There are many reasons why Athens is such a great city to visit. Here are 10 reasons why everyone should visit Athens at least once!

1 – It’s full of monuments of the famous ancient Greek civilization.

The Greek civilization is one of the oldest and biggest in Europe, stretching back more than 3000 years. Here you can find dozens of monuments from the distant pant. Of course the most recognized is Acropolis. A hill in the centre of city, with ancient temples and buildings. The biggest and most important is the Parthenon, which is dedicated to the goddess Athena. But it’s not only Acropolis. Across the city there are temples, libraries, bridges and a lot of other monuments. And of course there are two museums that you can’t miss : the Archaeological museum and the museum of Acropolis, one of the most astonishing in the world.

Democracy is the most common form of government nowadays. Did you know that it first appeared in the city of Athens, around 500 B.C. ? It comes from the greek words “demos” (that means people) and “cratos” (that means power). The Athenian Democracy was the most direct form of it, as the institutions of the city were consisted of the citizens, and the decisions were made by them for them. Today you can take a walk to the hill of Pnika or to the area of the Ancient Market, places where people used to meet back then to discuss about the important public issues and make the decisions.

The first theatrical plays were written in Ancient Athens, and were part of the festivals that honoured the god Dionysus. There were three types of plays: tragedies, comedies and satyr. The actors wore always masks and unlike today, back then they were only men. The most famous tragic writers were Sophocles, Euripides and Aeschylus, and Aristofanes on comedy. Near Acropolis you can find the ruins of the theatre of Dionysus, the biggest in the city on its Golden Era. If you are lucky, you can also watch a play on the Roman theatre of Irodis and feel like taking part in these ancient festivals.

4 – Just three words. Modern Olympic Games.
Of course most of you know that Olympic Games started in Ancient Greece. But the first modern ones were held also in Athens, in 1896. Pierre de Coubertin was the one who had the idea and in the spring of that year, around 250 athletes from 14 countries took part in the Games. The opening ceremony was a huge success, with 80000 spectators coming to the Panathenian Stadium. Today, it’s the finishing point of the Athens Classic Marathon. 108 years later, Athens was again the hosting city. This time there were more stadia and thousands of athletes from 202 countries. For 20 days, it was the centre of the world in one of the most important moments of our modern history.

5 – Want to have fun? You are in the right place.
Athens is the perfect destination for those who seek fun. 24/7, you can always find something to do. Are you a coffee, tea or chocolate lover? There are many places where you can have a drink. Especially near Monastiraki, Plaka or Thisio, with an excellent view of Acropolis. But Athens is also known for its nightlife. Here the people go out every day from dusk till dawn. If you are an alternative person or want something more quiet, you can drink a beer or your favourite alcohol in one of the many bars & pubs across the town. Or just enjoy some wine listening to traditional Greek music. And if you fancy dancing till you drop, go to a night club or one of those bars with their super parties. So you can see how hard can the Greeks party.

6 – Sea, sea and sea again.
We are so lucky to be less than an hour away from the sea here in Athens. Many of us can even see it from our terraces. On the hot days of summer, we have the chance to go to one of the many beaches around the city. Of course Greek islands are a lot better than this, but if you can’t visit them, don’t worry. There are plenty of beautiful coasts around Athens where you will have the feeling that you are miles away from a metropolis. And all of them are easily accessible by bus or the tram.

To read more, please visit: The Travel Issue

By Konstantinos Kotzias

Worn by the emblematic Greek Evzones, the foustanella has come to be understood as a symbol of valiance, bravery and resistance.

The history of the skirt-like garment has been written by the klephts (the brigands of the mountains), and the armatoloi (irregular soldiers commissioned by the Ottomans to enforce the Sultan’s authority), who later formed the nucleus of the Greek fighting forces during the War of Independence against the Turks. The garment was worn by the Greek soldiers of the 1st Regiment Greek Light Infantry in British service (1810-1812), by the soldiers (mostly from Mani or Roumeli) of the Light Infantry (1837-1838), by the Greek legion in the 1853-1856 Crimean War, by the Mylonas rifle-carrying Evzones (1874-1877), and by the Royal Guard detachment, who, as elements of the regular infantry divisions, fought in the First World War as well as the Asia Minor Campaign and the Greco-Italian War.

From the Greek War of Independence to the war against the Italians and right up to the present, the Evzone uniform has always been a point of reference. It has adapted to geography and weather conditions. “The full-pleated all-white foustanella meets ancient Greek heritage,” Haitoglou says.

As folk dancers and some schoolchildren prepare their foustanellas, scarlet fez caps, and leather tsarouchia shoes ahead of the March 25 Independence Day parades, the elite ceremonial Evzones unit is the subject of a special tribute in Athens.  A total of 40 colored drawings of the Evzone uniform by painter and costume designer Yiannis Mylonas illustrate the historical evolution of what could be described as the quintessential Greek national dress from 1821 to this day, the different variations, and the conditions under which these were designed.

Prepared in cooperation with Thessaloniki’s Museum of the Macedonian Struggle, the exhibition is curated by Vassilis Nikoltsios and Stavroula Mavrogeni. The works belong to the private collection of Alexandros and Lena Haitoglou.

To read this article in full, please visit: eKathimerini.com

While exploring Athens, Travel on the Brain blogger visits the popular historical sights of the city, but while doing so, she is surprised to find so many cats! That led her to creating a fun game of 'counting cats' and seeing a different side of Athens. Follow Travel on the Brain's time in Athens and see how many cats she finds!

Greece is reputed to have over 250 days of sunshine with warm temperatures in the summer and lovely mild temperatures throughout the rest of the year. But have you ever wondered exactly why temperatures can reach even 20 degrees Celsius during the peak of winter in Greece? It’s because of what the Greeks call ‘Alkyonides Meres’ or the Alkyonides Days! Today, the phrase ‘halcyon days’ has a literal meaning of calm, peaceful days, and here’s why…

The Alkyonides Days take place from December 15 to February 15 each year, and most often between January 16-31. During this time, the days typically have intense sunshine, with no clouds or wind and heightened temperatures for the season.

What's in the name?

 Alkyonides Days are named after the bird Alcyone (or halcyon/kingfisher birds), which lays its eggs during this time of year in the cracks of sea rocks. The allegorical meaning is of the homonymous star Alcyone in the Pleiades cluster (which bears the name of the bird). During this period, the star Alcyone culminates during the evening hours and therefore during the cloudless nights in January, the star is visible to the cluster of the Pleiades in the highest area of the celestial dome. As a result of this simple natural event, all the consecutive days that the Alcyone star is visible were naturally called ‘Alkyonides’.

Alkyonides Days From A Scientific Point Of View

From a meteorological point of view, the Alkyonides Days are created as a result of the latitude of Greece during these days of the winter, heightened barometric pressure, combined with no wind, cool temperatures, and intense sunshine.

The Myth Behind The Alkyonides Days

 

There are several myths surrounding the phenomenon of the Alkyonides Days, the most common of which is the story of Alcyone, daughter of Aeolus, the Greek god of the wind. Alcyone was the devoted wife of Ceyx, King of Thessaly in central Greece. Ceyx ruled his kingdom with justice and in peace. Alcyone and Ceyx were admired by gods and mortals alike for their physical beauty and the profound love they had for each other.

Zeus punished the arrogant couple who dared to compare themselves to gods by plunging Ceyx’s ship and drowning him. Alcyone lamented her loss so much that she threw herself into the sea and drowned, determined to join her husband in the land of the dead. The gods of Olympus were so profoundly affected by the tragic fate of the couple and their wonderful love for one another that Zeus transformed the couple into halcyon birds (kingfisher), yet condemned to give birth in the winter. The waves of the sea rushed into the rocks and destroyed Alcyone’s nest and eggs, and Zeus once again felt regret and ordered the winds to stop and the sun to shine for fifteen days in the heart of the winter so that Alcyone could safely lay her eggs.

Enjoy the sunshine!

In our modern society, we're often caught in the throes of work, technology, and sedentary lifestyles that can significantly affect our relationships, our health, and our sanity. According to Greece Is however, finding more meaningful lives is easier than one used to think. By following the Greek's path to well-being, we'll start living lives that bring us much more fulfillment!

Connect Meaningfully with Others

"A related challenge we face today is that, instead of relying on those we know for the necessities of life, we’re dependent on strangers and institutions for our survival. We don’t barter with neighbors, or even know where our food comes from; instead, we shop at supermarkets. We don’t depend on others for information or advice; we turn to the Internet."

Sharing and Caring

"Throughout Greece, building relationships through conversation is an integral part of daily activity. Stopping to greet others acknowledges their presence – their human existence – and tells them they’re an important part of the “village.”

Embrace Life with Zest

"The ancient Greeks taught us that life is short and ever-changing. Importantly, the need to embrace the fullness of life – all its ups and downs, joys and sorrows – with gusto and an appreciation for being alive is built into the Greek DNA. Indeed, to be “enthusiastic” about life means, literally, to manifest the spirit within!"

To read this article in full, please visit: Greece Is

From questioning who exactly is Homer to how women were viewed in society, these 6 things you (probably) didn't know about the Ancient Greeks are sure to rouse your curiosity. Paul Chrystal, author of The Ancient Greeks in 100 Facts, shares his wisdom with BBC History.

Who was Homer? Controversay ensues whether or not Homer existed as a single, real, and identifiable poet. Nineteen different places, including Athens and Chios, claim Homer as their son, however the ancient city of Smyrna may have the most believable claim.

"Blood ‘clogging up the venous system’ in the breasts signified that the woman was going mad – a physiological ‘explanation’ for the age-old stereotype that women are naturally neurotic, erratic and unpredictable. Menstruation as a purging agent was, then, considered a good thing."

"We know that in Delphi, Gortyn, Thessaly, Megara and Sparta, women were allowed to own land but, generally speaking, women had no legal or political status. Sparta, however, was another world; women played a vital role in keeping the Spartan war machine well-oiled and efficient. Generally, they enjoyed status, power, and respect that was unheard of in other parts of ancient Greece."

To read this article in full, please visit: History Extra

Santorini is the ultimate all-year-round tourism destination all over the world, distinguished for its deep blue sea, Cycladic architecture, volcanic energy and its famous sunset. From October 4-6, 2019, however, Santorini gives the world the opportunity to discover the island’s sports tourism, through “Santorini Experience”, with unique running and swimming races.

On the occasion of the 5th “Santorini Experience”, the technical director of the race highlighted: “It is a great pleasure to find ourselves for another year at this really beautiful destination. The routes we have designed are suitable for athletes of all abilities and can satisfy even the most demanding runners. Once again we expect this year to welcome runners from all over the world who will come to enjoy the race and live a unique experience on the picturesque trails of the Caldera”.

Enjoy a small sample of the event’s unique running routes at the following video here!

“Santorini Experience” has become part of the global community of World’s Marathons [numbering more than 4,331 running races worldwide].

Real Madrid in Santorini for the first time!

In the framework of “Santorini Experience”, and in cooperation with MGC Soccer Central, head coaches from the academies of Real Madrid will visit Santorini for the first time and specifically the facilities of the athletic center Playland, from October 3-6, 2019 and teach football to children aged between 6 and 16, using the coaching methodologies of Los Merengues! The Real Madrid Foundation is an organization responsible for teaching players with the Real Madrid coaching methodology throughout the world. Teaching is offered to male and female athletes. Real Madrid Foundation Clinics of Greece started in December 2018, aiming to promote the values ​​of the foundation through sports and education.

Register now. For more information click here!

All participants will have the right to take part in Real Madrid’s clinics to be held in Madrid. On the occasion of the clinics to be held in Santorini, MGC Soccer Central, Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Yiotis Panayiotou stated: “It is a great pleasure for us to collaborate with Santorini and Santorini Experience for the first time. We are happy that we give the opportunity to children to learn the value ​​of sports and the secrets of football, from coaches coming from Real Madrid, the club with the most European championship titles”.

From 1/6/2019, participants may register in the event according to the final wave of registrations which lasts until the start of the event.

Register now here!

Take advantage of the offers available on ferry tickets, car rentals and accommodation for “Santorini Experience” here!

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Samsung is the event’s official technology partner for one more year.

Official sponsors of the event include Ford Motor Hellas, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Blue Star Ferries and Alafouzos Sport.

For another year, Luanvi is the event’s official sports supplier.

Official supporters of the event are: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts and Boatmen Union Santorini.

Avance Rent A Car is the official rental partner.

National Geographic is the strategic partner of the event and 24 Media its premium media partner.

DNA Travel is the official transport partner.

“Santorini Experience” is assisted by West East Suites, Lifeguard Patrol, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Mediterranean Dive Club, Atlantis Dive Center and Santorini Nautical Club.

Hospitality Sponsors include: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, Vedema a Luxury Collection Resort, Mystique a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santo Houses, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, Sienna Resort, Esperas Santorini, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Iokasti Villa, Olive Cave Houses, Mesana Stone Houses

“Santorini Experience” has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2019 program of the European Commission and is under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.

“Santorini Experience” is a co-organization of Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) and Active Media Group.

The event is held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation.

More info at: www.santorini-experience.com

Official Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience

Photo by Babis Giritziotis

Want to find out what a "Greek Summer Feeling" feels like? Find out in this week's newsletter!

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Photo credit: katerinakatopis

The "2023 Eleusis European Capital of Culture" program kicks off with a weekend of special opening events, at the coastal front of Elefsina, west Attica, on Saturday, February 4, ANA reports.

The opening events will be organized throughout the weekend with a program of exhibitions, concerts, DJ parties and side events across the town of Elefsina.

By becoming the European Capital of Culture, Elefsina is joining an ECoC family of over 70 European cities that have held the title so far.

To read the full program of events (in English), please click HERE.