LIFE & CULTURE
XpatAthens
Thursday, 01 November 2018 07:00
Ready For The November Mid-Season Sale
Take advantage of the mid-season sale, that will run from Thursday, November 1st to Saturday November 10th, and start selecting holiday gifts for you and your loved ones at a fraction of their original price! Keep in mind that it is mandatory for shops to display both the full and the sale price of items and the percentage of the discount offered. In older to make shopping more convenient for consumers, many centrally located stores will be open on Sunday, November 4th from 11:00 to 20:00.
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Local News
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Tuesday, 29 September 2020 07:00
Five Interesting Facts About The Acropolis Of Athens
Perched on a rocky hill above Athens, the Acropolis is one of the greatest architectural achievements of the classical world. A remarkable archaeological site and the birthplace of Democracy, the Acropolis is one of the most visited sights in the world and Athens’ crown jewel. Despite earthquakes, extensive looting, air pollution, and centuries of war, much of this incredible monument still survives. We’ve put together a list of interesting facts that will enable you to fully comprehend the grandeur and significance of one of the greatest ancient citadels ever to be built!
1. It’s Not The Only Acropolis In Greece
The term ‘Acropolis’ derives from the Greek words ‘akron’, which means highest point or edge, and ‘polis’, which means city. Therefore, the word acropolis literally means ‘Highest City’. Even though the term mostly refers to the Acropolis of Athens, there are in fact, quite a few acropolises in Greece such as Acrocorinth in Corinth, Cadmea in Thebes, and the Acropolis of Lindos in the island of Rhodes.
2. The Acropolis And The Parthenon Are Not The Same Thing
Many visitors to Greece come to Athens thinking that the Acropolis and the Parthenon are the same thing. However, the Acropolis is actually the hill where the Parthenon and other structures such as the Erechteion, the Propylaia, and the Temple of Athena Nike are built upon!
3. The Parthenon Is Perfect Due To Its Imperfections
Even though the Parthenon is often referred to as the ‘word’s most perfect building’ its perfection is actually achieved through a series intentional flaws. Ictinos and Kallikrates, used a couple of architectural tricks, such as the slight angling of the temple’s pedestal, and the unnoticeable barrel-like curves on its columns, to create an optical illusion of perfection and impeccable alignment.
4. The Parthenon Was Blown Up in 1687
In 1687 the Parthenon suffered the greatest damage in its long history! During the Morean War, a Venetian cannonball blew up the Ottoman gunpowder magazine that was located inside the Parthenon, causing great damage to the temple. Before leaving Athens, the Venetians considered blowing up the rest of the Parthenon to avoid its further use as a Turkish stronghold, but thankfully the idea was abandoned!
5. The Acropolis Used To Be A Kaleidoscope Of Color
Recent tests have revealed that the Parthenon, and other buildings on the Acropolis Hill, were once covered in color. Even though the colors have been bleached over the years, the traces of blue, red, and green pigments that were discovered on various archaic sculptures show that these sites were once painted in a kaleidoscope of colors.
When visiting the Acropolis Museum, keep an eye out for the Archaic sculptures that have retained traces of their original colors. Furthermore, the museum offers a fun interactive online application, which allows users to color, save, and print the statue of Peplos Kore.
1. It’s Not The Only Acropolis In Greece
The term ‘Acropolis’ derives from the Greek words ‘akron’, which means highest point or edge, and ‘polis’, which means city. Therefore, the word acropolis literally means ‘Highest City’. Even though the term mostly refers to the Acropolis of Athens, there are in fact, quite a few acropolises in Greece such as Acrocorinth in Corinth, Cadmea in Thebes, and the Acropolis of Lindos in the island of Rhodes.
2. The Acropolis And The Parthenon Are Not The Same Thing
Many visitors to Greece come to Athens thinking that the Acropolis and the Parthenon are the same thing. However, the Acropolis is actually the hill where the Parthenon and other structures such as the Erechteion, the Propylaia, and the Temple of Athena Nike are built upon!
3. The Parthenon Is Perfect Due To Its Imperfections
Even though the Parthenon is often referred to as the ‘word’s most perfect building’ its perfection is actually achieved through a series intentional flaws. Ictinos and Kallikrates, used a couple of architectural tricks, such as the slight angling of the temple’s pedestal, and the unnoticeable barrel-like curves on its columns, to create an optical illusion of perfection and impeccable alignment.
4. The Parthenon Was Blown Up in 1687
In 1687 the Parthenon suffered the greatest damage in its long history! During the Morean War, a Venetian cannonball blew up the Ottoman gunpowder magazine that was located inside the Parthenon, causing great damage to the temple. Before leaving Athens, the Venetians considered blowing up the rest of the Parthenon to avoid its further use as a Turkish stronghold, but thankfully the idea was abandoned!
5. The Acropolis Used To Be A Kaleidoscope Of Color
Recent tests have revealed that the Parthenon, and other buildings on the Acropolis Hill, were once covered in color. Even though the colors have been bleached over the years, the traces of blue, red, and green pigments that were discovered on various archaic sculptures show that these sites were once painted in a kaleidoscope of colors.
When visiting the Acropolis Museum, keep an eye out for the Archaic sculptures that have retained traces of their original colors. Furthermore, the museum offers a fun interactive online application, which allows users to color, save, and print the statue of Peplos Kore.
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Greek Language & Culture
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Tuesday, 29 October 2019 07:00
Christmas Bazaar By KAZ (Shelter For Stray Animals)
This holiday season the KAZ bazaar is back in a bigger and more convenient venue! The whole KAZ team, the volunteers, and their four-legged family members invite you to join them at their Christmas Bazaar at the Athens War Museum.
Come and join us on Saturday, November 30, from 10:00 to 20:00 and on Sunday, December 1, from 10:00 to 18:00 to enjoy our super raffle, a book bazaar, delicious homemade treats, and many surprises.
The KAZ bazaar is a great place to enjoy your holiday shopping!
Save the date and let's support the Shelter For Stray Animals!
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Community
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Monday, 29 October 2018 15:18
Athens Amongst The Top 6 For European Capital Of Innovation Award
Athens is among the six European cities shortlisted for the 2018 European Capital of Innovation Award, organized under the auspices of the European Commission. Athens, Aarhus, Hamburg, Leuven, Toulouse, and Umeå will be judged for the implementation of innovative solutions to social challenges throughout the past year.
Despite the ongoing Greek financial crisis, the city of Athens has managed to design and implement new social innovation initiatives. Namely, with the ‘Curing the Limbo’ project, Athens is giving underprivileged Athenians and refugees a chance to afford housing, develop work skills, and find employment. Furthermore, alongside private partners the City of Athens’ Digital Lab is fostering digital literacy and applying civic technology such as smart recycling bins that provide real-time data about the capacity of the bins and their recycling performance.
Carlos Moedas, Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation who will be announcing the winner in Lisbon on November 6th, said: ‘Many European cities are world leaders in urban innovation. They find new ways of involving citizens in community life, support business growth or adapt to global challenges and sustain the local social fabric. All of the contestants for the European Capital of Innovation title are testament to such efforts. I look forward to announcing the winner at next month’s awarding ceremony.’
Applications will be judged by independent experts from across Europe. A monetary prize of 1 million euro will be awarded to the winning city while 100 thousand euro will be awarded to each of the five runner-up cities.
Article Source: European Commission & Thema News
Applications will be judged by independent experts from across Europe. A monetary prize of 1 million euro will be awarded to the winning city while 100 thousand euro will be awarded to each of the five runner-up cities.
Article Source: European Commission & Thema News
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Local News
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Monday, 29 October 2018 07:00
Two Great Destinations For A Skiing Holiday In Greece
Even though Greece is a well esteemed summer destination, it's also a great winter destination offering 18 ski centers that operate from December to April each year. Greek ski resorts have become popular due to their affordability; prices for a winter holiday can be up to 3 times lower than those of Austria, Switzerland or France. Apart from being reasonably priced, Greek ski centers are located in some of the country’s most beautiful regions. With the Christmas holidays coming up, now is the perfect time to start planning your winter getaway. Here are our two favorite ski resorts in Greece!
Parnassus
Parnassus Ski Center is located 180 km for Athens and is the oldest and most modern ski resort in the country. It has 23 pistes, of varying difficulty, from easy runs for children and beginners to black runs for experienced skiers. As the most organized ski resort in Greece, Parnassus offers 17 lifts, equipment rentals and sales, as well as cafes and restaurants. Furtermore, Parnassus’ location is ideal for day trips to the cosmopolitan village of Arahova and the archaeological sites at Delphi.
3-5 Pigadia
Located on the slopes of Mount Vermio, 17 km from Naoussa and 103km from Thessaloniki, 3-5 Pigadia is an excellent option if you want to explore the stunning landscapes of Northern Greece. It offers 10 pistes of varying difficulty, 3 cross country slopes, restaurants and cafes, ski rental stores, and 2 ski schools. What makes 3-5 Pigadia different than any other ski resort in Greece is its artificial snow system that allows for continuous, and uninterrupted snowing, regardless of the weather conditions.
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Travel Greece
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Sunday, 28 October 2018 22:19
Ancient Greek Shipwreck Discovered In Excellent Condition
The oldest intact shipwreck known to mankind that was discovered at the bottom of the Black Sea is Greek! The group of researchers who found the 2,400 year-old trading ship, believe that priceless ancient treasures may still be trapped in the ship’s hold. The ship was discovered more that 50 miles off the Bulgarian city of Burgas and was used to supply the Greek colonies of the Black Sea.
More than 60 shipwrecks have been discovered in the area during the thorough survey, however in late 2017 the underwater cameras settled upon an Ancient Greek ship which was remarkably intact. The ship’s shape has not been compromised despite millennia at the bottom of the sea, while its mast and rudder are still clearly visible.
More than 60 shipwrecks have been discovered in the area during the thorough survey, however in late 2017 the underwater cameras settled upon an Ancient Greek ship which was remarkably intact. The ship’s shape has not been compromised despite millennia at the bottom of the sea, while its mast and rudder are still clearly visible.
"A ship, surviving intact, from the Classical world, lying in over 2km of water, is something I would never have believed possible,” said Professor Jon Adams, of the Black Sean Maritime Archaeology Project.
The anoxic (un-oxygenated) environment of the Black Sea preserves artefacts better than any other marine environment and is probably why the ship has discovered in such excellent condition. Scientists are hoping to raise funding to return to the site and hunt for the treasure that is possibly trapped inside the ship.
To read this article in full, please visit: The Telegraph
Published in
Greece In The News
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Friday, 02 November 2018 12:18
Arachova & Area - The Perfect Winter Road Trip In Greece
Even though Greece is more often than not thought of as a perfect summer destination, the country offers countless wonderful places to explore in the wintertime. Allow yourself the opportunity to relax and recharge by planning a unique road trip to Central Greece and discover stunning winter destinations that you will absolutely love!
About 8km from Arachova is the famous site of Ancient Delphi - one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Delphi is most famous as the home of the Delphi Oracle, which gave its predictions to people who visited from around the world, and even the Kings of Persia! The archaeological site of Delphi is located in a landscape of raw beauty and at a crossroads of natural passages in the heart of central Greece, perhaps this is how it became known as the ‘navel of the earth.’ Delphi is a must-stop destination for those who appreciate ancient Greek culture and civilization.
Within a 30-minute drive from Arachova, you will come across the Monastery of Hosios Loukas, one of the most important monuments of the Middle Byzantine era. The monastery, that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, is a place of outstanding architecture and wealth, famous for its gold mosaics on the ceilings.
The final destination on this winter road trip in Greece is located two hours from Arachova. Located along the Corinthian Gulf, opposite the seaside city of Patra, Nafpaktos has survived 30 centuries of turbulent history which is evident across the town and forever imprinted on its monuments. A picturesque town, full of warm and welcoming locals, Nafpaktos lies in a historic region where visitors are treated to spectacular mountain ranges, traditional villages, and beaches with crystal clear waters.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus at an altitude of 950 metres, the picturesque town of Arachova is a favourite winter destination among local Greeks and visitors alike. Just 2 hour drive from Athens, the ski centers found in the area attract thousands of Athenians, due to its close proximity to the Greek capital. Embraced by a rugged natural landscape and dense forest, Arachova is a traditional village that offers a breathtaking landscape, as well as traditional architecture, beautiful nature, and lively nightlife. Arachova also has a number of shops selling local products and traditional restaurants to sit down and indulge in delicious meals.Get in touch with Athens Car Rental.
Let them know that the recommendation came from XpatAthens!
About 8km from Arachova is the famous site of Ancient Delphi - one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Delphi is most famous as the home of the Delphi Oracle, which gave its predictions to people who visited from around the world, and even the Kings of Persia! The archaeological site of Delphi is located in a landscape of raw beauty and at a crossroads of natural passages in the heart of central Greece, perhaps this is how it became known as the ‘navel of the earth.’ Delphi is a must-stop destination for those who appreciate ancient Greek culture and civilization.
Within a 30-minute drive from Arachova, you will come across the Monastery of Hosios Loukas, one of the most important monuments of the Middle Byzantine era. The monastery, that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, is a place of outstanding architecture and wealth, famous for its gold mosaics on the ceilings.
The final destination on this winter road trip in Greece is located two hours from Arachova. Located along the Corinthian Gulf, opposite the seaside city of Patra, Nafpaktos has survived 30 centuries of turbulent history which is evident across the town and forever imprinted on its monuments. A picturesque town, full of warm and welcoming locals, Nafpaktos lies in a historic region where visitors are treated to spectacular mountain ranges, traditional villages, and beaches with crystal clear waters.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Get in touch with Athens Car Rental.
Let them know that the recommendation came from XpatAthens!
Published in
Travel Greece
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Friday, 02 November 2018 12:51
The Ultimate Road Trip Through Southern Peloponnese Greece
Road trips are all about long stretches of highway, constantly changing scenery and warm, delicious small-town meals! If you're in need of positively distrupting your routine and escaping the buzzing city of Athens, we highly recommend taking a road trip through the fascinating region of the Southern Peloponnese. This incredibly beautiful region of Greece is perfect all year round and offers locales with breathtaking landscapes, countless picturesque towns, and some of Greece’s most important ancient sites along the way!
Keep in mind, to fully discover the splendid diversity of natural and historical wonders, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this road trip is best experienced over 2-3 days or ideally 4 days.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Keep in mind, to fully discover the splendid diversity of natural and historical wonders, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this road trip is best experienced over 2-3 days or ideally 4 days.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Get in touch with Athens Car Rental.
Let them know that the recommendation came from XpatAthens!
From Athens to Ancient Olympia Via Mani!
Just after setting out from Athens on this inspiring road trip, grab a quick coffee at the Corinith Canal. This man-made miracle completed in the late 1800s, offers breathtaking views and connects the mainland with the Peloponnese. Before it was built, ships wanting to cross the Adriatic, or go to Corinth, had to circle the Peloponnese, which added approximately 300 kms to their journey.
Our first destination, the well preserved fortified Byzantine town of Mystras, is located just under 2 hours south from the Corinth Canal. Also known as the ‘wonder of the Morea’, Mystras winds up the hill like an open-air museum and is one of the most unique sites in the southern Peloponnese, not to mention is also being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mystras was built amphitheatrically in 1249 and is home to many Byzantine churches, and over its long history was conquered by Byzantines, Venetians, and Turks. The most important sites in Mystras are the hilltop fortress and the Byzantine monasteries.
Our next stop, 1 hour and 30 mins away from Mystras, is an ideal year round getaway destination. Monemvasia lies on a big rock in the sea connected to the mainland by a small causeway. To actually enter the town, you have to leave your car behind. This medieval castle town of unique architecture on the south-eastern coast of the Peloponnese, is one of the most romantic destinations in Greece due to its fairy-tale atmosphere and unique history. You're up for a lovely surprise as you enter the fortress’ gates, as the whole town of castles, mansions, cobbled streets, squares and churches unfolds before your eyes.
Heading West and around 2 hours from Monemvasia, the next destination will most certainly impress you! The Cave of Diros is one of the most impressive cave complexes in the world as it’s full of lakes and extraordinary stalagmite and stalactite formations. Part of the cave tour is by boat while the rest can be done on foot, making it a truly remarkable experience for visitors of all ages!
From here, drive 20 minutes north to Limeni, a picturesque fishing village ideal for a delicious seaside lunch in one of the excellent traditional fish tavernas. The area is also home to the beautiful tower house of the Mavromichalis family, a family who played a significant role in the Greek War for Independence. While in the region, don't forget to pay a visit to Gerolimenas, a port of historical significance during ancient times. Today Gerolimenas is a traditional fishing village with lovely tavernas and a small pebbled beach.
Further along the central southern prong of the Peloponnese, about a one hour drive from Limeni, you will be met by the pretty coastal villages of Stoupa and Kardamyli. Mani is a popular destination among visitors seeking an authentic Greek holiday experience. The beautiful seaside town of Kardamyli is nestled between turquoise waters and lush green mountains and is ideal for a relaxing getaway away from the crowds all year round.
Next, just under 2 hours from Kardamyli, Pylos is an amphitheatrically built town, reminiscent of an island hamlet. The tranquillity that the town enjoys today contrasts its turbulent past as it is the location where the Battle of Navarino took place in 1827. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Pylos, take a stroll along the town’s seaside promenade and enjoy a coffee at one of the traditional ‘kafenio’ or sit down for a bite at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Just after setting out from Athens on this inspiring road trip, grab a quick coffee at the Corinith Canal. This man-made miracle completed in the late 1800s, offers breathtaking views and connects the mainland with the Peloponnese. Before it was built, ships wanting to cross the Adriatic, or go to Corinth, had to circle the Peloponnese, which added approximately 300 kms to their journey.
Our first destination, the well preserved fortified Byzantine town of Mystras, is located just under 2 hours south from the Corinth Canal. Also known as the ‘wonder of the Morea’, Mystras winds up the hill like an open-air museum and is one of the most unique sites in the southern Peloponnese, not to mention is also being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mystras was built amphitheatrically in 1249 and is home to many Byzantine churches, and over its long history was conquered by Byzantines, Venetians, and Turks. The most important sites in Mystras are the hilltop fortress and the Byzantine monasteries.
Our next stop, 1 hour and 30 mins away from Mystras, is an ideal year round getaway destination. Monemvasia lies on a big rock in the sea connected to the mainland by a small causeway. To actually enter the town, you have to leave your car behind. This medieval castle town of unique architecture on the south-eastern coast of the Peloponnese, is one of the most romantic destinations in Greece due to its fairy-tale atmosphere and unique history. You're up for a lovely surprise as you enter the fortress’ gates, as the whole town of castles, mansions, cobbled streets, squares and churches unfolds before your eyes.
Heading West and around 2 hours from Monemvasia, the next destination will most certainly impress you! The Cave of Diros is one of the most impressive cave complexes in the world as it’s full of lakes and extraordinary stalagmite and stalactite formations. Part of the cave tour is by boat while the rest can be done on foot, making it a truly remarkable experience for visitors of all ages!
From here, drive 20 minutes north to Limeni, a picturesque fishing village ideal for a delicious seaside lunch in one of the excellent traditional fish tavernas. The area is also home to the beautiful tower house of the Mavromichalis family, a family who played a significant role in the Greek War for Independence. While in the region, don't forget to pay a visit to Gerolimenas, a port of historical significance during ancient times. Today Gerolimenas is a traditional fishing village with lovely tavernas and a small pebbled beach.
Further along the central southern prong of the Peloponnese, about a one hour drive from Limeni, you will be met by the pretty coastal villages of Stoupa and Kardamyli. Mani is a popular destination among visitors seeking an authentic Greek holiday experience. The beautiful seaside town of Kardamyli is nestled between turquoise waters and lush green mountains and is ideal for a relaxing getaway away from the crowds all year round.
Next, just under 2 hours from Kardamyli, Pylos is an amphitheatrically built town, reminiscent of an island hamlet. The tranquillity that the town enjoys today contrasts its turbulent past as it is the location where the Battle of Navarino took place in 1827. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Pylos, take a stroll along the town’s seaside promenade and enjoy a coffee at one of the traditional ‘kafenio’ or sit down for a bite at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Get in touch with Athens Car Rental.
Let them know that the recommendation came from XpatAthens!
This ultimate road trip through southern Peloponnese ends in Ancient Olympia, just over 2 hours away from Pylos. Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the site where the Olympic flame is lit before it embarks on its journey around the world. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989, Ancient Olympia will certainly take you back in time to when the Ancient Olympic Games were in full swing! Be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia – one of the best in Greece – which is home to findings from the archaeological site and from other excavations in the area. Don’t miss admiring the museum’s most famous exhibit, the statue of Hermes of Praxiteles that dates back to the 4th century BC.
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Travel Greece
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Tuesday, 23 October 2018 13:22
October 23 - A Time To Celebrate
October 28th is a day of great importance to Greeks, as it marks the National Holiday or Oxi Day. Learn everything about this historic day and see how you can admire Athens from above, following the best hikes we can recommend!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
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Tuesday, 16 October 2018 13:16
October 16 - Autumn Rhythm In Athens
Whether a local or a visitor, Athens is an extremely vibrant city. Discover some of the absolute best restaurants and cocktail bars in this popular and bustling Mediterranean capital, as it was described by the NY Times!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
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