Art Athina 2019 ended on September 16th at Zappeio Hall and the aftermath can only be described as positive, with a great number of visitors and loads of art!

Throughout these 4 days, the biggest art festival in Greece organized by the Hellenic Art Galleries Association and Art Director Stamatia Dimitrakopoulou, managed to impress the public with its artists and galleries. It wasn't just a festival showcasing Greek modern art, but a celebration.

Even from the first hours after the big opening, Zappeio Hall was filled with people. However, the biggest moment was that of the opening where the President of The Hellenic Republic, Mr. Prokopis Pavlopoulos, was present and supported Art Athina mentioning that the organizers have contributed a lot to art, in Athens and Greece in general, but even more to culture. He was also aware of the conditions under which the institution was created and, above all, was kept alive and thrived even during the crisis. For him, cultural creation is an act of resistance against any kind of corruption that threatens man.

Also present at the opening was Mayor of Athens, Kostas Bakogiannis, while amongst the visitors were many high-profile people, such as the Minister of Education and the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Art Athina will be present once again, for artists and visitors, at Zappeio Hall in September 2020.

The galleries that participated in the 24th Art Athina:

a. antonopoulou.art (Athens), Agathi Kartalos (Athens), Alibi (Athens), Alma Contemporary Art Gallery (Athens- Trikala), Anna Pappas Gallery (Μελβούρνη), Argo Gallery (Athens), Αrt Appel Gallery (Athens), Arusha Gallery (Scotland), Astrolavos Art Galleries (Athens), Cheapart (Athens), Citronne Gallery (Athens), Crux Gallerie (Athens), Donopoulos International Fine Arts (Thessaloniki), ekfrasi-yianna Grammatopoulou (Athens), Eleftheria Tseliou Gallery (Athens), Eleni Koroneou Gallery (Athens), Epsilon Art Gallery (Loutraki), Evripidis Art Gallery (Athens), Gallery “7” (Athens), Gallery Art Prisma (Pireaus), Gallery d’ Arte (New Jersey) Genesis Gallery (Athens), i-D Projectart (Athens), Ikastikos Kiklos Sianti (Athens), Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Center (Athens), Kalfayan Galleries (Athens-Thessaloniki), kaplanon5 art gallery (Athens), Mihalarias Art (Athens), N, Papatzikou Gallery (Veria), PeriTechnon Karteris (Athens), Renatino Gallery (Cyprus), Skoufa Gallery (Athens), Skoufa Gallery Mykonos (Mykonos), Τechnohoros  Art Gallery (Athens), The Breeder Gallery (Athens), Zina Athanassiadou Gallery (Thessaloniki). 

 

It is a cutting edge initiative to gather, on a single platform, educational content aimed to improve the digital skills of citizens. The platform combines content from 29 different thematic units and includes 156 courses, more than 1500 teaching hours, from 23 vendors.

 

 

Joining is free and does not require a complicated registration. All you need to do is select a category, a thematic unit, and a course that suits your interests and level of knowledge, which you can complete online at your own pace.

 

 

The content has been selected by a team of experts from the Ministry of Digital Governance in collaboration with Greek academics and experts in digital education. Greek and International experts warrant a) the quality of the content and structure of the educational platform and, b) the simplicity of use.

 

 

The Digital Citizens' Academy is a dynamic platform, and the number of topics and courses will continue to grow, covering even broader educational needs. More and more vendors will contribute educational content, enabling citizens to make more extended use of the Digital Citizens' Academy.

 

Soon, the Digital Citizens' Academy will be offering self-diagnostic tools so that every citizen can assess the level of their digital skills. Depending on the results of the self-diagnostic tools and the personal goals of each trainee citizen, the platform will offer personalized 'educational paths,' combining courses from various providers.

Athens is one of the world’s great cultural capitals. But even mythology-mad kids can tire of all the marble monuments. When it’s too hot for exploring the antiquities, or your kids are crying out for some 21st-century entertainment, check out these family-friendly museums in Athens. From child-pleasing activities to educational trails, here’s where to keep boredom at bay for kids of all ages and interests.

The brilliantly curated and conceived Acropolis Museum knows that the best way to hold a child’s attention is to make learning fun. Everyday life in ancient Greece is brought alive for children here in exciting ways. The freestanding statues of the Archaic Period are far more gripping for young minds than two-dimensional paintings. They can explore all sides of these marble gods and goddesses, lions and snakes. Grab hold of one of the family backpacks (available at the information desk on a first-come, first-served basis) and follow the educational activities geared at kids aged between six and 12 years old (even younger children will enjoy getting involved, with a little help from you). Families work together to solve challenges, aided by colorful children’s exhibit labels in the museum galleries. The backpacks have games with cards, stickers or magnets, puzzles, memory games, and more. Smaller kids are better suited to do one of the less intensive Family Trails: theme-based activities based on specific exhibits. Hit the museum shop on your way out for a great selection of activity books, games, and children’s titles, many of them inspired by ancient Greek mythology, archaeology, and culture.

Location: 15 Dionysiou Areopagitou, Acropolis

Telephone: 210 900 0900

Turn your world upside down at this quirky museum where nothing is what it seems. Calling it a “museum” might be a bit of a stretch, but your kids will love getting hands-on at this well-located attraction that has a range of optical illusions to make them (and you!) think twice about how they perceive the world around them. They can swap noses, put each other’s heads on a platter, experience the absence of gravity, and reflect on infinity in the hall of mirrors. They can also put themselves against brain teasers designed to stimulate and challenge young minds in the Playroom (many of them are on sale at the museum’s Smart Shop, if you’re looking for educational souvenirs). The Museum of Illusions is just by Monastiraki Flea Market and the Ancient Agora, so you can combine shopping and sightseeing with a little mind-bending fun.

Location: 119 Ermou, Monastiraki

Telephone: 210 323 8065

Are your kids into dinosaurs? Underwater life? Insects? Fossils? You’ll find them all at this peaceful private museum in the suburb of Kifissia. There are lots of life-size animal replicas (including a triceratops and a giraffe), thousands of botanical specimens, and all kinds of shells, rocks, and minerals from all over Greece. The museum provides educational games for children aged between 4 and 8 related to the permanent and temporary exhibitions — from real live reptiles to storytelling events. The Gaia Centre for environmental research and education, housed in the same premises, educates young visitors about humanity’s impact on our planet, using interactive displays such as touchscreens and video walls. After exploring the exhibits, have an ice cream or juice in the garden café, where young kids can usually be found tearing around on their scooters or playing hide and seek among the trees.

Location: 13 Levidou, Kifisia

Telephone: 210 801 5870

To read this article in full, please visit: thisisathens.org

The first-ever L'Etape Greece by Tour de France is set to take place on April 23, 2023, in Ancient Olympia. This exciting event will bring together cycling enthusiasts from all over the world for a challenging race that will take them through some of Greece's most stunning landscapes.

L'Etape is a series of amateur cycling races that are held in various locations around the world, and the event in Greece will be the first of its kind in the country. The route for the race has been carefully designed to showcase the beauty of Greece, with riders passing through ancient ruins, coastal villages, and breathtaking mountain ranges.

The event is expected to attract a large number of participants, including both experienced cyclists and those new to the sport. The organizers have made sure to include different levels of difficulty, with routes ranging from 30km to 150km, to ensure that there is something for everyone.

In addition to the race, there will also be a number of other activities taking place throughout the weekend, including a cycling expo, live music, and local food and drink stalls. The aim of the event is to promote cycling in Greece and to showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to a global audience.

the L'Etape Greece by Tour de France promises to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves cycling or who simply wants to explore the beauty of Greece in a unique and exciting way. With stunning scenery, challenging routes, and a vibrant atmosphere, this event is sure to be a highlight of the 2023 cycling calendar.

In the bustling heart of Athens, a new beacon of cultural vibrancy has emerged: Theatre of the NO. Breaking ground as the city's first English-speaking theater, this innovative venue promises to redefine the theatrical landscape of the Greek capital.

For years, Athens has been celebrated as a global hub for arts and culture. From its ancient roots in drama to its modern-day celebration of performance art, the city has always embraced the transformative power of theater. However, until now, there has been a notable absence of English-language theater experiences catering to a diverse audience.

Enter the Theatre of the NO, located in the Plateia Vathis area of Metaxourgio. This dynamic new venue boasts a diverse ensemble of Greek and international actors, united by a shared passion for the theater of the absurd. Here, audiences can expect a captivating repertoire that spans the spectrum from classic to contemporary, with a dash of experimental flair thrown into the mix.

Kicking off its inaugural season with Samuel Beckett's iconic "Waiting for Godot," Theatre of the NO sets the stage for an unforgettable journey through the realms of existential musings, profound character studies, and biting satire. From the whimsical to the thought-provoking, each production promises to challenge, inspire, and captivate audiences of all ages.

"We promise that our performances will inspire you, challenge you, and change you. See the world in new ways, question old ideas, and be part of the most important conversations of our time."

But Theatre of the NO is more than just a venue for entertainment—it's a cultural movement. With a firm commitment to rejecting conventions and embracing the avant-garde, this theater stands as a testament to the transformative power of art. From its rejection of political correctness to its celebration of diversity and creativity, Theatre of the NO invites audiences to embark on a journey of self-discovery and exploration.

"At Theatre of the NO, we say NO to duplicity, NO to political correctness, and NO to filters. We do it our way, we will try, and we will see what happens."

Central to the theatre's mission is its dedication to fostering community and connection. Audience members are invited to arrive an hour before curtain time to mingle with fellow theatergoers and engage in lively discussions with actors, directors, and other guests following each performance. Here, the boundaries between stage and audience blur, creating an immersive and interactive theater experience unlike any other.

Founded by playwright Yoel Wulfhart and supported by a diverse team of artists and volunteers from around the world, Theatre of the NO represents a bold new chapter in Athens' cultural narrative. From its eclectic repertoire to its commitment to innovation and inclusivity, this theater is poised to become a cornerstone of the city's artistic landscape for years to come.

So, if you're ready to embark on a journey of discovery and transformation, look no further than Theatre of the NO. Join us as we challenge conventions, defy expectations, and celebrate the boundless possibilities of the human imagination. The stage is set, the lights are dimmed—let the show begin!

 

If you are living in Greece as a non-Greek resident or a Greek resident on a Digital Nomad, FIP, or other visa, obtaining an AFM (Tax Identification Number) is essential.

This nine-digit number, pronounced "AFIMI" in Greek, is something you’ll use regularly for tasks such as:

• Getting a Greek phone number in your name.
• Leasing a home or property.
• Logging into TAXISnet to interact with government systems.
• Filing taxes and generating tax certificates.
• Purchasing property or a car.
• Completing many other daily tasks.

The Greek tax office or consulate typically requires:

• A copy of your passport.
• First and last names of your parents.
• Your home address (outside Greece) and temporary address in Greece (if applicable).
• Your foreign tax number.
• Your mobile phone number.
• An authorization form if you are appointing a tax representative to apply on your behalf.

You can apply for an AFM by visiting your local tax office (Eforia). Offices are usually open in the mornings, and while walk-ins are possible, it’s better to call ahead and arrange an appointment. If you’re applying through a Greek consulate, appointments are mandatory.

While you can handle the process yourself, it often becomes challenging due to unclear document requirements or language barriers. Many individuals appoint a tax representative to streamline the process.

The process typically takes 2-3 days if all your documents are in order. Including scheduling and completing the application, it may take about a week. Ensuring your documents are organized and ready will help expedite the process.

 

If you’re here on a spouse visa, you’ll need your wedding certificate, apostilled and translated, to register for your AFM. In most cases, the registration process will already be underway, requiring only a copy of your Greek visa card.

 

If you have any other needs or questions, feel free to reach out to us! Whether it’s navigating daily life in Greece or managing other administrative tasks, we’re here to help make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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This content has been created in collaboration with Tsaks Consulting.

WHEN (formerly Women On Top) is a pioneering organisation working to advance women’s professional and financial empowerment while promoting gender equality and inclusion in the workplace.

WHEN’s vision is clear: a society where every woman and girl has the opportunity to explore her potential and shape her own future.

With a mission to remove barriers and create equal opportunities for women in education, work, and social life, the organization is guided by values of trust, openness, and collaboration, working alongside beneficiaries, volunteers, and partners to drive meaningful and lasting change.

• Curiosity & Openness
  We continuously seek out new knowledge, embrace diverse perspectives, and are unafraid of moving beyond familiar boundaries.
• Empathy & Cooperation
  We believe lasting change comes through caring relationships and collective action. That’s why we cultivate safe, supportive spaces where collaboration flourishes.
• Focus & Impact
  Careful planning and attention to detail ensure that every initiative maximises its positive effect.

WHEN’s story began in 2012, when it was launched as Women On Top, a mentoring initiative designed to connect women with experienced professionals who could support them through the challenges of working life.

What started as a grassroots network quickly grew into a dynamic community. Soon, training programs, networking opportunities, and skills-building workshops were introduced, reaching thousands of women across different industries and stages of life.

As the conversation around gender equality deepened, so did our role. We moved beyond individual empowerment and began addressing the systems and environments that shape women’s opportunities. Today, WHEN works hand-in-hand with companies, institutions, and communities to create workplaces—and a society—that are fairer, more inclusive, and more sustainable for everyone.

WHEN helps women strengthen their professional and financial independence through programs designed to unlock skills, confidence, and networks.

• Mentoring: One-on-one guidance that opens doors and expands horizons.
• Training: Courses on employability, entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial well-being.
• Communities: Safe and inspiring spaces that encourage peer support, resilience, and collective growth.

WHEN collaborates with employers to embed gender equality and inclusion in the workplace.

• Diversity & Inclusion Strategies: Designing and implementing fair and effective policies.
• Capacity Building: Training employees and managers to foster inclusive environments.
• Impact Measurement: Assessing initiatives to ensure they deliver real results.

Their work extends beyond individuals and organisations to influence broader cultural and institutional change.

• Research: Mapping the realities of women’s professional and public lives in Greece.
• Educational Programs: Supporting teachers in promoting equality in schools.
• Awareness Campaigns: Inspiring public dialogue and mobilising communities toward inclusion.

WHEN Hub is a welcoming home for women, femininities, and anyone passionate about gender equality. More than just a workspace, it’s a community where people come together to learn, grow, and collaborate in an environment that fosters empowerment and belonging.

The Hub offers:

• Co-working areas with flexible and dedicated desks.
• Private offices and meeting rooms for small teams or collaborations.
• An event space for workshops, gatherings, and talks.
• A podcast studio for storytelling and creative projects.
• The Mini Hub, a playful and creative space for children aged 0–12, allowing parents to balance professional and family life.

Fully accessible and designed for inclusivity, the Hub is both the physical heart of WHEN’s activities and a vibrant platform for advancing equality in Greece.

 

See more about the WHEN Hub here.

Meet WHEN's Founders

At the core of WHEN’s success is a dedicated team of women who combine expertise, creativity, and a deep commitment to social change.

• Stella Kasdagli – Co-founder, Head of Research & Strategic Partnerships
  A writer, translator, and trainer, Stella leads WHEN’s research programmes and partnerships. She has authored several books and designed impactful initiatives to remove barriers women face in the workplace.
  Read our interview with co-founder Stella Kasdagli HERE!

• Pinelopi Theodorakakou – Co-founder, Head of Empowerment & Training
  With a background in communications and PR, Pinelopi now designs and oversees training and empowerment initiatives, helping individuals and organisations embrace equality and inclusion.

At WHEN, empowerment is a long-term commitment to change. Through mentoring, training, consulting, and advocacy, they are building a society where women’s voices, talents, and ambitions are not limited but celebrated.

Because when women thrive, everyone benefits.

You've been dreaming about visiting Santorini, but have heard it's not ideal for children? Here is some great advice to help you experience the beauty of Santorini together as a family!

Avoid Caldera and that part of the island. Instead, consider Kamari or Perissa. It will take you less than 30 minutes to get from these places to Caldera or Oia, where you can enjoy the gorgeous view. Although Kamari and Perissa are a little less scenic, they have more hotels with bigger pools and easier access to the beach – and, most importantly, their prices tend to be lower. Your kids will be able to find other kids to play with more easily, too.

Be careful of the hotel you choose, as many of the hotels, especially in Caldera and Oia, are tailored to couples and newlyweds and simply do not take children because of noise problems and safety issues (cliffs and staircases).

Take day trips into the towns in the early morning (before it gets hot and the cruise ships arrive) or in the late afternoon when the cruise ships depart (around 3-4pm).

Find a hotel with a pool. Most beaches in Santorini have black volcanic sand which can be scorching hot under the midday sun.

Combine your stay with a trip to another island; there is a direct connection to Crete, Naxos and Mykonos.

There is a small water park in Perissa, Santorini Water Park, inside the Meltemi Hotel (free for guests). The water park has 3 pools, 3 water slides, and a kids’ play area. Other interesting activities would be the archeological site in Akrotiri and a visit to the Industrial Tomato Museum. 

Tour the volcano by boat, but don’t expect craters or lava flows. Younger children might find the trip boring, and it will be pretty hot without much shade. The half-day tour might be a better choice for kids.

Check out Monolithos beach – it’s probably the most kid friendly beach in Santorini, with lots of sand and shallow water. Perissa and Kamari also have pretty beaches, but the water drops off very steeply in some sections.

To read more, please visit Kids Love Greece.