Vacation in Greece: All about Greek Islands and more places

Athens Acropolis Museum - Dodona: The oracle of sounds exhibition

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 13:44:00 +0000

The Acropolis Museum started in 2015 a series of temporary exhibitions displaying important ancient artifacts, deriving from significant archaeological sites of the Greek periphery. The Museum’s goal is to present unusual subjects that will intrigue the current visitor and at the same time urge him to visit the places the exhibits originated from.

The second exhibition of the series concerns the Oracle of Dodona and it will open on 20 June 2016 and last until 10 January 2017. The exhibition aims at providing wider knowledge about the oldest Greek oracle, tracing the way it functioned, its role and importance in the ancient world, and at the same time showcasing the human need to predict the future.

The exhibit’s narration begins with Dodona during the late Bronze Age. Clay and bronze artifacts illuminate the identity of the first inhabitants, the primitive cult of Mother Earth (Earth Goddess) and the establishment of Zeus’ cult. The main interest in the exhibition lies in Zeus and his predominant presence in the sanctuary. The central theme is the prophetic oak tree that with the rustle of its leaves would answer the agonizing questions of people of what lies ahead. Prophecies were also given by priests who de-coded the sounds of bronze cauldrons and the cooing of pigeons. The excavations conducted in Dodona have brought to light some thousands of questions carved in metal sheets of lead, posed by visitors in the sanctuary. Some of these questions concern matters of trade, debts, assets, court decisions, health, fertility, upcoming marriage, dowries and widowhood and are presented in a separate unit of the exhibition. From the dedications in the sanctuary parts of bronze statues, parts of armory, swords and part of their suspensions, dedications from those who benefited from the gods or invoked their help are also displayed. Moreover, characteristic coins highlight the political aspect of the Oracle and its connection with Pyrros, the King of Epirus. Lastly, the relationship between the city of Athens and Dodona is presented by two exhibits from the Acropolis Museum.

The exhibition will be accompanied with a scientific catalogue of the items on display. On a big screen of the exhibition area a video presentation will provide information about the Oracle and the natural environment surrounding it.

During the exhibition, the Museum’s restaurant will offer treats from Ioannina.

The exhibition is conducted with the collaboration of the Acropolis Museum and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Ioannina. The exhibits are on a loan from the Ioannina Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, Carapanos Collection.

Source: http://www.theacropolismuseum.gr/en/content/dodona-oracle-sounds

Thasos Island. A secret paradise for your holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Fri, 13 May 2016 09:20:00 +0000

Thasos or Thassos (Greek: Θάσος) is a Greek island, geographically part of the North Aegean Sea, but administratively part of the Kavala regional unit. It is the northernmost Greek island, and 12th largest by area. Thasos is also the name of the largest town of the island (officially known as Limenas Thasou, "Port of Thasos"), situated at the northern side, opposite the mainland and about 10 kilometres (6 mi) from Keramoti. (source wikipedia.com)

How to get there:

Kavala Airport is the most convenient airport in order to be close to Thasos but most of the times the flight prices are extremely expensive. Then from here you should drive to Keramoti or to take a taxi to drive you to Kavala port, then take the boat and travel to Thasos. Thasos island requires a car if you want to explore it. Public buses are not convenient. An alternative way is to flight to Makedonia International Airport (Thessaloniki) and then to drive to the previous mentioned ports.

Thasos is serving by 2 ports. More specifically:

From Keramoti port to Limenas Port (Thassos Town) is the shorter, faster, cheaper, more popular and most frequent route with a journey time of just 40 minutes.
From Kavala port to Skala Prinos Prinos at the west side off the island is the longer and slightly more expensive alternative, but it serves its purpose very well. Depending on how you're travelling and where is your final destination on Thassos, this route may offer you more convenience. From here you can visit also Kavala town for a daily excursion!

To check ferries connections click here

Where to stay
I cannot really suggest where is better to stay. It depends what you are looking for. I stayed 2 days in Limeraria (south part of the island) but for me it was not nothing special. Limenaria has many seld-catering apartments in good conditions if you are not looking for something special and luxury. The village has many taverns to eat fresh fish and local dishes. Limenaria is a good starting point if you want to explore and visit the west side of the island and the beaches close to the village. The road at the west side of the island is better than the east side. The problem for me was that I had to drive a lot in order to explore the beaches at the east part of the island. So I moved to the town (Limenas) where is closest to the beach at the east. Also, Limenas has more places to go, see, eat and drink and is closer to the 2 ports of the island. I have to say that there are really decent 2 or 3 star hotels / apartments at Limenas better than in Limenaria area.

Beaches

For me the best beaches are on the east and south-east part of Thasos. Also beaches at the left side of the port (as you are looking to the North) are also really nice and close to the town. There, are beaches suitable for families too.

Saliara Beach - Thasos

Saliara Beach or Marble Beach: For me it is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, in the northern side of Thassos and 5km far from Limenas. It is better to go there when it is not windy by the East as the beach is small as well as the water is deep. It is not suitable for families with little children, but if you want to see it go early in the morning. The beach is overcrowded during summer high season so probably if you do not go early there will be no place for your towel. The beach has also sunbeds to hire as well as a bar in order to buy something to drink and eat. For me the main problem was the music. It was so loud that it was impossible to seat and enjoy the beauty.

Saliara Bay View - Beach View

In order to visit the beach follow the route to Makryammos Hotel. Just before the entrance of the hotel turn on your left in the dirt road. The road is wide but has been improved but please pay attention. At the beach there is a parking area not big, so you should be lucky!

Aliki Beach - Thasos

Alyki - Alykes beach. Aliki has 2 different beaches. A fine sandy beach in the southern bay and a grit beach in the northern bay. Along the sandy beach there are some taverns and bars that offer sunbeds and umbrellas. When I went, I was able to seat in the sunbeds only if I had a meal - lunch at the tavern that provided the sunbeds. So before seat ...ask!

Aliki Beach - Bay View

Aliki beach is a the northeastern side of Thassos, 32km away from Limenas. An organised parking does not exist so you should park on the main road and walk down to the beach. The water is clear, green - blue and it is suitable for families with kids as the beach most of the time is calm and the water is not deep. The beach is really crowned during the summer high season so go there as early as you can. Aliki bay is also a popular stop for all ship rounding rides, yachts and small boats.

Paradise Beach: Not far away from Aliki is the Paradise beach! It is an extremely long beach that I think never will be overcrowded. Paradise beach is approximately 23 km from Limenas (driving to the East) and 2 km after Kinira. There is not an official sign for paradise beach so pay attention. The only sign that I remembered is is a signpost for the “Paradise Bar on the Beach” which is visible when you drive from Kinira to the south (clockwise driving). So pay attention.

Paradise Beach

There, there is not an organised parking and you can park under the trees or on the road....in general parking spaces are limited. The water is green-blue and not at all deep, so it is suitable for kids especially when there are no waves. When the weather is windy, you can also swim as the water is not deep but please pay lot of attention when you go far from the coast as there are strong sea currents. The beach is organised and you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. The view is magnificent, there is a small island there as well as behind the beach there is a forest. When there is east wind there are here fantastic waves. Finally Paradise Beach is one of the few beaches of the island where naked bathing is allowed.

Conclusions
If you ask me, If I would like to visit for summer holidays Thasos again, my answer will be for sure "YES". I visited the island before 2 years with my husband and daughter (3,5 years old) and had great vacations.

New Airline Company "Germania" flies direct to Greek Islands from Switzerland and Germany

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Wed, 11 May 2016 14:50:00 +0000

Pontikonisi

Germania Flug AG is a new Airline Company, headquartered in Glattbrugg near Zurich was founded in August 2014. The goal was to introduce a high-quality product that meets the needs and requirements of the demanding Swiss market. The Germania Fluggesellschaft mbH has been known in the German and other markets for almost 30 years for its premium service, excellent quality and high level of safety and reliability. The same concept of values is important for Germania Flug AG in the Swiss market.

Both Companies serves direct flies mainly to Crete/Heraklion, Corfu, Kos, Rhodes and only from Hamburg Airport there is a direct fly to Santorini - Thira.

For more information I provide you below the flights per departure airport! Enjoy and do not forget to compare prices at Skyscanner.com

Germania Flug AG offers direct flies to Greece. Here are the details:

From Zurich Airport (ZRH) direct flies to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
2. Kos (KGS)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

Germania Fluggesellschaft mbH offers direct flies to Greece. Here are the details:

From Bremen Airport (BRE) direct flies to:
1. Corfu (CFU)
2. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
3. Kos (KGS)
4. Rhodes (RHO)

From Dresden Airport (DRS) direct flies
to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
2. Kos (KGS)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

From Erfurt-Weimar Airport (EFR)direct flies to:
1. Corfu (CFU)
2. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

From Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) Airport direct flies to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
2. Kos (KGS)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

From Hamburg Airport (HAM) direct flies to:
1. Rhodes (RHO)
2. Santorini (Thira) (JTR)

From Kassel Airport (KSF) direct flies to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)

From Munster-Osnabruck (FMO) direct flies to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
2. Kos (KGS)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

From Rostock-Laage Airport (RLG) direct flies to:
1. Crete/Heraklion (HER)
3. Rhodes (RHO)

Greece among the top countries of the Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2016 Awards!

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 10 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Again this year Greece is among the top 10 countries based on the Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2016.

More specifically here are the categories:

1. Top 10 Islands — World: Santorini holds the 2nd position.

Some things to do in Santorini:

1. Hiking Trail Fira - Oia

2. Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site
3. For those who loves wines do not forget to visit Santo Winery
4. Eat fresh fish at Amoudi Bay (under Oia)
5. Visit the Red Beach (Akrotiri Area). Take with you good shoes - no flipflops!

2. Top 25 Beaches - Word: Elafonissi Beach (Crete) holds the 13th position

Some things to do in Elafonissi Beach:
1. Visit the Chrisoskalitissa Monastery
2. Suitable for those who loves serf!
3. Elafonissi Island is a Natura 2000 protected area.
4. Ideal for children. Near the “breaking” point of the peninsula, the water does not exceed 1m, creating a small lagoon.

Elafonissi is located 76km west of Chania and 5km south of Chrysoskalitisa Monastery, in the southwesternmost point of Crete.

3. Top 25 Hotels - World. In this category there are 2 Greek hotels:

On the 5th place is the "Achtis Hotel".
Achtis Hotel is a boutique hotel in Afytos village, Halkidiki - Kassandra area. The space is dominated by stone constructions with traditional materials and fine furniture’s. The design of the facilities and the range of services aim to comfort convenience and relaxation for vacation. The hotel is available 24 hours, offering information about accommodation and movement.

To find the best prices for booking a room in Achtis Hotel click here

On the 12th place is the "Canaves Oia Hotel". Canaves Oia Hotel is in Santorini - Oia village. Ir is one of the most luxury hotels in Santorini. Inviting, inspiring and elegantly classic suites and contemporary facilities, entice guest to experience luxury accommodation beyond comparison in the best luxury hotel in Oia Santorini. All hotel suites are freshly renovated and elegantly decorated in a dazzling white, minimal manner, featuring private verandas, al fresco dining areas and breathtaking views to the Caldera and the Aegean Sea.

To find the best prices for your accomodation in Canaves Oia Hotel click here

Qatar Airways: Special flight offers from Athens until today!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 09 May 2016 13:52:00 +0000

Qatar Airways announces special offers that end today, 9th of May 2016, flying from Athens to many international destinations among them Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Beijing, Cape Town, Dubai, etc.

Travel duration: Form 9th of May 2016 - 5th of May 2017.

Prices starts from 360 Euro. More info here: http://www.qatarairways.com/gr/el/special-offers.page?

Edelweiss Airlines flies direct from Zurich to Crete!!

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 09 May 2016 09:59:00 +0000

Edelweiss Airlines announces direct flights from Zurich to Crete and mainly to Heraklion, Kazantzakis International Airport.

Edelweiss Airlines flies five times a week and during the high season (May to October) daily directly to Heraklion. Prices starts from CHF 249.

Crete is a spontaneous getaway! Find your best hotel in Crete.

Hellenic Seaways announces the Thessaloniki - Sporades route

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Sun, 08 May 2016 10:58:00 +0000

A fast connection between Thessaloniki and the Sporades islands will begin on 16th June 2016 and wil be operating until 25th September 2016.

Hellenic Seaways, in response to passenger requests, will be operating this route withFlying Cat 4, a fast catamaran type highspeed vessel which can accommodate up to 440 passengers and reach a speed of 40 knots, completing the journey between Thessaloniki and the Sporades islands in less than three hours.

More specifically, the route will operate 7 days a week, departing Thessaloniki at 09:00 and reaching Skopelos, Alonnisos and Skiathos. The return journey will take place daily at 19:10, arriving at Thessaloniki at 22:45. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday a stop at Glossa port in Skopelos will be included in the itinerary.

Mr. A,. Agapitos, C.E.O. of Hellenic Seaways, on the occasion of the launch of the route, said: " We are happy to be reopening this route after two years and hope that Greek as well as international travellers will be taking advantage of the daily connection between Thessaloniki and the Sporades islands, both for day trips and for longer stays. We are working together with Thessaloniki authorities to increase the connectivity of the second largest Greek city with the islands of the N.E. Aegean with fast, safe and luxurious boats that offer the high quality services for which we continually strive."

Two Athens eateries among 31 places to 'eat at before you die'

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Fri, 06 May 2016 18:38:00 +0000

An Exarchia eatery where waiters invariably forget some part of an order and a restaurant in Metaxourgeio where no dish ever exceeds 7 euros are among “31 places around the world you should eat at before you die," according to BuzzFeed. The popular news and entertainment website recently asked a group of professional globetrotters to share their favorite culinary destinations around the world.

Jess Brammar, senior broadcast journalist on the BBC's “Newsnight” program, singled out Ama Laxei in Exarchia, central Athens, where, she writes, “the food is amazing – traditional Greek with a modern twist, lots of salads and plates to share.”

Although Brammar points out that the service leaves a lot to desire, she adds, “When you are sitting in an Athenian courtyard at midnight drinking wine and laughing with friends, who cares?"

When in Athens, Guardian feature writer Jon Henley visits Seychelles, a no-frills, price-is-right restaurant in Metaxourgeio. “The food is Greek with a slight but inventive and hugely satisfying twist, and its quality is astounding,” says Henley, who mentions juicy lamb cutlets with thyme and grilled vegetables with a “just-right” fig sauce among his favorite platters.

Covering the globe, the BuzzFeed list also showcases Umm Hagar in central Cairo, where the lucky diners to get the one single table at the restaurant get to savor whatever the cook feels like preparing on the day, Armand's, a small bistro on a Phnom Penh side street, where dishes include a tenderloin Rossini with foie gras, south Indian cuisine at Vijay's, northwest London, where platters include green mango prawn curry, as well as the two-Michelin-starred Don Alfonso 1890, an Italian restaurant overlooking the stunning Amalfi and Sorrento coasts where beef fillet in puff pastry with buffalo mozzarella is among the favorites.

Source: Kathimerini Newspaper

Direct Delta Airlines flight linking Athens with NYC

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Fri, 06 May 2016 18:20:00 +0000

Delta Air Lines will inaugurate a direct flight linking Athens International Airport with JFK Airport in New York City, beginning on Tuesday, April 5.

Delta is celebrating its 25-year presence in Greece this year, having transported some 1.5 million passengers between Athens and the United States since November 1991.

One flight per day is scheduled until June 17, followed by two flights per day during the peak summer season until the end of September 2016.

A permanent direct air link between the Greece and the United States has been a standing desire of tourism professionals in the east Mediterranean country as well as the significant Greek expatriate communities of North America.

Source: Naftemporiki Newspaper

Additional flights and carriers to inaugurate tourism season in Messinia prefecture

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 03 May 2016 16:11:00 +0000

Nine new air routes to and from Kalamata’s “Kapetan Vassilis Konstantakopoulos” and an additional two carriers are the latest additions to the burgeoning tourism sector of Messinia prefecture, in extreme southeast Greece.

Specifically, and beginning from April, British Airways will inaugurate two flights a week from London Heathrow on Thursday and Saturday; Vueling will service a route every Friday to Rome Fiumicino, while Aegean Airlines will inaugurate six routes from Milan (Tuesday), Copenhagen (Monday), Billund (Monday), Paris (Tuesday), Lyon (Tuesday) and Nantes (Saturday).

Messinia prefecture, which includes Kalamata, Pylos and the internationally known Costa Navarino resort, often inaugurates the holiday season in Greece, with Aegean Airlines flights arriving from Munich, Dusseldorf, Stockholm this month.

Source: Naftemporiki Newspaper

Chalkidiki increasingly attractive for Scandinavian tourists

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 03 May 2016 15:55:00 +0000

Tourist arrivals to Greece from the lucrative Scandinavia market are expected to increase by 4-5 percent this year, according to initial estimates collected during the "Grekland Panorama" exhibition last week in Stockholm.

The exhibition was supported by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO).

One destination that stood out at this year’s tourism fair was Chalkidiki prefecture (Halkidiki) in northern Greece, according to tour agency representatives on the sidelines of the exhibition.

Greece is ranked seventh in terms of Scandinavians' tourism preference.

Source: Naftemporiki Newspaper

Easter in Corfu

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:53:00 +0000

The whole of nature is dressed in green and fragrant with the scent of blossom, the spectacle in the streets and squares is unique. Orthodox customs meet Venetian traditions and feelings soar to the sound of brass bands and pottery smashing to the ground in the Spianada. Even if you spend Easter in Corfu just once, you will truly feel what genuine religious grandeur really means.

Easter Week begins with the Palm unday procession of the relics of St Spyridon, in commemoration of a miracle he performed in 1630, saving the city from the plague. The procession starts from "t'Agiou" church at I I am and follows the line once formed by the old city walls. At noon, the traditional "stakofisi" appears on tables in homes and tavernas: this dish, its English origin reflected in its name (=stockfish), is a stew of dried fish (usually cod) with potatoes, garlic, pepper and lemon. Holy Week services are observed with profound reverence in all village churches as well as in the town. Some churches have excellent Byzantine choirs: Ai Giannis at Plokada t'Agiou, the monastery of St Euphemia at Mon Repos, the Platytera at Mantouki, Agioi Theodoroi at Garitsa, and the Mitropoli (Cathedral). On Holy Wednesday the Municipal Choir gives its customary concert of ecclesiastical music at the Municipal Theatre in town.

On Holy Thursday in some villages the peasant women take yarns to church with them and braid ribbons during the long hours of the liturgy, while in the Duomo (the Catholic Cathedral) the congregation light twelve candles, blowing them out one by one after each gospel. In town, on Good Friday, you don't know which Epitafios (a symbolic bier, decorated with flowers and bearing an embroidered image of Christ in the tomb) to watch first. From 2 pm when the churches of the Spiliotissa and the Pontokrotor bring out their epitafios until 10 pm when the epitafios from the Mitropoli appears, dozens of processions fill the streets, accompanied by bands. The Old Philharmonic (the red band) plays Albinoni s Adagio, the "Mantzaros" (the blue band) plays Verdi's Funeral March, and the "Kapodistrios" band plays Marianis Sventura and Chopin's Marche Funebre. On Holy Saturday the city wakes early. At 6 am the church of Panogio ton Xenon stages a recreation of the earthquake that, according to the Scriptures, followed the first resurrection. Next, at 9 am, comes the Procession of St. Spyridon, displaying both the relics of the saint and the epitafios of "his" church and accompanied by bands playing Michellis Calde Lacrime, Faccio's Hamlet and the Funeral March from Beethoven's Eroica. The custom dates back to the Venetian period, when processions were banned, save for the relics of the saint. Two hours later, at I I am, mourning gives way to mirth, and the music is replaced by the noise of breaking pottery. With the First Resurrection comes the revival of the custom of botides: throwing narrow pottery jars off balconies.

Some say that this custom is of Venetian origin (the Venetians used to throw out old objects on New Year's Day so that the New Year would bring them new ones), and others that it is pagan (the breaking of jars symbolises the welcoming of spring and the new crop that will be gathered into new jars). Then the bands take to the streets again, playing a cheerful march entitled "Greeks, fear not", and the people pour into the Pinia (Vrachlioti Square) for the custom of mastela: throwing a coin into a barrel set up for the purpose. When the bells ring in the Resurrection, someone is bound to jump in to harvest the bounty. On Holy Saturday evening the town celebrates the Resurrection twice: first at the Catholic Cathedral and then at the church of Agia Paraskevi at the Upper Square bandstand. Drum rolls, fireworks and brass bands create a festive atmosphere, while thousands of people watch the show from the square, the adjacent streets and the balconies. The Easter supper that night includes tsilichourda (the traditional Easter soup), red eggs, fogatses (a Venetian-style brioche) and kolompines (Easter rolls in the shape of doves made from leftover bits of dough from the fogatses), which are decorated with a red egg and dyed chicken feathers.

On Easter Sunday, at 7 am, there is a procession of the icon of the Resurrection at every church in town. At noon comes the traditional spit-roast lamb, accompanied by spit-roast intestines (chordes) and a flurry of traditional Easter wishes. Some people like to keep their lamb for Easter Monday, and dine instead on egg/lemon soup, but everyone cracks red eggs with his neighbours, keeping the shells in the house for luck or scattering them on the fields to bring a good harvest.

Do not Forget:
If you want to spend Easter in Corfu, you have to book well ahead both your accommodation and even your restaurant table. If you plan to watch any of the Holy Week activities (the Epitafios procession, the Resurrection or the botides on Holy Saturday morning), then be sure to arrive early - the crowds are enormous and there is very little parking. Also remember that the timetable is strictly adhered to, so if you want to be there to see the smashing of the pots then you have to be, at I I am exactly, at one of the following points: Upper or Lower Square, Dimarcheiou Square, Plakada t'Agiou, the corner of Palaiologou and Nik.Theotoki St., the corner of M.Theotoki and N.Theotoki St., Porta Remounda-Guilford Street.

Easter in Greece

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:30:00 +0000

These are customs related to the religious holiday of Easter which is the biggest celebration of the Orthodox Christians and the one richest in folklore. The word “Pascha”, Easter in Greek, stems from the Jewish “Pasah” which means “Passover”. Jewish people celebrated “Pasah” to commemorate their liberation from the Egyptians and the passage of the Red sea, while Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ the Saviour and the passage from death to life. The corresponding Greek word for “Pascha” is “Lambrí” (Brightness) because the day of the resurrection of Christ is a day full of joy and exhilaration.
Easter is a moveable holiday. Its celebration falls on the first Sunday after the full moon of the spring equinox. All over the country a plethora of customs and traditions are observed during the week prior to Easter (Holy Week).
The preparations for the celebration of the Resurrection start on Holy Thursday. On that day housewives traditionally prepare tsourekia (sweet buns resembling brioche) and colour eggs with special red dyes. Ever since antiquity the egg symbolises the renewal of life and the red colour symbolises the blood of Christ. In the past, people used to place the first red egg on the icon stand of the house in order to cast out evil spirits. In some villages they used to mark the head and the back of small lambs with the red dye used for the dyeing of the eggs. They also used to keep one of the big round Holy Thursday loaves at the icon stand in order to protect the members of the family from spells.
Friday is the most sacred day of the Holy Week, the day of the culmination of the passion of Christ with the deposition from the cross and Christ’s burial. Because it is a day of mourning, housewives do not do any house chores, avoiding even cooking. Women and children go to church to decorate the Epitaph (Bier of Christ) with flowers they collect or buy. In the morning of Good Friday, Christ’s Burial is reenacted in church and in the evening the Epitaph procession takes place.
On Easter Saturday morning, preparations start for the festive dinner of the night of the Resurrection and housewives cook “maghiritsa” (a tripe and herbs soup). Shortly before midnight, people gather in church holding white candles which they light with the “Holy Light” distributed by the priest. When the latter chants “Christ is risen” (Christós Anesti), people exchange wishes and the so-called “Kiss of Love”. With the “Holy Light” of the candles they thrice make the sign of the cross on the door post over the front door of their houses for good luck. Then they allgather around the festively laid table, they crack red eggs and feast on the traditional “maghiritsa”.
On Easter Sunday morning, in many parts of the country lamb is prepared on the spit. In other regions, the meat for the Easter table - lamb or kid - is roasted in the oven. There is a festive atmosphere everywhere and people eat and dance usually until late into the night.
All over Greece Holy Week and Easter are celebrated in great splendour and devoutness.
(Post content from eot.gr)

Islands near Lefkada

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:34:00 +0000

Small green strips of land in the shadows conceal their famous stories, personal memories. Meganissi, Madouri, Scorpion, Skorpidi, Sparta, Thilia, Kalamos, Kastos are only some of the islands of Lefkada. Although the sea «plays» between islands and mainland all share stories of personal, humble and glorious moments.

Meganissi

Most of the cluster of islands Tilevoidon, 4n.m. from the southeast coast of Lefkada hides three beautiful traditional villages. Vathy, Katomeri and Spartochori, hosting approximately 1000 residents. Vathy has a daily connection to Nidri Lefkada and apart from the small harbor with fishing boats and restaurants, it can walk inside the door that separates their homes.

At the edge of the village church is St. Vissarionas. From here begins the road to the beach Fanari in Atheri Bay, the port of Katomeri other settlement. The Spartochori with the best view over the harbor Spilia.
On the west side of the island St. John, a church next to the sweetest homonymous beach with olive groves. More on the way to meet the Spartochori. Katomeri rural village with olive groves and vineyards, has stone houses, the last century ..

St. John, the Spilia the Pasoumaki the Ampelakia the Fanari, the Lighthouse, the Limonari the Olive, the Loutrolimni and Bereta are among the most famous beaches. From churches stands the small monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos built on the west coast, from 1477, according to tradition. On the narrow strip of land in the southern part of the island, 9km easy path leads to the famous Cave of Papanikoli a sea cave in the southwestern tip of the island in depth about thirty meters and sand at the inside.

Tradition says it was one of the cache of the submarine to Papanikoli do not identify. Also noteworthy are the caves and cave Giovanis, cave Diabolos. The island is equipped with tourist villas, boarding houses and taverns in the northern part of the island.

Kalamos

Several miles south of most other islands of Lefkada, Kalamos lies with the Kastos Echinos islands, deserted island in a cluster starting from the beech near the lagoon Etoliko. Island resident all year and is the second largest island of Prigkiponison. Cars do not move, restaurants, rooms make you asking what they are and free camping are accepted.

The few square kilometers are in a unique decoration, with arbutus laurels, olives predominant dense, live, from the pine forests rarely. Inside are four settlements. The only road leading to the Diocese, the second settlement. A few houses and a small harbor.

Near the village of Castle with «Kastromonastiro» with unique segments of the remnants of tall stone walls with the beautiful interior arches, which are external battlements. It is said that the castle is buried the mother of the great fighter of 1821, George Karaiskaki. The trail makes a tour around the island leads to the cape Kefali in southernmost tip.

Kastos

Shadows of olive groves, close relationship with the mainland, with access by boat from Mytikas Etoloakarnania and all the other waiting to see a sea gull. The Kastos the most «landlubber» from the cluster of islands in the low hills of the roots of thousands of olive trees. Ampelakia, Seaweed, Valia, Valley, St Emilianos Fokotrypa to a cave deep in the sand and 30metron home, Lake, furnaces, the beaches of the tirade.

Kastos The village is built around the harbor with houses hosting the few inhabitants. For the large church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos 19th century frescoes in the great vaults of painter Spiridon Gazi.

Four kilometers from the village church of St. Emilianos and perennial Kalikerimiou of olive grove. The only natural bay on the west side of Kastos is Sarakiniko is safe anchorage. Info will stay in the community take Kastos 26460 91484.

Parga - Syvota Photos

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 22:17:00 +0000

From my one week summer holiays I present you some of the most wonerful greek beaches

Parga - Valtos Beach

Syvota - Bella Vraka Beach

Syvota - Mikri Ammos Beach

Parga to Syvota - Sarakiniko Beach

PATMOS: The LIFE AWAY FROM THE BEACHES ...

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 21:31:00 +0000

Patmos, in addition to the strong cultural - and religious tradition and attractive beaches, one encounters a variety of culinary options, a series of beautifully landscaped areas for coffee and dinner drink and very high standards hotels.

In town, walking in the picturesque lanes, you will discover the Astoivi, Loza and the Balcony of Jimmy.

In Scala, the choice of visitors is growing. Enjoy your meal in Vengera and Bennett. Alternatively, there is a traditional tavern Chiliomodi. For desert, ice cream Stelios will surprise you and during the afternoon, it is worth visiting the Cafe Aman.

Among the many hotels on the island, occupy a prominent position the Nine Muses, the Porto Scoutari, the Stone and Skala Hotel.

Suggestions for food and fun

Chora

- Astoivi: Casino Intrigue. The couples will love it. The companies will find a corner to chat. The drinks are genuine sense, the service friendly and prompt and prices reasonable. Illustration, for a cocktail required 8 to 10 euro. By difference, the most small shop at the other «religious» Country.

- Loza: stylish bar - restaurant. More expensive but much quality food. The pastas valued by 8 euro and salads from 6 to 10 euros.

- The Balcony of Jimmy: tavern with the incomparable advantage of the view. From there, look around the central and northern part of Patmos. Prices are good and the service. Typically, a pork chop costs 7 euros. Perhaps the only disadvantage of "Jimmy" is the limited variety.

Scala
- Stelios: Traditional handmade ice cream. Not suitable for diabetics and generally prone to sugar. No responsibility by the ultra-addictive them. Apart from chavale, the man simply knows too well the art of ice cream. The prices are equally attractive to the tastes of the ice cream. Three long balls to giant screw cost 3.5 euro.

- Coffee Amman: Located near the port of Skala. Hangout with oriental atmosphere, ideal for coffee, light lunch and endless relaxation.

- Vengera: We find in Skala. It is awarded Gold Berets. The local chefs are excited and loves to be the culinary imagination of customers. The prices - as in any gourmet restaurant that respects itself - could not be friendly. However, it is undoubtedly the time to try because the experience is simply unique.

- Benetos: Most quality restaurant of Patmos. We meet on the road from Skala to Groiko. Delivery years in the island, the Matthew Benetos will certainly satisfy the most demanding customer. Menu for all tastes and for reasonable prices. The view from the veranda blocking you

Proposals to stay in Patmos

Nine Muses: Luxury and comfort meet delivery. Rooms with island style and specificity. The combination is ideal for those who want separate vacation away from noise and bustle. It is built in Pilafi area, a short distance from Hora and Skala. The breakfast - which includes the customer's selections - served in a raised area overlooking the bay below the monastery of St. Nektarios at the swimming pool. For two people, accommodation costs 100 euros low season and the high cost does not exceed EUR 220.

Porto Scoutari: High class hotel, ideal for families and couples seeking tranquility. Located in the Meloi. The double room costs from 120 euros low season up to 240 euro high.

Stone: High style building, with particular emphasis on traditional style. Plant a variety of amenities and space. It is just 70 meters from the beach Groikou. The low season, a double room "touch" the 110 euro. The amount comes to EUR 150 during high season.

Skala Hotel: A good hotel with many amenities and "charming" rooms. Built in Skala, exactly in the center of the island provides visitors with easy access throughout Patmos. For two people, a room costs from 80 to 125 euro depending on the season.

source in greek: http://walking-greece.ana-mpa.gr/articleview2.php?id=6642

PAXOI: The "nest" of the Ionian

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:52:00 +0000

Islands created to accommodate the love of Poseidon with Amfitriti, Paxos is emerging as the oasis in the turquoise waters of the Ionian. The Paxos is an island full of colors and images. It is for those seeking a different holiday resort and is definitely a place that calm the soul of the visitor.

The silver beaches and forested hills creates a sense of release from the noise of a city. It is a place that many dream and reality become one! Belonging to the administrative prefecture of Corfu and the trident as a symbol and its name comes from the Phoenician word «PAKS», which means geometric «trapezoid» ie island trapezoid shape.

The entire province has a population of just 2,253 residents, which guarantees the peaceful and extremely friendly visitor growth of both tourism and the almost virgin nature that encompasses all parts of the island.

The history ...

The island has had a checkered history. The same also happened in the Ionian Islands in general. The Paxos held by the Venetians for 411 years and the successor to French Democrat.

In 1800 found under the sovereignty of Turkey and the protection of Russia within the «Ionian Islands Republic». In 1814 the Paxos found under English protection, and comes in 1864 to unite the island with Mother Greece.

Facing the island ...

The images in the mind set of the visitor who plans to travel to the island did not differ from those of the Ionian Islands, namely the vegetation and the blue sea. Of course this is confirmed within 2 hours, the time taken by ferry boat to carry us from Igoumenitsa to Paxos.

Trees with cicada singing in August and the water sources like paradise give the impression to anyone clicking the foot on the island that lies in a fairy tale! An adventurous tale as the best places are to be explored on our own ... and with our own vessel will rent!

First stop Gaios Port

It is where the heart beats of Paxos, the capital in which the locals and tourists, Greeks and foreigners, mostly Italians. Port Gaios has luxury vessels whose owners enjoyed in a separate vacation. In the same port you can rent small boats and explore around the whole island-bays, small coves, caves and of course the very famous beaches of Antipaxi.

This is a great innovation, because without a diploma you can rent a small boat (up 30 horsepower) and crossings throughout the island, choosing the right for us-completely deserted beaches or busy-anchor ... just flying!

The rental price starts from 40 euro for all day, plus the oil will burn for our walks. In front of Gaios is the islet of St. Nicholas is a natural breakwater.

The visitors can taste local dishes in various restaurants, enjoy coffee and cake next to the sea and of course to walk in Gaios streets and visits the tourist shops.

In the center of the square of Gaios is worth visiting the church of Our Holy Apostles. Moving to the west side of the island, just beyond the square dominated by a statue of Anemogianni, the hero of the Revolution to the small town ...

Car ...

We leave the Gaios to visit other villages on the island. In northern and eastern side of the island are beautiful and picturesque villages of Lakka and Loggos, which are suitable for swimming and lunch. The second is at a distance of five kilometers from the Gaios, a small picturesque village of hundred people.

Very nice evening stroll to the bars on the beach. Further Logga in from the northern tip of the island is Lakka, a village with 400 inhabitants and with enough tavernas to eat and drink on the bar. The most famous and is very careful with Akis Bar gourmais kitchen tables and on the beach!

Just beyond and west end of the island, well worth a visit to the restaurant Boikatika stores to watch the sunset in the imposing cliff-Erimitis through the foliage of the trees the sun disappears into the sea and behind the rocks, representing perhaps the best sunset view on the western Greece ...

Gaios back again to where you started the fascinating tour of the island with cockle! It is perhaps the best way to have a complete picture. The Paxos have lace around the face.

The east side of the island is suitable for small creeks to throw anchor and taste the blue sea. The beaches that are formed are small in size, and of course votsalostrotes with clear water.

By the sea......

Leaving from Lakka head towards the west side of the island is steep with vertical cliffs and sea caves.

Requires very careful as there are no natural beaches and coves that can be grounding, while the cliffs rise threatening the adventurous who would approach. It is said that a large cave located under the settlement Basilatika contact the church Ypapanti.

Most certainly, however, is that within it hid the submarine Papanikolis during the 2nd World War and this is indicative of its size. Also Ortholithos (upright rock in the sea) is still one of the many morphological formations but the most impressive ...

Antipaxoi.....

Antipaxos are three miles south of Paxos and can be reached not only with boat but with the boat full-day excursion organized by the Gaios.

The Souli Antipaxi families settled after the destruction of their homeland, in the early 19th century. Today Antipaxos are just twenty-two residents and three taverns.

In August, the famous around the world and beaches located Voutoumi is full of large vessels and has enough people. This does not detract from the beauty, the clear, dark green waters, fine white sand and blue sky.

Within interesting to visit is the church of San Emilianos which was restored in 1864. The island is full of vineyards where much of quality wine. Furthermore, Paxos is famous for its oil and their wine.

The way back ...

Leaving behind us the best beach of the Ionian sea, back to Paxos. Before you deliver the boat to its owner, make a stop at Mongonisi for one last dive. A small bridge connects the island of Paxos is created where a bay where we can anchor our boat for the last time.

Back to Gaios us enjoy a drink on the beach, viewing the number of vessels and the unique coves formed near the central harbor, and plans to propose to all known us the most graphic, most beautiful, most peaceful and most adventurous for lovers of the sea option in the Ionian Sea ...

Source:
Content by Aphrodite Aggalou and Soritis Skouloudis
in greek: http://walking-greece.ana-mpa.gr/articleview2.php?id=8985

GREEK ISLANDS IN THE TOP 10 OF EUROPE

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:44:00 +0000

Three Greek islands, Rhodes, Corfu and Santorini are among the top 10 islands in Europe, according to the hotel price comparison website http://www.trivago.gr/.

More specifically:

Rhodes:The island of Rhodes, which belongs to the Dodecanese, has everything you need to describe idyllic. Those visitors wishing to vacation of rest and relaxation, you should definitely visit the exotic beaches of Kalithea. Rhodes offers great beaches and a more beautiful underwater world, which is particularly prominent among the submersible. A well-known attraction of Rhodes are the Butterflies: a protected area known as the Valley of the Butterflies, which is visited every summer many butterflies. The city of Rhodes is one of the parties to each visitor of the island worth seeing: The palace of the Grand Master, the Road Knights and the medieval town are separate jewels of the island.
Corfu:Corfu is one of the most famous Greek islands, which was characterized as a paradise by the poet Homer. Because of the abundant vegetation and is known as the «green island». The lower part is decorated with olive trees that reach up to 20 meters. Corfu offers all kinds of beaches for all tastes. One of the most beautiful and exotic beaches are next to the lake Korissia, in north-western part of the island. Jewel of the island is the capital of which the architecture is in Venetian style. In the idyllic Paleokastritsa marine bays and the Monastery are a magnet for many visitors.
Santorini:The Greek island of Santorini, which is the result of volcanic eruptions have created spectacular landscapes. Typical of the Cyclades island of Santorini is the white houses with blue windows, built on steep slopes. One of the most spectacular sights is the dormant volcano and the excavations in the ruins of old Kammena, where visitors can admire the ancient Greek history. The tourists have the opportunity to walk among the inactive craters and enjoy the view of other Cycladic islands. The magical landscape of Santorini is number one destination for couples.

'Worshipping Women: Ritual and Reality in Classical Athens' in National Archaeological Museum of Athens

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:39:00 +0000

An impressive exhibition titled "Worshipping Women: Ritual and Reality in Classical Athens" was inaugurated at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens by President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias on Monday night, in a ceremony also attended by culture minister Antonis Samaras.

The exhibition, through the 172 rare and extraordinary archaeological artefacts on display that are divided into five sections, explores the manifold ways in which women’s religious worship contributed not only to personal fulfillment, but also to the civic identity of the leading city of the Classical Greek world.

The first section of the exhibition introduces the principal of "Female Deities" of Athens and Attika, in whose cults and festivals women were most actively engaged: Athena, Artemis, Aphrodite, Demeter and her daughter Persephone. In between goddesses and mortals was a small group of heroines -explored in the next section-, women who were believed to have lived in the distant past and after their deaths became figures of cult worship.

The exhibition then enters the world of "Priestesses", historical and mythological, and looks at their visual iconography focusing on their principal attribute, the large temple key.

The several kinds of "Ritual Acts", some that apply universally to all cults and others that were specific to the worship of a particular divinity, are presented in the third section.

The fourth section deals with the participation of women in major religious "Feasts", such as the Panathenaia, or in strictly women’s feasts, such as Adonia or Thesmoforia.

The fifth and final section focuses on the "Life-Cycle" of Athenian women, from birth to death, highlighting certain key moments of transition and the role of ritual in each of these.

The exhibition, through the study of religion seeks to correct the unremittingly bleak picture that the lives of Athenian women were highly restricted when it came to public sphere and participation in the political process.

Women’s involvement in cults and festivals, whether alongside men or separate from them, was as essential for the successful functioning of the "polis" as that of any member of society.

The exhibition which will be on display through November 30, is part of a series of celebrations planned for the 180th anniversary since the Museum's founding and the 120th anniversary of its inauguration at its current premises on Patission street.

It is organised in collaboration with the Alexander S. Onassis Public Benefit Foundation, and had previously been on display at the Foundation's Onassis Cultural Center in New York from December 2008 to May 2009.

Kalamata International Dance Festival 16-27 July 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:49:00 +0000

The Kalamata International Dance Festival is the key event in the year of the city's International Dance Centre. The Centre was founded in the spring of 1995, charged with supporting and promoting the art of dance via research, education, and artistic activities and creativity.

After fifteen years as an active presence in the Greek dance scene, thanks to the support of the local authorities the Kalamata Festival has earned itself a special place on the festival map of the Mediterranean South, and built bridges to international dance creativity.

A number of influential figures, whose work is shaping the history of contemporary dance made their first Greek appearance at Kalamata, while the Festival has also taken care to promote and support Greek creativity in the field by commissioning works from talented Greek choreographers and supporting new companies in their experimental explorations.

Another integral part of the Festival are the seminars and talks aimed at dance students and professions alike, while other parallel events include publications and video dance productions.

From the very start, the Festival was programmed with two considerations in mind: the wide range of trends in contemporary dance and the ever-larger audiences this art-form attracts. Today, fifteen years down the line, every year sees a widely-varied audience enthusiastically respond to the call of the Festival.

Kalamata, the city of dance, is set to host its 15th annual programme of events between the 16th and 26th of July, 2009.

The Festival is funded by the Ministry of Culture and the Municipality of Kalamata.

Source: http://www.kalamatadancefestival.gr/en/id01.php?

Paros Photos

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:17:00 +0000

Greek Coast - Blue Flag Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:12:00 +0000

The Greek coast has a total length of approximately 16,000 km. Half this length is found around the thousands of Greek islands. While the rest extends along the mainland. What characterises the famous Greek coasts is their unique diversity (beaches stretching over many kilometres, small bays and coves, sandy beaches with dunes, pebbly shores, coastal caves surrounded by steep rocks and with the characteristic dark sand of volcanic soils, coastal wetlands), and their clean and transparent waters that have made them renowned and extremely popular all over the world.
In 2009, 425 beaches and 8 marinas in Greece were awarded the “Blue Flag” (See below), a figure that places the country in a top-ranking position among other European countries.
The majority of the thousands of Greek coasts are freely accessible and you have the opportunity to discover and enjoy them without the presence of a large number of swimmers. There are also many organised beaches in the country with the necessary infrastructure providing high-quality services (umbrellas, reclining chairs, changing booths, cafes, bar-restaurants etc), where, apart from swimming, you can enjoy water sports (water ski, windsurfing, diving etc) as well as other means of having fun in the water, such as the parasailing for one or two persons, “rings” , “banana”, wakeboard, jet ski etc. All organised beaches also have lifeguard towers ensuring safe swimming in the area.

“Blue Flags of Europe”

Each year this programme presents an award to the coasts and marinas which meet strict criteria as regards the cleanness of the sea and the coast, good organisation and safety as well as the protection of the coastal environment in general. More specifically, the criteria for the award of the “Blue Flag” are the following:

1. Cleanness of the sea and the coast
-Quality of swimming water verified by measurement of water samples;
-Absence of industrial sewage discharge on the coast;
-Treatment of urban sewage as required by the relevant EU directive;
-Adequate number of litter bins which must be emptied at regular intervals;
-Periodical cleaning of the beach from litter, cigarette stubs etc.

2. Organisation of the coast and safety of the visitors
-Continuous information of the public regarding the quality of swimming water;
-Immediate information if the water has become unsafe for swimmers;
-Plans to deal with a pollution accident and to immediately inform the public;
-Adequate number of sanitary facilities with controlled sewerage;
-Trained lifeguards or direct access to telephone, lifesaving equipment and First Aid;
-Safe passage to the coast and special care for people with disabilities;
-No driving (vehicles and motorcycles) is allowed on the beach;
-Free camping is forbidden; and
-Pets have to be supervised on the beach.

3. Protection of nature and environmental education
-Printed information and publicly displayed instructions regarding behaviour on the coast;
-Activities actively promoting the protection of the natural coastal environment.

Source: GNTO

Taking tango further, deeper ...in Athens

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0000

Bandoneonist Dino Saluzzi and cellist Anja Lechner bring lauded collaboration to Athens.

Anja Lechner (l) and Dino Saluzzi perform tomorrow at the three-day ECM Festival at the capital’s Vrachon Theater. It opens today with a concert by Greek pianist Vassilis Tsabropoulos. Jazz-rock drummer Manu Katche ends the event on Wednesday.

Two virtuoso musicians, Argentinean bandoneonist and composer Dino Saluzzi and German cellist Anja Lechner, will pool their talents for one show at the ECM Festival, being staged in Athens for a second time, at the Vrachon Theater tomorrow.

«This musical dialogue is as close to perfection as any music I can recall,» music critic Richard Cook had noted in the Jazz Review, after hearing the pair perform. «Very few musicians are able to maintain their identity so strongly within the whirlpool of multicultural influences,» he continued.

A pivotal figure in Argentinean music, Saluzzi has contributed like few others to the development of the tango tradition. His compositions, uncontrived and innovative, often draw upon the musician's past as a child growing up in Argentina's north, the musicians he has encountered over the years and the early 20th-century vinyl records he has listened to. He speaks enthusiastically about older-generation bandoneonists, who each had «an individual perception on musical phrases and the intensity of melody.»

Born in 1935 in the provincial city of Salta, northwest Argentina, Saluzzi began playing bandoneon as a child with his father, a bandoneonist and a composer of Italian heritage. The young musician's fame did not take long to spread beyond his homeland. Invitations for performances at festivals abroad were extended early in Saluzzi's career. His inclusion on the roster of artists at the high-caliber German label ECM in the early 80s provided Salucci with the opportunity to reach a wider international audience.

«Saluzzi is a composer of contemporary music with the heart of a tanguero,» the Los Angeles Times wrote of Saluzzi. «His compositions highlight the melancholy element that is unique to tango. Nobody else has stretched the boundaries of this musical style to such an extent while also managing to maintain its character's purity.» Saluzzi's stage and recording collaborations have included work with American and European jazz musicians such as Charlie Haden, Pierre Favre and Al Di Meola. The bandoneonist's association with Lechner, a classically trained musician with a love of Argentina's common-folk tango style, has proven exceptional. Offering his views on the growing number of classical music artists who have occasionally chosen to include tango songs in their repertoires in more recent years, Saluzzi notes that «they're interpreted as if they're doing Mozart.»

Lechner's association with the song form began in 1980 when, along with pianist Peter Ludwig, they began to play «German tango in an Argentinean style,» as she notes. «At the time, all I knew was that I really loved this music.»

Not long afterward, Lechner attended a performance by Saluzzi in Munich. «I immediately realized that what he was doing was considerably deeper than simple tango,» says Lechner. «When we began playing together, I felt that I had entered a new world.»

A co-founder of the strings quartet Rosamunde, Lechner began exploring improvisation within traditional music. Lechner's collaborations include work with Greek pianist Vassilis Tsabropoulos, which produced their recent «Melos» album. The German cellist's interest in improvisation was a key factor that led to her collaboration with Saluzzi. They began performing together in 2002 and, five years later, released «Ojos Negros» on the ECM label. The album was hailed by critics. «Anja united with the music, without losing her identity,» says Saluzzi. «She has her own sound and character and this culturally enriches our collaboration.»

By Aggeliki Stoupaki - Kathimerini

Free Internet in Gazi - Athens

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:54:00 +0000

Athens citizens and visitors will have access to free high-speed wireless internet in the Gazi area, within the framework of the Information Society Operational Programme, according to an announcement by the Athens Municipality.

The project, which began on July 1, is incorporated in the Information Society SA Digital Strategy and was completed with the support of the City of Athens IT Company (DAEM) and the Municipality's Information Technology Department, which coordinated all participating bodies to ensure its effective and rapid delivery.

The installation of state-of-the-art equipment in a central building at the City of Athens Technopolis ensures coverage of all of the complex's outdoor areas as well as Kerameikos Square and former Korean Market Square. The specific area is one of the largest in Greece in terms of provision of free wireless internet access by a state body.

Visitors to Technopolis and the surrounding area can access the internet with the use of the necessary equipment, such as a laptop computer, PDA or mobile phone, as well as wireless WiFi networks.

A similar network has already been installed in three public areas within the City of Athens, via the Operational Programme, namely Syntagma Square, Kotzia Square and Thissio.

The wireless network was created in order for citizens and visitors to familiarize themselves with high-speed internet and promote the numerous capabilities and services it can offer us in our day-to-day life and work.

Byzantine fortress of Trikala showcased

noreply@blogger.com (Dolly) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 22:47:00 +0000

The early Byzantine-era fortress of Trikala, central Greece, which was renovated by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD in recognition of its strategic importance, is located just north of the modern-day city of the same name, in theThessaly plain.

The use of stone blocks attest to the fact that it was built on the site of previous ancient citadel surrounded by an outer wall, and dating back to the Classical Era. The fortress was repaired a number of times during the Ottoman occupation and featured a polygonal outer wall with five towers and many small embrasures.

The monument is divided into three sections, featuring the principal entrance and the clock tower as well as the site where an Orthodox cathedral stood before it was burned to the ground, circa 1330-1332. A building used to store gunpowder is also preserved.

The long history of the Byzantine fortress of Trikala is highlighted in a newly published brochure with photographs and historical details, within the framework of a tourism promotion campaign focusing on the uniqueness of the monument.