XpatAthens
Friday, 17 March 2023 16:06
8 Ways To Feel Like A Local In Athens
The monumental side of Athens comes at you like fireworks frozen in time, but if showstoppers like the Acropolis dazzle the first-time visitor, they also form part of the daily tapestry of life for regular Athenians. Tuning into the local rhythms is not necessarily an exercise in what's 'Instagrammable'. Rather, as a resident observer of this pulsing city, I’ve found that some of the best things about Athens are those little backstage sights and sounds that add up to an urban experience that can border on the theatrical. A tangible modern energy mixes with ancient allure, and despite some disruptions caused by the recent lockdowns, life goes on in a modified Athenian style. Here’s how to claim some of that celebrated Athens groove for yourself and feel more like a local (though you might have to be patient for just a little while longer to experience a couple of these suggestions):
Stroll Through Mets To Pangrati
Mets is one of the quietest central Athens neighbourhoods—and not just because it's home to the historic First Cemetery of Athens (where you’ll find the elaborate tomb of Heinrich Schliemann, the archaeologist who excavated ancient Troy). The streets here are an alluring jumble of townhouses in pastel shades with abundant pink bougainvillea flowers fluttering about. Some of the side roads, like Nikiforou Theotoki and Klitomachou, seem to leap right off of a 'Welcome to Athens" movie screen. Wander over to Varnava Square, where Mets flows into the bohemian heart of Pangrati. The little oval-shaped square is lined with traditional restaurants and hipster cafes--grab a takeaway coffee from Oliver Nuts & Flavours (20 Empedokelous) and take in the scene, even if it's somewhat more subdued right now.
Go To The Same Bakery Three Days In A Row
At the time of the first lockdown in spring 2020, I was heartened to see bakeries listed as essential businesses. The fournos, or bakery, is indeed an indispensable ingredient of Athenian life. Nearly every fournos sells the same staples but many have specialty items too, and some are quite posh—especially in upscale neighbourhoods like Kolonaki. Find one that you like and go there a few mornings in a row. After around the third day, they will likely start to recognise you and maybe even offer you a sample of that morning's fresh baked specialty. My current faves are Queen Bee at 45 Patriarchou Ioakim in Kolonaki (for the almond croissants), Afrato at 13 Evridamantos in Neos Kosmos (best cinnamon buns in town) and, slightly further afield in Ano Glyfada, Special Cakes (168 Dim. Gounari) for a whimsical atmosphere and heavenly layer cakes.
Take A Walk On The Fancy Side
New York has Park Avenue. Athens has Irodou Attikou Street - which is much shorter, but packs in more pomp and circumstance as the home of both the Presidential Palace and Maximou Mansion, official seat of the Greek Prime Minister. Tucked between Vassilis Sofias Avenue (on the north) and Vasileos Konstantinou and the Panathenaic Stadium on the south, the street straddles the National Garden and at all hours of the day or night, you'll clock Evzones dutifully standing guard at their posts along the street.
Go Higher Than The Acropolis
On most fair weathered weekends, many Athenians make a dash for Mount Ymittos. At 1,026 metres, this popular green escape is about seven times taller than the Acropolis. The ridge, which they call Trellos (the "crazy mountain"), forms the long eastern spine of the Attica basin and actually supplied fountains with drinking water in ancient Athens. Today there are hiking trails galore, but it's even worth commandeering a taxi if you have to, for your dose of sylvan splendour and the mesmerizing views of city and sea.
Swap Plaka For Mitropoleos Street
Most visitors make a beeline for the sinuous lanes of charming Plaka and rightly so. But as you’d expect, it's not where Athenians go to shop. For a more native retail experience, head one block south of bustling Ermou Street - the pedestrianized retail artery of global and Greek brands stretching from Syntagma Square - to the quieter and prettier Mitropoleos Street. This slender street is home to the impressive Metropolitan Church of Athens with its pretty plaza and is also packed with interesting one-off shops. There’s Dangerous Minds, where you can pick up cool street-rooted labels , Greek gourmet hotspot, the Ergon House food hotel; plus the "secret" back entrance to Hondos Center, the Greek emporium where locals go to stock up on their beauty and grooming staples (the main entrance is on Ermou).
Get A Greek Haircut
Speaking of… Athenians are obsessed with good grooming and it sometimes seems like there are more barbershops and hair salons in Athens than there are Athenians. Getting your locks styled or bangs trimmed is arguably as much a social exercise as an aesthetic one in the Greek capital. Of course, these days, you need to make an appointment in advance, but go on and give it a try. I can't speak for the ladies, but for a great gent's cut I'm partial to Music Barber Shop in Pangrati (21 Eratosthenous).
Potter About The Pnyx
The Pnyx hill is the storied place where ancient Athenians gathered for their ekklesia, the early democratic assemblies, and the ruins of the big carved steps and stone speakers' platform are still there. With the Parthenon in the background, this forested spot is truly beautiful – especially at sunset - but still tends to be better known among locals than visitors who generally flock to Philopappou instead.
Go to Piraeus—But Skip The Ferry
You may know Piraeus as the hectic port of Athens and the place where you go for that mad dash to the ferry, but did you know you can also get some of that Aegean island flavour without so much as stepping foot on a boat? Sunny weekend days and summer evenings after work see Athenians sidling up to breezy cafes and tavernas to enjoy fresh seafood by the water's edge in the atmospheric Piraeus 'hood of Mikrolimano. This poetic round harbour is just a short taxi ride from the center of Athens. Behind it, Kastella hill affords stunning views of the Saronic Gulf from the top. Or venture to elegant Zea Marina. There, on the south side of this horseshoe-shaped harbour, the yachts come in all shapes, sizes and colours: Greek sea daydreaming guaranteed.
This content was originally published on This is Athens
Written by: Anthony Grant
Photo Credit: Thomas Gravanis
Whether you’ve just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share! This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Stroll Through Mets To Pangrati
Mets is one of the quietest central Athens neighbourhoods—and not just because it's home to the historic First Cemetery of Athens (where you’ll find the elaborate tomb of Heinrich Schliemann, the archaeologist who excavated ancient Troy). The streets here are an alluring jumble of townhouses in pastel shades with abundant pink bougainvillea flowers fluttering about. Some of the side roads, like Nikiforou Theotoki and Klitomachou, seem to leap right off of a 'Welcome to Athens" movie screen. Wander over to Varnava Square, where Mets flows into the bohemian heart of Pangrati. The little oval-shaped square is lined with traditional restaurants and hipster cafes--grab a takeaway coffee from Oliver Nuts & Flavours (20 Empedokelous) and take in the scene, even if it's somewhat more subdued right now.
Go To The Same Bakery Three Days In A Row
At the time of the first lockdown in spring 2020, I was heartened to see bakeries listed as essential businesses. The fournos, or bakery, is indeed an indispensable ingredient of Athenian life. Nearly every fournos sells the same staples but many have specialty items too, and some are quite posh—especially in upscale neighbourhoods like Kolonaki. Find one that you like and go there a few mornings in a row. After around the third day, they will likely start to recognise you and maybe even offer you a sample of that morning's fresh baked specialty. My current faves are Queen Bee at 45 Patriarchou Ioakim in Kolonaki (for the almond croissants), Afrato at 13 Evridamantos in Neos Kosmos (best cinnamon buns in town) and, slightly further afield in Ano Glyfada, Special Cakes (168 Dim. Gounari) for a whimsical atmosphere and heavenly layer cakes.
Take A Walk On The Fancy Side
New York has Park Avenue. Athens has Irodou Attikou Street - which is much shorter, but packs in more pomp and circumstance as the home of both the Presidential Palace and Maximou Mansion, official seat of the Greek Prime Minister. Tucked between Vassilis Sofias Avenue (on the north) and Vasileos Konstantinou and the Panathenaic Stadium on the south, the street straddles the National Garden and at all hours of the day or night, you'll clock Evzones dutifully standing guard at their posts along the street.
Go Higher Than The Acropolis
On most fair weathered weekends, many Athenians make a dash for Mount Ymittos. At 1,026 metres, this popular green escape is about seven times taller than the Acropolis. The ridge, which they call Trellos (the "crazy mountain"), forms the long eastern spine of the Attica basin and actually supplied fountains with drinking water in ancient Athens. Today there are hiking trails galore, but it's even worth commandeering a taxi if you have to, for your dose of sylvan splendour and the mesmerizing views of city and sea.
Swap Plaka For Mitropoleos Street
Most visitors make a beeline for the sinuous lanes of charming Plaka and rightly so. But as you’d expect, it's not where Athenians go to shop. For a more native retail experience, head one block south of bustling Ermou Street - the pedestrianized retail artery of global and Greek brands stretching from Syntagma Square - to the quieter and prettier Mitropoleos Street. This slender street is home to the impressive Metropolitan Church of Athens with its pretty plaza and is also packed with interesting one-off shops. There’s Dangerous Minds, where you can pick up cool street-rooted labels , Greek gourmet hotspot, the Ergon House food hotel; plus the "secret" back entrance to Hondos Center, the Greek emporium where locals go to stock up on their beauty and grooming staples (the main entrance is on Ermou).
Get A Greek Haircut
Speaking of… Athenians are obsessed with good grooming and it sometimes seems like there are more barbershops and hair salons in Athens than there are Athenians. Getting your locks styled or bangs trimmed is arguably as much a social exercise as an aesthetic one in the Greek capital. Of course, these days, you need to make an appointment in advance, but go on and give it a try. I can't speak for the ladies, but for a great gent's cut I'm partial to Music Barber Shop in Pangrati (21 Eratosthenous).
Potter About The Pnyx
The Pnyx hill is the storied place where ancient Athenians gathered for their ekklesia, the early democratic assemblies, and the ruins of the big carved steps and stone speakers' platform are still there. With the Parthenon in the background, this forested spot is truly beautiful – especially at sunset - but still tends to be better known among locals than visitors who generally flock to Philopappou instead.
Go to Piraeus—But Skip The Ferry
You may know Piraeus as the hectic port of Athens and the place where you go for that mad dash to the ferry, but did you know you can also get some of that Aegean island flavour without so much as stepping foot on a boat? Sunny weekend days and summer evenings after work see Athenians sidling up to breezy cafes and tavernas to enjoy fresh seafood by the water's edge in the atmospheric Piraeus 'hood of Mikrolimano. This poetic round harbour is just a short taxi ride from the center of Athens. Behind it, Kastella hill affords stunning views of the Saronic Gulf from the top. Or venture to elegant Zea Marina. There, on the south side of this horseshoe-shaped harbour, the yachts come in all shapes, sizes and colours: Greek sea daydreaming guaranteed.
This content was originally published on This is Athens
Written by: Anthony Grant
Photo Credit: Thomas Gravanis
Whether you’ve just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share! This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Monday, 28 June 2021 07:40
How To Have A Relaxing Day At The Beach With Kids
I am definitely not the only parent who wants to have a little peace when going to the beach. I want to enjoy the water and relax on a sunbed afterwards, read my book, maybe even take an occasional nap. What do you think mums and dads? Would you say it is too much to ask? I would argue it is not but I would also add that your child’s age plays a key role. If your child is young they might want you to play with them, to build castles, to hug. When they get older they become more independent and you have more time to yourself.
But regardless of the age of the child, I would encourage them to speak calmly and not shout. I would lovingly help them to learn to respect themselves and those around them. “How do I do this?” you may ask. Well, by being the example; the positive example. If you sit on your sunbed and shout “George,” “Maria,” “Bill, get out of the water now! Do you hear me? Don’t make me come over there!” just think if this is the example you want to give to your child. If you shout at them from afar, whether to come eat their fruit or toast or to get out of the water and under the shade, your child will not pay attention to you as they know you will keep on shouting. And only when you do get up from your chair will they begin to understand that maybe you meant what you were saying.
One might point out that long beaches are too crowded and so they are noisy anyway. I agree but I don’t see the reason to add to the noise pollution. We can respect the people around us and still have a good time. Let each and every one of us set the example for our children and let’s remember that education starts at home!
Originally published on: itsmylife.gr
If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!
Originally published on: itsmylife.gr
If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!
Published in
Parenting
Tagged under
Tuesday, 07 December 2021 07:00
Delicious Hot Chocolate
Nothing says Christmas like a steaming cup of delicious hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows!
Add a fireplace, some cute Christmassy pajamas, and a bit of Mariah Carey and you've got yourself the perfect festive night.
Ingredients
- 480g soy milk
- 2 - 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 50g chocolate couverture, finely chopped
To serve
- whipped cream
- marshmallows
- chocolate couverture, melted
- hazelnut chocolate spread, grated
Execution Method
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Pour half of it into a mug. Set aside and keep warm.
- Add the sugar and cocoa powder to the remaining milk in the saucepan.
- Heat until it comes to a boil while whisking continuously.
- Lower heat and cook the mixture for another 2 minutes, until the sugar and cocoa powder have melted and are completely incorporated.
- Remove from heat. Add the chocolate and stir until it melts.
- Add the rest of the milk and stir until completely combined.
- Serve with whipped cream, marshmallows, melted chocolate, and sprinkle with grated chocolate.
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Thursday, 20 October 2022 07:00
4 Of Our Favorite Bakeries In The City Center
Greece’s gastronomic culture is one of the most celebrated in the world and is a reason why millions of tourists visit the country every year. And, although most are eager to try feta, gyros, or tzatziki, the Greeks’ love for pastry and baked goods doesn’t go unnoticed by fellow travelers.
From village (choriatiko) bread to filo-based sweet and savory pastries like bougatsa or spanakopita and sponge cakes soaked in syrup like revani, Greece has a long history of baking that goes back to ancient times.
Here’s a small list of our favorite bakeries in the heart of Athens to get a taste of authentic Greek baked delicacies and kickstart your day most deliciously!
Tromero Paidi
@tromeropaidi
@tromeropaidi
This French-inspired artisan bakery and patisserie is housed in an old neoclassical house in Ilisia and features a combination of elegant aesthetics and high-quality products. There, you will find about 8–10 different varieties of bread every day, each baked on the spot using 100% Greek grains. Not to mention the delicious desserts, like lemon tarts and honey cakes, that you won’t be able to say no to!
Address: Papadiamantopoulou 30, Athina
Telephone: 210 777 7537
Betty’s Bakery
bettysbakery.gr
Located in Gazi, Betty’s Bakery is all about reviving real bread, as their motto goes. Whether you’re looking for handmade and organic bread or you're into fitness and super bread, there’s no other place to go. The bakery offers eleven different bread options, such as the carob and walnut loaf and the wheat loaf with thyme and olive oil, to mention but a few, each of which is mouthwatering and made from flour free of additives and preservatives.
Address: Kassandras 10, Athina
Telephone: 210 342 4832
Kora Bakery
@korabakery
Located in Kolonaki, Kora Bakery offers the highest quality of goods while respecting the environment and leaving a positive social footprint. The bread, made with Greek and Italian flours, is naturally kneaded and cured for about 20 hours, a process that helps it become tastier, more nutritious, and more digestible. Except for quality bread, the bakery also sells a creative and flavorsome range of pastries!
Address: Panagiotou Anagnostopoulou 44, Athina
Telephone: 210 362 7855
Takis Bakery
@fournostakis
@fournostakis
In the shadow of the Acropolis stands Takis Bakery, offering traditional bread and yummy pastries for three generations. More than 30 types of bread are baked daily, from dense sourdough to focaccias, crunchy baguettes to koulouri. You will also find delightful muffins, cookies, and pies, all made with quality ingredients.
Address: Misaraliotou 14, Athina
Telephone: 210 923 0052
Published in
City Discovery
Tagged under
Friday, 28 July 2023 20:24
More than 2.500 athletes from 35 countries & 5 continents at Zagori Mountain Running 2023
For the 12th year, the Region of Epirus and the Municipality of Zagori hosted the biggest mountain running race in Greece and one of the top in Europe, which is an initiative of My Adventure, on July 21-23, 2023. Stone-built villages, traditional bridges, unique sights such as the imposing Vikos Gorge, Skala Vradetou, the Voidomatis River, the protected area of the natural wealth of the Vikos-Aoos National Park as well as the region’s rich biodiversity, created the ideal setting for this year’s Zagori Mountain Running. Participants had to encounter the high temperatures of the three days and the new challenges of the modified, for this purpose, routes and starting times.
More than 2,500 young and old athletes and more than 10,000 visitors found themselves in Zagori. They lived this unique celebration of mountain sports tourism, shared unprecedented experiences, and created memories for a lifetime in the place beyond the mountain. The athletes who took part were from 35 countries and 5 continents, such as U.S.A., Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, Morocco, Djibouti, Pakistan, Lebanon, Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Northern Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, Russia, Estonia, Ukraine, Austria, Malta, Serbia, Slovakia, Lithuania, Israel, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Cyprus, North Macedonia, and Greece.
New TeRA 60km race & the ultimate 44+km marathon
On Saturday, 22 July, the first race started at 04:30 in the morning from the manorial village of Tsepelovo, with the modified, due to the high temperatures, TeRA 60km race offering countless joys and thrills to the participants. In the men’s category, Fifth Element athlete Alexandros Tzoumakas finished first with a time of 6:34’:43’’, Evangelos Noulas was second with 6:37’:43’ and Charalambos Kalaboukas finished third with 6:45’:16’’.
In the women’s category, the Austrian Sophia Schnabl finished first with a time of 8:08’:07’’, Niki Zioga was second with 8:16’:51’’ and Nikoleta Tzavara of The North Face was third with 8:42’:43’’.
See all TeRA results here.
The top mountain running event of the summer continued with the Marathon+ 44km taking place at Voidomatis Springs, Megalo Papigo, and Astrakas Refuge. In the men’s category, Dimitrios Eleftheriou finished first with a time of 4:43’:36’’, Vassilis Balamotis was second with 4:46’:29’’ and Konstantinos Giannopoulos was third with 4:53’:36’’.
In the women’s category, the Olympic rowing bronze medalist Christina Giazitzidou finished first with a time of 5:21’:52’’, Georgia Kanouta was second with 6:34’:25’’, and Irini Gioti finished third with 6:49’:54’’.
See all Marathon+ 44km results here.
Thousands of participants in the 21km & 10km at the “place beyond the mountain”
On Sunday, July 23, the competitive and more massive mountain routes were held. The Half Marathon 21km started from Tsepelovo, with the athletes running to the Tymfi mountain complex and passing from the Kipoi village, the three-arched bridge, the Kokkoros bridge, and Koukouli village. In the men’s category, Emmanuel Pourikas finished first with a time of 1:49’:02’’, which was also an event record, Nikos Ponireas was second with 1:52’:14’ and the French Laurent Vicente finished third with 1:55’:49’’.
In the women’s category, Lemonia Panagiotou finished first with a time of 2:23’:49’’, Chrysanthi Sfakianaki was second with 2:42’:28’’ and the Serbian Tijana Panic was third with 2:44':17''.
See all Half Marathon 21km results here.
The Entry Race 10km took place afterward, with participants swarming about the route, facing the unique view of the Vikos Gorge and passing through the Skala Tsepelovo. In the men’s category, George Kalapodis finished first with a time of 0:44’:22’, George Dimoulas of The North Face was second with 0:44’:42’’ and Stavros Ginis finished third with 0:44’:57’’.
In the women’s category, Stavroula Papadopoulou finished first with a time of 1:00’:48’’, Evangelia Gialamatzi was second with 1:01’:08’’ and Thalia Zoi finished third with 1:01’:12’’.
See all Entry Race 10km results here.
Hundreds of children in the ZAGORAKI race
On Saturday afternoon, Tsepelovo was filled with smiles, children’s voices, and families who introduced their children to sports. The children’s ZAGORAKI Race by ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water brought together more than 300 children, 3 to 12 years old, who ran the 1km distance with their favorite water as their ally in hydration! The children were warmed up by the fitness trainer Emmi Siouzou with a pleasant dynamic exercise program with music. At the end of the ZAGORAKI Race, 3 gifts for outdoor activities were raffled off to 3 lucky little runners while all the children enjoyed non-carbonated GREEN orangeades. As part of the children’s race, 3 children’s books “Trechontas o Teri egine xefteri” by Leftheris Plakidas, and 1 book, “Swimming beyond the limits” by the ultra-swimmer Spyros Chrysikopoulos, were also raffled.
ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water is the absolute hydration sponsor for athletes and visitors
ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water supports sports and fair play as an ally and helper of Greece’s biggest mountain running race, the Zagori Mountain Running. The event’s Grand Sponsor offered all athletes the necessary hydration and rejuvenation. Throughout these challenging races, runners drank the ZAGORI Athletic Natural Mineral Water, while at the finish, they had the opportunity to enjoy GREEN COLA and GREEN orangeade. Of course, all the visitors enjoyed this celebration of sports with cool ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water and delicious iced GREEN COLA and GREEN orangeade.
ZAGORI Mountain Running race is an integral part of the society and culture of Zagorochoria. Of the “place beyond the mountain”, that offers the ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water. Because in this place, we call water ZAGORI!
Innovative products and activities from The North Face
The top outdoor clothing & gear company, The North Face, participated for another year as a Grand Sponsor. As a premium outdoor brand, The North Face offered a unique experience to all athletes who encountered the challenges of the races. More specifically, the athletes who completed the TeRA and Marathon+ 44km races received unique gifts from the company, which reminded them of the incredible adventure they faced and completed. The North Face, which has supported the event since its beginning, is known for the quality and credibility of its outdoor products. People had the opportunity to visit The North Face’s iconic 2-Meter Dome tent while the company’s booth showcased its pinnacle Summit Series trail running collection, both in clothing and footwear. In collaboration with the brand ambassador George Dimoulas, trail runner and mural artist, he created live a big mural on the theme of The North Face’s motto “NEVER STOP EXPLORING” and the preservation of the wealth of nature as a legacy for the next generation. Finally, the company allowed the little explorers to test their capabilities for one more year and have fun safely on its climbing wall.
Race support from Fifth Element’s flagship store
Since the event’s first year, Fifth Element, the fully specialized store of sports activities, has been the race’s Grand Sponsor. This year, Fifth Element gave away a -10% off coupon valid on all their new products with every race registration. The company actively contributes to the protection of nature, concerning the environment, strengthening the work of the Vikos - Aoos National Park and allocating part of its income for this purpose. At the same time, this year’s collectible Buff®, with its unique design, was dedicated to the rich and rare flora of Zagori and was available for purchase from Fifth Element’s online and physical store.
In the context of this year’s Zagori Mountain Running, the owner of My Adventure and Fifth Element and race’s organizer, Mr. Vassilis Tzoumakas, stated: “I feel proud of this great event that we had despite the adverse conditions and high temperatures we faced, as we adapted immediately with the safety of our athletes in mind. We saw thousands of participants and visitors full of smiles, which is our biggest reward. I would like to thank the Region of Epirus, the Municipality of Zagori, all the sponsors who stood by us from the very beginning, as well as all our partners and above all our hundreds of volunteers. We continue even stronger for the 13th year of Zagori Mountain Running on July 19-21, 2024”.
The event supported Make-A-Wish Greece
The organization of Zagori Mountain Running supported Make-A-Wish this year to fulfill the wishes of children with serious illnesses. In particular, the event’s collective wristband was offered for purchase to participants and visitors, and all proceeds were allocated for the active support of the vital work of Make-A-Wish Greece.
Unique Prizes for the Nature of Zagori
This year, the prizes for the Zagori Mountain Running 2023 winners were handmade clay sculptures, crafted with love and artistry by the artist Renevi Polonyfi, of the School of Fine Arts of the University of Ioannina. These unique works of art were truly special and represented the natural beauty of the Zagori region. The theme chosen by the sculptor for the prizes was the “birth of the flower,” which perfectly aligns with the race’s philosophy and the prevailing atmosphere of this year’s event.
Full Support by the Sponsors
ZAGORI Natural Mineral Water, The North Face, and Fifth Element were the event’s Grand Sponsors.
JEEP AUTOLINEA Ioannina was the Sponsor.
NOMAD Premium Greek Honey, Melissa, Costa Coffee, Neversecond, Tailwind, Ready, Anthrax, Dole, Green Cola, Myelements, Dodoni, Ifantis, Igloo, Comodo, Ostracon, Astrakas Mountain Refuge were the Official Supporters.
Zagori Mountain Running was organized by My Adventure with Co-organizers the Region of Epirus and the Municipality of Zagori.
Institutional Supporters were the Northern Pindos National Park and the Vikos-Aoos Geopark.
The event was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism.
Critical was the support offered by the Volunteers Samaritans Corp of the Regional Department of Hellenic Red Cross of Ioannina, the Cultural Association of Tsepelovo “Anastasios Tsouflis,” and all the volunteers who helped during the races on the routes, at the aid stations and the finish.
#zagorirace2023 #zagorimountainrunning #zmr2023 #theplacebeyondthemountain
Photo from the start of the ZAGORAKI Race for children (photo by Zagori Mountain Running)
Photo from the start of the ZAGORAKI Race for children (photo by Zagori Mountain Running)
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Thursday, 27 June 2024 23:13
The New Excavation Museum: A Journey Through Time Beneath The Acropolis
A significant addition to the world of museums opened its doors yesterday, Wednesday, June 26, 2024 both to Greek citizens and international visitors. Nestled beneath the renowned Acropolis Museum, this new exhibit space, the Excavation Museum, showcases a fascinating collection of 1,150 artifacts. These objects, unearthed during the extensive excavations conducted for the construction of the Acropolis Museum and the Athens Metro "Acropolis" station, bear witness to over 4,500 years of human history.
The grand opening of the Excavation Museum was celebrated on Tuesday, June 25, presided over by Her Excellency, the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou. This new museum offers a unique perspective on the past, presenting artifacts in a way that connects visitors directly with the lives of ancient inhabitants.
A Walk Through History
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a striking display: 1,150 artifacts arranged in a 35-meter-long showcase. This exhibit resembles a luminous fissure in time, a crack in the spatial continuum that represents the latest layer above the archaeological strata visible around you. The items on display span various periods, each telling a story of the people who lived, worked, and worshipped in this historic area. Memories of Destruction and Revival The journey continues with a section dedicated to the memories of Athens' destruction by Sulla in 86 BC. This part of the exhibit poignantly captures the city's resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.
The Pantheon of Gods & Philosophers
The museum culminates in an enclosed hall, adorned with statues and reliefs of gods and mortals. Here, visitors can marvel at representations of Athena, Artemis, Cybele, Aphrodite, and Asclepius—deities who were central to the lives of Athenians, invoked for the protection of the city, the health and growth of children, love, and the healing of human suffering. In addition to these divine figures, the hall features portraits of renowned philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, as well as a likeness of Empress Eudocia, bridging the ancient and the more recent past.
The grand opening of the Excavation Museum was celebrated on Tuesday, June 25, presided over by Her Excellency, the President of the Hellenic Republic, Katerina Sakellaropoulou. This new museum offers a unique perspective on the past, presenting artifacts in a way that connects visitors directly with the lives of ancient inhabitants.
A Walk Through History
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a striking display: 1,150 artifacts arranged in a 35-meter-long showcase. This exhibit resembles a luminous fissure in time, a crack in the spatial continuum that represents the latest layer above the archaeological strata visible around you. The items on display span various periods, each telling a story of the people who lived, worked, and worshipped in this historic area. Memories of Destruction and Revival The journey continues with a section dedicated to the memories of Athens' destruction by Sulla in 86 BC. This part of the exhibit poignantly captures the city's resilience and the enduring spirit of its people.
The Pantheon of Gods & Philosophers
The museum culminates in an enclosed hall, adorned with statues and reliefs of gods and mortals. Here, visitors can marvel at representations of Athena, Artemis, Cybele, Aphrodite, and Asclepius—deities who were central to the lives of Athenians, invoked for the protection of the city, the health and growth of children, love, and the healing of human suffering. In addition to these divine figures, the hall features portraits of renowned philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, as well as a likeness of Empress Eudocia, bridging the ancient and the more recent past.
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Local News
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Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:19
My Week in Athens… Sep 20
As it turns out, there is a zoo in Athens! Well, just outside Athens towards the airport - in Spata, to be precise. Maybe I'm the last to know this - it wouldn't be the first time.
The Attica Zoological Park has been growing and adding to its surprising collection of animals since 2000. With lions, cheetahs, apes, camels, rhinos, birds - the list goes on - this is a great day out for the whole family. The day we went, we were lucky to be in time for the dolphin show, where a family of dolphins happily swims and twirls about, to the utter joy of the young (and not so young) audience.
As I learned about the zoo, I found out that it is a member of ΕΑΖΑ (European Association of Zoo and Aquaria) and follows strict guidelines around animal hosting & conservation. This is great! And with tickets priced at €15.00 (adults) and ?11.00 (kids under 12), this is a well-priced day out ("worth it!")
And if the animals weren't enough of a draw for our trek out to Spata, across the road from the fantastic zoo is the equally fantastic McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. (The first one in Greece - this I had heard about.) It's got 110 shops with prices 35-70% off retail, in one of those 'village style' outdoor mall setups. Surely something for everyone's taste.
A jam-packed Saturday - and 'worth the drive to Spata'.
Attica Zoological Park
McArthur Glen Athens
Until next week.
Jack
In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…
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My Week In Athens
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Monday, 16 February 2015 11:10
Taverna Tou Xinou
One of the most authentic places for an alfresco dinner in Plaka is Xynos. Once you have managed to find the rather hidden entrance of this traditional taverna, you will discover the serene garden in the backyard where the tables have been set up. The unpretentious cuisine serves traditional Greek fare such as lamb, piglet and several vegetarian dishes. Musicians will accompany your dinner with a serenade of old songs.
Address: 4 Angelou Geronda Street, Athens 10557, Neighborhood: Plaka
Tel: 30 210 322 1065
Opening Hours: July-May, M-F 7pm-midnight
Text by © wcities.com 2013
nileguide.com
Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!
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Restaurants In Athens
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Wednesday, 18 February 2015 16:03
"Recycle” Your Library Through Bookukoo
Read More, Spend Less! Bookukoo is a new location-based book swap application. It lets you give the hard-copy books you don’t need and get ones you are looking for. For free! As a user you can upload and manage your personal library, i.e. a list of books you are willing to give, as well as browse other people’s libraries. Once you find a title you want, you request it by pressing the “Get it” button.
Bookukoo then puts you in contact with the book-owner through email.
Location-based: For the first time, you have the ability to specify your location on the map and let others know where your personal library is located. Bookukoo gives you the ability to search available books in certain geographical areas, for example find booklovers that live in the same neighborhood as you do.
Easy to use: Managing your library is very easy. You don’t have to type anything. When adding a book to your library you just use your camera to scan the barcode on the back of a book. Immediately all relevant information, such as title, author, and cover page is automatically retrieved. That’s as simple and error-free as it can be.
Unlimited usage: Users can perform an unlimited number of book-swaps. In other words, users can endlessly “recycle” their libraries, at no cost.
Point system: A point system is used in order to ensure fairness and guarantee that you will receive as many books as you provided to the community. You give one book, you get one book. You give 10, you get 10. The point system gives you the flexibility to move away from a book-for-book swap scheme. You can now give away a number of books, collect an equal number of tokens and redeem them later, when you receive books from other members of the bookukoo community.
Disclaimer: bookukoo is designed to work only for hard-copy books, not e-books.
To download the app, please visit bookukoo.com
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Local News
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Friday, 20 February 2015 20:22
It's Truffle Time At "Sale e Pepe" In Kolonaki
It's the season for white truffles and one of the best restaurants to samples these delicacies in Athens is Sale e Pepe in Kolonaki. The restaurant serves Italian food which focuses on serving seasonal specialities. The owner Ivan Ottaviani, is a big wine lover and the restaurant has one of the best wine lists in Athens with a focus on Italian wines. The service is extremely friendly however prices are on the high side (apetizers 15-20 Euros, main dish around 30Euros, cheese and desert around 20 Euros). White truffle dishes cost approximately 50 Euros.
Wonderful restaurant with a very nice view of the Acropolis (which is more subtle than Orizontes).Sale e Pepe has a tasting menu available for a minimum of 2 persons. Nice wine selection but you may be pushed to buy Grecian wine by the sommelier.
Sale e Pepe, Tel 210-7234102, address 34 Aristippou Street - Kolonaki
Review: It was a Friday afternoon and friends suggested we go out to dinner. After discussing some potential restaurant choices we decided to book at Sale e Pepe in the Kolonaki area of central Athens. An out-of-the-way Italian restaurant, housed on a narrow street on the slopes of the Lycabettus; where parking is typically a nightmare.
I knew Sale e Pepe from Mykonos: a very small but pleasant restaurant that served tasty Italian food with a slight twist. Prices were a bit steep, but being in Mykonos, over-inflated prices compared to Athens is the norm. I remembered at that moment that Sale e Pepe in Mykonos had closed down a few years back but had not learnt why.
We arrived fifteen minutes late as Athens was under a sheet of rain. Walking in, two 30-something aged women took our coats and seated us. I had the impression that the waitresses were overacting, something common in the US but not in Greece. They gave me the feeling of having had stepped out of “Interview of a Vampire”, seemingly ready to suck our blood. My worst fears were later confirmed, although I did give them the benefit of the doubt for perhaps trying to play their role in the setting of the space they were at. The restaurant was dark. The look was that of a gentrified German autobahn stop. But again, laden with cupboards full of wine on display, the stale smell possibly attributed to its all-surrounding wooden interior, I considered that perhaps I was being too harsh with my first impressions.
So now we were seated. Having heard us conversing in English, they offered us an English menu. A thoughtful touch. We held onto both the Greek and English menus. We like to compare for fun. A 100-page wine “Encyclopaedia” was handed to us, to complement the culinary adventure we were unknowingly about to embark on. The extensive list included wines from Spain, France, Italy, Greece… Lebanon - all with a very expensive price tag. I immediately felt awkward. I was the one who had to choose. I then understood the restaurant’s focus is wine, as a way of complementing the rich Northern Italian tastes it offers. Having narrowed down to a short list, we went down the safe path of ordering a Brunelo from Tuscany, at 60 euro a bottle. It made us reminisce back on a pleasant road-trip a few years ago in the like-named Italian province. The waitress couldn’t help herself from remarking that one of our three pre-selected wines would be better revisited in a few years… at that time I knew we were in trouble! I could also not help at that point but have felt a little uneasy and frankly a little irritated at having been ‘told off’ for not being quite the connoisseur she so clearly wanted us to know she was.
The menu was not so complicated in presentation as much as in content… Loads of venison, wild duck, quail eggs, cod (written cold in the English menu), accompanied by pasta and fruity tastes. My stomach started making strange noises. We were all puzzled with the combinations so it took us a good long while to select the most appropriate dish to each of us. I finally ordered the risotto with Tuscan sausage and leeks. Whilst I liked that the restaurant offered more eclectic Italian tastes unlike the classic pizza, spaghetti, mozzarella, the prices on the menu were frightful.
The final couple we were waiting to join us was late. We were hungry and asked for some bread to fill in time. Our waitress took that opportunity to jump on us by rather assertively suggesting a cheese platter. A two minute explanation followed. We had the four types of aged cheeses explained to us. There was also a plate with finely carved and truly very tasty St. Danielle prosciutto on the menu which we asked for. It was served with two poached eggs and black truffle shavings. Both plates were rich tasting enough to avert us from choosing any additional starters.
As the main courses arrived, the plates were small portioned, as should be for a four course menu, but substantial in taste.
One of us ordered a starter salad as a main course. The menu read “cuttlefish and langoustine salad with crispy vegetables”. We asked what crispy vegetables meant and were told that they were lightly sautéed and then corrected to them being marinated. In fact they consisted of one tuft of plain boiled broccoli, one of cauliflower and half a carrot. The single langoustine turned out to be a shrimp – not even king prawn – again plainly boiled and unseasoned, and the cuttlefish was mediocre in that the olive oil it was covered in was truly tasty.
The gentleman across from me ordered venison with parpardele. Half way through the meal, his eyes rolled as he gasped that the dish was too rich for him. I had a taste and instantly flashed back to a road-kill story in New England. The venison stank!
In all honesty my risotto was ok, cooked properly al-dente, but at around 30 euros a serving I expected something even slightly more sophisticated. The remaining dishes I would say were all simply decent, without much to rave about.
I was tired and getting a little restless with the whole experience, knowing that I wouldn’t be able to sleep well in the next few hours. My stomach had already started to feel like the financial market - in crisis.
As some wanted to end the night on a sweet note, we ordered desserts: a sweet crepe with cheese and a tarte tatin. Our waitress, in her classic mode, also pushed an assortment of three chocolate desserts on us. They were all pleasant in appearance but dissatisfying in taste. The crepe was squishy, the tarte was soggy. Of the three chocolate dishes, the chocolate soufflé was overcooked and reminded me of my puppy’s excrement I recently scooped up, the chocolate pyramid covered in granules of rock salt was just plainly bizarre and the chocolate cube with orange syrup was simply boring.
And finally time to pay! Our waitress was happy to remark that the Lemoncelo shots were on the house! At 110 euro per person (around $150)… I wondered what this restaurant’s strategy was: considering that we are in time of financial crisis, the restaurant was 10% full on a Friday night and prices where totally off compared to the tastes provided.
Overall I would recommend this restaurant to wine lovers alone who might wish to accompany their selection with a cheese or meat platter. Beware and be prepared when venturing down to main course and please make sure you eat early and you arrive on a very! empty stomach.
www.stafida.gr
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Greek Food & Diet
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