. The experienced team of associates guides visitors to the most enjoyable moments, transforming them into cherished habits and special memories.

Overflowing with unique flavors and aromas that nostalgically transport guests to Greece and beyond, the hotel's inspired culinary offerings hold a central place in the anniversary celebrations. Embracing a philosophy centered on sustainability, selecting the finest Greek products, and blending modern and traditional cooking techniques, Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis—twice awarded a Michelin star—creates immersive culinary experiences for restaurant guests. Simultaneously, talented bartenders mark the anniversary with signature cocktails at Alexander's Bar and Bar8. The cosmopolitan Winter Garden stands ready to welcome guests with its aristocratic hall, comfortable armchairs, and delectable dishes.

In 2024, the legend of the Hotel Grande Bretagne evolves. In a celebratory spirit, it shares Always Grand experiences with every visitor through a year-long program enhanced with bespoke actions.

Originally published in Greek, on: marieclaire.gr

Translated by Codico Lab

Tripadvisor reviewers placed Athens, Crete and Santorini among the world’s best destinations for travel in 2024.

The three Greek destinations were on Tripadvisor’s list of “Best of the Best Destinations”, the travel guidance platform’s first Travelers’ Choice Award for 2024.

The 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations are calculated based on an analysis of Tripadvisor reviews and ratings from a recent 12-month period (October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023).

Three Greek destinations among the best

Greece’s capital city, Athens, shines as one of the top 20 destinations in Europe to visit (18th place). Athens also came in 15th world’s best destination for food (Food Destinations – World list) and 8th best in Europe. The Greek capital was also named the 5th best culture destination in the world.

The Greek island of Crete was named the ninth top destination in the world and fourth best in Europe. Crete was also applauded on the “Food Destinations – World” list and came in third best in that category. On the same list for Europe, Crete was voted as the second best destination.

Santorini shines in the 14th place on the “Top Destinations – World” list and in the 8th place on the “Honeymoon Destinations – World” list.

The 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations are calculated based on the quality and quantity of reviews, specific to each award subcategory, for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do in destinations from travelers globally on Tripadvisor between October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023.

Originally published on: news.gtp.gr

As of Monday, January 8, Greek drivers can conveniently retrieve comprehensive details about their vehicles using the Gov.gr Wallet application, eliminating the need for a visit to a physical office.

MyAuto is a digital repository for car-related documents, enabling owners to access information such as driver's licenses, vehicle inspections, road taxes, and insurance directly through the Gov.gr Wallet app.

Information provided by Gov.gr Wallet includes:

• Specifics regarding traffic permits sourced from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport Registers.
• Information on vehicle technical inspections (KTEO) extracted from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport Registers.
• Specifics on road, immovable property, and property tax payments retrieved from the Registers of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR).
• Access to vehicle insurance details sourced from the records of the Auto Accident Liability Insurance Information Center.

Citizens can access and manage information about each of their vehicles through the Gov.gr Wallet, including:

• Comprehensive details of the marketing authorization.
• Verification of paid traffic fees.
• Real-time status of whether the vehicle is in motion or stationary.
• Instant notification in case of a reported vehicle theft.
• The outcome of the Technical Inspection (KTEO) and the upcoming inspection date. Gov.gr Wallet ensures citizens receive a mobile notification two weeks prior to the next Technical Inspection.
• Detailed information on vehicle insurance.

The app also includes information on stolen cars.

On Friday, January 5th, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis proudly inaugurated the meticulously restored Royal Palace of Philip II in Aigai, with guidance from the esteemed Honorary Keeper of Greek Antiquities, Angeliki Kottaridis.

Central to this historic site is the palace itself, boasting an impressive expanse of approximately 15,000 sq. m. It stands as the largest building from classical Greece, a testament to opulence in materials, execution precision, technological innovation, and geometric purity. These elements collectively create an unparalleled sense of calmness, elegance, and harmony, where every detail submits to the allure of proportion.

Construction of this architectural marvel began in the mid-4th century, concluding in 336 BC when the grandeur of the palace witnessed the tragic assassination of Philip II in the nearby theater. Within the grand peristyle of the palace, Alexander III was proclaimed the king of the Macedonians, embarking on a transformative journey that would alter the course of history.

Unfortunately, the palace met its demise in the mid-2nd century BC, following the conclusive Roman overthrow led by Metellus in 148 BC. The remnants, concealed by centuries of stone-cutting, were unveiled through excavations commencing in 1865 and persisting into the 20th century, particularly during the 1930s and the 1950s and 1960s.

The peristyle of the Aigai Palace, distinguished by 16 doric columns on each side, represents an architectural marvel that epitomizes the concept of the square—a first of its kind. Encompassing 4,000 sq. m., it could accommodate a crowd of at least 8,000, serving as a communal gathering spot for Macedonians. This gathering place would later evolve into a symbolic courtyard, with the term "courtyard" becoming synonymous with royalty.

The monumental task of maintenance, repair, and restoration was executed by the capable Ephorate of Antiquities of Imathia, under its diligent supervision. Spanning from 2007 to 2023, this co-financed project, supported by successive European programs, carried a total budget of 20.300.000 euros.

The project extended beyond the monument itself, encompassing an area of approximately 25,000 sq. m. Rediscovery, excavation, and meticulous documentation of the site's remains, along with the systematic recording of countless mobile finds and stone architectural elements, were integral to the restoration process. The aesthetic restoration of mosaics and marble inlays (covering around 1,400 sq. m.), foundation repairs, colonnade restoration, and the intricate work of supporting the monument's slope were all part of the monumental undertaking.

At the helm of this ambitious endeavor in all its phases was Dr. Angeliki Kottaridis, an esteemed archaeologist. The final phase received oversight from a team of experts, including Olympia Felekidou (civil engineer-restorer), Kiki Kyrittopoulou (architect), Eva Kontogoulidou (archaeologist), Costas Tzimboulas (antiquities conservator), and George Konstantinopoulos (craftsman).

This restoration stands as a testament to the dedication of those involved, breathing new life into a timeless piece of history for generations to come.

Originally published in Greek on: lifo.gr

Translated by Codico Lab