Greece

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.

The Csky Hotel in Santorini, Greece, is owned by the Csky Group, which is a hospitality and tourism company. The hotel offers stunning views of the caldera and is known for its luxurious accommodations and amenities. Specific ownership details, such as individual owners or stakeholders, may not be publicly disclosed.

The name "Greece" derives from the Latin "Graecia," which was used by the Romans to refer to the region. This term is believed to stem from the Greek word "Graikoi," which referred to a specific tribe in ancient Greece. In Greek, the country is called "Hellas" (Ελλάς), reflecting its own ancient heritage and identity. Thus, while "Greece" is a name rooted in Latin, "Hellas" represents the country's self-designation.

Both ancient Greece and the Roman Empire significantly influenced urban planning during the Renaissance through their emphasis on symmetry, public spaces, and civic architecture. Greek cities often centered around agoras, while Roman cities featured forums, both serving as social and political hubs. The Renaissance revived these classical principles, showcasing a focus on proportion, order, and the integration of art into urban environments. Additionally, both cultures prioritized the functionality of their cities, balancing aesthetics with practical considerations for public life.

Achilles is a legendary figure from Greek mythology, primarily known from Homer's "Iliad." While he is not considered a historical person, he may have been inspired by a real warrior or hero from the ancient past. His story, including his role in the Trojan War, is a blend of myth and cultural memory rather than a record of a real individual's life. Thus, while Achilles himself is not real, the tales surrounding him have had a lasting impact on literature and culture.

The leading city-state in Greece around 450 B.C. was Athens. Its strength stemmed from a combination of factors, including a powerful navy, a robust economy fueled by trade, and a democratic political system that encouraged civic participation and innovation. Additionally, Athens became a cultural and intellectual hub, fostering advancements in philosophy, arts, and sciences, which further solidified its influence in the ancient world.

Greece, particularly in the context of ancient history, was not an anarchy but rather a collection of city-states, each with its own form of governance, including democracies, oligarchies, and monarchies. The most famous example is Athens, known for developing one of the earliest forms of democracy. While there were periods of political instability and conflict, especially during the Peloponnesian War, these were not indicative of anarchy as there were still established governments and systems in place. In modern times, Greece has operated as a parliamentary republic, further distancing itself from the notion of anarchy.

The Mycenaeans are believed to have originated from the Indo-European migrations that occurred around 2000 BCE. They likely came from the northern regions of the Aegean and the Balkans, gradually moving southward into Greece. Over time, they established a significant civilization characterized by advanced architecture, trade, and a writing system known as Linear B. This migration and settlement marked the beginning of the Mycenaean culture, which became prominent in the late Bronze Age.

Ancient Greece significantly contributed to architecture through the development of classical architectural orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. These styles emphasized proportion, symmetry, and the use of columns, which became foundational elements in Western architecture. Notable structures like the Parthenon exemplified these principles, showcasing intricate design and harmony with the surrounding environment. The influence of Greek architecture can still be seen in modern buildings, particularly in government and cultural institutions.

Worldview significantly influenced ancient Greece by shaping its philosophy, politics, and culture. The belief in rationalism and the pursuit of knowledge led to the development of democracy in city-states like Athens and the flourishing of philosophy through thinkers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. Additionally, the pantheon of gods and mythology informed art, literature, and religious practices, reinforcing community values and identity. Overall, the Greek worldview fostered an environment that prioritized inquiry, civic engagement, and artistic expression, leaving a lasting legacy on Western civilization.

Greece last hosted the Summer Olympics in 2004. The event took place in Athens, marking the return of the Olympics to their birthplace after more than a century since the first modern Games were held there in 1896. The 2004 Athens Olympics featured numerous sports and highlighted the country's rich history and culture.