Experience an unforgettable evening of music with world-renowned Dutch violinist and conductor André Rieu and the magnificent Johann Strauss Orchestra, making their debut appearance in Athens as part of the 2024 world tour.

On March 12th and 13th, 2024 one of the most popular musicians in the world, comes to OAKA - Olympic Indoor Hall to enchant the audience with a mesmerizing performance. André Rieu has sold over 40 million albums worldwide, captivating audiences with his high-energy, romantic, and joyful performances. His concerts are known for their dazzling shows featuring lights, elaborate costumes, and audience participation, making each event a truly unique and captivating experience for all ages.

With a repertoire spanning classical masterpieces to waltzes, melodies, and songs from movies, operas, and musicals, André Rieu and the Johann Strauss Orchestra are set to offer the audience a night they will never forget.

The audience will also have the opportunity to enjoy the 15-year-old sensation, Emma Kok, whose rendition of "Voilà" by Barbara Pravi went viral with over 60 million views across social media platforms.

A vibrant carnival extravaganza sweeps through the city's neighborhoods, igniting joy and festivity at every turn.

With 80 lively events spread across 55 diverse locations, the pulse of the carnival resonates throughout the Municipality of Athens. From lively Tsiknopempti festivities to spirited carnival celebrations, the city comes alive with traditions and merrymaking. For 23 days, every corner of the city becomes a stage for music, dance, and cultural revelry, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

On Thursday, March 7th, the melodies of carnival tradition will reverberate through Varvakeio Agora, Monastiraki Square, and the surrounding streets. At 11:30, join the public in Varvakeio Agora to welcome the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Athens. Meanwhile, at 12:00, the "Vakhes” Greek Dancing Group will kick off its carnival procession from Syntagma Square. Their carnival route includes a stop at Kotzia Square to showcase the custom of the Ribbons of Naxos, before culminating in the lively ambiance of Monastiraki Square. There, the enchanting tunes of the bands Charisma and Isidoros Pateros will captivate audiences with their music and songs, ensuring an unforgettable celebration.

Witness the enchanting spectacle as young revelers embrace the carnival festivities.

Children, the heart of the carnival, dress themselves in colorful costumes and swarm the squares and cultural venues of Athens, eager to partake in the joyous celebrations and engage in playful enactments that bring them closer to the carnival tradition. The National Gallery, the Museum of Folk Art and Tradition "Angeliki Hatzimichali", the Plato Academy Digital Museum, libraries, creative learning centers, and the Hellenic Children's Museum extend a warm invitation to families, offering a plethora of educational and museum-pedagogical programs. From workshops exploring visual arts and constructions to musical movement and fairy tale dramatizations, along with theatrical games and captivating music and dance events, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Carnival activities unfold across various squares, including Gyzi, Plyta, Agios Georgios, Agios Dimitrios (Panormos), and the Kolokynthou Municipal indoor swimming pool, as well as Mayor Dimitris Beis Park. Meanwhile, Thymarakion Square and the pedestrian street at the junction of Gennaios Kolokotronis and Matrozos undergo a magical transformation into vibrant party hubs, igniting the spirits of both young and old alike.

Apokria, a cherished Greek celebration steeped in ancient roots, exudes a timeless charm and a distinct regional flair across Greece. The Municipality of Athens proudly shines a spotlight on tradition and carnival customs, infusing Athenian neighborhoods with their essence. Throughout the carnival season, cultural clubs grace the city streets, presenting traditional dances and reviving local carnival customs, thus immersing us in the true spirit of the Carnival and spreading jubilant merriment.

The festivities kick off on Tsiknopempti, March 7th, with the "Vakhes” Greek Dancing Group leading the way. During their carnival route, they'll pause at Kotzia Square to honor the custom of the Ribbons of Naxos. The revelry continues on Sunday, March 10th, with the Zakynthian Union of Athens hosting the carnival sergiani in Plaka, featuring chants and traditional dances of Zakynthos. Meanwhile, Platonos Square comes alive with a carnival event showcasing pranks from across Greece, accompanied by live traditional music from regional cultural organizations and the delightful wanderings of Horostasi through the streets of Plaka, complete with merry-go-rounds, events, carnival dances, and songs.

On Saturday, March 16th, the Lesvos Farmers' Union "Agios Dimitrios" and the Cultural Association of Traditional Dances and Cultural Activities "O Molyvos" promise to whisk us away on another journey into the carnival tradition with a revival of "Patinada," a cherished local custom of Lesvos. Finally, on Sunday, March 17th, we bid farewell to the Athenian Carnival with a grand procession in the city center, presented by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry with support from OPANDA, featuring animators, jugglers, Brazilian percussionists, and other entertainers.

The neighborhoods of Athens will be pulsating with excitement as carnival routes flood the streets with joyous rhythms. On Sunday, March 10th, a carnival route of percussion will traverse from Attica Square to Victoria Square, while Morfes Ekfrasis will transport us to Votanikos for a carnival reminiscent of days past. Then, on Saturday, March 16th, the percussion ensemble Bloco Swingueira will electrify the city with the irresistible beats of Brazilian rhythm and dance.

Discover a symphony of cultural delights with a lineup of concerts, music, dance events, and theatrical performances.

The Music Ensembles of the Municipality of Athens will enchant audiences throughout the carnival season with their melodic offerings, filling various corners of Athens with their harmonious tunes. The Philharmonic Orchestra will grace neighborhoods with their musical presence, while Martha Moreleon and the Big Band inject a jazzy flair into the carnival celebrations. Additionally, the Greek Music Workshop, led by Dora Loizou and Manolis Skoulas, promises to elevate the Halloween festivities with their captivating melodies.

Moreover, this year's eclectic carnival program, curated by the Municipality of Athens, boasts an array of entertainment options. Concerts, music, and dance events, as well as theatrical performances, will unfold in cultural venues across the city. From the Arts Centre hosting a concert on March 9th to the Polychoros Municipality of Athens Anna & Maria Kalouta featuring theatrical performances on March 9th and 10th, there's something to entice every artistic palate. The Melina Cultural Centre will come alive with a dynamic music and dance event on March 10th, while the Olympia Municipal Music Theatre "Maria Callas" presents a music theater performance directed by Giorgos Vassiliadis on March 10th. Additionally, the Municipal Market of Kypseliwill host a vibrant music and dance event on March 13th, rounding out the cultural festivities with flair and finesse.

Experience the grand finale of the carnival season on Clean Monday atop the iconic Filopappos Hill.

This cherished tradition brings together families and friends to celebrate the beginning of Lent in a joyous atmosphere filled with kite flying and the beloved custom of Kouloumas. Joining in this jubilant occasion are the illustrious Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Athens and the captivating sounds of the Charisma band, creating an unforgettable ambiance of harmony and merriment against the backdrop of the Athenian skyline.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is celebrating Koulouma with songs and dances from all parts of Hellenism.

On Monday, March 18, we ring in Lent and Spring with kites and loads of fun and imagination! From 12.00 to 15.00, Professor of Ethnomusicology Lambros Liavas is curating and presenting at the Great Lawn a panorama of Greek traditional music and dance, in an open invitation for all to participate in the ritual of the traditional feast.

An incomparable pundit of the codes of Greek traditional music, boasting several studies, academic papers, and extensive travel throughout Greece, Lambros Liavas is calling on us to see off the three weeks of the Apokries in a time-honored authentic manner. Carnival mimic mixes together with kalamatiano, kagelia, and tsamiko; pogonisio from Epirus, syrto from Macedonia, zonaradiko from Thrace; hasapiko from Constantinople; karsilama from Smyrna; pentozali from Crete; and ballos from the islands.

The tone is set by traditional brass instruments played by the renowned Valkanis Brothers Brass Band from Florina, as well as by the dynamic musical group Eptasimo, featuring singers Ilias Gakos and Marianthi Lioudaki.

Also participating in the lineup are Pontic lyra player Ilias Yfantidis and Cretan lyra player Manolis Bountalakis with his band. The dance group of the Pontian Association Argonautai Komninoi (led by: Kostas Savvinidis) is inviting us to join in the dance circle!

Prepare to experience the vibrant world of independent cinema as the 2nd Athens Independent Film Festival, KINO ATHENS, returns from March 1st to 10th, 2024. This eagerly anticipated event promises to captivate audiences with eighty thought-provoking films spanning various genres and originating from every corner of the globe. Hosted at venues such as Technopolis, Serafio City of Athens, the Μichael Cacoyannis Foundation, and the French Institute of Greece, the festival proudly operates under the esteemed patronage of the European Parliament.

Audiences can anticipate an eclectic lineup, including competition sections, workshops, masterclasses, DJ sets, and other engaging activities. Screenings will be presented with Greek and English subtitles, ensuring accessibility for all.

The heart of the festival beats strongest at the Μichael Cacoyannis Foundation, where the main competition section will take center stage. There, audiences will be treated to the nominated films for the LUX 2024 Audience Award, presented by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy in collaboration with the European Commission and the Europa Cinemas network.

The Award Ceremony, featuring the presentation of the Large and Small Golden Deer by a distinguished jury, is scheduled for Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 19:00.

A new addition to this year's program is KINO JUNIOR, a section dedicated to children and teenagers over 3 years old. Held at Serafio City of Athens, this competitive section will see a special jury of children aged 7 to 13 award the coveted Kids Deer on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 12:00.

The festival's special screenings, along with the grand opening film EUROPA, directed by Sudabeh Mortezai, will be showcased at Technopolis City of Athens on Friday, March 1, 2024, at 20:30.

Rounding off the festivities, a screening of NOTRE CORPS, crafted by renowned independent French filmmaker Claire Simon, awaits audiences at a special event at the French Institute of Greece on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 19:00.

KINO ATHENS owes its success to the generous support of the City of Athens, the Athens Film Office, and the Greek Film Centre.

To see the full schedule, please click HERE.

Throughout March, the Municipal Market of Kypseli will be bustling with a diverse array of events and workshops designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages. From creative expression workshops to hands-on activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Dive into the world of woodworking, explore the power of self-empowerment, unleash your creativity with art workshops, and discover the joy of gardening, all within the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

Discover the fusion of art and taste in Athens' most alternative neighborhood! The Street Market brings together 26 artisans and producers at the Atrium of the Municipal Market in Kypseli for a three-day celebration of unique and delectable products.

When: Friday 1/3 - Sunday 3/3, 10:00-21:00

Location: Patio

Entry: Free

Join artists dedicating their time to a cause! Participants will paint ōvase (handmade wooden vases), with proceeds supporting Ithaca, a non-profit organization aiding vulnerable communities.

When: Sunday, 3/3, 13:00–17:00

Location: Patio

Entry: Free

Support voluntary blood donation with Blood-e at the Kypseli Municipal Market.

When: Tuesday, 5/3, 16:00–19:00

Location: Creative Lab 2

Entry: Free

Melon Field:

Explore a market featuring fresh, natural, and organic products from small farmers every Wednesday.

When: Every Wednesday, 14:00–17:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

Tsiknopepti in Athens:

Experience a festive atmosphere with Nomade et Sauvage's unique menu and traditional Greek music by the Greek bands Toursi and Kinderia.

When: Thursday, 7/3, 14:00–23:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

Musical Threads:

Enjoy evenings with the Support Network for Incarcerated and Released Women, featuring live music by the "Western Paths" and Antigoni Stappa and handmade items by "Modistra Hopemade", offering unique handmade items in amazing designs and colors, all crafted with love, hope, and care! By purchasing your favorite item, you're supporting the crucial work of the Network, which trains and employs released women in the wonderful art of tailoring.

When: Friday, 8/3, 20:00–23:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

"Chloe at Eleusis" and "Chloe at the National Garden":

The museologist and writer Erato Koutsoudaki-Gerolymbou welcomes families with children aged 5–10 years at the Municipal Market of Kypseli! The author of the children's book series "Chloe's Adventures in History" and contributor to the creation of the permanent historical exhibition Voices | People | Stories, which narrates the history of the market, the area, and the people around it, as well as that of the city itself, will guide you to the new small museum and will read excerpts from the books "Chloe in Eleusis" and "Chloe in the National Garden" for the children.

When: Saturday, 9/3, 11:00–13:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free; Priority for families with children

Reverb Festival:

Celebrate Athens' alternative culture with contemporary DJs and electronic music.

When: Saturday, 9/3, 15:30–23:30
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

March 8: Women's Day:

Join an event dedicated to International Women's Day by various organizations, celebrating women's achievements and empowerment.

When: Tuesday, 12/3, 19:00–21:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

The Carousel of Joy:

Embark on a dance journey from Crete to Thrace with carnival dances and mock songs.

When: Wednesday, 13/3, 18:30–20:30
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

Kipseli BEAT Carnival Weekend:

Experience a festive weekend filled with music, dancing, food, and shopping.

When: Saturday, 16/3, 17:00–23:00, and Sunday, 17/3, 13:00–23:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

Georgian Festival:

The Georgian Community in Athens invites us to the first Georgian festival at the Municipal Market of Kypseli! A festival designed by the community aiming to introduce us to the unique culture of Georgia, through inspired artistic creations, local delicacies, drinks, and the tradition of the country.

When: 23/3-24/3, 11:00–21:00
Location: Patio
Entry: Free

Workshops

Do you know about the internet? A digital empowerment workshop for 60+

The successful digital empowerment workshop returns to the Municipal Market of Kypseli, revamped and enriched! With a double appointment every Monday and Wednesday and using tablets, we learn to surf the internet, search for useful information, communicate with friends and relatives online, and conduct transactions with the public. No previous relevant experience is required from participants (individuals aged 60+), just a willingness to learn!

When: Every Monday from 22/1 to 22/4, 10:00-11:30 Every Wednesday from 24/1 to 17/4, 10:00–11:30 
Location: Creative Lab 1
Entry: Cost: €60/cycle of 12 lessons. Tickets are available here.

Introduction to Woodworking with hōkō:

Learn some basic wood processing techniques by making your first project, an auxiliary stool that you will take home at the end of the class.

When: Every Saturday from 20/1 to 9/3, 09:30-11:30 & 12:00-14:00
Location: Creative Lab 2
Entry: Cost: €220/cycle of 8 lessons. Tickets are available here.

Self-Empowerment: Eu Zeen

The cycle of experiential workshops "Self Empowerment" offers a series of workshops aimed at empowering individuals. The workshops include the following topics: "Connecting with Positive Emotions," where we learn to recognize and express our positive emotions; "Living Mindfully in the Present," which helps us focus on the present; "Empathy and Active Listening," which enhances our ability to listen and empathize with others; and finally, "Enjoying Guilt-Free and You Will See Your Life Change for the Better!" where we explore how we can enjoy our lives, thus promoting a positive change in the way we experience our daily lives.

When: Every Tuesday from 5/3 to 2/4, 10:00–11:00
Location: Creative Lab 2
Entry: Free entry.

Creative Expression Workshop: Mental Health through Art

A theatrical seminar that aims at the liberation and reading of emotion. It is not for professionals, but for anyone who needs to connect with their emotions. The seminar aims to liberate our emotions through the art of theater and allow ourselves to express them safely to others.

When: Every Tuesday from 5/3 to 9/4, 20:00–21:00
Location: Creative Lab 1
Entry: Free entry, with reservations available here.

Children's Theatrical Mask Making Workshop

A theatrical mask-making workshop for children aged 7–12 by the Municipality of Athens' Migrant Integration Center. The mask has been one of the most important tools of acting and transformation since antiquity. With the help of the center's theater educator, each child will create their own mask from recyclable materials, decorate it, and take it home.

When: Wednesday, 6/3, 16:00–18:00
Location: Creative Lab 2
Entry: Free entry. Priority will be given on a first-come, first-served basis

Little Gardeners with Brushes

Spring is coming, bringing the "Little Gardeners with Brushes" to the Municipal Market of Kypseli! The beloved art workshop of the Industrial Gas Museum returns to the Market in March, celebrating the beginning of the most colorful time of the year. Children aged 3–10 grab their brushes and express their creativity by painting small ceramic pots.

When: Wednesday, 6/3, 17:30
Location: Patio
Entry: Cost: €7/child. Tickets are available here.

Plant Propagation in Water with hōkō

hōkō presents the easiest technique for plant propagation through water. Each participant will learn how to propagate a plant and take it home at the end of the session. We will also learn how to care for the cutting while it roots and, of course, how to transplant it into the soil.

When: Wednesday, 6/3 and every first Wednesday of the month until June, 18:00–19:00
Location: Creative Lab 1
Entry: Free entry, with reservations available here.

First Aid for Mental Health

Basic psychosocial skills are the most important asset for helping others feel better. In this workshop, you will learn how to use these skills to take care of yourself and support others through your contact with them. 

When: Friday, 8/3, 10:00–12:00
Location: Creative Lab 2
Entry: Free entry.

Be a Curly Hero!

Learn everything about the needs of curly hair, a taboo subject for many women with various social expressions. Sharing the knowledge and practices acquired through research and experience, the team at mycurls.gr hopes to help you become a curly hero!

When: Wednesday, 13/3, 19:00–21:00
Location: Creative Lab 1
Entry: simple participation: €15; combo participation with product set: €59.95. 

Painting Thursdays

Are you looking to find time to pursue a hobby, go for food or drinks, see your friends, and listen to music? You can do it all in just two hours a week! Every week, we will create a world full of colors and scents! Tote bags, shirts, wooden objects, canvases, jackets, hats, wallets, and much more will be our canvas each time, allowing our imagination to run wild! Of course, with wine and homemade snacks! 

When: Thursdays 14/3, 21/3, 28/3, 18:30-20:30
Location: Creative Lab 2
Entry: €20

Stores

Discover eco-friendly home decor products, sustainable honey, knowledge books, handmade toys, and unique handmade items at various shops within the market.

Explore a unique pop-up event featuring handmade jewelry by Stegi Silversmiths of Stemnitsa.

Note: All events & workshops are in Greek. 

Music, like a universal language, possesses a remarkable capacity to traverse boundaries, cultures, and linguistic barriers, intertwining its harmonies into the very essence of our collective consciousness. Yet, within some internationally acclaimed tunes lies a hidden richness of heritage, often obscured from the ears of many: their origins can be traced back to the culturally fertile grounds of Greece.

Original: If You Remember My Dream (An Thimithis To Oniro Mou) by Mikis Theodorakis

While The Beatles are renowned for their revolutionary impact on music history, few may realize that one of their early hits, "Honeymoon Song," has Greek roots. Originally composed by the legendary Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis, this enchanting melody captured the essence of romance long before it became a part of the Beatles' repertoire. The song was initially known as "If You Remember My Dream," sung in Greek by Giovanna.

Original: Don't Ask The Heavens (Min Ton Rotas Ton Ourano) by Manos Hadjidakis)

Brenda Lee's haunting ballad "All Alone Am I" carries a poignant melancholy that resonates deeply with listeners. However, its origins can be traced back to the Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis. The original Greek version, titled "Don't Ask the Heavens," was sung by actress Tzeni Karezi in the film "Island of the Brave," embodying a timeless elegance that transcends generations.

Original: Greek Kalymnian Folk Song

Dalida's captivating rendition of "Darla Dirladada" enchanted audiences with its infectious energy and rhythm. Yet, this lively tune finds its roots in the traditional music of the Greek island of Kalymnos, where it was sung for generations before finding its way into the global music scene.

4. Misirlou

Original: Egyptian Folk Song

"Misirlou," meaning "Egyptian woman" in Greek, stands as an iconic tune that has been reimagined by artists across genres and generations. While the melody originated in Egypt, it was a Greek, Tetos Dimitriadis, who recorded the first rendition of the song in New York in July 1927 under the Columbia label. This Greek version retains the essence of the original Egyptian tune, reflecting Dimitriadis's rebetiko style and precise translation from Arabic. Since then, it has captivated listeners worldwide with its hypnotic melody and pulsating rhythm. Its influence spans decades and musical styles, inspiring diverse interpretations ranging from Dick Dale's electrifying surf-rock rendition to contemporary adaptations featured in popular media like the movie "Pulp Fiction" and the Black Eyed Peas' hit "Pump It".

From fine dining to traditional wine and eateries to humble plates and comfort bites to cherish with Greek coffee, Athens is a city steeped in culinary tradition and gastronomic delights. Among the myriad dining establishments that dot its streets, some of the oldest and most beloved are the taverns that have stood the test of time, each with its own rich history and unique offerings.

These iconic establishments offer not just meals, but experiences that capture the essence of Greek cuisine and hospitality, providing visitors with a journey through time and taste.

Nestled in the heart of Athens's historic Plaka district, The Old Tavern of Psarras stands as a testament to culinary tradition and timeless charm. Established in 1898, this beloved eatery has weathered the storms of history, with its doors remaining open for 123 years. Despite facing closure during tumultuous periods, including two World Wars, The Old Tavern of Psarras has emerged as an enduring icon of Athenian dining. Housed within a beautifully preserved neoclassical building, it occupies a prime location just a stone's throw from the iconic street stairs of Mnisikleous. 

The restaurant's storied past is woven into its very fabric, with internationally renowned figures such as English author Rex Warner and literary luminary George Katsimbalis immortalizing its hospitality and culinary delights. Warner's effusive praise in his book "Views of Attica and its Surroundings" catapulted the tavern to global acclaim in the 1950s, while Katsimbalis's affectionate recollections, as seen in one of his letters to George Seferis, cemented its status as a cherished cultural landmark. Today, The Old Tavern of Psarras continues to enchant diners with its authentic Greek cuisine, offering a delectable array of traditional dishes that pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of Greece.

Location: Erotokritou 16, Athina

Telephone: 21 0321 8734

Established in 1928 by Dimitris Leloudas, originally from Kythnos, Leloudas Tavern has been a culinary cornerstone in Athens's Votanikos neighborhood for over nine decades. What began as a pantry shop for local residents and nearby workers evolved into a beloved tavern renowned for its exquisite offerings. The tavern's famed golden fried cod, served during lunch breaks, continues to garner praise, drawing patrons from all walks of life.

At Leloudas Tavern, simplicity meets excellence in every dish. Managed personally by Dimitris, the menu boasts authentic Greek cuisine, with highlights including the classic Greek salad, savory meatballs, and cheese from Kythnos island. Of course, the house specialty, fried cod with skordalia, remains a must-try, alongside other delights such as fried potatoes topped with minced meat and dry myzithra cheese. Guided by Dimitris himself, guests are treated to a culinary journey characterized by warmth, authenticity, and unwavering dedication to tradition.

Location: Salaminas 8-10, Athina

Telephone: 21 0346 4167

From its humble beginnings in the impoverished neighborhoods of 1920s Piraeus, Thanasis Vassilenas' taverna has transformed into a modern culinary gem nestled in the heart of Athens on Vrasida Street. With a century-spanning culinary legacy, Vassilenas continues to honor family recipes and inspire with its creative Greek cuisine. Utilizing premium fresh ingredients and modern cooking techniques, each dish is crafted with an unwavering commitment to perfection, reflecting the essence of our culinary philosophy.

At Vassilenas, dining is an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. The cozy and luminous space sets the stage for a culinary journey that blends tradition and innovation seamlessly. With impeccable service and a dedication to taking Greek cuisine to new heights, Vassilenas invites guests to savor the memories and flavors of the past while embracing the excitement of the future in our new central Athens location.

Location: Vrasida 13, Athina

Telephone: 21 0721 0501

4. Oinomageireio Epirus


Credit: Πάνος Χ. 
 

Located within Athens's bustling meat and fish market, Oinomageirion Epirus Est, established in 1898, is a culinary gem cherished by locals and visitors alike. Guests are drawn to its unpretentious charm and the warm hospitality of the owner and staff, who create an atmosphere that feels like home.

The food at Oinomageirion Epirus is nothing short of extraordinary, with dishes that evoke nostalgia and comfort. From the delicious chicken soup to hearty portions of flavorful proteins, each bite is a testament to the owner's culinary prowess and dedication to authenticity. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the market, diners find solace in the strangely calming ambiance of the restaurant, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in Athens. Whether you're seeking a soul-nourishing meal or simply an authentic dining experience, Oinomageirion Epirus promises to delight and satisfy even the most discerning palate.

Location: Filopimenos 4, Athina

Telephone: 21 0324 0773

Located in a 400+ year-old building, "To Kafeneio" exudes history and character from its very foundations. Once a main residence for both famous and unknown Greek figures, the establishment comprises both ground and underground floors. In its earlier days, it was divided into two parts, with the rear portion serving as a gathering place for neighborhood children and housing for chickens. Since the end of the civil war in 1947, the building has undergone various uses, yet it retains the essence of old Athens, preserving its timeless allure.

Since its acquisition in 1995, "To Kafeneio" has undergone continuous improvements to enhance both its appearance and functionality. The menu serves as a pivotal aspect of the service experience, stimulating customers' senses and setting the tone for their visit. The creation of the menu is influenced by the overall ambiance of the place, ensuring a harmonious connection between the menu and the establishment's aesthetic. Through meticulous attention to detail, "To Kafeneio" strives to create an unforgettable dining experience, where every aspect, from the menu to the ambiance, contributes to cherished memories for its guests.

Location: Epicharmou 1, Athina

Telephone: 21 0324 6916

Language is a window into the culture and soul of a nation, and Greek, with its ancient roots and rich heritage, is no exception. Within the Greek lexicon lie words that defy easy translation, encapsulating nuanced concepts and emotions that resonate deeply within the Greek psyche.

Join us as we explore 5 untranslatable Greek words, each offering a glimpse into the unique spirit of Greece.

1. Philotimo

At the heart of Greek culture lies the concept of philotimo, a word that embodies a complex blend of virtues, including honor, integrity, and a sense of duty towards others. It encompasses a deep-seated respect for oneself and others, as well as a commitment to living with honor and dignity. Philotimo is not easily defined in English, as it encompasses a unique set of values that are deeply ingrained in the Greek way of life.

2. Meraki

Meraki is a word that speaks to the soul of creativity and passion. It conveys the essence of putting one's heart and soul into everything one does, whether it be a work of art, a meal prepared with love, or a heartfelt conversation. It is the spark that ignites the creative process and infuses life with meaning and purpose.

Similar to philotimo but distinct in its own right, arete embodies the concepts of excellence and virtue. It is the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life, from personal conduct to professional endeavors. Arete is a driving force that inspires individuals to strive for greatness and to fulfill their potential.

Kefi is a word that captures the joy of living in the moment and embracing the simple pleasures of life. It is the feeling of euphoria and exhilaration that arises from music, dance, and communal celebration. Kefi is a reminder to savor life's fleeting moments and find joy in the present.

Eudaimonia encapsulates the concept of human flourishing and fulfillment. It goes beyond mere happiness and encompasses a deeper sense of well-being and contentment derived from living a virtuous and meaningful life. Eudaimonia emphasizes the pursuit of excellence, personal growth, and the cultivation of moral and intellectual virtues. It is a state of flourishing where individuals experience a profound sense of purpose, satisfaction, and harmony with themselves and the world around them.

The British newspaper "The Sun" recently paid homage to a city in Greece that, despite its charms, often flies under the radar. Contrary to popular belief, this city isn't as unknown as they might think. It's quite the opposite.

The article starts by critiquing the bustling tourist scene of the Greek islands, noting how the overcrowding during peak seasons detracts from the overall experience. However, it then sheds light on lesser-known Greek destinations that offer a tranquil escape from the crowds.

Enter Parga, a gem of a town celebrated for its serene beaches, idyllic ambiance, and absence of tourist masses. Described as "photographically perfect" by Lonely Planet, Parga exudes a unique charm that sets it apart from the mainstream tourist hubs. Conveniently accessible from two airports, it presents itself as an appealing option for travelers seeking a more authentic Greek experience.

The tribute highlights Parga's accolades, including its recognition by Salon Prive as a top alternative travel destination. Despite not being a traditional Greek island, Parga encapsulates the essence of island life, as attested by the travel agency Greeka.

The article paints a vivid picture of Parga's allure, focusing on its crown jewel, the 11th-century Venetian castle perched atop a hill overlooking the city. From its vantage point, visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas, while below, colorful houses cascade down the hillside, framing the charming harbor. Moreover, Parga boasts a plethora of pristine beaches, with Lychnos, Valtos, and Alonaki Fanariou standing out as local favorites. Notably, Alonaki Fanariou Beach earned TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Award last year, underscoring its popularity among visitors.

In essence, Parga stands as a testament to Greece's diverse and captivating landscape, offering a blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and laid-back charm that is truly unparalleled.

Originally published in Greek on: intronews.gr
Transladed by: Codico Lab

For many people, the idea of purposefully spending time alone can seem counterintuitive or even scary. However, delving into solitude is not an act of isolation but rather a "journey" to self-discovery and personal well-being. So why is spending time with yourself a valuable practice in the pursuit of a more meaningful and balanced life?

Time spent alone provides fertile ground for self-reflection. In the absence of external distractions, you can delve into your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations with greater energy. This introspective process is vital to personal growth as it allows you to understand yourself more deeply, identify areas for improvement, and begin the continuous journey to becoming the best version of yourself.

Spending time with yourself allows you to face and process your feelings without outside influences. This self-awareness contributes to the development of emotional resilience. By recognizing and understanding your emotions, you cultivate the power to face life's challenges more effectively, fostering a sense of inner balance and stability.

Solitude provides the mental space needed for creativity to flourish. When you are alone, you can explore new ideas and engage in truly innovative thinking. Additionally, quiet allows for focused problem solving as the mind can tackle challenges without external distractions, leading to more effective solutions.

A busy life often does not allow for the pursuit of personal interests. Spending time alone gives you a chance to rediscover these aspects of yourself. Whether it's engaging in a favorite hobby, exploring new interests, or simply making time for curiosity, these moments can rekindle a sense of joy and fulfillment.

In the hyper-connected world we live in, constant interaction and external stimuli can lead to mental fatigue and emotional exhaustion. Solitude often provides a respite from this sensory overload, allowing for mental rejuvenation. It becomes a critical practice for maintaining overall well-being and preventing burnout.

Being alone does not mean being lonely or uncommunicative. It can quite simply mean that someone has realized the wealth they hide within themselves and finally want to explore it more!

Originally published in Greek on: loveyourselfmagazine.com

---

Love Yourself is a comprehensive Greek media platform dedicated to embracing mindstyle as its fundamental essence. It advocates for a wholesome lifestyle that nurtures not only our soul, mind, and body but also promotes a positive and sustainable attitude towards the planet we call home. For more information, visit Love Yourself's website!