What makes the Iliad and Odyssey so pivotal to the ancient Greeks, and to world culture in general now?  Why so enthralling?

All human life is there. The Greeks being non-dogmatic polytheists didn’t have an equivalent of the Christian Bible or Islamic Qu’ran. But they recognized in the two monumental epic tales not just as entertaining stories (they contain plenty of those!) but also as sources of ethical instruction. 

Does The Iliad have a lot to do with the anger of Achilles? 

The Iliad’s guiding narrative thread or theme is the anger of the semidivine (his mother was the goddess Thetis, his father a mortal) warrior hero Achilles. Was Achilles justified in feeling so angry with his commanding officer at Troy, angry enough to withdraw from the fighting (and skulk in his tent) thereby endangering the whole operation to recover the stolen Spartan queen Helen of Sparta? Probably not. But he had a good death!

What are some of the lessons of Odysseus’ seemingly endless journey?

And what did the travels and travails of the hero Odysseus, king of a small rocky isle off western Greece, avail – avail either him (he lost all his men on the way back home from Troy) or his readers? What they did was teach the poem’s listeners and later readers what it meant to be Greek (as opposed to a non-Greek ‘barbarian’) and how to behave towards each other, not least in the matters of marriage, hospitality and sexuality. Odysseus is seduced and seduces more than once along the way back – one reason the journey from Troy to Ithaca took him ten whole years was that he ‘dallied’ for seven of them with a goddess called Calypso on her private island! 

What an ending to the Odyssey! It’s triumphalist, ritualistic and very violent. Was it overkill, so to speak? 

The poem’s climax – after Odysseus takes a singularly bloody, surely excessive (see above) revenge on the 108 suitors (who’d been vying to wed his presumed widow Penelope, another Spartan woman) – is his final reunion and reconciliation with his longsuffering, steadfastly loyal wife. And the poet is careful to remind us that Odysseus’s aged father Laertes is still alive and needs looking after – his mother Anticleia had sadly died during the 20 years her son was away from Ithaca; the only reunion he could achieve with her was with her bloodless shade, deep down in the Hades underworld. So the essentially family saga of the Odyssey perfectly complemented the martial derring-do of the Iliad.

---

Richard Marranca is an author who teaches ancient world, myth, and religion at Montclair State University. He writes for various print and digital publications, and his upcoming book, "Speaking of the Dead: Mummies & Mysteries of Egypt," will be published by Blydyn Square Books. Richard has had the honor of receiving a Fulbright to teach at LMU Munich and spent a semester in Athens during his doctoral studies at New York University. In his career, Richard has had the privilege of interviewing esteemed classicist Paul Cartledge on topics ranging from Alexander the Great to Greek philosophy.

The dawn of a new year often brings with it a flurry of resolutions, but let’s face it: most fail before February rolls around. For businesses, the stakes are higher—half-hearted resolutions can waste resources and miss opportunities. Instead of recycling tired strategies, why not approach this year with a fresh mindset? Here’s how to make your New Year’s resolutions work for your business in a unique and meaningful way.

Before you set lofty resolutions, pause and reflect: What problems need solving in your business?

Once you identify problems, your resolutions become solutions. For instance, instead of saying, "Increase customer retention," resolve to "Identify and address bottlenecks in our customer journey." Problem-solving is far more actionable than generic goal-setting.

Traditional resolutions are often rigid and numerical: "Increase revenue by 20%" or "Hire five new employees." Instead, consider adopting themes for the year—broad areas of focus that guide your decisions. For example:

• Year of Efficiency: Streamline processes and cut unnecessary costs.
• Year of Connection: Strengthen relationships with clients, partners, and employees.
• Year of Experimentation: Test bold ideas, new markets, or innovative products.

Themes allow for adaptability and creativity while maintaining strategic focus.

Why make a single resolution when you can experiment? Choose one aspect of your business, like marketing or customer engagement, and commit to running small, manageable experiments throughout the year.

For instance:

• Test new social media platforms for engagement.
• Experiment with remote work policies to improve productivity.
• Pilot a subscription model for one of your services.

Track what works and scale it up. Think of this as a scientific approach to growth—data-driven and results-oriented.

Sometimes, the most effective resolutions are about subtraction, not addition. Ask yourself:

• What activities or processes are draining resources without delivering results?
• What meetings could be eliminated?
• What products or services no longer align with your mission?

Make this the year of strategic pruning. Letting go of inefficiencies frees up time and energy to focus on what truly matters.

Resolutions often focus on numbers, systems, or outputs, but the true engine of any business is its people. This year, resolve to invest in them:

• Create a "personal growth fund" for employees to spend on courses, workshops, or hobbies.
• Host monthly brainstorming sessions where every team member can pitch ideas.
• Recognize and celebrate achievements—big or small—regularly.

A motivated, engaged team will help your business thrive far beyond 2025.

The Pareto Principle—80% of results come from 20% of efforts—can revolutionize your resolutions. Instead of trying to fix everything, focus on the few areas where your business already excels and double down.

For example:

• If word-of-mouth brings in most of your clients, resolve to amplify customer referrals.
• If your team shines in creativity, invest in innovative campaigns.
• If a specific product dominates sales, explore complementary offerings.

Play to your strengths, and let them work harder for you.

Here’s the thing: resolutions aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress. Instead of rigidly sticking to a resolution that’s not working, give yourself permission to adapt. Build a culture where failing fast and learning from mistakes is celebrated.

At the end of the year, success isn’t just about achieving every resolution—it’s about growing, learning, and building a better version of your business.

If all else feels overwhelming, simplify your resolutions into a single, powerful word that encapsulates your business’s focus for the year. Words like "growth," "innovation," or "trust" can serve as guiding principles for every decision you make.

Athens is set to welcome 2025 with a vibrant celebration at Syntagma Square, featuring a blend of music, theater, and innovative displays. The festivities will commence at 10 p.m. on December 31, with a performance by the Athens Philharmonic Orchestra. The main event, titled "Roof of Time," is a time-machine-themed show that will take attendees on a journey through Athens' history from 1945 to the present. This performance is crafted by musician Foivos Delivorias and director Angelos Triantafyllou, with Delivorias serving as the host and performer. He will be joined by artists Natassa Bofiliou, Martha Frintzila, and Thanasis Alevras, who will embody various iconic figures from each era. The show will also feature dancers, soloists, and emerging singers. 

In a first for the city, the night sky will be illuminated by silent fireworks, designed to minimize noise disturbance, particularly for pets and individuals sensitive to loud sounds. Complementing this will be a drone show, adding a modern touch to the traditional celebrations. 

The event is free to the public and will be broadcast live on the City of Athens' official Facebook and YouTube channels, complete with Greek sign language interpretation, ensuring accessibility for all. Following the main performance, a DJ set will keep the energy high as attendees dance their way into the new year. 

As Athens prepares to usher in the new year, these celebrations promise a memorable night filled with culture, entertainment, and community spirit.

Athens, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is the perfect place to find unique Christmas gifts that carry a touch of Greek heritage. From museum shops filled with artistic treasures to local artisan markets, the city offers countless options for thoughtful and original presents. Here are some of the best places to find distinctive Christmas gifts in Athens, along with specific examples to inspire your shopping.


The Acropolis Museum Shop

The Acropolis Museum Shop is a must-visit destination for unique and sophisticated gifts. This festive season, the shop offers an exclusive range of holiday-themed items, including:

• Handmade Festive Ornaments: Inspired by ancient Greek motifs and perfect for decorating your Christmas tree.
• Luxurious Scarves and Ties: Featuring intricate patterns drawn from classical Greek art.
• Elegant Jewelry Collections: Designs based on museum artifacts, such as ancient coins and pottery patterns.
• Holiday Gift Boxes: Beautifully packaged sets including books, decorative items, and themed souvenirs. Visit the shop or explore their online collection.

Known for its focus on Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Byzantine-inspired designs, the Museum of Cycladic Art Shop offers gifts with a timeless aesthetic. Their festive range includes:

• Holiday Cards and Stationery: Featuring artistic Cycladic designs.
• Cycladic-Inspired Decorations: Perfect for adding a touch of Greek art to your home.
• Premium Gift Sets: Combining ceramics, books, and exclusive Cycladic figurine replicas. Explore their gift collection.

The Benaki Museum’s shops are renowned for their diverse selection, catering to lovers of art, culture, and history. Their festive offerings include:

• Christmas Ornaments: Inspired by traditional Greek designs and patterns.
• Artisan Jewelry: Handcrafted pieces reflecting Greek mythology and history.
• Decorative Items: Such as vases, plates, and figurines with traditional motifs.

Athens’ artisan markets, such as those in Monastiraki and Plaka, are brimming with handmade goods that make unique and personal gifts. Popular shops and stalls include:

• Melissinos Art-The Poet Sandal Maker: Famous for custom leather sandals made to measure.
• Trabala Studio: Specializing in contemporary hand-painted pottery.
• Greek Olive Oil Shops: Offering premium extra virgin olive oil in beautifully designed bottles.
• Handmade Jewelry Stalls: Featuring pieces crafted with semi-precious stones and traditional techniques.

For a modern twist on Greek aesthetics, Greek designer boutiques in neighborhoods like Kolonaki and Koukaki showcase contemporary takes on traditional designs. Recommended spots include:

• Zeus+Dione: Known for its high-end fashion and accessories inspired by Greek heritage.
• Forget Me Not: A boutique offering unique memorabilia and contemporary Greek items.
• Apivita Experience Store: Combining Greek natural ingredients in luxury skincare gift sets.

No list of unique gifts would be complete without mentioning Athens’ specialty food shops. Gourmet treats make for delicious presents, and standout options include:

• Mastiha Shop: Offering a range of products made from Chios mastiha, from liqueurs to skincare.
• Heteroclito: A boutique wine shop specializing in curated Greek wine collections perfect for gifting.
• Ergon House: Featuring artisanal food products like honey, cheeses, and charcuterie.

Athens offers endless possibilities for finding unique and meaningful Christmas gifts. Whether you’re looking for artistic treasures, handcrafted goods, or gourmet delights, the city’s shops and markets have something for everyone. This holiday season, give gifts that tell a story and reflect the rich culture of Greece.

Mona Athens is excited to invite you to CLUB MONAMOUR’s most anticipated party of the season co-hosted with our friends from Pharaoh Athens.

Inspired by the pulsating energy of Italo-disco and genre-defying beats, this is an exclusive vinyl-only celebration taking over Mona’s Underground Club in Psirri.

Get ready to dance alongside the city’s most intriguing crowd, all set to an eclectic line-up of DJs spinning deep, irresistible grooves until the early hours.

Special Guest of the Night:­ Sicilian DJ and music producer DJ SCM (Maurizio Schirò), based in Berlin, will be exploring sounds that transcend genres, spinning everything from Balearic, Italo-disco, afro-boogie, and early house. Joined by Maik Nait from the Kasseta Records collective – a cornerstone of the Athens scene for over a decade and serial vinyl collector. Warming up the evening, Yiorgos Koutivas (Polyphonia Project) from Avia in Messinia will set the tone with a signature multi-genre set.

We can’t wait to spend this Vinyl Spettacolare NYE with you!

---

For more information, please CLICK HERE!

---

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English speaking  theatre, welcomes guitarist Panos Iliou for a special project that tells the story of Blues and its evolution.

On Friday, December 20th at 22:30, the performance will take us on a journey through the early forms of country blues and early blues, which remain the foundation and source of inspiration for countless musicians around the world.

From Dockery Farms, the birthplace of this musical legacy, Panos Iliou will guide us through a musical journey along the paths of Delta Blues, Piedmont Blues, Bentonia Blues, and Hill Country Blues, exploring the regions that shaped the authentic sound of the blues.

His music is not limited to the Mississippi Delta. The journey continues through Texas Blues, the East Coast, Memphis, and reaches Chicago, where modern "electric" blues was born.

Credits

Social media: Kallia Gerakianaki

PR & Communication: Eleftheria Sakareli

Date: Friday, December 20th at 22:30

Ticket: €10

Note: The theater also has a bar with affordable prices: beer €2.50, drinks €5

Navigating the complexities of the Greek business landscape can be a challenge, especially when it comes to understanding local accounting regulations and tax requirements. 

Choosing to have a local team of qualified chartered accountants and business accounting professionals will ensure you comply with Greek accounting laws while also streamlining your financial management.

 

We provide a full range of services tailored to the specific needs of businesses operating in Greece. These services include:

• Business Name Registration in Greece: We evaluate your unique circumstances to recommend the ideal business structure, ensuring a smooth and compliant registration process.
• Company Tax Returns: Specialists can manage the filing of corporate tax returns, highlighting potential deductions and ensuring adherence to Greek business tax laws.
• Trust Fund Tax: We assist with tax filings related to trust funds associated with your business, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Bookkeeping: Utilizing cutting-edge bookkeeping technology, we offer real-time updates for online bookkeeping services, alongside traditional offline methods, to suit your preferences.
• Tax Returns for Partnerships: From filing partnership tax returns to managing adjustments during partnership changes, we ensure smooth operations.
• Financial Statements: Our trusted accountants draft precise financial statements for both business and tax purposes, giving you clarity and confidence.

 

Accurate financial management is vital for any business’s success. Mishandling funds or failing to comply with tax obligations can lead to significant stress and complications. Having a trusted accounting expert ensures that your financial records are meticulously maintained, helping your business thrive both locally and internationally. Their expertise minimizes risks and enhances financial clarity, allowing you to focus on growth and expansion.

Our experts have extensive experience in providing accounting solutions across diverse sectors, including:

• Small Business No matter the size of your business, our trusted partners are here to help navigate Greek accounting so that you have peace of mind knowing your financial management is taken care of.
• Construction and Real Estate Addressing the specific tax and accounting needs of construction and real estate businesses, our partners offer tailored advice for smooth operations.
• Pharma and Health Supporting hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare providers, our experts deliver expert accounting services for the highly regulated health sector.
• Shipping and Logistics Assisting local and international shipping companies, we streamline accounting processes to manage both Greek and global operations.
• Manufacturing and Trade Our accountants specialize in serving manufacturing businesses, providing comprehensive solutions for this dynamic sector.

With decades of experience in Greek and international business accounting, our accounting experts have supported countless businesses in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as in local jurisdictions. They have worked with companies from across the globe, including China, Russia, Australia, and the United States, making them a trusted partner for businesses looking to establish or expand their presence in Greece.

If you’re looking for reliable, professional support to navigate the complexities of Greek business accounting, you can reach out to us for assistance.

George met a girl in 2018. The Dream girl. A doctor, a mother of two, beautiful, smart, and funny. And then things happened... This is a show about love and betrayal. And it is 100% true.

This show is Baby Reindeer meets PS I Love You.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Born and raised in Kalamata, George has gone on to dominate the UK comedy scene, headlining in the biggest comedy clubs as well as appearing on BBC One several times. He has performed sold out shows at both the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. In the last 2 years he has performed in 22 countries, while his videos have millions of views online.

EUROPEAN COMEDY AWARDS “BEST PERFORMER 2024"

International Comedian of the Year, Melbourne Comedy Festival in 2023

"Very funny, and utterly surprising, go see George Zacharopoulos before he leaves town. It is, without question, one of the best hours of comedy on offer."
The Quintessential Review

"This funny and insightful take on relationships has a truly touching, shocking and heart breaking ending. Zacharopoulos is so clever and sharp witted. This is such an important show"
Entertainment Now

"He delivers this with such a wicked sense of humour that you will ache from laughing so hard"
The Reviews Hub

"Impeccably structured and wonderfully performed. Cathartic and hilarious."
Corr Blimey

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Sunday December 22nd

Time: 21:00 (Doors open 20:40)

Duration: 1h15

Tickets:
* Early-bird: €10

* General admission: €15

* At the door: €20

Info: 6987994689 // athensenglishcomedyclub@gmail.com

The theatre is wheelchair accessible.

Recommended for audiences aged 16 and above.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Find George online:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

About the Athens English Comedy Club

Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece!

Sign up to our newsletter for direct-to-email updates and exclusive ticket offers!: http://eepurl.com/it6PzQ

Follow us on social media!

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

YouTube

TikTok

Come and laugh! Nay! Come and chortle. Or better yet, guffaw!

Christmas in Greece is a vibrant tapestry of customs and rituals steeped in history and tradition. From kalanda to festive family dinners, there are numerous practices that highlight the country’s deep cultural roots and festive spirit. 

One of the most distinctive symbols of Christmas in Greece is the decorated boat, or “karavaki.” In coastal and island communities, boats are adorned with lights and ornaments, a tradition that predates the introduction of Christmas trees. This custom reflects Greece’s maritime heritage and serves as a tribute to sailors and the sea. Today, while Christmas trees have become popular, the karavaki remains a beloved symbol, especially in island regions such as the Cyclades and Dodecanese.

Known as “christoxylo,” this tradition involves burning a large log in the fireplace throughout the twelve days of Christmas (December 25 to January 6). The log symbolizes warmth, light, and protection from evil spirits. This practice has its origins in pre-Christian solstice rituals, which celebrated the return of longer days and the renewal of life.

According to Greek folklore, the twelve days of Christmas are a time when “kallikantzaroi,” or mischievous goblins, emerge from the underworld to wreak havoc. These impish creatures are said to cause trouble in homes and villages. To ward them off, families burn incense, hang garlic by their doors, or leave colanders outside. The belief is that the goblins, obsessed with counting, will waste time counting the holes in the colander until sunrise chases them away.

In Greece, New Year’s Day is dedicated to Saint Basil (Agios Vasilis), a figure similar to Santa Claus. Families bake a special cake called “vassilopita,” which contains a hidden coin. During the cutting of the cake, slices are distributed to family members, with one piece reserved for the house and another for the poor. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is believed to have good fortune in the coming year.

Epiphany, or “Theofania,” is celebrated on January 6 and marks the baptism of Christ. A central event of this day is the blessing of the waters. Priests bless rivers, lakes, or seas by throwing a cross into the water. Young men dive in to retrieve the cross, and the one who retrieves it is said to receive special blessings for the year. This tradition underscores the importance of water in Greek culture and its symbolism of purification and renewal.

To protect their homes from kallikantzaroi and other malevolent forces, Greek families practice several rituals. Burning incense, breaking pomegranate, lighting candles, and leaving food offerings are common practices. These rituals harken back to ancient pagan customs that sought to harmonize the natural and supernatural worlds.

Greek Christmas celebrations are also marked by an array of delicious foods that vary by region. Common dishes include:

• Christopsomo (Christ’s Bread): A special bread decorated with symbols of the family’s livelihood.
• Melomakarona: Honey-dipped cookies spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
• Kourabiedes: Almond shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
• Roast Lamb or Pork: Often the centerpiece of the Christmas Day meal.
• Vasilopita: The New Year’s cake, baked in honor of Saint Basil.

These foods not only nourish the body but also serve as offerings of gratitude and symbols of abundance.

While some traditions have evolved or faded over time, many of these customs remain central to Greek Christmas celebrations. They are a testament to the country’s ability to blend ancient and Christian practices into a cohesive and meaningful holiday season. For Greeks, Christmas is not just a time for gift-giving and feasting but also an opportunity to honor their heritage, strengthen family bonds, and welcome blessings for the year ahead.

Kalanda, the Greek tradition of singing Christmas carols, holds a unique place in Greece's festive customs. This age-old practice, celebrated on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany, brings communities together through music, blessings, and cultural pride. 

The term "kalanda" originates from the Latin word “calendae,” meaning “the first day of the month.” This Latin term itself derives from the verb “calo,” which shares its root with the Greek verb “kaló” (καλώ), meaning “to call.” In Roman times, calendae marked the beginning of each month, and celebratory songs were performed to announce and honor the new lunar cycle. Over time, this tradition blended with local Greek customs, particularly those associated with the Dionysian festivals.

In ancient Greece, the tradition of “Eiresione” played a similar role. During harvest festivals, children would carry olive or laurel branches decorated with wool, fruits, and nuts. These branches symbolized prosperity and fertility. As they paraded through villages singing hymns, they received small gifts or treats. The Eiresione custom, with its themes of blessings and good fortune, is considered a precursor to kalanda.

With the spread of Christianity, these pagan practices were adapted to celebrate the nativity of Christ and the new calendar year. The kalanda we know today reflect this blending of ancient and Christian influences, becoming an integral part of Greek festive culture.

On the eves of Christmas, New Year’s, and on Epiphany day, children gather in small groups, often accompanied by simple instruments like triangles, drums, or lyres. They visit homes in their neighborhoods, singing carols that offer blessings and good wishes. In return, they are rewarded with small tokens such as sweets, coins, or fruit.

The lyrics of kalanda vary depending on the occasion: