Traveling to Greece |
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Greece is a tourist paradise where one can wander for months exploring the country. Stretching from the south Aegean Sea to the middle of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece consists of sixty inhibited islands. Whenever one think about Greece the first image that crops up in one’s mind is that of ancient historic monuments but Greece is much more than that. Beautiful Beaches adorn the coastline and islands are as diverse as from a throwback to deep backwaters to the resorts which are world class on any given day. Also don’t forget the visit to world famous historic monuments whose history spans for over 4000 years, Greece will always be like a personal discovery. |
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Modern Greece is amalgamation of the various countries or communities that have invaded it like Romans, Arabs, Latin Crusaders, Venetians, Slavs, Albanians, Turks, Italians and last not but not the least the Byzantine Empire. Every ruler has left it own mark on the lifestyle of Greece like the Byzantines in countless churches and monasteries; the Venetians in impregnable fortifications in the Peloponnese; and other Latin powers, such as the Knights of Saint John and the Genoese, in imposing castles across the northern and eastern Aegean. Four centuries of Ottoman Turkish rule, although dreaded and admonished worldwide has left a distinct mark on the Greek music, cuisine, language and the way of life.
Many minorities which exist in significant number in the Greece population like Jews, Muslims or Gypsies have formed a Hellenic identity which has kept the diversity and the sense of belonging in the Greek culture still alive. With the absence of ruling class in the medieval period Greek peasants, fisherman etc created a folk culture which is fully found and expressed in folk songs and dances, costumes, embroidery, carved furniture and the white cubist houses. All this was forgotten in the last four-five decades of western influences taking over but recently Greece’s architectural and musical heritage is being restored and heritage buildings are being rescued from dereliction and Greek performers are also putting there hands up for reviving this. If one wants to learn more about the culture of Greece, visit to museums are not to be missed at any cost, here one can experience a true reflection of culture and history of Greece. Another must do activity once in Greece is visiting the sprawling and beautiful mansions and castles of medieval times. Ancient sites from the Neolithic, Mycenean, Monian, Roman and Byzantine times are also a must visit. If one has the option to visit Greece in summer then there are many festivals to enjoy. Greeks invite international theatrical, dance and musical groups for live shows at ancient theatres, castle or even in the modern era resorts on various islands. Greek food and hospitality is at its best when served fresh and is uncomplicated and abundant.
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