Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece - bringing you local and international comedians, right in the heart of Athens - and it just turned four!

Sunday, March 31st

• MC: Alex Titkov
• Headliner: Abigail Paul
• And: Jim Botsas, Lefteris Koulonis, Athina Kefalopoulos, Lina Thomopoulou, Pam Benjamin

It'll be a mix of everything. A potluck of comedy. Colourful, comedic, chaos! Experienced and new comedians trying out their best new jokes. Some of them will be good, some of them will be great, and some will never see the light of day again. It's up to you!

Winter is upon us, and there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate to warm your soul. For those of us who consider ourselves hot chocolate connoisseurs, Athens has some hidden gems that elevate this classic winter indulgence to an art form. Join us as we explore the top three places in Athens that transform hot chocolate into a sublime experience!

Nestled in the heart of Chalandri, Petite Fleur is a quaint French bistro that takes hot chocolate to new heights. Picture this: premium French Valrhona chocolate,  melted in a traditional bain-marie, and blended with organic milk to create a concoction that's nothing short of perfection.

What sets Petite Fleur apart is its commitment to diversity in flavor. While they pay homage to classic chocolate, they also venture into the extraordinary, offering unique mixes such as the delightful blend with sweet Vinsanto wine from Santorini. It's a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds, leaving you begging for more. 

Location: Platia Eleftheroton 16, Chalandri 

Telephone: 210 6814825

L'Arret de Tumps: Where Time Pauses


@larret_du_temps_

True to its name, L'Arret de Tumps is a place where time seems to come to a standstill. The ambiance is set with retro armchairs that cradle you in comfort, creating an elegant atmosphere that complements the exquisite hot chocolate offerings.

For those who appreciate the classics, the Viennois is a must-try, adorned with a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you're in the mood for something more adventurous, explore the aromatic and spicy side of hot chocolate with options like cinnamon-infused or spiced varieties. Feeling a bit daring? Opt for the amaretto-infused hot chocolate for a delightful twist.

Location: Leof. Vasileos Alexandrou 5-7, Athina

Telephone: 210 7253200

Contrary to its name, "The Dark Side of Chocolate" is a haven of warmth, romance, and cinematic charm. Step inside and the alluring aroma of chocolate will envelop you in a sweet embrace.

Aristotelis Panagiotaros, the maestro behind this sweet project, expertly crafts hot chocolate using the finest Valrhona chocolate. The menu is a symphony of flavors, with recommendations like the tantalizing chili or cardamom-infused hot chocolate. The retro atmosphere, coupled with friendly staff, adds to the allure of this chocolate haven, creating a world where every moment is infused with decadence.

Location: Solonos 49, Athina

Telephone: 210 3292348

Traffic restrictions will be in place in downtown Athens on Thursday for the official visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, police have announced.

Measures include the gradual and temporary restriction of circulation traffic and a ban on stopping and parking at several sections of the road network.

The roads affected include Katechaki, Messoghion, Vassilissis Sofias, Kifissias, Vassileos Konstantinou, Vassilissis Amalias, and Alexandras avenues, and Michalakopoulou, Stadiou, Panepistimiou, and Akadimias streets.

Diversions will be in place.

Originally published on: ekathimerini.com

Embarking on a linguistic journey is like stepping into a time machine that transports us right to the heart of a culture. The Greek language, with its roots entwined in ancient history and mythology, beckons us to explore its beauty. From the elegance of ancient Greek to its everyday modern expressions, there's a unique charm about Greek that makes it a language worth embracing.

The echo of philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, the poetry of Homer—these are the whispers of ancient Greek. Greek didn't merely carry ideas; it bore concepts that became the pillars of Western thought. Take, for instance, the word "arete," encapsulating the concepts of moral virtue and excellence. It's not just a word; it's a philosophical cornerstone.The language's ability to convey profound ideas with precision and depth shaped the intellectual landscape of classical civilization. In ancient Greece, words were not just spoken; they were sculpted.

Mythology and Language: The Interwoven Narratives

Greek mythology and language are inseparable, each enriching the other. Dive into the tales of gods and heroes, and you'll find linguistic treasures. The very names of the gods, the etymology of mythical creatures—the Greek language doesn't merely narrate these stories; it embraces them. Consider the name "Pandora," for example, meaning 'all-gifted' in Greek, a fitting name for the first woman in Greek mythology. Understanding Greek enhances the richness of these timeless narratives, bringing the myths to life in a way that transcends translation.

Everyday Greek: Navigating Modern Conversations

Fast forward to contemporary Greece, and the language takes on a dynamic form. It's not just about grammar and vocabulary; it's about the cadence of everyday life. In a bustling market, you might overhear the term "kala krasia," a phrase used when a situation doesn't make sense or seems chaotic. Literally translated, it means "good wines," but its usage reflects the complexity of navigating the unpredictable. Here, the language is not just spoken; it's lived. Dive into a local café, and you'll encounter the heartbeat of the language—the colloquialisms, the idiosyncrasies, and the expressions that capture the essence of modern Greek society.

The Greek Alphabet: More than Just Letters

The Greek alphabet is a work of art in itself, a script that transcends its practical purpose. Each letter has a story, a significance that goes beyond phonetics. From Alpha to Omega, this alphabet has become a symbol of cultural identity, adorning flags, shop signs, and the hearts of those who cherish their heritage. For example, the letter "Phi" not only represents the voiceless bilabial fricative but is also a symbol in mathematics and physics, just like "pi"!

Greek Language and Global Influence

The Greek language, like a wanderer, has traveled far and wide, leaving its mark on the global linguistic landscape. In scientific realms, medical terminology, and academic discourse, Greek words have become the foundation. Words like "geology" (geo meaning earth and logos meaning study), "biography" (bios meaning life), and "telecommunication" (tele meaning distant) showcase the enduring influence of Greek on global vocabulary. The influence of Greek is not just a historical relic; it's an ongoing conversation shaping our understanding of the world.

Learning Greek: A Journey Worth Taking

The call to learn Greek is an invitation to join a conversation that spans centuries. Resources abound, from language programs to cultural exchange initiatives. Beyond the practical benefits of communication, learning Greek opens the door to a cultural treasure trove. It's not just about words; it's about connecting with the soul of a civilization. 

In a heartwarming celebration of a decade of holiday enchantment, The Christmas Factory marks its 10th anniversary with a spectacular display of joy and merriment. Nestled in the heart of festivities, this magical event has been a cherished tradition for families and friends alike.

Over the years, The Christmas Factory has grown into a winter wonderland, captivating visitors with its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and spirited entertainment. The milestone anniversary promises an even more enchanting experience, featuring special surprises and nostalgic nods to the past.

As visitors wander through the illuminated pathways and immersive displays, they'll be transported to a world where the spirit of Christmas comes alive. From Santa's workshop to dazzling light shows, the event encapsulates the essence of the season, creating lasting memories for all who attend.

Join in the jubilation and make this holiday season extra special by immersing yourself in the magic of The Christmas Factory's 10th anniversary celebration. It's not just an event; it's a decade of spreading joy and creating timeless moments for generations to come.

Get ready for a unique experience this December as 'Symposio' transforms Varvakeio Market into a musical and gastronomic haven. This extraordinary event promises to be a feast for the senses, bringing together the best of music and gastronomy in a one-of-a-kind fusion.

Taking place at Varvakeio Market, 'Symposio' is set to enchant visitors with a delightful blend of live music and gastronomic delights. The event aims to create a harmonious atmosphere where attendees can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of musical performances while savoring a diverse range of culinary delights.

With December just around the corner, 'Symposio' at Varvakeio is poised to be a highlight of the month, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking for a memorable way to spend your December evenings, this event promises to be a must-attend.

Don't miss the chance to be part of 'Symposio' and indulge in a musical-gastronomic extravaganza that will add a touch of magic to your December nights. Save the date and join us for a symphony of tastes and tunes at Varvakeio Market.

The world’s first museum dedicated to the legendary Greek soprano Maria Callas has opened its doors in Athens, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of her birth.

The Maria Callas Museum, located at 44 Mitropoleos Street, a three-story neoclassical building in the center of Athens, will house a permanent collection of over 1,000 objects that belonged to or are related to the legendary opera singer.

Visitors can expect to see rare photographs and portraits, records, and personal items, such as her stage costumes and jewelry. They can also listen to live recordings or watch other related audiovisual material.

The museum’s exhibits will shed light on Callas’ career and personality, beyond the myths that have circulated about her. The goal of the museum is to inspire, entertain, and highlight the elements of her technique that made her unique.

To read this article in full, please visit news.gtp.gr 

It'll be a mix of everything. A potluck of comedy. Colourful, comedic, chaos! Experienced and new comedians trying out their best new jokes. Some of them will be good, some of them will be great, and some will never see the light of day again. It's up to you!