Greece Travel Guide | Trip to Greece Destinations | Greece Holidays

The Greek culture is one of the most studied subjects of our time. The Greeks and their many contributions be it in the field of arts, architecture, or simply society, have astounded people for centuries. Greek mythology is colored with different characters, each with their own stories and significance. The Minoan and Mycenean civilizations, which have flourished here are reputed to be one of the most advanced and earliest in Europe. Greece however is located in the southeastern part of Europe, and stands at the juncture of Europe, Asia and Africa. This advantageous location helped Greece learn about other cultures that were flourishing as well, in ancient times. The capital city is Athens and the official language is Greek.

Today Greece has a very well developed economy, which did wonders especially after the Second World War. In addition, the Greeks take a lot of pride in their culture, which is another, reason why the tourism industry is also well established. However the natives themselves can be said to be a mixed lot. Interspersed with the original Greeks, are people of Jewish, Armenian, Turkish and Roman origin- such diversity being the result of trade and cultural exchange in ancient times.

Lovers of history and archaeology must have Greece on their agenda. Wherever you go, it is history that speaks to you. Not only have these buildings and monuments withstood time, but more importantly are also classified as World Heritage Monuments. Although the Greeks had such an influential culture, they were also influenced by many foreigners- namely the Romans and the Ottoman empires. It is not unusual to find sites typically Roman, such as baths and meeting places over here too. Below are a few sites and monuments , which lend Greece its distinct touch -

1. The Acropolis, in Athens, which is regarded as the best sanctuary of Athens and is dedicated to the goddess Athena, lies on a flat hill. This place forms the core of many legends, religious festivals and celebrations. It is also a good example of classical style, and houses the Parthenon, which itself is more than 2000 years old. One can even see the Theater of Dionysus and the restored Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a superb theater where many open-air performances are held.
2. The temple of Apollo Epikourios, is another ancient temple, in the roacky lands of Bassae. This temple too is famous for the blend of both conservative and Classical styles of architecture. This temple is believed to have been built in 400 – 420 BC. The friezes here are full of artworks depicting tales of Apollo himself.
3. Aigai, which used to be the capital of the kingdom of Lower Macedonia, has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. The site is also home to the royal tombs, in the Great tumulus of Vergina. Among the tombs, the discovery of the tomb of Philip II, is believed to be important to archaeology.
4. The Oracle at Delphi is one of great importance, as the Greeks believed immensely in the power of priestesses to foresee the future. The sanctuary is located at the foot of Mount Parnassos, and is set in a spectacular landscape. For centuries it was believed to the center of the earth, and was a culture and religious site too.
5. Epidaurus, was considered the sanctuary of the god Asklepios, who was the god of healing. It is no wonder then that this center became the most famous healing center in the Greek world, and is even thought to be the birthplace of medicine. The monuments here are reflective of original Greek art, and bear proof of medicinal practices earlier. Besides this, the Classical Temple, altar of Apollo, a theatre and a stadium were also built in the mountain and plains scantuary.
6. Olympia, in western Peloponnese, was dedicated to Zeus the father of the Gods. The scenery is a combination of lush lakes and mountains. This place soon became an important religious and athletic centre in Greece, and this is where the much-celebrated Olympic Games originated from. The temple of Zeus, the baths and other corresponding buildings were however built in 470 BC. Roman influences too can be seen here.
7. Ossios Loukas which is located northwest of Athens, has a beautiful monastery, which houses a 11th century church dedicated to St Luke. The Byzantine mosaics and architecture are famed. There is even a church built two centuries later to the Virgin Mary, which is worth visiting.
8. Macedonia too is a city of importance. Not only is it home to an Archaeological Museum, housing the ‘Treasures of Ancient Macedonia’, but it has a 16th century White Tower built by the Turks, which also includes many churches of repute. One can also find the ancient sites of the Arch of Galerius built in AD 297 and ruins of the Roman Agora. Filippoi is an extensive archaeological site here and is names after Alexander the Great. An important Roman war by Octavius was fought here too, in which Brutus was defeated.

Greece however is not simply about taking a walk down history alone. Tourists can relax at any of the numerous spas and resorts found all over the country. Being surrounded by water, this country also has some of the best beaches and resorts in the world. Not to forget, the mountainous landscape also provides ample opportunities to go hiking, trekking or mountaineering. Attica, which surrounds Athens is known for its calm beaches and mountains. Cape Sounio, famed for the Temple of Poseidon, too has many beaches and a fantastic nightlife. The Gulf of Corinthia, near Delphi too has many prime restaurants, pubs, and beaches where one can find many tourists. Euboea, too is a well known island, full of natural beauty, beaches, secluded coves and mountains. In winter, one can even hone one’s skiing skills at Mount Parnassus, which has many ski resorts during the winter months.

Greece enlightens a visitor, with its many sites of cultural and worldly importance. Yet, you can wind up a holiday here at any beach, and leave feeling mentally refreshed and at peace.

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