The Caryatids of Athens are a collection of stunning sculptural columns that have fascinated people for centuries. These beautifully crafted works of art are not just architectural features but also hold significant cultural and historical importance. In this blog post, we will explore the story behind the Caryatids, their role in classical Greek architecture, and their symbolism in ancient Greek culture.

History of the Caryatids:

The Caryatids are female sculptural figures that serve as columns, holding up the weight of a building or structure. The origins of the Caryatids in Athens can be traced back to the 5th century BC, during the classical period of ancient Greece. These unique and impressive sculptures were designed and created by skilled artisans, who incorporated intricate details and symbolism into their work.

The Caryatids were used extensively in Greek architecture, with their earliest known examples found in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. They became increasingly popular during the 5th century BC, with the most famous examples being the Caryatids of the Erechtheion and the Acropolis in Athens.

The Caryatids of the Erechtheion:

One of the most famous examples of Caryatids in Athens is the Caryatids of the Erechtheion. Located on the Acropolis, the Erechtheion is a temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. It is home to six stunning Caryatids that are placed on the southern portico of the temple.

The Caryatids of the Erechtheion are incredibly detailed and have become an iconic symbol of classical Greek architecture. They were created to represent the beautiful and graceful women of Athens, each with their own unique hairstyle and clothing. The Caryatids of the Erechtheion are also thought to symbolize the power and strength of the women of Athens.

Over the centuries, the Erechtheion and its Caryatids have suffered damage due to natural disasters, wars, and other factors. However, extensive restoration work has been carried out to preserve these incredible works of art for future generations to admire and appreciate.

The Caryatids of the Acropolis:

Another famous example of Caryatids in Athens is the Caryatids of the Acropolis. Located on the southern side of the Acropolis, the Caryatids of the Acropolis are a group of six female statues that are believed to have been part of the Temple of Athena Polias.

The Caryatids of the Acropolis are also incredibly detailed, with each figure holding a small bowl in her outstretched hand. The figures are said to represent the maidens of Athens, and their presence is a testament to the importance of women in ancient Greek culture.

Like the Erechtheion, the Acropolis and its Caryatids have also suffered damage over time. However, restoration efforts have been undertaken to ensure that these incredible works of art continue to stand the test of time.

Conclusion:

The Caryatids of Athens are an important part of classical Greek architecture and a testament to the skill and creativity of ancient Greek artisans. They represent the beauty and grace of the women of Athens and the importance of their role in ancient Greek culture. We hope that this blog post has provided you with a deeper understanding of the Caryatids and their significance in Athens.

The Greeks have a saying: Love goes through the stomach. And whatever tickles your taste buds – be it seafood or souvlaki or a burgeoning brunch scene – Athens has a lot of love to give.

When it comes to European food destinations, the obvious choices are Paris, Venice or Prague. But to those in the know, Athens’s food enjoys a fine reputation, and not just for family run, feta-filled tavernas. With modern Greek and Michelin-star restaurants sitting alongside the traditional market stalls and street vendors, Athens should be right at the top of any foodie’s must-visit list.

So where to begin?

Our Epicure’s Delight guide to Athens will give you a whistle-stop tour of the best food, from family-run to fancy-pants, and set you on your way to making your own culinary discoveries in the City of the Violet Crown.

The Athens Food Scence

Traditionally, the Greek meal has rarely played to the three course, meat and veg, Western standard. Instead, you’re more likely to find a table full of fresh fish, fruit and legumes, shared amongst family and friends in a “help yourself” style known as Meze. A far more informal dining style than you may be used to; the only thing flowing more freely than the conversation will be the wine and spirits!

But there’s more to Greek food than just the hits. While traditional favourites like stuffed vine leaves and spinach pie continue to fly out of cosy street corner tavernas, the Athens food scene is also one of thriving innovation. The city is a flurry with young restaurants where some of Europe’s finest chefs are offering exciting new takes on traditional Greek fare. Thanks to this ever widening spectrum of cuisine, gourmet dining in Athens has never shined more brightly.

But if you’d rather get in amongst the steam and the smoke, Athens also has a rapidly expanding subculture of street food. The city centre is stuffed to the gills with pop-up taco restaurants, burger stalls and desert stands drawing in culinary influences from around the globe. The Athens Street Food Festival is held every May, and is one of Europe’s must-see celebrations of food on the hoof.

Some Of The Best Places To In Athens

Varoulko Seaside – Akti Koumoundourou 54, Pireas 104 35

Situated right on the Piraeus waterfront, Varoulko Seaside enjoys a reputation for exquisite, high quality seafood. Micheline star chef Lefteris Lazarou has combined traditional Greek flavours with modern gastronomy to create a menu that is a refined and passionate ode to the ocean.

Main courses range from €27 for spicy shrimps with orzo and parmesan, up to €95 for grilled sea bream and seasonal greens. While it may be on the expensive side, those looking to enjoy a little fine-dining would be hard pressed to find anywhere more special than Varoulko Seaside.

Hytra – Leof. Andrea Siggrou 107-109, Athina 117 45

A Michelin star restaurant serving superb Greek cuisine, Hytra offers food that is high-end yet still hearty and crowd pleasing. Located on the sixth floor of the Onassis Arts Centre, Hytra offers incredible views of the city while you enjoy their short ribs (€42) or renowned porky belly / cheek with baby gem (€39).

If you’re looking for something up-market that still carries with it the heart and warmth of traditional Greek cooking, Hytra could be the one for you.

Kottarou – Didimotichou, Athina 104 44

Kottarou is an authentic taverna that is so unassuming you might miss it. And that would be a pity. Tucked away on Agias Sofias, this cosy little hideaway sits in the basement of what used to be an open air farm. In the days of old, cart drivers would enjoy a glass of wine and a snack while they waited for goods to be loaded.

The farmers may now be gone, but the laid back atmosphere remains – along with some truly beautiful Greek meze. Musicians often meet here to play traditional Athenian music and drink the house wine. Kottarou is not listed in any guide books, and there’s no signage outside, so you’ll need to ask a local for directions. Alternatively, keep an ear peeled for the sound of lyres creeping up some unassuming basement steps.

Feyrouz – Agathonos 1, Athina 105 51, Greece

Named for the legendary Lebanese singer, Feyrouz is a family run restaurant serving Middle Eastern street food. Combining Eastern and Western flavours, Feyrouz is welcoming and informal. The Kushbasi is a beautiful take on the humble pie, stuffed with French pork, spices, aubergine and mozzarella.

Equally popular is the Roostic, combining soft cheese with…you guessed it…Rooster. For €4.40 each, why not try them both? Baklava and pumpkin truffles provide the perfect syrupy finish. Located in amongst the bustling side streets of Agathonos, Feyrouz is one family get-together you should make every effort to attend.

To Traino sto Rouf – Rouf Railway & Suburban Station, Konstantinoupoleos Ave., Athina 118 54

‘The Train in Rouf’ is a theatre-cum-wine bar-cum-music venue-cum restaurant. It’s also a train.

A restored pre-war rail carriage offers up traditional soups, salads and pastas in a venue that oozes atmosphere and theatricality.

The menu is adorably train themed, with the Stoker’s Salmon and Potatoes (€14.50) and the Railway Carriage Pork Tenderloin (€10) being just two of the marvellous dishes to choo-choose from. Add a selection of fine cocktails and a varied programme of dinner entertainment, and you have a restaurant that’s well worth a trek down the track to Rouf Station.

 How To Find The Best Spots

For those who wish to discover their own Athenian favourites, a food tour is a great way to see what the city has to offer. Culinary Backstreets offer a fantastic walking tour, giving you a chance to sample baklava, fig paste, and cured cod to name but a few. Or you can head straight for the Central Food Market and nip into one of the surrounding delis for a taste of the local cured meats and notoriously hot red peppers.

The Athenian Food Map

Like most cities, Athens has its separate gastronomic areas.

Here’s a brief rundown of what to find and where you’ll find it:

Mainstream

Here you’ll find American fast food (and its Greek equivalents) and a wealth of bakeries, butty shops and souvlaki restaurants. Mainstream will also bring you to an area known as Little Asia, where you’ll find food from Korea, China, Japan and Thailand.

Thw Central American Neighborhood

Located just next to Little Asia, here you’ll find Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Fiery tacos and sumptuous pulled pork are served up in a lively, festival atmosphere. Mariachi bands and all.

The Middle Eastern Block

Brimming with falafel and kebabs, The Middle Eastern District is a perfect destination if you’re looking to wander, as it also encompasses some of Athens’s finest street food.

Traditional

In this area you’ll find unpretentious tavernas serving family favourites like meatballs, fried cheese and potato salads. Look for the less flashy venues, as these will often serve the best food. If a restaurant with no signage or fancy façade is still rammed with customers…they’re probably there for the quality of the food.

What’s Trending

Right now in Athens, it’s all about Gastro-Tavernas. These restaurants are elevating traditional Greek fare while keeping their venues relaxed and unpretentious. The menus tend to change daily, relying on fresh ingredients to create a vibrant, engaging food movement. The centrally located Dopios serves Greek meze infused with flavours of Japan, while Rouf’s Tzoutzouka combines old style café vibes with an open kitchen that is a celebration of the finest Greek flavours.

Conclusion

So there you have it. Athens really is a haven for foodies. To summarise, here’s a rundown of what this city has to offer. But there’s always more to discover, and we hope this brief introduction has given you the confidence to go and explore – wide eyed and open mouthed.

• Fine dining – Try Hytra or Varoulko Seaside
• Traditional – Head Northwest, and keep an eye out for hidden gems like Kottarou
• Street Food – The Middle Eastern block is your best bet, packed with excellent spots like
• Explore – Take a walking tour or head to the Central Food Market.
• Trends – Look out for Gastro-Tavernas like Dopio, or head to Little Asia for a dollop of Thai Ice-cream.

One of the greatest achievements of travelers is to go to Europe. Bordering the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea is a popular country which is called Greece. This country has eye- popping beaches, rich culture, bustling islands and amazing food.

When we tell about Greece, it is known for Greek Mythology. Like Zeus and Hercules “anybody” knows that in childhood. The fact that this country is the oldest countries in Europe. Greece official name is Hellenic Republic or also known as Hellas. There is a movie called “300” released last year 2014 that talks about a Greek warrior defending its country against invaders. The movie highlighted the great civilization during that time and even today Greece is consider one of the most livable places across many countries.

First example is the historic Santorini Architecture. This is one that signifies the birthplace of democracy. Santorini Island lies in an active volcano which the last eruption was recorded in 1950’s. The towns and villages sit densely on top of the mighty cliffs of the caldera.

We have also the Ancient Greece which no surprise the oldest and longest histories of Art and Philosophy established in 700-480 B.C. Ancient Greece had over 1000 city-states like Athens, Sparta and Corinth which makes this country strong. The capital of Greece is the city of Athens which is Europe’s oldest Capital. This make Greece’s capital one of the oldest cities in the entire world. Athens has also the most theatrical stages in the world. There are a total of 148 theatrical stages in this location. In Greece, 90% of the population is involve in Christian Orthodox which is the third largest branch of Christianity.

As I have said, democracy originated in this country. This country influence western civilization. It means that western culture originated here in this country. In this country, the first Olympic games took place in year 776 B.C. held in Olympia. During that time women is forbidden to join any Olympic games but in our current year women is consider as equal as men.

Odyssey is made by the Greeks. It is a renowned poem all over the world. But the funny part of it is that Greeks are not eating beans because they believed that the grains had the soul of dead people. As of now we are still using the Greek alphabet is the oldest language still use in modern times. The word alphabet actually came from the Greek word. It has a root word of alpha and beta. Greek language had contributed language community basically English vocabulary and 150,000 of the English words derive from Greek. One of these examples are school, paradise, economy, poem and academy.

In terms of geographical aspect, Greece is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe. 80% of the country is covered by mountain ranges. The highest peaks in Europe is Mount Olympus located on the border between Thessaly and Macedonia. This mountain had vertical measure up to 2917 meters above sea level. In Greek Mythology, they believe that Zeus god of lighting live here during ancient times.

Greece also has the longest coastline in southern Europe which has over 60KM surrounding the capital city “Athens”. This City is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Acropolis and Mount Athos. Acropolis is the most popular tourist attraction in Greece. Acropolis of Athens is considered to be the symbol of Athens and western civilization. The country has over six thousand (6,000) island throughout the Aegean Sea. One if its largest is Crete Island which has 8836 square kilometers and has a population of more than six hundred thirty thousand (630,000).

In this country, wine is loved by everyone. Winemaking in this country has been a tradition for 4000 years and they have more than 600 wineries all over the parts of Greece. Mediterranean Diet originated in Crete. This meal includes vegetables, nut fish, olive oil and red meat. Greece

is also known for its huge consumption of olive oil and in fact women here rubbed olive oil into their skin to maintain their flawless soft skin. The fact that is has a large consumption, did you know that Greece is the third largest producer of olives across all the countries in the world. They consider olive trees as a gift from God.

Frequently ask questions: What is Mesimeriano?

This is the important meal of the day. This is necessarily refer to a specific lunch dish but more to experience of an authentic Greek lunch meaning it is a “late lunch”.

What are some interesting facts about Greece?

• Greece is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe;
• Greece is home to 18 UNESCO world heritage sites;
• Greece is the third-largest producer of olives in the world.
• Athens is Europe’s oldest capital;
• The ancient Greek alphabet is the oldest written language still in use

Animals have different roles and functions in ancient Greece. There are numerous mythological traditions where animals often act as gods. Animals can also serve a symbolic purpose, for example, owls symbolize wisdom and are synonymous with Athena, and dolphins are always used to indicate the presence of Poseidon.

The gods of Greece are known to dwell in the natural world alongside humans. These gods have some animals that are considered sacred to them because the animal’s characteristics resemble the god’s power. This article will present and discuss the animals that are considered the most sacred to the Greek gods.

Sacred animals of the gods

Symbolism is a vital instrument in most religions. Symbols in religion are used to pass values associated with religious principles. With symbols, different animals are associated with different gods for various reasons. Let’s take a look at the animals each Greek god has:

• Zeus’ sacred animals: Eagle, Bull

  The famous Olympian king Zeus was the father of gods, the god of sky and lightning. He is also known for his ability to transform into various animals. always transform into various animals whenever he is chasing women in desire.
  Zeus kidnaps the attractive young man Ganymede in the form of an eagle while he transforms into a bull when abducting the young Europa. In many historical pieces, Zeus is always represented with a golden feathered eagle known as Aetos Dios, this eagle serves as his messenger and companion beside his throne.

• Hera sacred animals: Peacock, cuckoo, and cow

  Hera is the wife of Zeus and also the Queen of all gods. She is particularly worshiped by women. She is in control over marriage and childbirth and is represented by cows, peacocks, and cuckoos.
  The cow is the major animal considered most sacred to Hera because it represented nurturing and protection for her young. The Cuckoo symbolizes her beauty while the peacock symbolizes her love for her husband.

• Poseidon’s sacred animals: horse, dolphin, the Cretan bull

  Poseidon was known as the god of the sea, and earthquakes. He has three animals associated with and sacred to him.
  The most sacred animal to Poseidon was a horse which symbolizes beauty, valor, and prowess. He fathered many horses including the famous winged horse, Pegasus. other animals associated with Poseidon are the dolphin and Cretan bull.

• Apollo sacred animals: cow, hawk, snake, crow, Cicada, and Swan.

  Apollo, the god of music and art is associated with different animals.Cicada was considered sacred to Apollo because of its connection with music during the summer.Just like Zeus, Apollo uses hawks ravens, and crows as his messengers.
  Another animal that was considered sacred to Apollo is the cow. He possesses the famous cattle that the god of the sun (Helios) was looking over and which Hermes stole when he was born

• Athena’s sacred animals: owl, and goose

  Athena is widely known as the goddess of wisdom and righteous war. Her major sacred animal is the owl because the owl is considered very cunning, deadly, and wise.
  The owl symbolizes the goddess’s ability to see through the eyes of wisdom.Another animal that is more rarely considered sacred to Athena is the goose, an intelligent bird.

• Hermes sacred animals: Tortoise and Ram

  Hermes was the god of traders, the messenger of the gods, and the protector of athletes. He was associated with Tortoise and Ram.
  He is widely known for constructing the first lyre from a tortoise shell. He later gifted the lyre to Apollo as gratitude for stealing his cattle.It was believed that he turn away the pestilence that was threatening the people of Tangara. He did this by carrying a ram on his shoulder and cycling the town’s wall.

• Artemis’ sacred animals: Deer and Wild boar

  Artemis is the goddess of hunting and wilderness. Her major sacred animal is the deer. According to myth, she fell in love with some deer with shining golden horns.
  She captured and harnessed them into her chariot. She names them the Elaphoi Khrysokeroi.It was also known that the wild bear was sacred to the goddess since it is one of the favorite animals of hunters.

• Ares sacred animals: Dog, Vulture, and Boar

  Ares the god of war despises cowards and those who hesitated in battle. His most sacred animal is the dog. An animal that is very faithful but can sometimes be dangerous.
  Another animal that is associated with Ares is the Boar because they are a fierce opponent that only heroes can deal with them.
  He was also symbolized by vultures because they were considered to be birds of bad omen that would litter around the battlefield waiting to feast on dead bodies.

• Demeter sacred animals: serpent, pig, and gecko

  Demeter was the goddess of agriculture, rain, and harvest. Her most sacred animal is the serpent because it symbolizes fertility and regeneration.
  She also keeps the pig as her sacred animal because pigs are farm animals. The pig is always used as a sacrifice to the goddess to ensure the fertility of the land.

• Aphrodite sacred animals: swan, dove, and hare

  The goddess of beauty and love had the dove as its most sacred animal. In many art representations, numerous doves are always shown pulling her chariot. Doves were frequently sacrificed to the goddess, especially during the aphrodisia festival. During this festival, priests will sacrifice a dove and use the blood to purify the goddess’s altar.Another animal considered to be sacred to Aphrodite is the swan which is a symbol of beauty. The goddess is always shown in pictures riding on the back of a swan.

Mythical creatures in Greek myth

Greek mythology is well known for its many mythical creatures. Creatures are supernatural beings with various powers and they come in various forms.

Here are some of the most popular mythical creatures in Greek myth:

• Pegasus

  Pegasus, a beautiful white horse with large wings, is one of the most popular Greek mythological creatures. He was the horse of the famous Olympian king Zeus.
  Pegasus is an intelligent horse that does not allow anyone without a good heart to ride him. He can perceive people’s intentions.

• Cerberus

  Cerberus is a Greek mythical creature in the form of a dog with three heads and a snake with a tail. He is the dog of the god Hades. Its job is to guard the gate of the underworld and ensure that the dead did not leave and the living could not enter.

• Griffin

  This mythical creature has a hybrid form of an eagle and a lion, combining their wildness and courage into a single being.They are difficult to tame as they always roam in packs. Demigods were capable of taming them and they became loyal to him.

• Cyclops

  Cyclops was a one-eyed giant and among the first beings to inhabit the universe. They are creatures dedicated to herding and hunting. The cyclops has two generations. The first generation consists of sons of Uranus and Gaea, who were dedicated to craft and construction. The second generation is a small tribe that lives on a remote island.

• Gorgon

  The Gorgons were wicked female monsters who were daughters of the sea god. The gorgons are Medusa, steno, and Euryale. They were beautiful creatures but had snakes on their heads instead of hair. Medusa was later beheaded by Perseus who used her head as a weapon and gifted it to Athena for her shield.

• Hydra of Lerna

  The Hydra of Lerna was known to be a ruthless aquatic monster. It has claws like a reptile and many heads. She was raised by Zeus’ wife, Hera. Hydra was a creature that lived alone until Hercules killed her.

• Centaur

  Centaur is a mythical creature that is half man and half horse. He had the head, arms, and torso of a man and the body and legs of a horse.

Conclusion

The mythology of ancient Greek is filled with different stories that involve weird creatures. These creatures are supernatural and they appear in different and weird forms. They are represented in sculpture, pottery, and literary tradition.

The Greek also has a lot of gods they worship and different animals are associated with each god. When animal characteristics resemble a particular god’s power, the animal will be considered sacred to the gods. You can read more extraordinary stories on Greek mythology from other reliable sources for extensive understanding.

Although there are thousands of islands in Greece, and we adore many of them, Amorgos has permanently captured our hearts. But why did we focus on this island in today’s blog post when there were so many others? Find out by reading on!
The Cyclades’ Amorgos island is its crown jewel. The names Yperia, Platagy, Pagali, Psichia, and Karkisia were also used to refer to Amorgos. There are several remains of past civilizations on Amorgos. Three separate city-states were there during the Archaic era in Greece. They are thought to have shared a common currency but independent constitutions.

The size and quality of the walls that enclose the city of Arkesini, the old towers that have left remnants all over the island, the ancient graves, the stone tools, the inscriptions, the vases, and other artifacts are what set Amorgos apart from other antiquity-rich islands. Popular for its laid-back ambiance and stunning natural surroundings, this legendary Greek island is a favorite destination. On the island of Amorgos, you may enjoy the unending Aegean Sea’s blue hue alongside a vibrant nightlife and a variety of outdoor pursuits.

Amorgos, unlike the other Cyclades Islands, has miraculously avoided the lure of mass tourism despite its exceptional beauty. Amorgos is one of those places where local culture determines how tourists experience the island rather than the other way around, and the island has managed to stay untouched and incredibly authentic.

This blog post would try to give a complete guide to the bus timetable for Amorgos, so keep reading and let;’s uncover more details about the beautiful island of Amorgos.

In order to get into Amorgos, you’ll need to use ferries, since there are frequent ferries leaving from the port of Piraeus, it is possible to go to Amorgos by ferry from Athens all year round. Also, there are ferry links from other Cycladic islands. There is no airport on the island of Amorgos, but you can fly to Naxos or Santorini and take a ferry from there.

Now that you’re in the city, the Amorgos Bus Company is a bus-based public transportation company in Amorgos. There are 27 bus stops along 8 bus routes run by the Amorgos Bus Company. Their bus routes serve the areas between the stops at Kalotaritissa Beach and Lagada as well as between the stops at Tholaria and Navagio (Shipwreck).

The 8 bus routes according to the Amorgos Bus Company, their routes and their time of operation are as follows:

1. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 7 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Κατάπολα), which travels from Agia Anna and ending in Katapola. They include: Agia Anna, Monastery, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. They work every day.
2. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΘΟΛΆΡΙΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Θολάρια), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Tholaria. They include: Aegiali, Mpogiatzi, Camping, Fokiotripa, Aegialis Hotel and finally, Tholaria. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:45 AM to 11:15 PM. They work every day.

3. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 8 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Κατάπολα), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Katapola. They include: Aegiali, Agios Pavlos, Asfontilitis, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:00 AM to 09:30 PM. They work every day.
4. Timetable and stops for the ΑΙΓΙΆΛΗ – ΛΑΓΚΆΔΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Αιγιάλη – Λαγκάδα), which travels from Aegiali and ending in Lagada. They include: Aegiali, Mpogiatzis, Kaminaki, Manoliou, and finally, Lagada. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM. They work every day.
5. Timetable and stops for the ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ – ΚΑΛΟΤΑΡΊΤΙΣΣΑ bus route (Updated). There are 13 stops on the – bus (Καλοταρίτισσα – Κατάπολα), which travels from Kalotaritissa Beach and ending in Katapola. They include: Kalotaritissa Beach, Navagio (Shipwreck), Agia Paraskevi, Paradisia (Agia Paraskevi), Pirgos, Arkesini, Moyros Beach, Valsamitis, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are once a day at 5:30 PM. They work every day.
6. Timetable and stops for the ΜΟΝΑΣΤΉΡΙ – ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Μοναστήρι – Κατάπολα), which travels from Monastery and ending in Katapola. They include: Monastery, Chora, Kastelopetra, Camping Kastanis, Rahidi and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:35 AM and ends at 6:35 PM daily.
7. Timetable and stops for the ΧΏΡΑ – ΑΓΊΑ ΆΝΝΑ bus route (Updated). There are 6 stops on the – bus (Χώρα – Αγία Άννα), which travels from Chora and ending in Agia Anna. They include: Chora, Monastery and finally, Katapola. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 10:15 AM and ends at 5:15 PM daily.
8. Timetable and stops for the ΚΑΤΆΠΟΛΑ – ΧΏΡΑ bus route (Updated). There are 5 stops on the – bus (Κατάπολα – Χώρα), which travels from Katapola and ending in Chora. They include: Katapola, Rahidi, Camping Kastanis, Kastelopetra and finally, Chora. An outline of the forthcoming week’s bus time schedule: operational hours are 9:45 AM and ends at 8:00 PM daily.

Charges change according to time and distance. You can pay as little as €1.80 to travel from Chora to Katapola, for instance, to as much as €3.50 to travel from Katapola to Kalotaritissa. A minor fee is added for the nighttime slots. For instance, Chora-Katapola now costs €2.00 rather than €1.80. Tickets can be bought right there in the car. Only one route is covered by the price of the ticket.

Each village on the island of Amorgos is connected by air-conditioned buses provided by the Amorgos Bus Company. Buses connect the villages of Aegiali with Agios Pavlos, Chora of Amorgos, Katapola, and the villages of Kato Meria relatively often during the summer.

Amorgos is an amazing location with exceptional natural beauty and spectacular landscapes. It is the perfect location for any nature lover, despite being rocky and rugged. Amorgos is a small island, yet it has a well-developed transportation system. This area is well worth exploring, whether on foot, by bus, or in a private automobile.

The cheapest method of transportation on the island is public transportation. The neighborhood bus service operates a number of routes every day from early in the morning until late at night. Also, there are specialized late-night bus services. The majority of bus lines originate in Aegiali, Katapola, or Chora and travel to practically every settlement on the island.

The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, which is close to Chora, is also frequently visited. After the bus drops you off at your destination, you must walk to the Monastery. Information and updates can be also found at amorgosbuscompany.com

And that would conclude today’s post.we’re convinced that by now, you know a lot about island of Amorgos and its main attractions; the bus routes in Amorgos for 2023 and the description of the bus routes, timings, and frequency. We also talked about the ticketing system, prices and how to purchase tickets and concluded with the special services provided by the bus system in Amorgos such as night buses, special routes for tourists and other services and how to access these services and their availability. We believe this blog post was helpful, if you have comments please feel free to reach out to us.

It’s a scorchingly hot Saturday evening, you’re holidaying in the tourist friendly area of Athens for a week or so and you’re looking for a place to go. As a avid traveller, you’ve been sightseeing, you’ve had a look at the historic monuments around the area and now of course, it’s time to Eat!… not the small snacks or food discourses that will keep you ticking during the day.

No… I’m talking about the meals that will leave you drooling and daydreaming about the next meal on the way, once you finish your most recent dish. Lest we forget, Athens is the capital of one of the most prominent food popular countries in the world.

I mean come on, who doesn’t have cravings for Greek food from time to time.Now imagine tasting those very dishes in the home country itself, with the sunlight beaming down on you as you tuck into the dish in front of you, with relish and genuine delight.

Ergo, you’ll have more than enough time to consume and divulge yourself into a well seasoned, well prepared meals that will have you push Greece, towards the top end of your holiday destinations in not too distant future.

The country itself is notorious for its delectable mix of delicious meals, that vary from Mediterranean dishes (Moussaka), bakeries, traditional Greek meals such as Tarmasalata or grilled meat and much more.

Still don’t believe me? We’ll sit down, relax and have a look at some of the top restaurants we rated among the best in the area, for food courses of all kinds and tastes to your pleasure …

No.5 – Le Greche

This five star Ice cream shop is located in central Athens, where you can take pleasure in some of the finest gelato dishes served up, from traditional Greek cuisine and certain recipes, drummed up from nearby countries like Italy and San Marino.

The restaurant takes pride in providing fruit menus, sweet chocolate and additional information at the door, whilst giving the customers additional information, about the food they’re going to receive once ordered, in the plush, comfortable seats set for them to settle in. Furthermore, the options included are also gluten and lactose, for those who may suffered from food related allergies.

No.4 – Kanaria

Located in the surburbs of the city, Kanaria is a retro styled restaurant that ensures that it’s visitors are settled and accommodated in a manner, that suits both their food tastes and financial needs. Set up by the Argyropoulos family in the 1950’s, the shop is based off the ideals of your typical Greek food dishes (albeit only five are served in the shop), all of which are affordable and delicious in equal measure.

The garden like settings around the restaurant, give the location a sense of tranquility and peace, you don’t always get in foreign settings when you go to restaurants on unknown territory, but that’s where Kanaria comes in strong, alongside its succulent dishes which make the mouth water, just at the sight or thought of tasting the meals in question (e.g. Pan fried prawns). Mmmm…..

No.3 – Seychelles Restaurant

A modern food bistro, Seychelles maintains a top notch quality menu that enables customers to choose from healthy salads, to butch meat dishes, seafood based dishes centred on pappardelle ideology, Cycladic cheeses and more, for your delight. Trendy as well as settling, the restaurant can be located near the Aldvi centre where civilians come down, from Keramikos neighbourhoods to enjoy and savour the meals, available on menu.

This also gives tourists or travellers like yourself, to incorporate and take in the differing cultures on show, as a combustible mix of accents, delects, forceful food opinions take hold of a up and about venues providing the best service available, for foodies to enjoy. Also, the prices may I tell you are also affordable and appealing for you to invest your spare cash on for a meal …. Thank God!!!

No.2 – Hytra Restaurants

This beautiful restaurant is based on the sixth floor of the Onassis Cultural Centre, where visitors can find cuisine based around distinctive and notable flavours when they enter the venue , while overlooking Acropolis views as they eat the dishes prepared for them. The restaurant was listed on the infamous “La Liste” batch of restaurants branches, notable for their success in 2019.

Hytra provides it customers with rich Greek heritage and gastronomy, through the presentations of their meals, for customers to fester over… these meals include regulars like gourmets, Short Ribs, Cod, big pork dishes and more. Let’s not forget also, the airy atmosphere that contributes towards the location being ideal and more than enough of a sweetener, for tourists or local civilians to enjoy their time in the restaurants….

No.1 – Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

You want that traditional Greek Deli flavour, I recommend you come here and savour that taste for yourself. Centred around a neo-classical house, the deli plays host to a series of regional dishes such as fried aubergine, saganaki cheese, pastrouma (dried meat), zucchini and more, for any customers to enjoy on the enticing menu. Again, like most Greek restaurants in Athens we’ve seen how the prices are to most financial charging in regards, to how people can order these meals and not burn a significant hole in their pockets…. Phew!

Now of course we’ve given you a selection of restaurants for you all, to choose, ponder, pick and eventually eat at, once you enter the city of Athens.

The question is…. Which one will you pick my dear readers??

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands, with a rich and varied history that feeds directly into its beautiful and unique diet. Crete is more unlike the rest of Greece than many realise, and this blog will give you an insight into the history, culture and authentic cuisine that make this island so distinctive.

Cretan cuisine at a glance

The Cretan diet is based on very simple bedrock; Olives, oils, pulses and vegetable, alongside nuts and dried fruits. Meat and fish consumption on Crete is lower than you might think, the Cretans instead favouring cheese as a source of protein. Cheese making is deeply traditional on Crete, with so many different varieties that many go unnamed and are referred to simply as “cheese”. Turkish and Jewish travellers brought to Crete a whole host of herbs and spices, the influence of which can still be seen in thick lamb sauces and zesty buttered snails.

History in every bite

From 824 – 961AD, Crete was under Arab rule, influences of which can still be found in its cuisine. A huge milestone in Crete’s food history, though, took place in 1204 when the island was sold to the Venetians, who used the island as a place to cultivate grains, wines, animal hides and woods to shape shipyards. Crete enjoyed a rip-roaring trade of import and export, with food from all over the world passing through.

These flavours and international influences leaked slowly into Cretan cuisine, until the island was taken by the Ottoman Turks in 1669, and their legacy is plain to see in today’s menus. In fact, many dishes considered traditionally Cretan were inherited from Ottoman cuisine. Phyllo pastry, aubergine papoutsaki and baklava all owe their place in the Cretan diet to this influence of Persian, Arabic and Byzantine cuisine that was brought to the island by the Turks.

Traditional Cretan dishes (and where to find them)

Dakos

The quintessential Cretan starter. A rusk made of paximadia, a type of barley. Baked to perfection and served studded with seeds. Enjoy with olive oil, fresh tomato juice and salted cheese. You’ll find these everywhere, but those at To Steno are particularly yummy.

Bourbouristi

Staka Me Ayga

Cretan Ingredients

Staka

Boil milk, let it cool. Slice off the foamy top, sprinkle with salt and store in the fridge. The result is this sour, salty, punch in the taste buds.

Syglino

A truly traditional meat. Tender cuts of pork are marinated in spiced extra virgin olive oil, then smoked over aromatic woods.

Ironwort

A self-seeding, wild tea. Close in flavour to marjoram, it grows on mountains, as high as two thousand meters.

Crete is an island in touch with it’s’ seasons. One sure fire way to tell if a restaurant or tavern is serving you authentic Cretan food is to check for seasonal ingredients. In spring, any chef worth their salt will be serving up peas, asparagus, courgette, fava beans and a host of other pulses. In summer, you’re looking for beans, aubergines, tomatoes, squash and okra. When winter comes, the freshest fare includes carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and avocado.

Also, look out for a daily specials board. If you find a tavern with a chalk board outside, advertising a different local fish or lamb dish every day, chances are the chef is planning his menu around each morning’s freshest local produce.

It’s all Greek to me

No matter how well you research a country and its cuisine, there’s one thing that can

If you’re keen to experience quieter, more authentic tavernas, stick to the south coast of the island. With fewer tourists here than Malia and Hersonissos to the North, you’re less likely to fall prey to sub-par tourist menus.

If you’re having trouble figuring out if an eatery is authentic, and aren’t confident asking about the food, just have a look at the outside of the building. If it looks like its seen better days – all flaking paint and mismatching furniture – but is still heaving with locals…chances are they’re there for the quality of the food!

Every year in mid August, Catholics in and around Greece unite to celebrate the memory of Virgin Mary (Jesus Christ’s mother), in a feast based upon ancient Marian beliefs that Mary’s body ascended up to Heaven on a specific day. That specific day is known to be August the 15th, a day many Catholics claim to be the date of Mary’s body assumption that dates back to the 300’s A.D.

Other than our Greek friends of course, the commemorative day is known to be celebrated in other parts of Europe, North and South America like the US or , as a form of symbolism centred around Mary’s body entering heaven, instead of going through the usual process of decay, most humans go through.

Now of course dear readers, none of us were around in that time period to indicate this to be true. In fact, it’s heavily debated that Mary’s body was even buried, to the extent where her body relics or burial tomb are nowhere to be found.

This unorthodox theory extends to the lack of a mention for Virgin’s Mary whereabout in the Holy Scripture itself, which leads us to this very question.Why do Greek Catholics celebrate this particular tradition, even though there’s close to no mention of this momentous occasion in the Bible?…

Well, it was decreed in November 1950 by the Pope Pius XII that this very day was to be celebrated, as the exact day that Virgin’s Mary body and soul, was accepted into Heaven. From there on in, Catholics worldwide were given an a day to commemorate this Eastern Orthodox, in their own religious fashion that observes this Assumption dogma, as a significant day in the religious calendar.

As we all know in the scriptures of the Bible, death is the end point of life, a term used to signify the end point of one’s lifespan. In Virgin’s Mary case, her assumption was symbolised as a reward for her faith, co-operation, perseverance and obvious role in the upbringing of the Prodigal son: Jesus Christ… which leads many to celebrate the Feast of Mary as a public holiday on the 15th of August every year.

As quoted by St John’s Damascene in one of his sermons…

“Your sacred and happy soul, as nature will have it, was separated in death from your most blessed and immaculate body, and although the body was duly interred, it did not remain in the state of death, neither was it dissolved by decay; your most pure and sinless body was not left on earth, but you were transferred to your heavenly throne.”

Notable quote one may say, I mean who’s to dispute St John, let alone the Pope now?

The event itself is celebrated with symbolic mosaics, food offerings that last throughout the day, liturgical services usually conducted in religious settings (ideally the Church, one will have you), processions and thus forth, just to ensure that visitors, let alone Catholics can commemorate the orthodox tradition in the right manner. This is done to ensure that the memory and wonderful life of Virgin Mary is respected and honoured in the best way possible, whilst maintaining the solemnity of the occasion for those celebrating her life, be it in an Eastern or Western church context.

For example, we see an delicately illustrated image of how Catholics assume Mary’s body, was eventually accepted into heaven through this image below here.

Greek wise, the civilians in the country choose to celebrate the Day of Mary’s assumption by turning the day into one joyous festival, with the event being nicknamed as “the Easter of the Summer”. The event leads to most corners and areas, being full of people going to church processions to pay tribute to one of the favourite saints in the Holy Scripture annually, with Virgin’s Mary being paraded throughout the country on posters, walls, altars and more during the day.

With the celebrations of Mary’s Assumption in Greece and elsewhere, the Saint has gathered a selection of titles that commemorate her sacred place among the saints often lauded in the Holy Scripture, much of which stems from the symbolism often placed on the the Dormition of the Virgin, as some nickname the festival. Here are some of the titles listed to Virgin Mary…

• Virgin of Tinos
• Mary of Jerusalem in the Holy Land
• Kastrani
• Amorgos
• Axion Estif of Mount Athos

Local festivals, street vendors and street bands are easy to be found, in the city of Agaissos during Assumption Day, as tourists, civilians and any random scooter of a human can enjoy the festivities at hand, for their own pleasure. That’s what makes Assumption Day so popular and festive for people to commemorate Virgin Mary’s Day so willingly- it combines the holy communion and spirituality of celebrating the mother of the prodigal son, whilst indulging in one of the joyous days of the Greek calendar, yearly.

There’s food, music, scripture readings and a whole lot of culture to take in, once you step foot in the Assumption Festival…. If you ask me my dear readers, what more can you really ask for??

Mount Athos, which is also known as the holy mountain, is located on the Eastern Halkidiki Peninsula near Thessalonica, Greece. It is one of the most important centers for Orthodox Christians.

Mount Athos was regarded as one of the most important monastic sites during the Byzantine empire. During this period, there were 46 monasteries on the site which attracted monks from all over the world.

Currently, the holy mountain is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is also one of the historical sites you should visit when you are in Greece.

This composition will provide all the necessary information you should know before planning to visit mount Athos.

History and background of mount Athos

Mount Athos is a holy site that starts inhabiting monks during the 19th century. It is located on one of the Greek peninsulas.

The holy mountain is about 50 km long and 10 km wide. It covers an area of 330 Square kilometers.

The origin of the name mount Athos varies. A source says during the battle between the gods and the giants, the giant Athos threw a huge rock at the god of the sea (poseidon). The rock fell into the sea and became the holy mount Athos.
Another source says the history of mount Athos began when Mary was traveling on the island of Cyprus to visit her friend. Her ship was blown off and guided by divine signs to a protected side and docked there. Looking upward at the mountain and its beauty, she declares “this mountain is holy ground. This area is also known as the garden of the virgin mary.

During the 6th and 7th centuries, monks found mount Athos as a deserted place to worship in peace. During the 9th century, these monks began to gather in small communities all over Athos.

The era of organized monastic life begins in 963 AD with the establishment of the first monastery, the Great Lavra. The founder of this monastery was Athanasios of the Athonite.
In the 11th and 12th centuries, more monasteries were constructed but mount athos remains an important monastic site in the Byzantine empire.

In 1822, the greatest tragedy occurred. Thousands of women and children seek refuge in the area, and Turkish armies kill the women and the children including the monks, steal all the treasures, and burn valuable manuscripts.

During the end of Ottoman domination in 1912, mount Athos had around 10,000 monks. Currently, mount Athos is a self-governing area of the Greek state. It is governed by the holy community which consists of representatives from 20 holy monasteries.

The monasteries of mount Athos

Mount Athos consists of 20 monasteries. 17 of these monasteries are Greek while one is Russian, one is Serbian and one is Bulgarian. These 20 monasteries are under the supervision of the archimandrite of mount Athos. Each monastery has a representative called Protos, this representative attends a joint governing council.

The Greek monastery includes :

• Monastery Stavronikita

  This is one of the smallest monasteries of mount Athos. It was established by the Patriarch Jeremiah I in 1540. It was founded to replace an older monastery that was already in existence in the 11th century.
  Numerous active monks still dwell in the monastery as they provide restoration of the building and hospitality to the pilgrims.

• Monastery Xenofondos

  This monastery is built by the sea and dedicated to St George. It was built in the early 18th century. The monastery has 14 chapels, and 8 of the chapels are inside the monastery.

• Monastery Megistis Lavras

  This is the first and the most renowned monastery. It was established in 963 AD by Athanasius the Athonite.
  Since the existence of the monastery, it has always held first place among others because of its wealth. The monastery is always open from sunrise to sunset.

• Monastery Osiou Grigoriou

  This monastery was built by the sea during the 14th century. It is located Southwest of the peninsula and is dedicated to St Nicholas. This monastery inhabits about 100 monks today which makes it one of the most inhabited monasteries. The library has about 297 manuscripts and 4000 books.

• Monastery Dionisiou

  This monastery was built by the monk Dionysius of Koryssos in the middle 14th century. It was built on a rock, high above the sea. There is a defensive tower inside the monastery, used for the safekeeping of the monastery library.

• Monastery Koutloumousiou

  This monastery ranks sixth in the hierarchy of the Athonite monastery. It was founded by the monk Kallistos from the garden of Koutloumous. The monastery has more than 600 manuscripts and 6500 printed books.

• Monastery Iviron

  This monastery was built at the end of the 10th century by a Georgian monk, St John. It is the third in the hierarchy of monasteries. This monastery was dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos.
  Pilgrims visit this monastery for the legendary miracles of the Panagia Portaitissa.

• Monastery Filotheou

  This monastery was founded by the St Filotheous in 972. It was called Fteris monastery in the beginning. The new name was given in honor of Christ’s annunciation. The monastery library possesses about 250 manuscripts and 2500 printed books.

• Monastery karakalou

  This monastery was built around the 11th century by Karakalas. It was dedicated to St Peter and Paul.
  The library has about 279 manuscripts and 2500 printed books.

• Monastery Pantokratoros

  This monastery was established by two Byzantine officials, Alexios and Ioannis. It is dedicated to the transfiguration of the savior. The monastery has 15 chapels while the library possesses 350 manuscripts and above 3500 printed books.

• Monastery Vatopediou

  This monastery was founded by three monks, Athanasius, Nicholas, and Antonius. It is dedicated to the Annunciation of the blessed virgin.
  The monastery library contains around 2000 manuscripts and 35000 printed books.

• Monastery Esphigmenou

  This monastery was founded in the 10th century. It is built by the sea and surrounded by a rectangular wall. The monastery library has about 372 manuscripts and 3000 printed books.

• Monastery Dochiariou

  This monastery is one of the most beautiful. It was built during the 10th century and dedicated to the archangels Micheal and Gabriel. This monastery has the most respected and valuable icon which is the icon virgin. Its library has about 900 manuscripts and 3000 printed books

• Monastery Xiropotamou

  This monastery was built at the end of the 10th century by Paul xiropotaminous. It was dedicated to the forty martyrs. The monastery library has around 400 manuscripts and 4000 printed books. It is inhabited by 38 monks today.

• Monastery Simonos Petras

  This monastery is the bold construction of the peninsula. It was founded by Hosios Simon and dedicated to the birth of Christ.It was burnt down by fire in 1891 and lost nearly all its treasures, this made the library have only 1500 printed books and few manuscripts.A brotherhood of 60 monks lives inside this monastery today.

• Monastery Saint Paul

  This monastery was founded by Paul xiropataninous, the same founder of the monastery Xiropotamou. The monastery was destroyed and rebuilt many times, which makes it building belong to a different period. Its library contains about 12500 printed books and 490 manuscripts.

• Monastery Konstamonitou

  This monastery was built in a forest, 200m above the sea. It was established by the great Constantine and later integrated by his son Konstas. The monastery library contains around 110 manuscripts.

  The remaining three monasteries are:

• Monastery Hilandariou (Serbian)

  This monastery was founded by Stefan Nemanja in the 12th century. The church is dedicated to the presentation of the blessed virgin mary. The monastery library contains 181 Greek manuscripts, 809 Slavic manuscripts, and 20000 printed books.

• Monastery Zografou (Bulgarian)

  This monastery was founded by three brothers in the 10th century. The brothers are Aaron, John, and Moses from Achris. It is dedicated to Saint George.
  The monastery library contains 126 greek manuscripts, 388 Slavic manuscripts, and 10000 printed books.

• Monastery saint panteleimonos (Russian)

  This monastery is also known as the monastery of the Russians. The church is dedicated to saint Panteleimon. This monastery had the second biggest bell on earth after that in st Petersburg. The monastery Library contains about a combined 1920 Greek and Russian manuscripts and 20000 printed books.

Visiting mount Athos

Mount Athos is a restricted area which makes visiting a difficult procedure. The holy mountain is not a vacation venue nor a place for catching fun. It is strictly a destination for pilgrimage.

Entrance into the Holy Mountain is strictly for men only, women have not been allowed inside the environment for more than thousands of years.

You must obtain a permit called Diamonitirion to enter the mountain. This permit is usually issued daily for 10 foreigners and orthodox visitors, and 100 for Orthodox Greeks visitors.
A permit lasts for 4 visiting days. It can be extended at the registration office in karyes, the capital of mount Athos. You must make your reservation up to six months in advance, the earlier the better. Reservation can be done via phone, fax, or email. The reservation cost 3 euros.

Contact for making a reservation :

Location: The mount Athos Pilgrim bureau, 109 Egnatia St. 546 22 Thessalonikiki, Greece. Fax: +3- 2310-222424
Email: [email protected]

Mobile: +30-2310-252578

The permit will be given to you at the pilgrim office branch at Ouranoupolis. From Thessaloniki, twice-daily buses are going to Ouranoupolis. You can purchase the ticket in advance online.

Upon arrival at ouranoupolis, you pick up your permit (Diamonitirion) at the Pilgrim’s branch. From Ouranoupolis, boats leave for the holy Mountai8 at 8 am, 9:45 am, and 11:45 am. You can get the ticket on the waterfront near the jetty. Upon getting to mount Athos, everyone must register in the office at Karyes.

Mount Athos is a holy and pilgrimage site. Some ground rules must be strictly followed by the visitors. Visitor permits can be withdrawn if any visitors violate the rules. Here are some of the rules:

• Dress moderately
• Pictures of monks should be taken only with permission
• You can take pictures of buildings, and scenes but not of services.
• Video recording is prohibited
• You should refrain from talking loudly or playing music loudly via a speaker.

The Holy Mountain is a pilgrimage site that has 20 monasteries. 17 Greek monasteries, 1 Russian monastery, 1 Bulgarian monastery, and 1 Serbian monastery. All these monasteries have their different histories, values, uniqueness, and significance to the history of Greece.

You should start your plan as early as six months in advance. The entry permit is only issued to 10 foreign visitors daily, and 100 Greek visitors daily. The permit lasts for 4 visiting days (3 nights).

You should always follow the rules and principles of the mountain. Your entry permit can be revoked if you violate any of the regulations.

You can read further and make more research on mount Athos before the start of your process. Enjoy your trip to the holy mountain.

 

Written by :  Lawal Usman