Greece

As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, the most watched TV show in Greece was often a competition or reality series, with "Survivor Greece" gaining significant popularity. Greek dramas and comedies also draw large audiences, but specific viewership statistics can vary seasonally. For the latest information, checking current ratings or media reports would provide the most accurate details.

Crete, Greece, is typically 2 hours ahead of England (GMT) during standard time. However, during daylight saving time, when England is on British Summer Time (BST), the time difference is 1 hour, with Crete still ahead. It's important to check for specific dates, as the start and end of daylight saving time can vary slightly between the two locations.

Greece was known as "Hellas" in ancient times, which is still used today in the Greek language (Ελλάδα, Elláda). The term "Hellenic" refers to the culture and civilization of ancient Greece, which made significant contributions to philosophy, art, science, and politics. The country is also known for its rich history, including the establishment of city-states like Athens and Sparta, and the birthplace of democracy.

Zeus, as the most powerful Greek god, symbolizes authority, control over nature, and the enforcement of justice, reflecting the ancient Greeks' fear of chaos and disorder. His dominion over thunder and lightning represents the unpredictable forces of nature, which they revered and feared. Additionally, Zeus's role as a protector of laws and oaths underscores the importance of social order and the consequences of transgression, highlighting the societal fears of lawlessness and divine retribution. Ultimately, his powers suggest a deep-seated anxiety about maintaining balance in both the natural and human realms.

An important architectural achievement of Ancient Greece is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, located on the Acropolis of Athens. Built between 447 and 432 BCE, it exemplifies the Doric order and showcases the mastery of Greek architecture and sculpture. The Parthenon's design reflects the ideals of symmetry, proportion, and harmony, making it a lasting symbol of ancient Greek culture and democracy. Its intricate sculptures and friezes also highlight the significance of mythology and religion in Greek society.

When traveling from Crete to the UK, personal allowances for alcohol and tobacco are as follows: you can bring in up to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of fortified wine, plus 4 liters of wine and 16 liters of beer. For tobacco, you are allowed 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. These allowances apply to travelers over 18 years old and are intended for personal use. It's important to keep in mind that exceeding these limits may require you to pay duty on the excess amounts.

The carnival season in Greece, known as "Apokries," typically takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent, culminating in a lively celebration on Clean Monday. The festivities usually begin in January and peak in February, with each region celebrating in its own unique style. The dates vary each year, depending on the date of Easter, but Apokries generally lasts for about three weeks.

In Greece, you say "Καληνύχτα" (kaliníkhta) to wish someone goodnight. This term is commonly used in both casual and formal settings. It's a warm way to bid farewell as the day comes to a close.

Colonies were crucial to ancient Greece as they provided essential resources, agricultural land, and trade opportunities. They allowed city-states to alleviate population pressure, expand their influence, and establish economic networks across the Mediterranean. Additionally, colonies facilitated the spread of Greek culture, language, and political ideas, helping to unify the diverse Greek world. Overall, colonies played a vital role in the growth and prosperity of Greek civilization.

In Greece, "atomos" (άτομος) means "indivisible" and is derived from the ancient Greek word "atomos," which was used by philosophers like Democritus and Epicurus to describe the smallest, indivisible particles that make up matter. This concept laid the groundwork for the modern scientific understanding of atoms. In contemporary Greek, the term can also refer to a person who is unique or singular in their qualities.

Only since 1829 has Greece been an independent nation, following a successful war of independence against Ottoman rule that began in 1821. The establishment of the modern Greek state marked a significant moment in the country's long history, which had been characterized by centuries of foreign domination. The 1829 independence was formalized in subsequent treaties, leading to international recognition of Greece as a sovereign state.

Kallikantzori are mythical creatures from Greek folklore, often depicted as mischievous goblin-like beings that are said to emerge during the twelve days of Christmas. They are believed to inhabit the earth's underworld but come to the surface to cause trouble and mischief, particularly by damaging households and causing mayhem. Traditionally, people would protect their homes by making noise or placing certain objects, like a straws or a cross, to ward off these creatures. The belief in kallikantzori reflects themes of folklore surrounding the winter season and the interplay of light and darkness.

Common vegetables in Greece include tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, eggplants, and zucchini. Leafy greens like spinach and chard are also popular, often used in traditional dishes such as spanakopita. Additionally, root vegetables like potatoes and onions are staples in Greek cuisine. These vegetables are frequently featured in salads, stews, and various meze dishes.

Rural Greece refers to the less populated, countryside areas of the country, characterized by picturesque landscapes, traditional villages, and agricultural practices. These regions often feature ancient ruins, olive groves, vineyards, and livestock farming, reflecting Greece's rich cultural heritage and history. The lifestyle in rural Greece tends to be slower-paced, with strong community ties and a focus on local traditions. Many rural areas also showcase stunning natural beauty, including mountains, coastlines, and islands.

In Greece, "Holy men" often refer to religious figures such as monks, priests, or ascetics who lead a life dedicated to spirituality and faith, particularly within the Eastern Orthodox Church. These individuals are revered for their piety, wisdom, and connection to God, and they often serve as spiritual guides for the community. Monasticism, especially on Mount Athos, is a significant aspect of this tradition, where monks engage in prayer, meditation, and communal living. Holy men are respected for their teachings and influence on both religious practices and the moral fabric of society.

In ancient Greece, people used coins as their primary medium for buying and selling goods. These coins were typically made of precious metals like silver and gold, and they often featured images of gods, goddesses, or important symbols. Additionally, barter was common, where goods and services were exchanged directly without the use of money. Markets, known as agoras, served as central places for trade and commerce.

One of Greece's main enemies in ancient times was Persia. The Persian Empire, under leaders like Darius I and Xerxes I, waged several conflicts against the Greek city-states, most notably in the Greco-Persian Wars. Key battles such as those at Marathon, Thermopylae, and Salamis showcased the fierce resistance of the Greeks against Persian expansion. The eventual Greek victories played a crucial role in preserving their independence and shaping Western civilization.

You can buy a Greek lyra outside of Crete at specialized music stores that focus on world instruments, as well as online retailers like Amazon or Etsy, where artisans often sell handcrafted versions. Additionally, some cultural shops or stores that specialize in Mediterranean or Greek goods may carry the instrument. Consider checking with local music schools or folk music associations, as they might also have recommendations or resources for purchasing a lyra.

One of the most famous and successful actors in ancient Greece was Aeschylus, often referred to as the "Father of Tragedy." He is credited with introducing significant innovations to theater, including the addition of a second actor, which allowed for more complex interactions in performances. Aeschylus wrote over 90 plays, with notable works like "The Oresteia" trilogy, greatly influencing the future of drama and storytelling. His contributions laid the foundation for the evolution of theatrical arts in Western culture.

In Greece, you can repair Canon lenses at authorized service centers in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Stores such as "Photo Kiosk" in Athens and "Fotocenter" in Thessaloniki offer repair services for Canon products. Additionally, some independent camera shops may provide repair services, so it's advisable to check online or call ahead for specific services offered. Always ensure that the repair center is authorized to maintain warranty coverage.

In Greece, lunchtime typically occurs between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Many businesses and schools take a break during this period, and it’s common for families to gather for a leisurely meal. Traditional Greek lunch often includes a variety of dishes, such as salads, stews, and grilled meats, often accompanied by bread and local wines. The culture emphasizes enjoying food and company, making lunchtime an important social occasion.

Thucydides is regarded as one of the greatest historians of Ancient Greece due to his critical approach to documenting historical events, particularly in his work "History of the Peloponnesian War." He emphasized the importance of empirical evidence and firsthand accounts, moving away from mythological explanations. His analytical insight into the motivations of individuals and states laid the groundwork for modern historical and political analysis. Additionally, his focus on the complexities of power dynamics and human behavior remains relevant in contemporary studies of history and international relations.

When the Dorians invaded Greece around 1200 BCE, they brought significant cultural and societal changes, including a new dialect of Greek, which is known as the Doric dialect. Their arrival marked the beginning of the Greek Dark Ages, characterized by a decline in trade, art, and literacy. The Dorians also introduced a more militaristic society and new forms of social organization, contributing to the eventual emergence of city-states like Sparta. Their invasion led to the displacement of the Mycenaean population and a transformation of the Greek landscape.

The difficult name of Greece is "Hellenic Republic," which is derived from "Hellas," the ancient name for Greece. In modern contexts, it often refers to the country's official designation rather than its commonly used name. The term emphasizes the nation's cultural and historical identity rooted in ancient Greek civilization.

Greece operates on Eastern European Time (EET) during standard time and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) during daylight saving time. Countries that share the same time zone as Greece include Bulgaria, Romania, and parts of Finland. During daylight saving time, countries such as Cyprus and parts of Turkey also align with Greece's time. However, it's important to check specific regions, as some countries may have multiple time zones.