Kodratou 14, Athens
210 5248005
By Nelly Paraskevopoulou
Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!
XpatAthens
Tuesday, 06 July 2021 07:31
Manos Hatzidakis: Greece's Most Celebrated Composer
When you think about Greek music, there are probably many names that pop into your head: Dalaras, Mouskouri, Theodorakis, and of course also… Manos Hatzidakis.
Manos Hatzidakis was a composer and has written hundreds of popular Greek songs. He was also one of the first composers, together with Mikis Theodorakis, who introduced the “Entechno music” in the Greek music landscape. One of Hatzidakis’ songs already became internationally known in 1959, when Nana Mouskouri participated in the first Greek Song Festival and won the first prize performing his song ‘Κάπου υπάρχει η αγάπη μου’ (My love must be somewhere out there). The song was also performed by the well-known singer Georges Moustaki.
The love for Greek music is a reason why many adults start learning Greek. It is a great way to learn the lyrics and sing along during concerts. Not only do you learn more about the Greek language, but also about the Greek culture and passion that is described in many songs.
Childhood & youth
Manos H. was born on 23-10-1925 in Xanthi, North Greece. From his childhood, Manos started reading music and playing the piano and the violin. In 1932, he moved to Athens with his family. In 1938 his father was killed in a plane crash. This tragic accident and the outbreak of World War II ruined the family financially.
Work
In 1946 he finished his first project in the film industry, whereas his cooperation with the “Art Theatre“ of K. Koun started in 1954 and would last 15 years. In 1960, Manos Hatzidakis was awarded an Oscar for the song “The children of Piraeus” from J. Dassin’s film “Never on Sunday”. He became the first Greek composer to make a Greek song popular in the rest of the world. Manos Hatzidakis died in Athens on 15-06-1994.
Rebetiko & Entechno
His whole life, Manos Hatzidakis was dedicated to and strongly related to the traditional Greek song. In 1949, in a lecture about “ Rebetico” songs, he supported this genre which was, at that time, either unknown or despised. Later, he created, together with Mikis Theodorakis, the “Entechno”, a very important music stream, in which music has very close ties with Greek poetry. Along with his interest in Greek songs, Manos Hatzidakis was also a composer with personal inspiration. He managed to create a wonderful composition, combining the world of folk music with his new musical horizons.
If you are interested to learn more about Greek entechno music by Chatzidakis, click here: omilo.com
Omilo Greek Language and Culture inspires people from all over the world to learn Greek, while exploring Greece. They offer 1- and 2-week courses for adults that combine beautiful course locations, experienced teachers, and a balanced combination of Greek classes with cultural activities. All these make Omilo a place where people enjoy learning modern Greek and have fun.
Besides the courses, Omilo also creates online publications to help adults expand their language skills through Language Books and eBooks for different language levels.
Published in
Greek Language & Culture
Tagged under
Wednesday, 13 November 2024 00:11
ELPIDA Association Of Friends Of Children With Cancer
The "ELPIDA Association of Friends of Children with Cancer" was founded in 1990 by a group of dynamic women, with Mrs. Marianna Vardinoyiannis as its President.
From its founding unitl today, "ELPIDA" has actualised a comprehensive framework of treatment and support for children suffering from cancer and for their families, raising the awarness of the Greek people. who emrabrace its vision and support its work.
From its founding unitl today, "ELPIDA" has actualised a comprehensive framework of treatment and support for children suffering from cancer and for their families, raising the awarness of the Greek people. who emrabrace its vision and support its work.
To learn more about the organization click HERE!
Published in
Charities & NGOs
Tagged under
Tuesday, 25 October 2022 07:00
Greek Monastery Manuscripts Tell New Story Of Ottoman Rule
A church bell sounds, the staccato thudding of mallet on plank summons monks to afternoon prayers, and deep voices are raised in communal chant. And high in the great tower of Pantokrator Monastery, a metal library door swings open.
There, deep inside the medieval fortified monastery in the Mount Athos monastic Orthodox Christian community, researchers are for the first time tapping a virtually unknown treasure – thousands of Ottoman-era manuscripts that include the oldest of their kind in the world.
The libraries of the self-governed community, established more than 1,000 years ago on northern Greece’s Athos peninsula, are a repository of rare, centuries-old works in several languages including Greek, Russian and Romanian.
Many have been extensively studied, but not the Ottoman Turkish documents, products of an occupying bureaucracy that ruled northern Greece from the late 14th century – well before the Byzantine capital, Constantinople, fell to the Ottomans in 1453 – until the early 20th when the area became Greek again.
Byzantine scholar Jannis Niehoff-Panagiotidis says it’s impossible to understand Mount Athos’ economy and society under Ottoman rule without consulting these documents, which regulated the monks’ dealings with secular authorities.
“Ottoman was the official language of the state,” he told The Associated Press from the library of the Pantokrator Monastery, one of 20 on the heavily wooded peninsula.
Niehoff-Panagiotidis, a professor at the Free University of Berlin, said the oldest of the roughly 25,000 Ottoman works found in the monastic libraries dates to 1374, or 1371. That’s older than any known in the world, he said, adding that in Istanbul, as the Ottomans renamed Constantinople when they made the city their own capital, the oldest archives only go back to the late 15th century.
And the manuscripts tell a story at odds with the traditional understanding in Greece of Ottoman depredations in the newly-conquered areas, through the confiscation of the Mount Athos monasteries’ rich real estate holdings. Instead, the new rulers took the community under their wing, preserved its autonomy and protected it from external interference.
Nikopoulos said that one of the first actions of Murad II, the Ottoman ruler who conquered Thessaloniki – the closest city to Mount Athos – was to draw up a legal document in 1430 protecting the community.
Another unexpected revelation, Niehoff-Panagiotidis said, was that for roughly the first two centuries of Ottoman rule no effort was made to impose Islamic law on Mount Athos or nearby parts of northern Greece.
To read this article in full, please visit: ekathimerini.com
There, deep inside the medieval fortified monastery in the Mount Athos monastic Orthodox Christian community, researchers are for the first time tapping a virtually unknown treasure – thousands of Ottoman-era manuscripts that include the oldest of their kind in the world.
The libraries of the self-governed community, established more than 1,000 years ago on northern Greece’s Athos peninsula, are a repository of rare, centuries-old works in several languages including Greek, Russian and Romanian.
Many have been extensively studied, but not the Ottoman Turkish documents, products of an occupying bureaucracy that ruled northern Greece from the late 14th century – well before the Byzantine capital, Constantinople, fell to the Ottomans in 1453 – until the early 20th when the area became Greek again.
Byzantine scholar Jannis Niehoff-Panagiotidis says it’s impossible to understand Mount Athos’ economy and society under Ottoman rule without consulting these documents, which regulated the monks’ dealings with secular authorities.
“Ottoman was the official language of the state,” he told The Associated Press from the library of the Pantokrator Monastery, one of 20 on the heavily wooded peninsula.
Niehoff-Panagiotidis, a professor at the Free University of Berlin, said the oldest of the roughly 25,000 Ottoman works found in the monastic libraries dates to 1374, or 1371. That’s older than any known in the world, he said, adding that in Istanbul, as the Ottomans renamed Constantinople when they made the city their own capital, the oldest archives only go back to the late 15th century.
And the manuscripts tell a story at odds with the traditional understanding in Greece of Ottoman depredations in the newly-conquered areas, through the confiscation of the Mount Athos monasteries’ rich real estate holdings. Instead, the new rulers took the community under their wing, preserved its autonomy and protected it from external interference.
Nikopoulos said that one of the first actions of Murad II, the Ottoman ruler who conquered Thessaloniki – the closest city to Mount Athos – was to draw up a legal document in 1430 protecting the community.
Another unexpected revelation, Niehoff-Panagiotidis said, was that for roughly the first two centuries of Ottoman rule no effort was made to impose Islamic law on Mount Athos or nearby parts of northern Greece.
To read this article in full, please visit: ekathimerini.com
Published in
Greek Philosophy & History
Tagged under
Monday, 21 August 2023 19:13
Lykavittos Theater Reopens in September with Concert by Greek Composer Stavros Xarchakos
The iconic Lykavittos open-air theater atop Lycabettus Hill in central Athens, reopens on September 15 with a concert by Greek composer Stavros Xarchakos.
The 3,000-seat Lykavittos Theater opens after major upgrade works carried out by the Municipality of Athens. The theater will make its ‘debut’ with the Xarchakos concert at 9pm officially launching the “new era” for the “Municipal Lykavittos Theater” with this year’s program titled “Celebration for Lykavittos” featuring singers Eleftheria Arvanitaki, Manolis Mitsias, Iro Saia, and Zacharias Karounis.
To read this article in full, visit news.gtp.gr
To read this article in full, visit news.gtp.gr
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Thursday, 04 July 2024 07:00
5 Reasons You Should Visit A Less Touristy Island This Summer
Greece is renowned for its picturesque islands, with destinations like Santorini and Mykonos drawing millions of visitors each year. However, there are many lesser-known islands that offer a more tranquil and authentic Greek experience.
Here are 5 compelling reasons to visit a less touristy island this summer, along with some hidden gems you should consider.
1. Escape the Crowds
📌 Chora, Folegandros
One of the main benefits of visiting a less touristy island is the ability to escape the throngs of tourists that flock to popular destinations. You’ll have the chance to enjoy serene beaches, quiet streets, and peaceful sunsets without the hustle and bustle.
Recommended Islands
Here are 5 compelling reasons to visit a less touristy island this summer, along with some hidden gems you should consider.
1. Escape the Crowds
📌 Chora, Folegandros
One of the main benefits of visiting a less touristy island is the ability to escape the throngs of tourists that flock to popular destinations. You’ll have the chance to enjoy serene beaches, quiet streets, and peaceful sunsets without the hustle and bustle.
Recommended Islands
- Astypalaia: Known as the "Butterfly of the Aegean" for its unique shape, Astypalaia offers stunning beaches and charming villages with minimal crowds.
- Folegandros: This small island is perfect for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking views, with its cliffside town of Chora being a particular highlight.
2. Authentic Local Culture
📌 Agios Kirikos, Ikaria
Less touristy islands often retain more of their traditional culture and customs, providing a more genuine and immersive experience. You’ll find local festivals, traditional cuisine, and friendly residents eager to share their way of life.
Recommended Islands
- Ikaria: Famous for its residents' longevity, Ikaria offers a glimpse into a slow-paced, healthy lifestyle with numerous local festivals celebrating ancient traditions.
- Nisyros: This volcanic island is rich in history and culture, with unique festivals, local crafts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
📌 Chora, Sifnos
These lesser-known islands often boast unspoiled natural landscapes, from pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush greenery and rugged mountains. Nature lovers will find plenty to explore and appreciate.
Recommended Islands
- Sifnos: Known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and scenic hiking trails, Sifnos is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
- Kastellorizo: This small island offers stunning natural beauty with its crystal-clear waters, sea caves, and picturesque harbor.
📌 Syros, Ermoupoli
Less touristy islands are typically more affordable than their famous counterparts. You’ll find lower prices on accommodation, dining, and activities, making it easier to enjoy a luxurious vacation without breaking the bank.
Recommended Islands
- Syros: As the administrative capital of the Cyclades, Syros offers a blend of vibrant culture and affordable travel options, with many budget-friendly accommodations and eateries.
- Kea (Tzia): Just a short ferry ride from Athens, Kea is an accessible and cost-effective destination with beautiful beaches and charming villages.
5. Unique Experiences
📌 Avlemonas Beach, Kithira
Visiting a less touristy island provides the opportunity for unique experiences that you won’t find in more crowded destinations. From secluded coves and hidden archaeological sites to local festivals and traditional fishing villages, there’s always something new to discover.
Recommended Islands
- Kythira: Known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and Venetian architecture, Kythira offers a wealth of unique experiences away from the mainstream tourist trail.
- Amorgos: This island, featured in the film "The Big Blue," is known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and ancient monasteries.
Choosing to visit a less touristy island in Greece not only allows for a more relaxed and authentic experience but also supports the local communities and helps preserve these hidden gems for future generations. Whether you’re seeking peace and tranquility, cultural immersion, or stunning natural beauty, there’s a lesser-known Greek island waiting to be explored.
So this summer, consider stepping off the beaten path and discovering the magic of Greece’s less touristy islands. You won’t be disappointed.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:28
My Week in Athens… Nov 22
As I approach the 3 year mark of living in Athens, it occurs to me that this is the longest I’ve lived in one place in the past decade.... This is good, I suppose, and says a lot about what I think of Athens. But it also makes me think about change. Not a change in cities, but at least a change of surroundings and a ‘change of scene’. So I started looking at some apartments in different parts of the city. There must be a few deals these days...
After living in Marousi all this time, I decided to take a look at what’s out there in different neighbourhoods. So with a few appointments scheduled, and with 2 friends in tow, I spent most of the weekend going from apartment to apartment (yes, some Athenian realtors work Sundays!). We looked nearby (Marousi, Kifissia) but also looked in the city centre (Thissio, Psirri), which, incidentally, have some great ‘lofty’ spaces.
Of course, the triple set of ‘apartment essentials’ is location, price and style – and we all know it’s normally impossible to find all three together. This weekend was no different. One nice place in a bad location. Another great location out of my real price range. Another perfectly placed and affordable spot, but not really my taste.
So the search continues. And sometimes I think that going through the motions of looking for a new place to live serves the greater purpose of reminding you how much you love going home every day to the place you already have.
Looking forward to a fun night at Molly Malone’s on Saturday!
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…
Published in
My Week In Athens
Tagged under
Monday, 16 February 2015 11:24
Athens Famous Bifteki Burgers
As we all know it all started here...in Greece... Did you know that the first burger was served in Athens back in 1886? That was the city called "Athens", in Texas, USA... Fletcher Davis, a native of Athens, Texas, was the one who invented the hamburger and served it for the first time to his customers. It is now our turn here in our Athens of 2013 to serve this world-wide popular meal using the famous recipe.
For all of us, perfect-burger-lovers! Great value for money in an unpretentious, friendly space. Hearty portions, genuine, juicy taste, country fries, veggie burgers, and specialties like the Athens burger with feta sauce, make this burger place an excellent choice.
Published in
Restaurants In Athens
Tagged under
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 16:12
Greece’s First Fortune-Telling Coffee Shop Opens
Necessity being the mother of invention, the financial crisis has birthed many new business ideas as people seek innovative sources of money in difficult times. The opening of Greece’s first tasseography coffee shop is one such inspiration.
Tasseography is a fortune-telling method that interprets the residues at the bottom of a cup of coffee or tea, and is a very popular tradition in Greece and the Middle East, dating back to the 16th century. Some people who believe that shapes created by coffee grinds or tea leaves in the bottom of the cup can help predict the future, and with people willing to spend money on anything that might solve their problems, the coffee-reading business is flourishing in countries like Greece and Turkey.
Until recently, tasseography was mainly practiced by “amateurs” in house gatherings for fun, but now Greek journalist Mairi Kontolouri has decided to open a coffee reading business in a suburb of Athens, where customers can “legally and without any concerns learn about their future.”
“I opened ‘Flitzani’ (Greek for cup) as a hangout place for coffee, drinks and fortune-telling, which is practiced here by professional fortune-tellers. I think that I revived the idea of the old female group going out for gossip, although many men also visit the place,” said the journalist in an interview.
“Our schedule is always fully booked and people even organize day trips to the countryside to get the chance to learn about their future. I believe that tasseography is some kind of spa, cheering people up and driving away misery. All our customers are very satisfied from the fortune-tellers and their interpretations,” added Kontolouri.
By Konstantinos Menzel
Greek Reporter
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Friday, 20 February 2015 20:28
A Guide To Greek Wine
I am a wine drinker. My favorite earthly activity is eating in a taverna with my friends and drinking wine, especially Greek wine, whether it is from the bottle, barrel or the box. Some of my favorite tavernas have their own wine, straight out of the barrels, which are usually stacked against the wall.
We order it by the kilo and we can go through several kilos in an evening. Glasses are continually being refilled by each other without anything being said. It's like a reflex or second nature to fill your neighbors glass when you see it is empty. And when the carafe is empty someone at the table just lifts it in the air and catches the eye of a waiter, the busboy or even the owner of the restaurant and in thirty seconds it is full again.
Retsina is my preferred wine and once in awhile if you are lucky, that is what is available in those barrels. But many tavernas these days have turned away from retsina and are making excellent wines, often as good or better than any well known commercial bottled brands, though you can find yourself in a taverna where the barreled wine is awful. Most restaurants are proud of their wine though not all the restaurants make their own. Some buy it from distillers by the barrel or by large jug, and in some touristy restaurants homemade wine, or hima, as it is called, is not even available and you have to take your chances with the wine list.
Lately many restaurants have been buying bulk wine in boxes and filling the carafes from them. But before you get upset I want to reassure you that many of these boxed wines are pretty good and in some cases it is the same bulk wine the restaurants have always had, but now it comes in boxes. But walking into a restaurant and seeing barrels stacked is usually a sign that they make their own wine and you should try that first before you try any bottled wine they may have. But my rule is to always ask for local wine (doh-pio) and then ask for hee-ma or wine in a carafe (karafaki) and hope for the best. It is rare that I will get a house wine so bad that I send it back and order a bottle from the wine list, but it does happen. I always ask if it's good (eeneh kalo?) and they always say absolutely (veh-vay-os). But what else are they gonna say? It's terrible? There are also many farmers on the islands who are bottling their own wine and you can often find them in tavernas and in the various traditional shops, supermarkets and even in the bakery.
To read the rest of this post, please visit Matt Barrett's greecefoods.com
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Monday, 28 December 2015 07:00
Bring A Child To Work
Over the past years, the South African Embassy has pursued educational and cultural projects as they are of vital importance in promoting South Africa's culture and diversity abroad.
In this respect, The Embasy initiated a school project called 'bring a child to work.' The project serves as a career guide, providing motivation for students to better identify themselves with careers in the public sector or related fields.
Othisis School had the opportunity to visit the South African Embassy premises and learn more about how an Embassy functions on a daily basis. The Head of Mission and Embassy's diplomats welcomed the students, provided a brief background about South Africa and answered questions asked by students. By the end of the visit, students had a clear picture of South Africa and its presence in the Hellenic Republic.
Published in
Local News
Tagged under