Of all the islands of Greece, the one that lies the closest to Albania and Italy is Kerkyra and it is connected by boats to both countries. From a financial perspective, the largest percentage of the inhabitants of Kerkyra work in agriculture or in tourism. They mainly cultivate olives, vines, fruit trees, potatoes and citrus fruits. Kerkyra has an important animal production as well; bee breeding and bird breeding have also been developed. With regards to industrial production there are olive oil factories, weaving factories, paper mill factories, dairy products factories, industry of pasta and ship yards. However tourism is the Prefecture most important industry and the islands of Kerkyra have become cosmopolitan travel destinations, famous all over the world.
A green rock in the middle of the sea is Kerkyra’s trademark. The legendary Podikonisi, at the entrance of the Chalkiopoulo lagoon is one of the sights you can admire but you can’t touch. As it is a natural museum, visitors are forbidden to walk and stay on its grounds so that the virgin habitat is kept intact. If you insist on visiting the island you should know that you are going to stay there just for a few minutes and under the guards’ strict monitoring. Unless you are lucky and you are in Kerkyra on the 6th of August, day of celebration for the monastery "The Transformation of the Saviour", when you can visit for adoration. It is the only day of the year that it is allowed to enter the interior of the island.
To read more, please visit kerkyrainfo.gr.
XpatAthens
Friday, 03 November 2023 07:00
The Hills Of Athens And The History Behind Them
Many cities are claimed to be built on seven hills, and Athens is no exception. Each of the seven hills of the city of Athens offers a unique feature in its geography and history. Fascinating stories unfold in every corner - or should we say - at the highest point of every hill in the historical center of the Greek capital - famous tales from Greek mythology that we can never know whether they are true or not.
Lycabettus Hill
@hi_i_am_drone
The highest of Athens’ hills, Lycabettus, rises imposingly in the center of the city and is visible from almost everywhere, offering unsurpassed views of both the city and the suburbs and, of course, the Saronic gulf.
The story of the creation of Lycabbetus Hill goes like this: Goddess Athena longed for her temple on the Acropolis to be closer to heaven. So, she took a large rock to place it on top of the Acropolis, but, while carrying it, she received some news that startled her, causing the 278-meters-high rock to fall, creating Mount Lycabettus.
Lycabettus is ancient Greek for "the Mountain of Wolves", as it is believed that it was once inhabited by wolves.
Philopappos Hill
@danchuneounni
Also known as “the Hill of the Muses”, “the Hill of the Nymphs”, or “Pnyka Hill”, Philopappos Hill is one of the three hills that serve as natural "guards" of the Acropolis. According to Mythology, Pan, the god of the wild, used to live there, along with the Nymphs, female spirits that lived in forests. The hill was also home to the nine Muses, to whom it owns one of its three alternative names.
The hill was named after Philopappos, a Syrian consul who lived in Athens, had a classical Greek education and was considered a benefactor of the city. Philopappos had, among others, many friends, such as Plutarch, who described him in his writings as an extremely generous person. His death caused great sadness to the citizens of Athens, and as a result, they built a mausoleum to honor his memory.
Acropolis Hill
Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction, not only in the Greek capital but also in the entire country, the Acropolis - the cradle of civilization - is found on the hill of the same name, in the heart of the historical center of Athens. About seven million tourists climb the Acropolis hill every year for a "journey" back to Ancient Greece and to admire the Parthenon up close.
@lookforraine
Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction, not only in the Greek capital but also in the entire country, the Acropolis - the cradle of civilization - is found on the hill of the same name, in the heart of the historical center of Athens. About seven million tourists climb the Acropolis hill every year for a "journey" back to Ancient Greece and to admire the Parthenon up close.
One of the legends connected to the Acropolis Hill is the one about Athena and Poseidon fighting over who would be the city's patron. To avoid conflict between them, Zeus intervened and organized a contest. Athena and Poseidon met where the Erechtheion stands today, and the people of Athens gathered to watch them compete against each other.
First, Poseidon revealed his gift to the city by striking his trident on the ground and producing water. Then, Athena planted a seed that immediately grew into an olive tree. The Athenians appreciated both gifts, but they already had access to plenty of water, so they chose Athena's olive tree, which was an excellent source of food and timber. Athena became the patron goddess of the city, to which she gave her name - Athena.
Areopagus Hill
@the_historian_tourist
@the_historian_tourist
The Hill of Ares or Areopagus Hill is located northwest of the Acropolis and gave its name to the Supreme Civil and Criminal Court of Greece, the Areios Pagos.
The Areopagus has a rich history, as it has been the place where some of the most important events in the history of Athens occurred.
According to one legend, Amazons, enemies of Theseus, camped on the hill and dedicated it to Ares, the god of war. Another legend has it that Ares was tried there by the other gods for the murder of Poseidon's son Alitotheus, or by the Erinyes, as at the foot of the hill, there was a sanctuary dedicated to the Erinyes, where those accused of murder took refuge, in order to not face the consequences of their actions. Thus, the hill of Ares is the site of the first murder trial.
In ancient Athens, the Areopagus Hill also housed a council of elders who had many changing roles, one of which was to judge homicide cases and other serious crimes.
Originally published in Greek on: newsbeast.gr
Originally published in Greek on: newsbeast.gr
Translated by: Codico Lab
Published in
Greek Philosophy & History
Tagged under
Monday, 22 April 2024 15:50
Unraveling Wisdom: The Origins Of 7 Greek Proverbs
The Greek language is a treasure trove of wisdom encapsulated in its vast array of proverbs. These succinct and often poetic expressions have been passed down through generations, offering insights into human nature, life's complexities, and societal values.
From ancient times to the present day, Greek proverbs have served as guides for navigating life's challenges and celebrating its joys. Let's dive into the origins of seven Greek proverbs, each offering a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Greece and the timeless wisdom embedded within its language.
1. Χαιρέτα μου τον πλάτανο (Chereta mou ton platano)
From ancient times to the present day, Greek proverbs have served as guides for navigating life's challenges and celebrating its joys. Let's dive into the origins of seven Greek proverbs, each offering a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Greece and the timeless wisdom embedded within its language.
1. Χαιρέτα μου τον πλάτανο (Chereta mou ton platano)
Literal Translation: Wave to my plane tree.
Similar English Proverb: Waving at a tree.
Used when: This phrase indicates a situation or endeavor that is doomed to fail or highly unlikely to succeed.
Originating in Athens, specifically in the shadow of the Acropolis at the "Aerides" of Plaka, this phrase dates back to the 18th century. Back then, the Turks erected Medrese, initially a seminary, which later turned into a prison under Greek rule. Within the prison's courtyard stood a haunting symbol: a mighty plane tree. Its branches bore the weight of justice, or rather, injustice, as condemned individuals, mostly the impoverished and politically oppressed, met their fate hanging from its limbs. But it wasn't just about death; it symbolized tyranny, representing the Bavarian rulers' oppression and corruption.
Upon release, former inmates would glance back at the prison cells, bidding farewell to the tree of death, hoping never to return. Thus, the phrase evolved to depict situations destined for failure due to mishandling or inherent flaws—a nod to bidding goodbye to the gallows.
2. Πίσω έχει η αχλάδα την ουρά (Piso ehei i ahlada tin oura)
Literal Translation: The pear has its tail behind.
Similar English Proverb: Still waters run deep.
Used when: This proverb suggests that someone might conceal a hidden agenda or a dark side, even though it's not immediately visible.
This saying traces its origins to the time when the Venetians dominated the seas and introduced the first transport sailboats for ferrying their troops. These boats, made of wood and of colossal size, had the shape of a pear. Often, they dragged a small boat behind them, carrying weaponry, provisions, and various war paraphernalia. Greeks dubbed these boats "pears" because of their shape.
When an unfamiliar ship appeared on the horizon, islanders (vigilantes) would anxiously climb the cliffs to observe its movements. If it was just a sailboat, their concerns were minimal, as it might continue its journey elsewhere. However, if it was a "pear," panic ensued, as they anticipated battles, sieges, famine, and death. They would hastily depart to prepare for defense. The rumor spread like wildfire: "The pear has its tail behind."
3. Μας άλλαξαν τα φώτα (Mas allaxan ta fota)
Literal Translation: They changed our lights.
Similar English Proverb: They've run me ragged.
Used when: This phrase implies that someone or something has drained us mentally or psysically, leaving us feeling exhausted or depleted.
In England's eerie past, there was a chilling practice: smugglers were hung along the coast, coated in tar and left to sway in the ocean breeze for what seemed like ages. The gallows stood tall on the cliffs, overlooking the empty beach. This grim tradition lasted until the early 19th century, with stories of three such figures hanging ominously from Dover Tower in 1822. Thieves, arsonists, and murderers met similar fates.
Across the seas, Byzantine justice harbored its own horrors. Lamp lighters, once tasked with illuminating the streets, found themselves condemned to a fate worse than darkness: their feet set ablaze, casting them as living torches. It seems there were many murderers during that era, as they lit up the Keratian Gulf for a certain period. Later, however, they were replaced with real torches. Amidst the flickering flames of punishment, whispers arose from those who yearned for justice in its most visceral form, lamenting, "They changed our lights."
4. Γιάννης πίνε, Γιάννης κερνάει
Literal Translation: John drinks, John treats.
Similar English Proverb: What John says goes.
Used when: This saying signifies that someone not only indulges in a particular activity but also assumes full responsibility for its outcomes.
Among Theodoros Kolokotronis' fierce warriors, there was one man who stood head and shoulders above the rest: Giannis Thymioulas, famed for his colossal size and strength. Standing at a towering two meters, with the strength to lift a horse with ease, Thymioulas was a force to be reckoned with. He could devour an entire lamb in one sitting, yet hunger still gnawed at him. And he loved his drink, too. But despite his voracious appetite and love for wine, he moved with surprising agility, fearlessly charging into battle where his mere presence struck terror into the hearts of his enemies. Many captains sought Kolokotronis' favor to borrow Thymioulas for their bold missions, knowing his mere presence would strike fear into the hearts of their foes.
However, there came a time when Thymioulas and five of his comrades found themselves trapped in a mountain cave, besieged by enemies for three long days. With dwindling supplies and starvation looming, Thymioulas faced an unthinkable decision. In a daring act of desperation, Thymioulas made a heroic charge out of the cave, wielding his rifle with unmatched speed and strength, sending the besiegers into a frenzy of panic and chaos. His sheer force and determination were enough to send them fleeing in terror, allowing him and his comrades to escape unscathed.
Upon his triumphant return to a nearby Greek village, Thymioulas wasted no time in celebrating his victory. He slaughtered three lambs, skewered them for a feast, and ordered a barrel of wine fit for a king. As he indulged in his well-deserved feast, he generously invited all who passed by to join in the revelry. Just as the festivities were in full swing, Theodoros Kolokotronis himself arrived, curious to learn of the commotion. "John drinks, and John treats!" declared the village headman with a knowing smile.
5. Μου έρχεται κουτί (Mou erhete kouti)
Literal Translation: It comes to me in a box.
Similar English Proverb: It fits like a glove.
Used when: This phrase indicates that a situation is absolutely ideal for someone.
To express that something suits someone perfectly, Greeks say "it comes to me in a box." In the early years of King Otto's reign, as cosmopolitan life began to take shape and the first social gatherings were organized, the issue of attire naturally arose. Skilled dressmakers and tailors were available, but primarily for crafting traditional Greek garments with their colorful and intricate embroideries and decorations. The tailors who worked according to European standards, appeared a bit later.
As expected, preferences gradually aligned with Western notions of elegance over time. Parisian dresses and London-style suits for men became the new standards for the fashion-conscious Athenians. Since Athenian seamstresses couldn't be trusted with expensive fabrics, the wealthiest individuals placed their orders in Europe. One fine morning, finely tailored clothes from Paris and London arrived, neatly packed in luxurious boxes.
Would the box arrive on time? Fortunately, everything went smoothly when Europe was punctual in delivering its offerings. For the one eagerly awaiting, "it came in a box," and those who received their attire even without a fitting were considered truly fortunate, or "of the box."
6. Κάνει την πάπια (Kanei tin papia)
Literal Translation: He's pretending to be a duck.
Similar English Proverb: Playing dumb.
Used when: This expression arises when someone feigns complete ignorance about a situation.
In the Byzantine era, the individual responsible for holding the keys to the palace was called the "papías." Over time, this title became an honorary one, given to various trusted courtiers.
Once, the papías of the palace was Ioannis Chandrinos, known for his harsh demeanor, cunning nature, and deceitfulness. Upon assuming his duties, he began to slander everyone to the emperor, becoming feared by all. When someone complained that he had wronged them, Chandrinos would feign surprise, saying, "You're my best friend! How could I speak against you to the emperor?" This duplicity became legendary in Byzantium.
That's why since then, when someone was caught lying to their company or pretending ignorance, their friends sarcastically remarked, "Are you channeling the Papías?" This phrase has survived to this day with a slight variation.
7. Ακόμα δεν τον είδανε, Γιάννη τον βαφτίσανε (Akoma den ton idane, Gianni ton vaftisane)
Literal Translation: They haven't even seen him, and they've already named him John.
Similar English Proverb: Counting your chickens before they hatch.
Used when: To highlight situations where decisions are made hastily or without proper consideration.
This proverb originates from a humorous tale involving Angelakis Nikitaras and Theodoros Kolokotronis. Nikitaras, eager for Kolokotronis to baptize his unborn child, decided to name the child Giannis However, Nikitaras falsely claimed that the child was due soon, assuming Kolokotronis wouldn't make it in time due to his military engagements. Despite Nikitaras' insistence, Kolokotronis couldn't attend the baptism immediately.
When Kolokotronis eventually visited Nikitaras, he discovered that Nikitaras' wife was still pregnant. Amused by the premature naming and Nikitaras' exaggeration, Kolokotronis jokingly exclaimed, "They haven't even seen him, and they've already named him John!"
Published in
Greek Language & Culture
Tagged under
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 13:13
Kerkyra Island - Podikonisi
Kerkyra, also known as Corfu, is located on the Heptanese and is the biggest Prefecture of the Ionian Islands region in terms of population. The extension of its area is 641 square kilometers and it has a population of 107,592 inhabitants. It is constituted by Kerkyra, the second largest island of the Ionian sea after Cephalonia, and by the small islands Othoni, Mathraki, Erikoosa and the group of the Paxi – Antipaxi islands.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Friday, 20 February 2015 15:06
Ekmek (Byzantine Dessert With Fresh Cream)
This dessert consists of three layers. The first layer is a spongy cake with a sweet syrup, the second layer is a custard pastry cream that has been lightened with whipped cream and finished with a generous layer of whipped cream that has been whipped and flavored with vanilla. Finally topped with toasted slivered almonds.
SPONGE CAKE
4 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 cup flour
Pinch of salt
4 tbs melted butter
CUSTARD CREAM
2 cups whole milk
½ cup sugar
¼ cup flour
2 eggs
3 Tbs butter
½ tsp vanilla
1 cup fresh whipping cream
FRESH WHIPPED CREAM
2 cups fresh whipping cream
½ tsp vanilla
½ cup slivered and toasted almonds
In a mixer whisk on the highest speed four eggs with one cup of sugar until frothy and pale in color. Remove from mixer and fold in the flour with a shifter. Take turns in mixing melted butter and sifts of flour so that you uniformly combine the ingredients. Do not over mix. You need all the air and bubbles.
Put in a rectangular cookie sheet on top greased baking paper. Bake in a 350 preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove and allow to cool. When cooled down, wet with a light simple syrup.
To make the syrup put in a sauce pan 1 cup of sugar with ½ cup water. Allow to simmer for 4-5 minutes.
Now proceed with making the pastry cream.
In a large mixing bowl we whisk the eggs with sugar and flour. In a sauce pan we heat the milk slightly and pour the above paste (eggs, sugar, flour) into the sauce pan with the milk. We return the cream to the heat and whisking constantly on medium heat the cream will thicken. Then we add the butter and vanilla. We mix to incorporate and remove from the heat. Set aside and allow to cool down.
In the mean time whip all three cups of the cream with 1 TBS sugar and vanilla until stiff. Take one cup of the cream and slowly with careful motions incorporate into the pastry cream. Cover and put in the fridge for ½ hour.
Now you are ready to assemble the dessert. It sounds like a lot of work but after you make it once and you know the steps it is really easy.
Choose a nice large platter with agreeable shape of your sponge cake. Place the sponge cake in the dish. Spread the cooled-down pastry cream. Finish with the whipped cream on top and toasted almonds. Place the dessert in the fridge and allow to cool down for a couple of hours before serving.
By Eleni Melirrytou
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Friday, 06 March 2015 12:22
Significant Gains For Athens Stock Exchange Tuesday
The Athens Stock Exchange has opened with significant gains on Tuesday, with the general price index standing at 920.81 points at 15:07 on Tuesday, up by 7.80%. The banking sector alone is up by 11.52%.
Additionally, transactions are currently valued at 155.18 million euros, while the yield of the ten-year bond has dropped to 8.86%, the three-year bond to 13.30% and the five-year bond to 14.22%.
To read more, please visit tovima.gr/en
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Monday, 08 July 2024 07:00
Open Air Cinemas In Athens
Nothing defines Greek summer as much as open-air cinemas do; in fact, almost every Athenian neighborhood has an outdoor cinema, or 'therinos' as they are called in Greek.
Some summer cinemas in Athens offer extraordinary views of the Acropolis; others are surrounded by fragrant gardens that fill the air with the sweet scent of jasmine and orange blossoms while others are right next to the sea.
The decades-old tradition of open-air cinemas is still alive and kicking, in fact, there are more than 60 outdoor cinemas in the Attica region alone. Open-air cinemas are a great summer outing for the young and old alike; there you'll sip on an ice-cold beer, enjoy an ice cream or snack and smoke a cigarette without being told off.
Interesting Facts
- Movies are not dubbed and will be subtitled in Greek
- There are usually two movie screenings, one at 21:00 and another at 23:00
- It's best to purchase your tickets ~20 minutes ahead of time to avoid a long queue
- Seats at open-air cinemas are not numbered, you can sit wherever you like
- Most cinemas have a bar where you can order snacks and drinks
- Most cinemas have intermissions
Iconic Open-Air Cinemas in Athens
Cine Paris
@cineparis.athens
Founded in 1920 in the heart of Plaka, this iconic cinema has reopened after 4 years of restoration and offers an enchanting rooftop cinema experience with stunning views of the Acropolis.
Why We Like It: For its rich history, captivating ambiance, and the perfect blend of cinema and breathtaking scenery.
Address: Kidathineon 22, Athina
Telephone: 21 0325 2996
Cine Thission
@heleniflessas
This historic cinema was established in 1935 and has been in operation ever since. Much like Cine Paris it offers excellent views of the Acropolis.
Why We Like It: For homemade snacks and carefully selected drinks that are served at the bar.
Address: 7 Apostolou Pavlou, Thission
Telephone: 210 34 20 864
Cine Dexameni
@apozagkos
A favorite among locals, this cinema is located in the upscale area of Kolonaki and has been in operation for many years.
Why We Like It: After the screening, you can enjoy a nightcap in one of the area's high-end bars.
Address: Platia Dexamenis, Kolonaki
Telephone: 210 36 23 942
Cine Aegli
@youflycom
Cine Aegli
@youflycom
Located inside the historic Zappion Garden, Aegli is the oldest summer cinema in Athens and has been in operation since 1903.
Why We Like It: Its old-world charm, verdant garden, and delicious snacks.
Address: Zappio Garden (entrance from Vas. Olgas Avenue)
Telephone: 210 33 69 300 (ext. 5)
Published in
City Discovery
Tagged under
Monday, 29 June 2015 07:00
New Signs Make Athens Walking Experience Easier
City activist group atenistas are placing signs throughout the historic center of Athens in efforts to make walking the Greek capital easier for residents and travelers.
Under the motto: “WalkAthens!”, the signs have initially been placed in 15 key points across the city center, including at the Archaeological Museum, Omonoia, Syntagma, Monastiraki, Thissio, Psiri and Vathi squares.
The green signs feature directions to six surrounding locations in Greek and English, bearing a directional arrow and the estimated walking timeas well as info on nearby metro stations.
To read more, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Monday, 13 June 2016 07:00
Metropolitan Cathedral Of Athens To Be Revealed In July
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens will reopen its gates on 2 July after several years of restoration. The restoration project, which was affected by earthquakes and stalled the project, will include an installation of external lighting to bring out the Cathedral’s best features.
The installment of external lighting was the last project left before the completion of the Cathedral’s restoration, static enforcement, and conservation of decoration.
The head of the Technical Service of the Archbishop of Athens, Theodoros Chamalis, said the sanctification of the restored church will take place on 2 July, with a Holy Mass taking place on 3 July, which will be the first mass in seven years.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Sunday, 12 November 2017 12:42
October 10 - News & Local Life
Find out which city was voted as the 'Best City In Greece', discover the best parks to take your kids to and fly from Athens with new International flights by Air Mediterranean!
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Remember to stay connected with us through our weekly newsletter, Facebook, and Twitter!
Published in
Newsletters
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