In an effort to improve the quality of life in the city center, the City of Athens is proceeding with its scheme to revamp Athens commercial district. Two new pedestrianized streets, Vyssis and Kairi in the area of Psyrri will be accessible to Athens’ residents and visitors.

According to an announcement by the City of Athens, traffic will be diverted and drivers will be able to reach Athinas street through Mitropoleos and Karagiorgi Servias streets. Xrysospiliotissis street is now banned to cars from the junction of Praksitelous street to Vyssis street.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

Archaeologists have discovered the site where the Greek fleet gathered for the Battle of Salamis (480BC), the first great naval battle recorded in history and one of the most important ever fought by ancient Greeks. Taking place during the Greco-Persian Wars, the Greek naval troops managed to defeat a much larger Persian fleet.

The scientific team in Greece have discovered antiquities at the ancient port of Ampelakia Bay, believed to be at the spot Greek naval forces assembled before engaging in the historic battle.

Using aerial photography, photogrammentric processing, and topographical and architectural documentation, the archaeologists identified ancient harbour structures and fortifications, alongside the remains of other buildings.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek City Times

Next time you see the waves crashing onto the beach, think of the goddesses of the oceans, rivers, lakes, fountains, streams, and underworld sea monsters noted in Greek mythology who create those swells.

There are two deities in particular who love to play in the sea and surf the waves, Benthesikyme and Kymopoleia, the daughters of the famed god of the sea, Poseidon.

Known as the 'lady of the deep swells' Benthesikyme was nymph of the African sea and later went on to become the first known queen of Ethiopia.

Kymopoleia was a goddess of the waves and was known as a ‘haliae,’ or nymph of the sea who made waves, violent sea storms and earthquakes.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter

In the new April edition of National Geographic Traveller, Greece is featured in ‘A Modern Classic,’ titled ‘Greece - A Creative Renaissance,’ where art, innovation, and fresh ideas are the focus.

The feature story highlights the arts scene of Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as the modernization and uniqueness of the Greek islands.

As the author writes, ‘In every crisis there are green shoots, and despite - or perhaps because of - its financial woes, Greece is enjoying a cultural bloom.’

 

 

Source: Greek Travel Pages

Athens, the historic capital of Greece, is a city rich in culture, history, and vibrant energy. As one of the world's oldest cities, Athens offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates a lively atmosphere, Athens has a neighborhood to suit every taste.

Known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," Plaka is nestled at the foot of the Acropolis and is one of Athens' oldest neighborhoods. Cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, and traditional tavernas characterize this charming area. Plaka is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Residents enjoy the convenience of being close to major archaeological sites, museums, and a plethora of cafes and boutiques.

If you're looking for a more upscale and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Kolonaki is the neighborhood for you. Situated on the southern slopes of Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki is known for its high-end boutiques, sophisticated cafes, and upscale restaurants. The area attracts a mix of artists, intellectuals, and professionals, creating a dynamic and cultured community. With its proximity to the city center and luxurious amenities, Kolonaki is a favorite among those seeking an elegant urban lifestyle.

For a more alternative and bohemian experience, Exarchia stands out as a haven for artists, activists, and free spirits. Known for its vibrant street art, eclectic cafes, and lively music scene, Exarchia is a melting pot of creativity and individuality. While it may be considered unconventional, this neighborhood has a unique charm that draws in those who appreciate a more laid-back and artistic way of life.

If you prefer a quieter, more suburban setting, Kifisia, located in the northern suburbs of Athens, offers a tranquil escape. With tree-lined streets, large mansions, and green spaces, Kifisia exudes an air of elegance and exclusivity. The neighborhood is home to upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and prestigious schools, making it a preferred choice for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

For those who love a lively nightlife scene and a trendy atmosphere, Psiri is the place to be. This once-industrial neighborhood has transformed into a hotspot for nightlife with its abundance of bars, clubs, and live music venues. During the day, Psiri retains its boho-chic vibe with street art, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. If you thrive on energy and excitement, Psiri offers an urban lifestyle that never sleeps. 

The Acropolis in Athens is one of the most photographed and recognised landmarks in the world. Getting a great photo may seem daunting, but Why Athens gives us the inside scoop on the best places to photograph one of the most important monuments in Western civilisation!

Standing 277 meters above sea level, Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in central Athens. The view from Lycabettus Hill is best enjoyed at sunset whilst waiting for the lights of the Parthenon, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium to illuminate at dusk. You will also be reminded that Athens is surrounded by sea with spectacular views across the Aegean.

Strefi Hill is located in the inner city suburb of Exarchia, Northeast of the Acropolis and has commanding views over Athens. It is one of the best places to capture both Lycabettus Hill and the Parthenon.

Pnyx Hill overlooks the Ancient Agora, directly to the west of the Acropolis and offers spectacular visibility both day and night. The hill is easily accessible by foot from the inner suburb of Thissio and is a favoured point to take photos from during a full moon and for stargazing in the clear night skies above Athens.

To read this article in full, please visit: Why Athens

Photo Credit: Why Athens

Alexandros Maragos, an Athens-based filmmaker and photographer captures stunning photos of nature around Greece and this month he is showcasing landscape photography of the natural light in Greece under the sun!

Alexandros tends to take photos for landscape photography in the 'Golden Hour' and with certain weather conditions to use the powerful impact of the sun’s golden tones to create dramatic and contrasting light.

This latest collection is of spectacular dramatic sunsets with the shadows of clouds creating images from the sunlight over the skies of Greece!

To view this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter

Please click HERE to see more photos from Alexandros Maragos’ collection.

Messinia will be in a “festive” mood for a 5th consecutive year, as it hosts the ultimately successful sports tourism event “Navarino Challenge”; which is now considered an annual establishment of Greece.

Hundreds of professional and amateur athletes are expected for one more year to visit Messinia and Costa Navarino, on October 13-15, 2017, in order to take part in the event’s numerous activities. Several sports will also be included in this year’s schedule such as running, TaeKwonDo and boccia while many more activities are expected to be announced.

“Navarino Challenge” has been awarded with a Grand Ermis in the Production category of Ermis Awards and distinguished for its best production among the sports events organized in Greece. Further to its successful course in the last four years, setting a record at booking level in The Westin Resort Costa Navarino in the month of September; the event is now organized in October in order to support even stronger, the goal of the tourist season extension not only for the hotels of this region but also for Messinia as a whole.

On the occasion of this big sports “appointment” recognized athletes will be present in “Navarino Challenge”, initially teaching ethics and then the “secrets” of their sports to people of all ages. The Greek American ultramarathon Konstantinos (Dean) Karnazes and ambassador of the event over the years highlighted, “Navarino Challenge is a truly world class event that offers something for everyone, not only runners. This is our 5th Anniversary and the Navarino Challenge showcases the very best Greece has to offer. I am incredibly honored to be part of this enduring legacy. I’ve traveled all across the world running and racing and am the proud ambassador of the 5th Annual Navarino Challenge this October!”

Grigoris Polychronidis, holder now of four Paralympic medals in boccia stated on the occasion of his participation in the event, “Sports create strong characters, everyone deserves to participate and it also offers entertainment! I am happy that my sport, boccia is loved by children and that we have the opportunity for a 3rd year in Navarino Challenge to play and have fun with children and adults.”

At the same time, the twice silver Olympic medalist in TaeKwonDo, Alexandros Nikolaidis added, “I am proud to be a member of “Navarino Challenge” family for a 5th consecutive year. The event becomes enormous every year and the goal always remains the same; to introduce to as many people as we can sports, the right nutrition and good life. We educate youth through sports, without any kind of discrimination, maintaining the principles of the Olympic spirit and ideals, which require mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, brotherhood and fair play. Costa Navarino will be for another year, the center of interest for athletes and amateurs who love TaeKwonDo. Together, young and old will learn the secrets of this unique sport in one of the most enchanting destinations in Greece.”

“Navarino Challenge” will take place for another year with the support of Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino as well as the Municipalities of Pylos-Nestor and Trifilia.

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Photo Credit: Elias Lefas

It's all greek to me - how well do you know your greek alphabet? This is a fun quiz to see how well you know the Greek alphabet. See if you can get 12 out of 12!

Conveniently located near the Acropolis Museum, the new Contemporary Art Museum and Panteion University, Koukaki, a once-quiet residential district has become the talk of the town among food lovers and night owls. Modern and traditional eateries, cafeterias, bars and bakeries keep popping up, and as competition gets tougher, the quality gets better and prices get all the more attractive. Culinary Backstreets takes us to Fabrika tou Efrosinou, a place noticed for its name and then for its food and wine!

Fabrika tou Efrosinou opened its doors almost two years ago. Its unusual and clever name immediately captures one’s attention: Fabrika, factory in Russian, has the same meaning in Greek slang, usually with communist connotations; Efrosinos is the Greek Orthodox patron saint of all cooks.

The atmosphere at Fabrika tou Efrosinou is vibrant and modern. Serbian artist Gora oversaw the interior design, which combines elements of a traditional kafenio with contemporary artworks and unique retro pieces like the antique refrigerator and the bronze chandeliers hanging on the ceiling – which, incidentally, came from the summer home of Josip Broz Tito, the revolutionary leader of former Yugoslavia.

The menu is simple, focusing on traditional, seasonal dishes from different regions of Greece, using special ingredients brought in from all over the country, and executed in a more modern and refined way. The daily specials are plenty and varied, but always faithful to the restaurant’s main philosophy.

Address: An. Zinni 34, Koukaki
Telephone: 210 924 6354
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday - 13:30 to 23:00, Friday through Saturday - 13:30 to midnight, Sunday - 13:00 to 22:00, Closed Monday

To read this article in full, please visit: Culinary Backstreets