Clean Monday (Kathari Deftera )

Clean Monday, called Kathari Deftera in Greece, is a public holiday in Greece and Cyprus, where it is celebrated with outdoor excursions, the consumption of shellfish and other fasting food, a special kind of azyme bread, baked only on that day, named "lagana"  and the widespread custom of flying kites. Eating meat, eggs and dairy products is traditionally forbidden to Orthodox Christians throughout Lent, with fish being eaten only on major feast days, but shellfish is permitted in European denominations. This has created the tradition of eating elaborate dishes based on seafood (shellfish, molluscs, fish roe etc.).

Traditionally, it is considered to mark  the beginning of the spring season, a notion which was used symbolically in Ivan Bunin's critically acclaimed story, Pure Monday. People on Clean Monday usually take their picnic baskets and put inside fasting foods because it is the day that Lent begins. (40 days before Easter)

Epiphany (Epiphaneia) - January 6th

January 6th

 Epiphany in Greece is known as Theofania or Fota. The first sanctification of the Epiphany (The Enlightenment) takes place in church on the eve of the holiday. Afterwards, the priest goes from house to house holding a cross and a basil branch. As he walks through each house, he uses the basil to sprinkle (bless) all the areas of the home. An old custom in Crete , which is almost forgotten today, was the preparation of the fotokoliva (boiled wheat with peas) on the eve of Epiphany. The fotokoliva was eaten by the people, but they also fed it to their livestock, which was believed to insure good health and fortune in the homes.

The big sanctification takes place the following day, January 6, the day of the Epiphany in Greece. A long procession is formed and follows whatever road that leads to a body of water - the sea, a river or even a reservoir. Up in front of the procession are the cherub icons, followed by the priests dressed in their best holiday splendor, then the VIPs, followed by all the people. In the bigger cities, the procession becomes more elaborate with the addition of music and military contingents. At the end of the sanctification ceremony a priest throws a cross into the water, thus blessing the waters. Then, those who dare - mostly the younger people of the village - jump in the usually icy water and compete in retrieving the cross. The one who brings the cross up to the surface will enjoy good luck and health for the entire year.

If you happen to be in Athens on the 6th of January, keep in mind that  the event is particularly spectacular in Pireaus.
 In Kozani the Lougatsaria or Karnavalia folkloric celebrations are held. Similar celebrations are held in Kastoria known as the Ragoutsiaria and go on until the 8th.

This day is the name day for Fotini and Fotis.

The Greek Orthodox Easter

Planning to visit Greece during the Greek Orthodox Easter?

Excellent choice!!!

You should feel so lucky to visit Greece during that period, and to be able to share with the locals the traditional activities which mark the progress of the forty days (Sarakosti) towards Holy Week (Megali Evdomada) and Easter (Pascha) itself.

Easter does not just happen in Greece on the Holy week. It begins with Apokreas, which is to Orthodox what Mardi Gras and Carnival is to Catholics. Several weeks of partying, a tradition that may go back to the celebrations of Dionysious, take place all over Greece with special celebrations in Patras, Athens, and in various other towns and villages, many with special activities such as the famous Goat dances of Skyros. In Athens the last two weekends of Apokreas people dress up in costume and go to the Plaka, hitting each other with plastic clubs that squeak, and throwing confetti. These clubs are thought to be a remnant of the veneration of the phallus from the ancient Dionysian festivals of Athens and in the town of Tyrnavo in Thessaly giant penises are paraded through the streets There are celebrations in Moschato and Rendi, between Athens and Pireaus, that are similar to being in New Orleans on Fat Tuesday.

 In Patras the celebrating goes on for forty days and as many as fifty-thousand people take part in the parades. But after the last weekend of Apokreas, known as cheese week (the week before is meat week) many Greeks begin their fasting on Clean Monday, which is a day for spending time with friends and family, going to the countryside and flying kites. From clean Monday to the week of Easter things calm down conciderably.

The music associated with Orthodox Easter is beautiful, particularly the hymns of mourning sung on Good Friday. On the first Friday evening of Sarakosti there are the first of the Chairetismoi (Salutations): these are prayers of devotion to the Mother of God, rather like the 'Hail Mary' of the Roman Catholic Church. A different group of these prayers is chanted on each of four Fridays; on the fifth Friday all four are chanted as the Akathistos Hymn. 'Akathistos' literally means 'not sitting', as the congregation stands while the verses are chanted. To listen to the Hymn in the church of Saint Dimitrios, in the Psyrri area of Athens is a really special experience. This church is rather unusual in having a choir as well as chanters, and in parts of the hymn there is an unobtrusive musical accompaniment.

A week after this comes Palm Sunday (Kyriaki Ton Vaïon), when the Church services celebrate the entry of Christ into Jerusalem. In many churches, especially on the islands and in villages, little crosses have been made in the days before Palm Sunday and are given to the people at the end of the service. In Athens it is more likely to be some sprigs of bay leaves, but they are equally prized: people sometimes put them in purses, or keep them in their homes to bring good luck for the next year. For those who have been fasting there is a respite on this day, as fish is allowed.

Now the most important week of the Orthodox calendar begins: this is Megali Evdomada (Literally 'Great Week'), when the pillars in the churches are covered with purple cloth and the services follow the Passion of Christ. Most Greeks, even if they haven't fasted in the previous weeks, will do so now.
In food shops, especially bakeries and patisseries, you see new notices attached to the trays: 'Nistisima' means that the food has been made without animal products. Fasting certainly doesn't mean 'no food'! Some of the pastries and sweets made now are more delicious than at any other season; seafood is allowed and at this time of year it has been freshly caught.

On Megali Pempti (Holy Thursday) the people remember the Last Supper and the Betrayal of Christ. Although so many people have left the city, the churches in Athens are always crowded: you have to go really early if you want to have a place to stand inside. (A place to sit will be almost impossible to find!) In the evening service the account of the Passion of Christ in all four gospels is read, and a cross with the figure of Christ on it is carried in a procession around the church, while the beautiful hymn 'Today he … is hung upon the tree ….' is chanted. Finally the crucifix is placed prominently in the middle of the church.

On this day the red eggs which are traditionally associated with Easter in Greece, are prepared. Packets containing the red dye are on sale everywhere this week. (Also blue and green!) In the homes hard boiled eggs are died red in memory of the blood of Christ.

Megali Paraskevi (Holy Friday) is the most solemn day of Holy Week. The shops are closed till 1.00 p.m., so that everyone can go to the church to venerate the crucifix. It's impossible not to be affected by the atmosphere of mourning: the church bells toll all morning, and the flags on official buildings are at half mast. The chanting from the cathedral is relayed by loudspeakers, so the people sitting in the cafés around the square are conscious that something memorable is taking place. After the evening service on Thursday, the women of each parish will have decorated a funeral bier with garlands of fresh flowers. During the Friday morning service the figure of Christ is taken down from the cross and wrapped in a white cloth, which is then placed in the sanctuary. An embroidered cloth, the Epitaphios, is placed on the bier; this is then sprinkled with flower petals. The priest places the Gospel (Evangelion) upon the Epitaphios. (This word is also used to refer to the bier itself).

During the rest of the day, the churches are filled with people paying reverence to the Epitaphios.

In the evening comes the service of the Epitaphios (Funeral Service). The bier is taken out of the church and carried round the streets in solemn procession, while a Lament, mourning the death of Christ, is sung. This is one of the most moving parts of the Easter rituals: a band comes first, playing solemn music; the Epitaphios congregation follows the with lighted candles, while people in the flats which the procession passes watch from their balconies, holding candles or incense burners. In some areas, like Piraeus, the processions from different churches will converge in a square: the sight of several processions coming together, each with its own Epitaphios, is really impressive. Finally the procession returns to the church. This used to be a signal for people to descend upon the Epitaphios and to strip it of most of the flowers. However, in the church of Saint Spyridon in Piraeus, the Epitaphios is placed safely behind the gates at the front of the church; a priest then distributes handfuls of flower petals to the congregation. I think this is a perfect solution – everyone has a reminder of the occasion to take home, but the decoration of the Epitaphios remains intact, to be enjoyed by visitors to the church until Easter has passed.

On the next day, Megalo Savvato (Holy Saturday), the sorrowful mood of Friday has abated. Now the people concentrate on the final preparations for Easter itself. This is the last chance to buy the Easter lamb, and the atmosphere in the meat market is frenetic as people try to secure a last minute bargain. At home, the mageiritsa   is being prepared. This is the traditional Easter soup, which will be eaten after the midnight liturgy - the first meal to break the fast after nearly fifty days. It's very rich, made from a variety of herbs and the intestines and offal of the lamb which will be roasted for celebratory lunch on Easter Sunday. Surprisingly,  many Greeks don't actually like this soup, but it is an essential element in the ritual, and no Easter table would be complete without it. (you have to try it ! )

At about 11.00 p.m. the churches are full again for the service of the Anastasis – Resurrection. There is a feeling of anticipation as the people stand waiting, holding white candles.

Many of these will have a sort of plastic cup fitted to the top, designed to prevent the hot wax from falling on to hands, or the church floor! Just before midnight the lights in the church are extinguished, then the priest comes from the sanctuary holding a lighted candle. From this, at the stroke of midnight he lights someone else's candle; people begin to light their candles from each others' and the church gradually becomes bright with the light of the candles. All over the city, church bells are pealing, as the priest chants 'Christos anesti' ' ( Christ has risen from the dead ) . There is a feeling of relief and happiness, as people repeat 'ChristosAnesti' to each other and the reply is given 'Alithos Anesti!' ( 'He is risen indeed ) ! Outside, the noise increases until all the bells are pealing.(Not all the churches reach midnight at exactly the same moment!)

 Fire crackers are set off (unfortunately, every year we have lethal accidents caused by fire crackers!) , the ships in the harbour sound their horns. The chanting continues outside the church, but now most people begin to make their way home, in groups of family or fiends, holding their lighted candles. The aim is to get your candle home without losing the flame, but this can be difficult, especially if there's a wind. People are constantly stopping to relight strangers' candles and this adds to the jollity – it's always a memorable experience to be walking throught the streets in the early hours, surrounded by people carrying candles. Even the interiors of the cars that pass are glowing with them! When the people reach home, the head of the family makes the sign of the cross three times over the door with the candle. The smoky mark of the cross will remain until next year.

Now the Easter feasting begins, but in the churches the Easter liturgy, or mass, is still going on. You could stay until the end of the service – the chanting is beautiful, and now you can be sure of finding a seat! In Saint Spyridon's church, in Piraeus,  the members of the congregation are given a packet at the end of the service, containing a small tsoureki, the traditional sweet Easter bread, an Easter koulouri (biscuit), a little paper icon depicting the Resurrection and a red egg.

These eggs are an essential part of the Easter tradition. A game is played with them in which each person tries to crack someone else's egg with his own. The winner is the person whose egg lasts the longest: the prize is good luck all year!


Although the family will have shared the eating of the mageiritsa, eggs and Easter bread on returning from church, the real Easter feast takes place at lunchtime on Easter Sunday (Kyriaki Tou Pascha).

 In the country, people will spend the morning roasting whole lambs, or kids, turning them slowly on spits over charcoal fires in the open air. Even in Athens, you could see  people roasting their lamb in the street - there's very little traffic in the city on Easter Day!

The church celebrations do not end with the midnight liturgy: on Sunday there is another service in the afternoon, called Vespers of Agape (Love). This is really beautiful in the cathedral in Athens: it is celebrated by the Archbishop and literally dozens of priests, all in gorgeous robes. The hymn 'Christ is risen from the Dead' is repeated, as it will be in every church service for forty days, until Ascension Day. Sometimes a choir sings Byzantine hymns, but for me the most memorable part is the chanting of the gospel, which on Easter Sunday is the story of the disciple Thomas, who didn't believe that Jesus had appeared to the other disciples after the Crucifixion. This is traditionally chanted in different languages – as many as the priests can provide.

The decorated Epitaphios is less prominent now: it is empty, except for a sign which says 'He is Risen; He is not here'. This sign will remain until next year – a message of hope.

If you want to have a ....traditional Greek Easter we strongly recommend to head for an island or the countryside.
However, during this week (Megali Evdomada) Athens steadily becomes empty, as people leave to go to their family village or island. For those who remain, and for visitors to Athens, this has the advantage that it's easier to get an unrestricted view of activities!

Want to see how serious Greeks take Easter?...........The computerised signs on the front of the city buses also have a message. On Saturday it is 'Kali Anastasi' (Literally 'Good Resurrection'); on Sunday it is 'Kalo Pascha' – 'Happy Easter'. I don't think there are many countries where you'll see that on public transport!

For the Coffee Lovers !

Coffee is the ....unofficial national Greek drink!

For most Greeks, the consumption of coffee is a beloved habit, a daily ritual, a fundamental addiction. Almost all of the adult population, and not only, have made the pleasure of drinking coffee an inseparable part of their lives.

As other nationalities throughout the world have, so too have the Greeks modified their cultural customs according to the consumption of coffee, a custom in its own right which is nourished by the general way of life and the temperament of the people. As such, it is characteristic that the enjoyment of drinking coffee is not represented by a fleeting instant in one’s busy day, but a prolonged recess, which becomes the motive for socializing and interaction.

Greeks do not (usually) drink their coffee from a plastic cup, standing up, in a hurry on their way to work. On the contrary,you can find a Greek in a café, sitting down for hours (!) on end, combining his daily dose of caffeine with a variety of other things.

In particular, the many cafeterias which are found in almost all of the central areas and neighbourhoods of Athens as well as in the countryside, are meeting points for social contact and enjoyment, appealing equally to the young, as to the more mature crowd who devote many hours a week there, to meet friends, and exchange news. In an attractively designed environment accompanied by music, widely diversified, according to the style and atmosphere each owner wishes to convey, the patrons are required to choose from a variety of coffee types {most of the varieties of coffee available worldwide} and other hot and cold drinks, alcoholic drinks, sweets and snacks.

Whilst drinking a coffee, you may see people playing board games, which most cafes have at their disposal, or traditional backgammon ( tavli ).

For those with an enthusiasm for technology, there are of course internet coffee shops available. It should also be pointed out that the self service system is very rarely implemented in cafes, and such there are hardly any such cafes.

Within this framework, it can be understood to a certain degree, why Greeks pay for their cup of coffee more extravagantly than in other countries. These inflated costs associated with all coffee related products, are in part, due to the fact that a cup of coffee is not defined by a plastic cup, but it is accompanied by other services, provided during its consumption. Of course it would be an oversimplification to ascertain that the cost of coffee is influenced exclusively by the Greek custom of spending lengthy hours in a cafe, drinking only one hot drink. The reasons are primarily financially related, reflecting the general rate of inflation.

The traditional Greek coffee:

The Greek coffee is served hot in a small cup and saucer. It is prepared very easily and quickly in boiling water. The various proportions, or, the absence of sugar and milk, undoubtedly, determine the taste.

Apart from the traditional Greek coffee, Greeks also prefer the frappe. This comprises of a chilled glass of strong coffee, served in a tall glass and apart from sugar and milk, may also contain ice-cream. The frappe is especially preferred during the summer months.

A variety of coffee especially popular in Greece, is Nescafe. It is prepared quite easily with boiling water, preferred hot with sugar, and is served in a cup with saucer.




Take away coffee:
For those who yearn to enjoy a quick cup of coffee, there are various locations where one may purchase one, apart from the cafes. Throughout all of the central streets of Athens, and in the suburbs, there are at least 2 or 3 casual snack bars per area, serving coffee, not to mention the fast food chain stores. The prices are clearly less expensive, with relation to café prices, although there is definitely not the same variety to choose from.

Traditional coffee shops: (kafenio)

For those who adore tradition, and the old customary way of life, the traditional coffee shops or “kafeneia” can be found. It is true to say that in the 21st century, in Athens, there are only a few that retain the traditional style, mainly located within the suburbs. A tourist may see them more often in the countryside, at the main squares or “plateias” of villages or small towns.

The atmosphere is traditional, the comforts minimal in relation to cafes, and the selection of coffee offered, is limited. The patrons usually represent the mature-old age bracket, and are usually very familiar with one another.

In a coffee house in Greece you might find anything from handcrafted straw-bottomed chairs to modern plastic stools. Tables could be the plain wooden variety to fine marble. Whatever the decor, the kafenio remains an important institution in Greek society.

It's a place to sit and relax, so you needn't be in a hurry to order. It also provides a spot from where to observe the day's or evening's activities going on street side or dockside.

It's the norm to see men playing cards or enjoying a game of tavli, often staying for hours. The traditional Kafeneio is a man's world in Greece.
Even today, men far outnumber the women patrons. On hot summer days, you may be joined by a few local cats also in need of a break from the Greek sun. And tourists eager to order their first frappe (iced coffee)

Some coffee houses close for the siesta time, but many remain open from the early morning hours to late into the night. The best time for socializing in a kafenio is after 6 p.m., when the air starts to cool and friends begin to meet for a chat over drinks.

Apart from socializing, business is frequently conducted within the walls of cafes all over Greece. Merchants talk their deals and lawyers meet with clients. House or boat prices are discussed. Mayors hold open town meetings and Orthodox priests set up their various appointments for weddings and baptisms.

One foreign tourist on a small Greek island reported how she happened by a pleasant-looking kafenio and selected an outside table under an olive tree. She asked the waiter for a coffee, then enjoyed a quiet morning sitting there watching passers-by in the nearby square.

Only when she asked to pay was she was politely informed she had seated herself outside the man's private home.






In the countryside or on small islands, the kafenio is the center of life, a so-called "second living room" to discuss politics or talk sports. It used to be the town's sole public telephone was located in the kafenio. There are usually local and regional newspapers available for patrons to borrow and a television is kept on whether or not anybody bothers to watch it.

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Even in touristy areas, at least one coffee house will be set aside for locals. Tourists who chance to wander in will be served, of course, but are not encouraged by any flashy signs posted outside in English. In fact, tourists may not even notice these little gems.




(Local Tip)
Pay attention to the color of the doors (and sometimes window banks) of the kafenio, you'll learn something about the political affiliation of the owner! (in the countryside and small islands)
Blue stands for the conservative New Democrats, while green means PASOK, the Socialists. Red signifies the Communists, or KKE. Of course, this isn't true of all coffee houses. Not all owners wish to declare their party of choice so boldly!

Usually you can't order much in the way of food in a kafenio, although you probably can order sweets of some sort. You can order water, hot tea or beer. All foreign label beers are made in Greece under license. Various soft drinks are available. You'll also find spirits, such as anised-based ouzo and brandy (often the Metaxa brand) on the menu card. You'll probably get a mix of mezes (small appetizers).

If you want a mild instant coffee, simply ask for Nescafe (or Nes). Most patons order traditional Greek coffee, which is prepared in a variety of ways. Ask for sketo if you want unsweetened. Metrio is medium, where coffee powder and sugar are mixed. Double- sweetened is called glyko. But that's just an overview, the list of ways to get your coffee goes on.

For tourists, a kafenio might be the perfect spot to wait for the afternoon ferry or to get out of the sun between hikes. But it plays a far greater role in Greek society than what you might take in at first glance.

Traditional Greek Drinks

Greece is famous of its wines and strong drinks. There is a huge variety of Greek wines, each region being famous for their own variety of grapes.

The Wines of Santorini are unique in Greece as the grapes grown on the volcanic soil, which gives the wine an interesting mineral aftertaste.


Mavrodafni  is a sweet wine made in Patras. It’s dark and is usually served as a digestive or a late night drink.


Retsina is a famous Greek white wine with a particular resin taste which is obtained during production. In Greek Tavernas they usually serve Retsina.


Ouzo – the national drink of Greece

Ouzo is the most well known traditional beverage. Greeks adore it, and prefer it especially during the summer months, when they may enjoy it with company, during the afternoon after a day at the beach.

It is prepared exclusively within Greece through a distilled procedure of alcohol, water, anise, and other aromatic substances [usually cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg] It is difficult to determine when the production of ouzo first began, nevertheless we already know that already from the 19th century, quite a few areas within Greece had substantially developed the manufacture of distillery production.

The cost a bottle of ouzo is approximately 5 euro, whilst in taverns or restaurants it is served in a carafe which costs around 3 euro each.

Ouzo, which resembles water because it is colourless, is usually served as an appetizer. As it is a particularly strong spirit, many water it down. With contact with water, it becomes cloudy and turbid, more refreshing and its potency is reduced.

Greeks accompany ouzo drinking with their favourite appetizers (mezedes). Many combine it with grilled octopus, cut into small pieces, as well as other seafood [such as anchovy, whitebait and sardines]. It is also preferred with the traditional Greek salad [tomato, cucumber, olives, feta cheese] and with an assortment of cheeses. A less common mix is ouzo with fried zucchini and egg-plant, or with pickles.

Brief details about Ouzo:

There are three versions about the naming of ouzo. In reference to the first, its name is derived from the phrase “uso di Massiglia,” or in other words, towards the use of Marseilles, where it once had trade relations. The second version refers to its origins in the ancient Greek verb, “ozo” [that is, I smell], whilst the third, and less likely version states that it is derived from the phrase “ouzo’ [that is, that one cannot live without ouzo]
Ouzo contains 40% alcohol.
Ouzo is also used as an ingredient in cocktails. It may be combined with orange juice or tomato juice and a dash of pepper.
Ouzo may be combined with Greek coffee. Once the coffee is prepared in the usual manner [boiled in a “briki’ or traditional coffee pot, with sugar and water], a teaspoon of ouzo may be added.
Ouzo which is produced in the South of Greece contains sugar, whilst alternatively in the North of Greece it is preferred significantly potent.
Ouzo is an exclusive Greek product and is protected by law by the European Union.

There is an ouzo museum in Mytilini, Lesvos, at Plomari, belonging to the Varvayianni family who are involved in its production. Exhibits within the museum include the first evaporators, which date back to 1858, tools and containers and bottles for its storing, photographs and books.

Where to drink Ouzo in Athens (Ouzeri):

Naxos: located in Psyrri. It provides a pleasant atmosphere with reasonable prices. It also serves tsipouro.
Marko Antonio: This is an ouzeri on the Piraeus coast [Akti Themistokleos No. 22]. It provides a lovely view, good food and prices.
Thomas: It is situated at the main square at Halandri. It is widely visited, and its prices are approximately 15 euro per person.
Athinaiko: Located in the centre of Athens, on Themistokleous street. It is a little on the expensive side. Closed on Sundays. Tel: 210- 3828484.
Mantho’s Steki: This is an ouzeri in Ano Patisia [Halepa Street No. 68] It provides a pleasing atmosphere with good prices. On Fridays and Saturdays, its patrons may enjoy live music.


Tsipouro – A really strong spirit

Tsipouro is a particularly favoured spirit of the Greeks. It is also renowned as tsikoudia and raki (in Crete). It is a very strong spirit, produced through a very complicated distillery procedure of pomace [residue of the wine press] in Crete, Thessaly, Epirus and Macedonia. Alternatively, other fruits or nuts may be used [berries, sour apple, fig, quince and arbutus]. It represents a long tradition in Greece but it was legalized at the end of the 1980’s. In some particular parts, such as in Crete, it is drunk at all hours of the day. It is usually preferred before a meal.


The price of tsipouro varies from 5-9 euro. It is flavoured with anise or fennel, and is drunk either warm [at room temperature] or chilled. It is served with appetizers such as potatoes, stuffed vine leaves, olives, peppers and pickles. In some areas it is accompanied with seafood appetizers just as ouzo is.
Brief details about tsipouro:

The word “tsipouro” initially referred to the pips of the grapes.
Tsipouro contains 38-47% alcohol.
Until 1988, the sale of distilled pomace [tsipouro] was illegal in Greece
It is believed that the distillery of wine press residue is deep rooted and was common practice dating as far back as the Byzantine era.
The Italians compounded grappa from distilled wine press residue, which resembles tsipouro. It the Middle East, there is also a similar beverage which is named arak.

 Where to drink Tsipouro  in Athens (Tsipouradaka):

The Voliotiko: Located on Mesoghion Street in Holargo. Its prices are quite reasonable. Tel: 210-6543594.
Rakosillektes: This is a tsipouradiko at Psyrri [Karaiskaki Street and Aisopou No. 2] with good prices. On the weekends, it is open also for lunch. Tel: 210 3222240.
The Voliotiko: A tsipouradiko in Thission [Erisihthonos Street No. 6 and Eptahalkou Street]. Prices range from 15-20 euro per person. Tel 3468315.
The Matinades: This is a tsipouradiko offering traditional local products from Crete. It is located in Paleion Phaleron [Zisimopoulou No. 79] It is open from 11 a.m. Tel 210 9419686.
Faros: This is located at Glyfada [Aretis and Antheon streets]. Its prices vary from 10-15 euro per person. Tel 210-9640389.



Rakomello, the type of drink preferred by young people

It is prepared with raki, cinnamon and cloves which once heated, honey is added. It is served in a small glass, accompanied by a cinnamon stick.
In winter it is drunk warm [at room temperature], whilst in the summer, chilled.
It is the traditional beverage of Amorgos, and its visitors may find it in every tavern and restaurant.
Rakomelo was used in the past in Crete, as a remedy for the common cold.

Tower towns in Greece

Beautifully preserved stone-built settlements and fortified towns spread all over Greece form a harmonious combination of local architecture and western influences. Silent witnesses of the country’s fascinating history are the ideal settings for you to rediscover romance. Whether in mainland Greece or on an island, beautiful sites await to offer you a journey through time and the opportunity to find yourself in places where the past and the present meet.


Be the knight or princess of your childhood fairytales in the Byzantine town of Mystrás, Peloponesse.

The mystical tower town of Mystrás, was declared in 1989 a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander around the castle city and sense through the silence the city's sheer grandeur: the Palace of the Despots (Anáktora), the Houses of Laskaris and Frangopoulos, the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Dimitrios and the impressive Monasteries of Our Lady Pantánassa, and of Our Lady Perivleptos.



Monemvasia: Unveil a medieval mystery!


Monemvasiá, founded by the Byzantines in the sixth century, is a breathtaking medieval tower town located on the south-eastern coast of the Peloponnese. Upon entering the castle, your journey through time begins. Peer into the history of the fortress –the so-called “Gibraltar of the East”–, which was occupied by the Byzantines, the Crusaders, the Venetians, and the Turks in the past.

Sérvia: A lesser-known fortified town in Macedonia

Visit Sérvia, “the Mystrás of Macedonia”, a breathtaking castle city on the southern part of Kozaniarea in Western Macedonia. “Sérvia” actually means “observe” or “guard” from the Latin verb “servo”. This beautifully preserved Byzantine fortress and its settlement are situated at the top of a naturally fortified hill overlooking the valley of the Haliakmon River.


Mestá: A medieval treasure hidden on the island of Chios

Mestá is a famous traditional medieval settlement on the south-western part of Chios.Upon entering the gateway of the castle, the “Door of the Captain”, you will sense the awe-inspiring atmosphere of this medieval village, which was built during the Genoese domination, and is a model of defensive architecture.


Rhodes: The island of the knights

As you enter one of the largest medieval towns in Europe through the Gate of Freedom, it soon becomes obvious that the Old Town of Rhodes is a mosaic of different cultures and civilizations; rarely does a visitor have the chance to stroll within medieval walls and explore twenty-four centuries of history. The fascinating medieval fortress-like buildings, the bastions, walls, gates, narrow alleys, minarets, old houses, fountains, tranquil and busy squares make it feel like you have stepped back into medieval times.


Vathia’s traditional settlements , Peloponnese

Váthia is located in the southern part of Laconian Mani; it belongs to the group of settlements called "Inner Villages" (Mesa Horia). On the top of a 200m high hill, Váthia is a dense, stone-built settlement consisting of 144 buildings grouped into four distinct neighbourhoods. The architectural style of the buildings and the village's spatial organisation reflect the struggle between Mani families competing to settle on the hilltop, Váthia’s dominant strategic point during the medieval times.

Escape to Greece and capture the beauty!

Planning to visit Greece? If the answer is positive then there are two things that you should definitely bring with you: a high-quality digital camera to capture breathtaking sceneries and a high-capacity memory card to store all these beautiful spots!

The destinations described below are seven of the most photographed spots in Greece:

Santorini(Thira), Cyclades

The crescent shaped gem of an island is one of the most sought after destinations in the world! Here, from the picturesque village of Oia, perched on the rim of a massive caldera in the middle of the sea, you will have the chance to shoot amazing photos. The rose-hued sky during sunset offers the perfect backdrop to create your personal picture-postcard snapshot.



Mount Athos, Halkidiki

Mount Athos is home to the oldest monastic community living. It dates back over 1,000 years to the time of the Byzantine Empire. A secluded peninsula, Mount Athos has remained one of the least affected by the development. The landscape is impressive and wild. Women are not allowed in these holy places and men need a permit to enter. For cons, the island of Amouliani and the coastal village of Ouranoupolis welcome women. Men who have obtained all the guarantees to enter and explore monasteries, embark on a unique experience. Huge monasteries dot the coast and mountain slopes. There are caves that still house hermits as they have done for thousands of years. There are churches with more gold than the reserve of some countries and icons that perform miracles. There are virgin forests and animals not found anywhere else.

Twenty monasteries – keepers of the orthodox faith – perched along the peninsula make out an outstanding landscape of unique natural beauty that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ideally take your picture at sunrise, whenthe first light of dawn gently defines the area, and the sunrays warm up the monastery walls.
Mount Athos is located about two hours drive from Thessaloniki airport.



Bálos, Crete

Definitely one of the best beaches in the world; bask in turquoise waters lapping against sandy strips of landand savour an eye-catching landscape, a colourful palette with all shades of blue and green that it’s hard to describe in words. Any time of the day offers a lovely setting to take your picture against; morning and early afternoon scenes though, when the white sunlight sets off the landscape, can be particularly inspiring.



Acropolis, Athens

The greatest and finest sanctuary of ancient Athens; a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Athens’ landmark and the city’s most photographed site! Capture its grandeur late in the evening when the illuminated monument proudly overlooks the city against the dark Athenian sky.



Sounio, Athens

Perched on a cliff in Cape Sounio, Attica’s southeastern tip, lies the sacred Temple of Poseidon –the last piece of the ancient Athenians’ homeland every time they sailed into the Aegean. Take a picture of the Temple at noon or capture the romantic atmosphere of a cloudy afternoon when grey streams of light glisten in the waters of the Aegean. Hundreds of visitors flock to the Temple before sunset. Watching the sunset envelop the Temple’s centuries-old columns in mauve and pink shades is an unforgettable experience that will definitely weave a powerful spell over you.


Meteora, Thessaly

Above the town of Kalambáka, on the north-western edge of the Plain of Thessaly, the visitor encounters a breathtaking site of impressive monasteries “balanced” on massive detached stone pinnacles, 400 metres above the ground. Metéora is one of Christianity’s holiest places as well as a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. Thousands of visitors flock to this place every year, attracted by the daunting size of the rock formations where timelessness and beauty prevail, while they seek spiritual enlightenment far away from the earthly bustle.
The “stone forest” of Metéora is a perfect combination of natural and manmade landscape, practically inducing a sense of the transcendent. Visitors come here either to feel the aura of the contemplative seclusion of monastic life, and admire a truly unique natural landscape or to marvel at the outstanding architecture of the monasteries, the so-called “architecture of awe”.

Metéora is the second largest monastic and pilgrimage area in Greece after Mount Athos. The first monks took refuge on these cliff tops fleeing an invading Turkish army around the 11th century. Several monasteries were built in the centuries that followed and all the building materials had to be winched up in baskets. Until 1920 this was the sole means for getting supplies up to the monasteries. According to numerous historical sources, there were once thirty religious communities but today only six of them remain and can be visited; other smaller monasteries, mostly built during the 14th century, are now deserted.

In the past, monks had to climb steep rocks to reach the monasteries but today you can follow the steps cut into the rock or ride up a special cable car. Action enthusiasts, however, should opt for climbing, the ideal way to get an adrenaline rush and enjoy the uniqueness of the landscape in the most exciting way!
Nature lovers should not miss the opportunity to hike through winding stone paths and gaze at a unique geological phenomenon formed as a result of a chain of erosions and geological changes over a period of 15 million years. In 1988 Metéora was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Definitely, the most photogenic spiritual site in Greece!


The Shipwreck beach (Naváyio), Zakynthos (Zante)

With its mile-and-a-half long stretch of shiny white pebbles cutting deep into a sheer cliff on the island’s northwest coast, Naváyio (also written “Navagio”) is one of the most dramatic-looking beaches in Greece. The beach is famous for a rusty shipwreck washed on the shore thirty years ago. Ideally at noon, when the strong sunlight bathes the white cliffs, making the crystalline turquoise waters shine, go to the edge of the cliff and take spectacular photos from a distance. The first time you catch sight of it from the coast road high above is truly memorable.
Perhaps, the most photographed spot in Greece!

Northeastern Aegean Islands (overview)

Just a breath away from the Asia Minor coast, in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea, we find an impressive collection of 5 big islands, Ikaría, Sámos, Límnos, Lésvos, Híos, and 8 smaller ones, Áyios Efstrátios, Áyios Minás, Antípsara, Thýmaina, Inoússes, Samiopoúla, Foúrnoi and Psará. Hot springs, fortress villages, rich history, delicious seafood, some of the best beaches in the Aegean are waiting to offer you memorable, and authentic experiences.

Take a ferry or an airplane, and visit some of Greece’s most remote islands, yet breathtakingly beautiful.






Ikaría

Here, according to the mythological tradition, Icarus, ignoring his father’s, Daedalus, advice, flew very high towards the sun; his wax feathers melted, and he fell and drowned in the sea. Today, apart from sun-drenched beaches, in Ikaria you can discover archaeological sites, natural monuments (included in the European network NATURA 2000), traditional settlements, thermal springs known since antiquity, and endemic species of fauna and flora. A wide variety of religious feasts, and sport events are also organised here throughout the year.

Límnos

Since the 4th-3rd millennium BC, Límnos has had a remarkable network of settlements: some of them faced the Troad, while others faced the northern islands of Greece. In the town of Mýrina enjoy with the locals fresh fish dishes, and explore the town’s massive volcanic rocks. Visit the island’s museums and go on a tour at the Alikí and Hortarolímni lakes (also included in the European network NATURA 2000).


Lésvos

Also known as “Mytilíni”. Here, Sappho, a woman poet of ancient Greece, was born. Traditional settlements are scattered all over the island (Agiássos, Assómatos, Vatoússa, Eressós, Mantamádos, Míthymna, Pétra, Plomári, Polihnítos, Sígri, Sykamiá). Plomári is famous for having the best oúzo, and the strongest. Accompany a drink of oúzo with Kaloní’s superb sardines. On the island you can also find a Zen centre and other spiritual and cultural forums. Kaloní is the bird-watching capital of Europe, also rich in wild flowers. Cure yourself at thermal spas at Thermí, Efthaloú and Yéra. Walk also along unspoiled, golden beaches.


Chios or Híos

Known as the “Mastic island”. Explore the famous Mastihohória, a series of fortified villages built in the 14th century during Genovese rule. Amongst them, Mestá is a medieval treasure with preserved castle towers, ancient churches and magnificent stone houses tightly joined together with arches. Here you can enjoy delicious dishes cooked with mastic, or have a sip of soumáda, a traditional drink made of almonds. Rich history, numerous museums, and religious feasts reveal this island’s long tradition in history and culture. There are always long sandy beaches, secluded or not, as well as deserted coves waiting to be discovered.


Sámos

Samos is the birthplace of the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras, the philosopher Epicurus, and the astronomer Aristarchus of Sámos, the first to propose that the Earth revolves around the sun. Follow their footsteps, and visit numerous archaeological sites –the Heraion of Samos is a monument of World Heritage–, old monasteries and churches, and attend cultural events and music festivals. The Philosophy Conference of the University of Athens is also organised every year at Pythayóreio. Sámos is an island extremely rich in vegetation with white-sand beaches, and traditional villages. The island is also known for the “samiótiko krassí”, the sweet Samian wine.
Samiopoúla is the largest islet surrounding Sámos, visited by tourists mostly during the summertime.


Inoússes

is a complex of nine islands, located between Híos and the Erythraia Peninsula of Asia Minor. Here, the Naval Museum is dedicated to the century-long nautical tradition of the islands. The whole island complex has been included in the European network NATURA 2000.

Psará

The island was first mentioned in Odyssey, rhapsody III by the name of “Psyrie”. Being the birthplace of famous warriors of the 1821 Greek War of Independence, Psará became a symbol of the Greek history. The island also used to be the third nautical power in Greece, after Hýdra and Spétses.


Antípsara

Part of the Psará island group, it is located 48 miles west of Híos. During the summertime, here you will enjoy lovely beaches and clean waters. In August, St. John’s small church becomes a place of religious pilgrimage. The island is also included in the community network NATURA 2000 as a Special Protection Area (SPA) and has been declared an Important Bird Area of Greece.


Foúrnoi

Interesting flora and fauna – aromatic plants, thyme, savory, sage, lentisk, bearberry and dwarf juniper, mandragora and olive groves form a stunning landscape. Here Mediterranean monk seal populations, dolphin and sea turtle species find refuge.


Ayios Efstrátios

Ayios Efstrátios (called Ái Strátis) is a small volcanic island in the northeastern Aegean among Límnos, Lésvos, and Skýros. Due to its ruins of ancient cities, and serene unspoiled landscapes, the island has been declared as a Site of Community Importance (SCI), and an Important Bird Area of Greece.


Ayios Minás

an islet of the eastern Aegean which lies east of Foúrnoi, and south of Sámos. The island has been included in the European Community network NATURA 2000 as a Special Protection Area. It is also one of the Important Bird Areas of Greece.


Thýmaina

is an islet located between the western part of Foúrnoi and the eastern part of Ikaría, rich in aromatic plants, savory and sage, and home to rare species of flora and fauna.