Travel Destination: Greece
About Greece
Greece holds an important role in the formation of Western civilization. It has contributed democracy, Olympics, philosophers, tragedy, comedy, western literature, political science, and mathematical and scientific principles significantly. Just imagining the sights and sounds of this country is enough to stir curiosity. An old world with contemporary features, this is Greece in the present times. Located in south-eastern Europe, no wonder it is in the top ten tourist destinations in the world.
The Greeks don’t only have that glorious skin colour to be proud of but also their sparkling beaches. Whether it’s for recreation or vanity, the island paradise of Rhodes is a top European destination located 18 kilometres southwest of Turkey. One of the reasons people are enamoured with the place is the UNESCO World Heritage Site Medieval City of Rhodes. Known as the Old Town, its well preserved beauty is irresistible and very pleasing to the eye.
The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, built in the 14th century, rebuilt in 1912 in pseudo-medieval style, is a landmark in the city as well and also a tourist favourite. Another site to visit is the Acropolis of Rhodes, built in the 3rd- 2nd century BC. It is within the Monte Smith Park which houses the Temple of Apollo, a stadium and a theatre. Aside from its historical significance, the island of Rhodes has scenic beaches beckoning the visitors. Check out Afandou, Faliraki, Kalathos, Kalithea, Traganou, Tsambika, Vagies, Agathi, Elli Beach and the Falikari Nudist beach. If that’s not enough, there are lovely resorts in the islands of Mykonos, Crete, Paros and Santorini.
There are many opportunities for shopping, sight seeing, sailing, spa, arts and culture and other holiday activities in other major cities too. Aside from Rhodes, popular city destinations are Athens (the capital), Thessaloniki, Larissa, Volos, Patras, Ioannina, Heraklion, Seres and Kavala.
Athens’ charms come naturally. It is one of the oldest cities in the world where history, beauty, culture and modern lifestyle can be experienced without boundaries. There are 148 theatrical stages to explore, as well as open-air cinemas which really have serious romantic appeal. The Athens Festival from May to October every year is held at the ancient Herodes Atticus Theatre, an ancient stone structure built in 161 AD. This venue is used for important music events too. A modern concert venue, the Athens Concert Hall, on the other hand, has facilities for opera performances. Ancient sites, lovely neighbourhood and vibrant beaches also await any visitor in this picturesque city.
Greece’s second major economic hub, Thessaloniki, offers plenty of important landmarks that show off Ottoman, Byzantine and Jewish architecture. The city symbol is the White Tower of Thessaloniki, originally constructed by the Ottomans. It symbolises Greek sovereignty over Macedonia. The Ano Poli, Arch and Tomb of Galerius, Aristotle Square and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Church of Aghia Sophia, one of the oldest churches in the city, are important places to see and appreciate.
The cultural influences in Greek’s present society are very well represented in its cuisine which is a mix of Italian, Anatolian, Middle Eastern and Balkan so sample a Mediterranean feast whenever you get the chance.
The flavours, fascinating cities and coastal towns have so many stories to tell and by the looks of it, Greece is a good storyteller.