Ever since man could comprehend, his mind and soul yearned to roam the vast terrains and ever- azure skies of the world. Only the magnanimous oceans could alleviate his sorrows, just as the luscious valleys, rivaled only by picturesque woodlands, could fill his heart with joy. After hundreds and thousands of years, we continue to long for the same malady. Hence, for me as well as for many, Greece remains an all-time favorite travel destination.
Being a country located in southern Europe and bordering the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas, Greece is a country with an archipelago of around 3,000 islands. Vast regions of the country are engulfed by great mountains, making the country mountainous by nature. Mount Olympus, once believed to be the abode of mythological gods, holds the title of the tallest mountain in the country.
Greece has long bore testimony to mankind’s many feats and accomplishments throughout the course of time. Known as the country where the concept of democracy first originated, Greece holds a position as the once-dwelling place of many great minds. The Greek philosopher Aristotle or the like-minded Socrates and their equally honored pupils are just some examples out of many.
The Acropolis of Athens, considered one of the ancient wonders of the world, stands high against the tides of time and continues to pay homage to the goddess Athena from the top of a limestone hill. The medieval city of Rhodes, Mount Anthos, the ever-charming Meteora, and numerous other heritage sites also remain as archaic remnants of lost civilizations. Nowadays, stunning statues and works of Greek pottery remain on display for both tourists and locals to visit in museums that were unearthed from these ruins.
While Greece undoubtedly has remarkable historical significance, it shows no inadequacy when it comes to its modern cuisine. Being a peninsular country, seafood dishes are a staple. Delicacies like Greek moussaka, souvlaki or tzatziki (a kind of dipping made of yogurt, cucumber, olive oil, and fresh herbs) are revered by Greeks and foreigners alike. A special type of cheese called feta is also a specialty. It is often eaten with bread, fruits and veggies, pasta or potatoes, or with a glass of Greek red wine.
Greece is also known for its impeccable contribution to modern-day theatrical plays, especially comedies and tragedies. As for other forms of art, impossibly detailed sculptures of gods and goddesses and other prominent figures throughout history are found within Greek temples and museums. The Winged Victory of Samothrace, a statue depicting the Greek goddess Nike, is mentionable in this regard.
The influence of Greek mythology on every aspect of the country is unarguably immense. There was a time when, Persephone and Hades’ tale served as an explanation of how seasons would come and go. Greek gods were also part of religion.
In a sense, mythology can be considered the preliminary form of science as well as the belief of the ancient Greeks. Now such myths remain only as such, and do duty as sources of entertainment for young and old alike in many shapes and forms.
Today, about six thousand islands and islets surround the mountainous country. They not only provide the people with a pleasing view but also act as great sources of goods and income for the country. Crete, Mykonos, Rhodes, Paros, Milos, etc. are some mentionable islands. Santorini, especially, has gained recent attraction for its blue-domed churches and beautiful sights.
Another factor for its popularity is it being the home to one of the world’s very few active volcanoes. It is said that the Santorini was built up by layers of lava from overlapping shield volcanoes. People all around the world come to this fascinating island to try out many of its rather unique recipes, such as tomatokeftedes (A kind of tomato fritter) or recipes made using white aubergines, a rarer variety of eggplant possessing a sweeter taste.
Besides the cuisine aspect, Greece is a country known for its hospitality. The Greeks are warm-hearted people who are hard workers well. As it is considered a tourist country, it has its fair share of foreigners enjoying what Greece has to offer. This diversity promotes friendships between people of different nations and also discourages racial discrimination of all forms.
In summary, I truly believe everyone should come and visit this unique country to truly grasp its beauty and diversity for themselves. Serving as the place where I grew up and spent my childhood, the unforgettable memories I made while I was there are incomparable to this day. The beautiful lemon trees that grew in our backyard, the midnight sky enlightened by tiny specks of light, the fun excursions I would go on with my friends, or the presence of the loving and kind-hearted neighbors are and always will be what my heart longs for.
I feel most at peace when I look at the crystal blue waters of the Glyfada beach waging a friendly war against the glimmering sand, making all my thoughts melt away and replacing them with pure bliss. The times I spent with my friends and family enjoying the different places and dishes of this beautiful country are times I will always treasure for the rest of my life
By: Nefeli Saha
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