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Thursday, 01 September 2016 07:00
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center - Arts & More
Author and blogger, Marissa Tejada, from My Greece My Travels visits the new Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center and shares her insights as to how it will change the city's landscape and influence Athens.
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is no doubt an imposing addition to the capital. From a certain angle on the busy Sygrou avenue, the center appears like a massive gleaming silver and glass paneled box was dropped onto the southern Athens skyline.
Such a project could only be possible with a sizeable investment, exactly €596 million. The grant was offered by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, the largest donation in recent Greek history. It was also one the most generous single donations worldwide in the art and culture realm.
We first walked through the grounds, a man made 170,000 m2 lush, green park complete with performance fields, playgrounds, impressive gardens and an outdoor café. As part of the project, a public athletic park was also built with a track and swimming pool. It is open to the public for use.
The playground also hit the senses. An unsuspecting piece of art made sounds to represent the Greek sea, for example. I stomped on some wooden planks set in the ground that chimed gleefully, so did some unsuspecting metal squares nearby.
The park is now one of the city’s largest green public spaces.
No matter where we stood, there was a view of either the city, including Lycabettus Hill and the Acropolis, or out to the sea.
Thanks to the design of the complex, built on the artificial hill, Kallithea (a quiet residential neighborhood) has bragging rights to one of nicest views in town. Kallithea actually means good view, in Greek. However, a view like this certainly didn’t exist before.
Tips for Visiting the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is no doubt an imposing addition to the capital. From a certain angle on the busy Sygrou avenue, the center appears like a massive gleaming silver and glass paneled box was dropped onto the southern Athens skyline.
Such a project could only be possible with a sizeable investment, exactly €596 million. The grant was offered by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, the largest donation in recent Greek history. It was also one the most generous single donations worldwide in the art and culture realm.
We first walked through the grounds, a man made 170,000 m2 lush, green park complete with performance fields, playgrounds, impressive gardens and an outdoor café. As part of the project, a public athletic park was also built with a track and swimming pool. It is open to the public for use.
The playground also hit the senses. An unsuspecting piece of art made sounds to represent the Greek sea, for example. I stomped on some wooden planks set in the ground that chimed gleefully, so did some unsuspecting metal squares nearby.
The park is now one of the city’s largest green public spaces.
No matter where we stood, there was a view of either the city, including Lycabettus Hill and the Acropolis, or out to the sea.
Thanks to the design of the complex, built on the artificial hill, Kallithea (a quiet residential neighborhood) has bragging rights to one of nicest views in town. Kallithea actually means good view, in Greek. However, a view like this certainly didn’t exist before.
Tips for Visiting the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
- You can’t buy opera tickets just yet. Both the opera and the library are in moving stages and those buildings of the arts complex are set to officially open in 2017.
- You can visit the rest. The beautiful park is great for a stroll and is quite close to the Flisvos Marina, another very scenic and walkable area of southern Athens.
- While at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, also visit the Agora, an outdoor space that connects the opera and the library. In the Agora lobby, there is an impressive gallery featuring notable Greek artists (most recently Panagiotis Tetsis).
- The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center Visitors Center also hosts programming for adults and children.
- Opening hours are from Monday to Sunday from 09:00 till 22:00.
- Admission is free
To read this article in full, please visit: My Greece My Travels
For more information about the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, visit: SNFCC website
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City Discovery
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Thursday, 03 November 2016 07:00
Record-Breaking 'Extra Supermoon' On November 14th, 2016
If you missed some of the amazing astronomical phenomena this year, then you could make up for it in one outing. On November 14th, 2016, the Moon will come the closest it has been to earth since January 1948. The supermoon, as the phenomenon is called, will appear up to 14 percent bigger than an average full moon. This is the closest the Moon will get to Earth until 25 November 2034, so you really don’t want to miss this one!
To read this article in full, please visit: Tornos News
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Videos
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Thursday, 02 November 2017 09:08
Greece In The Winter
The tireless Mediterranean sun doesn’t stop to rest even in winter. In Greece, the light warms up the landscapes, people and the chilliest spirit even on the frostiest days of winter. These clear bright days are so beautiful that the Greeks call them ‘the joy of God.’
Discover Greece shares the best destinations to experience winter in Greece, as well as tips to make your winter holiday extra special. From ski resorts to archaeological sites, Greece is still a magical country to visit in the winter months.
During your winter holidays in Greece, wear your warmest clothes and visit one or several of the many winter destinations you’ll find on the map – the famous mountain villages in the north or the Peloponnese. Walk down their cobbled lanes and admire their traditional architecture. In your comfy B&B or cosy taverna, seated by the fire, you’ll find that Greece’s classic products – cheeses, hand-kneaded bread, olives, extra-virgin olive oil – taste even better than in the city.
To read this article in full, please visit: Discover Greece
Photo Credit: Discover Greece
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Travel Greece
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Tuesday, 01 May 2018 07:00
Mid-Season Sales In Greece Begin May 1, 2018
Mid-season sales in Greece are here just in time for summer! Sales begin May 1 and will last until May 15, 2018.
Shops will be open on Sunday, May 6, from 11:00 to 20:00.
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Local News
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Thursday, 20 June 2019 07:00
Discovering The Ancient Secrets Of The Olive: An Adventure Full Of Activities
About The Book
The ancient Greeks adored the olive from the twilight of history, and even in prehistoric times they used olives in medicine, cooking, religion and many other aspects of everyday life. Until today, scientists, botanologists, archaeologists and geologists have been trying to peel away the secrets of the olive and its uses in Ancient Greece. In this book you will find out how the ancient Greeks used the olive, through paintings, activities and amusing texts... Let yourself be surprised by the facts, as the olive is still used today in multiple ways and in many cases in the same ways that it was used back then!
About The Author
Vasiliki Markaki studied International Relations and History of Art in Athens and holds two Masters Degrees, in Art Management and Museum and Gallery Management, from City University London.
She has collaborated with natural history museums in Greece and the UK, for the development of learning activities and has also worked for the London-based British Committee for the Reunification of the Parthenon Sculptures. In 2015, she joined the team that planned and managed the development of the House of European History, the new museum of the European Parliament, designing the learning strategy and all related material for physical and online visitors. Since 2017 she has been working at the Μuseum of Cycladic Art as the coordinator of the museum’s e-learning program.
Her children’s book “Discovering the Ancient Secrets of the Olive” was published in Greek and English in 2013.
To purchase Vassiliki's book, please visit: Amazon.com
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Books
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Monday, 09 December 2019 10:59
Ready, Steady, Lights: The Illumination Of The Christmas Tree At Syntagma Square
Christmas in Athens means 31 fun days, 76 city spots, 60 family activities, 50 concerts, 3 open-air movie projections, 1 pop-up museum, 1 dreamlike village, 1 illuminated route, impressive projection mappings, and countless surprises. From December 7 and for a whole month, the City Of Athens invites us to celebrate in the most sparkling Athens we have ever seen, with numerous festivities organized by OPANDA (The City of Athens' organization for Culture, Sport, and Youth) and the Athens Technopolis.
Athens will really be showered in light on Tuesday, December 10, at 19:30 when the mayor of Athens Kostas Bakogiannis, will start the illumination of the city and the impressive tree on Syntagma Square in a fantasmagorical event presented by Zeta Makrypoulia. Helena Paparizou, Idra Kayne, and Ian Stratis alongside the Athens Big Band will set the festive mood, while the percussion band Batala Athens will set the rhythm.
Hold on tight for the evening's highlight–the spectacular 3D projection mapping on the Greek Parliament building will be presented for the first time in Greece. Bright colors, bold set, and impressive architectural transformations will uniquely drape the historic building filling us with feelings and striking images!
Originally posted on Christmas in Athens, translated by Xpat Athens
Originally posted on Christmas in Athens, translated by Xpat Athens
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Local News
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Tuesday, 11 May 2021 23:13
The Municipality Of Athens Transforms The City's Fountains
Fountains are an oasis of coolness for Athens and a pole of attraction both for locals and visitors who want to enjoy some moments of relaxation in the capital's central neighborhoods. Inextricably linked to its history and culture, fountains are part and parcel of the city's life.
In recent years, Athen's fountains were in a state of complete abandonment as many of them stopped operating or were in a very bad condition.
In recent weeks, a major project is underway to restore the city's fountains and turn them into stunning decorative elements that will enhance and improve the city's urban landscape.
The first step was made with the construction of the fountain in Omonia Square, which regained its former glory and gave life to Athen's center. Now, dozens of fountains located in the capital's historic neighborhoods are being renovated, repaired, and maintained in order to significantly improve the residents' quality of life.
The municipality's specialized crews, under the coordination of Deputy Mayor of Green and Electricity, Sakis Kollatos, carry out cleaning and restoration work for the city's 34 fountains, such as repairing the sewerage and lighting systems, construction works, waterproofing, and marble restorations. The first 15 fountains have already been put into operation and in the next few days, five more are expected to be completed.
In recent weeks, a major project is underway to restore the city's fountains and turn them into stunning decorative elements that will enhance and improve the city's urban landscape.
The first step was made with the construction of the fountain in Omonia Square, which regained its former glory and gave life to Athen's center. Now, dozens of fountains located in the capital's historic neighborhoods are being renovated, repaired, and maintained in order to significantly improve the residents' quality of life.
The municipality's specialized crews, under the coordination of Deputy Mayor of Green and Electricity, Sakis Kollatos, carry out cleaning and restoration work for the city's 34 fountains, such as repairing the sewerage and lighting systems, construction works, waterproofing, and marble restorations. The first 15 fountains have already been put into operation and in the next few days, five more are expected to be completed.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in
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Local News
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Thursday, 15 July 2021 23:40
Tan Lines & Good Times
Tan lines and good times are what a Greek summer is all about!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Photo credit: @nikosportokalogou
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Newsletters
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Wednesday, 09 March 2022 07:00
Best Outdoor Activities To Experience The Breathtaking Natural Beauty Of Greece
Mountains, caves, lakes, rivers, small island chains, and gorges all wait to reward intrepid explorers with unforgettable experiences.
Here are some of the best outdoor activities to try if you want to see the untamed beauty of Greece unfolding before your eyes!
1. Walk Samaria Gorge In Crete
@agata.krupa.9
Running a length of 15 kilometers from the Omalos Plateau in the White Mountains to the Libyan Sea, the Samaria Gorge is one of the best-known and most impressive natural landscapes in Greece.
It is located in the region of Hania, and traversing it takes the visitor through the rich, wild nature of the White Mountains National Park, past cypress and olive trees, pine forests, and countless springs. The gorge is 140 meters wide, narrowing to three meters at the location known as Portes (or Sideroportes). The sight of the soaring rock faces that flank the path is truly unforgettable.
2. Hike Through The Forests Of Rodopi
@travel_life_experience_
The Rodopi mountain range was named after the mythical Rhodope, Queen of Thrace who, together with her husband Haemus, angered Zeus with their arrogance and were punished by being turned into mountains.
Far from the nearest large city, the mountains offer visitors the opportunity to wander through virgin landscapes with dense forests of conifers, diverse vegetation, and numerous waterfalls. At the ends of the days out in nature, welcoming refugees, remote mountain villages, and traditional guesthouses await.
3. Go Water Rafting On The Arachthos River
@alpine_zone
A unique experience awaits those who take to the waterways of the rich natural environment of Epirus, with its imposing gorges and deep canyons, proud mountains, and green forests.
The Arachthos River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Greece and ideal for rafting, as it combines exciting rapids with calmer sections. As you travel with the current you will pass through the wild, imposing Arachthos Gorge and stop to see the Glafki Waterfall.
4. Go Sea Kayaking In Lichadonissia
@lichadonisia.greece
Here are some of the best outdoor activities to try if you want to see the untamed beauty of Greece unfolding before your eyes!
1. Walk Samaria Gorge In Crete
@agata.krupa.9
Running a length of 15 kilometers from the Omalos Plateau in the White Mountains to the Libyan Sea, the Samaria Gorge is one of the best-known and most impressive natural landscapes in Greece.
It is located in the region of Hania, and traversing it takes the visitor through the rich, wild nature of the White Mountains National Park, past cypress and olive trees, pine forests, and countless springs. The gorge is 140 meters wide, narrowing to three meters at the location known as Portes (or Sideroportes). The sight of the soaring rock faces that flank the path is truly unforgettable.
2. Hike Through The Forests Of Rodopi
@travel_life_experience_
The Rodopi mountain range was named after the mythical Rhodope, Queen of Thrace who, together with her husband Haemus, angered Zeus with their arrogance and were punished by being turned into mountains.
Far from the nearest large city, the mountains offer visitors the opportunity to wander through virgin landscapes with dense forests of conifers, diverse vegetation, and numerous waterfalls. At the ends of the days out in nature, welcoming refugees, remote mountain villages, and traditional guesthouses await.
3. Go Water Rafting On The Arachthos River
@alpine_zone
A unique experience awaits those who take to the waterways of the rich natural environment of Epirus, with its imposing gorges and deep canyons, proud mountains, and green forests.
The Arachthos River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Greece and ideal for rafting, as it combines exciting rapids with calmer sections. As you travel with the current you will pass through the wild, imposing Arachthos Gorge and stop to see the Glafki Waterfall.
4. Go Sea Kayaking In Lichadonissia
@lichadonisia.greece
A kayaking trip in the “Caribbean of Greece” isn’t an experience you’ll soon forget. This densely forested island group just off the coast of northern Evia is an exotic location, a paradise of azure water and white sand. A trip here can include a visit to a shallow wreck, which can be appreciated without scuba equipment.
Another pleasant surprise is the seal colony that lives on these small islands, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Nearby is the island of Strongyli, featuring a lighthouse built on the ruins of an 11th C. monastery.
To read this article in full, please visit: greece-is.com
Another pleasant surprise is the seal colony that lives on these small islands, offering spectacular photo opportunities. Nearby is the island of Strongyli, featuring a lighthouse built on the ruins of an 11th C. monastery.
To read this article in full, please visit: greece-is.com
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Travel Greece
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Monday, 01 August 2022 07:00
Personal Doctor Platform Opens For Registration
Ιnsured citizens from the age of 16 will be able to register with their “personal doctor” as of Monday, August 1st when the platform opens.
The Personal Doctor program entails that a single doctor will constantly monitor a patient, record and update his/her medical history, direct them to other specialists, prescribe medicines and suggest appropriate treatments.
The platform will open in all regions except for Attica and the South Aegean, where the required number of doctors to cover the population has not been met. Registration can be done either through the personal doctor registration platform, using one’s Taxisnet and AMKA codes, in person at a primary healthcare facility, or through a personal doctor.
In the latter case, citizens should have their AMKA number and an identification document, or a photocopy of it. For the two remaining regions of Attica and the South Aegean, registrations will begin on September 1, while doctors’ registrations are extended until August 31.
Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
The Personal Doctor program entails that a single doctor will constantly monitor a patient, record and update his/her medical history, direct them to other specialists, prescribe medicines and suggest appropriate treatments.
The platform will open in all regions except for Attica and the South Aegean, where the required number of doctors to cover the population has not been met. Registration can be done either through the personal doctor registration platform, using one’s Taxisnet and AMKA codes, in person at a primary healthcare facility, or through a personal doctor.
In the latter case, citizens should have their AMKA number and an identification document, or a photocopy of it. For the two remaining regions of Attica and the South Aegean, registrations will begin on September 1, while doctors’ registrations are extended until August 31.
Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Published in
Local News
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