On the territory of Greece were located. Which seas in Greece, where the country is located, what is her climate? Low prices calendar for flights

Greece is of interest to almost any person. Someone is interested in the history of the ancient Ellala, someone seeks to this country, considering it a cradle of Orthodoxy, and some tourists, and they seem to be most, just want to relax on the beautiful beach greek resorts. Every year, Greece is visited by more than 15 million tourists from different countries World.

In the V century BC, Greece was the center of Okumen, the undisputed leader in the field of art, architecture, science, mathematics, philosophy, theater and literature. Now Greece is famous for its amazing landscape, the beauty of nature, numerous historical monuments, as well as beautiful beach resorts.

Geography of Greece

Greece is located in southeast Europe. In the East and Northeast, Greece borders on Turkey, in the north - with Bulgaria, Macedonia and Albania, in the south it is washed by warm waters Mediterranean Sea, in the west - Ionian, and in the East - Aegean Sea.

The total area of \u200b\u200bGreece is almost 132 thousand square kilometers, including the islands (approximately 20% of the territory of Greece is the islands), and the total length of the state border is 1,228 km.

Much of the territory of Greece occupy mountains. Moreover, the highest of them is the famous Mountain Olympus in Fessellia (2,917 m).

In Greece there are about 3,053 islands. The largest Greek islands - Crete in the Mediterranean and Eviemy in the Aegean Sea.

Capital

The capital of Greece is the ancient city of Athens, in which more than 5 million people live. This city was founded about 3,500 years ago.

Official language of Greece

The official language of Greece is Greek, which is a branch of Indo-European languages. The first archaeological evidence of the existence of the Greek language belongs to the 15th century BC.

Religion

About 97% of Greece's population consider themselves Orthodox Christians belonging to the Greek Catholic Church. According to Eurostat survey, 81% of the Greeks believe that "God exists."

State device

Greece is the parliamentary republic, in which the head of state is the president (Parliament elects him). The current Greek constitution was adopted for a long time, in 1975.

Legislative power in this country belongs to the unicameral parliament (300 deputies).

The main political parties are a liberal "new democracy", the left "non-social society", "coalition of radical left", "People's Orthodox Call", and "Communist Party of Greece".

Climate and weather

In the coastal areas of Greece (Athens, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Oh-in Crete, Peloponnese and part of the Central Eldlast), the Mediterranean climate prevails (winter - soft and wet, and summer is dry and roast).

In the mountainous regions of North-West Greece (some of the epirra, Central Greece, Fessiona and Western Macedonia), as well as in the mountain portion of the peloponess, including Ahaya, Arkady and Lacon, Alpine climate with strong snowfall.

In the inside of Central Greece, in Central Macedonia, in East Macedonia and Frakia, the climate is moderate.

In July average temperature The air in Athens is + 28.7C, on the island of Corfu - + 27.8C, and on the island of Rhodes - 26.8s.

Sea in Greece

Greece is washed by the waters of the ionic (in the west), the Mediterranean (in the south) and the Aegean (in the East) of the seas. The shared coastline is about 17,000 km. In coastal areas (up to 50 km from the coast), approximately 85% of the population of all Greece live.

Sea water in Greece amazes and surprises all tourists. Her deep blue colour Explained, partly, reflection of the blue sky and the fact that it does not have a large amount of solids (for example, plankton, dirt and dust).

In the Greek seas there are about 450 species of fish and 12 species of cetaceans.

In Greece there are about 3,053 islands. The biggest ones are Crete in the Ionian Sea, Eviemy in the Aegean Sea, and Corfu in the Ionian Sea.

The average temperature of the sea in Greece:

• january - + 15c
• february - + 14c
• march - + 14c
• april - + 15c
• may - + 18c
• june - + 22c
• july - + 24c
• august - + 25c
• september - + 23c
• october - + 21c
• november - + 19c
• december - + 16c

The average temperature of the water near the island of Crete in May is + 19c, in August - + 25c, and in October - + 23c.

Rivers and Lakes Greece

Despite the fact that the majority of Greece is occupied by mountains, there are also many rivers in this country. In antiquity, the Greeks believed that the rivers belonged to the world of the gods, and worshiped them as separate deities.

Self large rivers In Greece - Alialymont (297 km), Aheloos (217 km), and places (230 km).

Perhaps tourists will be interested in the Greek lakes, among which we will highlight Trichonis, Volvi, and Vegitis.

History of Greece

Greece laid the beginning of European civilization. Greek cities-states of Athens, Corinth and Sparta united their strength only when they were under the threat of the invasion of Persians.

In the V century BC Athens were political, economic, and, of course, the cultural center of the Mediterranean. Then the dominant role over Greek lands received Sparta led by Alexander Great. At this time, the Greeks defeated Persians and distributed their influence on huge territories, up to India.

In 146 BC Greece was conquered by the Roman Empire. In 395 AD, after the collapse of the Roman Empire, Byzantium was formed (the official name - the Eastern Roman Empire), the capital of which was Constantinople (modern Istanbul).

In 1453, the Byzantine Empire was liquidated, and the territory of modern Greece fell under power Ottoman Empire. The following 350 years, Greece was part of the Turkish Ottoman Empire.

As a result of the Liberation War, 1821-1829 Greece finally gained independence. In 1833, the king of Greece became Otto from Bavaria. Monarchy in Greece (since 1863 Greeks Danish Rules the Royal Family) I existed until 1973.

After World War II, Greece plunged into a civil war, until the right monarchists defeated in 1954. From 1967 to 1974, Greece was ruled by the so-called. "Black Colonels".

In 1981, after many years of consultation, Greece became a member of the EU.

Culture of Greece

Greek culture begins with the Mycena and Mina civilizations (this is from 2,000 BC). After that, in the history of Greece there was a period that historians are called classic. At this time, Greek culture was formed, which began to influence the neighboring peoples. In general, Greece is the homeland of mankind, and one way or another, Greek culture influenced a huge number of countries. Successors of Greek culture is Ancient Rome And the Byzantine Empire.

In the Middle Ages on the Culture of Greece big influence Osman's empire provided. But this is understandable, because About 350 years old Greece was just one of the provinces of the Ottoman Empire.

Exactly at Ancient Greece Science originated. Modern philosophy, mathematics and astronomy are based on the knowledge gained by the ancient Greeks.

The most famous ancient Greek philosophers - Aristotle, Plato, Diogenes, Kholet Athens, Diogen and Socrates.

The most famous ancient Greek mathematicians - Archimedes, Pythagoras, Democritus and Euclide.

The Greeks are very superstitious, they believe not only in God, but also in supernatural forces. Until now, the Greeks seriously perceive the myths of ancient Greece. Moreover, in each region of Greece, in every village, on each island there are their own superstitions and traditions.

The Greeks will never personally pass the knife to a person who asks them about it, but simply put it, for example, on the table. It is believed that if you give someone a knife, then you will have to fight with this person.

The most popular Greek folk (and very often religious) holidays are the Epiphany, gynecocracy., Cycopmpt (meat Thursday), Clean Monday, Annunciation, Passionate Friday, Easter, Day Day of the Pontic Genocide, Trinity, Polytechnio and Christmas of Christ.

If two Greek will simultaneously say the same words, they will definitely affect a red item, otherwise, it is believed that they will fit and become enemies. Where did this superstition come from - a story silent.

Kitchen Greece

We definitely advise tourists in Greece to visit local restaurants and enjoy Greek cuisine. A variety of dishes, as well as their taste make the kitchen of Greece unique. Characteristic feature Greek cuisine - use in an absolutely every dish of olive oil.

Also, the Greeks are usually used when cooking a lot of vegetables and spices. However, the spices are soft enough, and no need to fear strong sharpness.

We all know the "Greek Salad" and Musaka. However, these dishes are only a prelude to this Greek cuisine. Each region of Greece, each island has its own dishes and methods of their preparation. Therefore, the taste of Musaki on the island of Corfu will not at all like Musaki on the islands of Dedekanes.

Tourists in Greece We definitely advise you to try the bean beans "Beolad", shrimp fried on cream oil, "Suvlaki" (kebabs on wooden sticks), Greek fish fillet, pellet with meat, potatoes and tomato "Giro", "Frituit" from Vegetables with jagging sauce, as well as Kakavia fish soup.

The ancient Greeks considered wine with a drink of gods, and in modern Greece this alcoholic beverage is of great popularity. True, the ancient Greeks diluted with Spring water wine, and for some reason, modern Greeks forgotten this, generally very useful, tradition.

The most famous Greek strong alcoholic beverages - Tsipuro (it is also called Tsyicuda or crayfish), a fortress of 38-47% alcohol, UZO (anise vodka with a fortress of 40% alcohol), and brandy "metax".

Sights of Greece

Greece occupies 1st place in the world in terms of attractions (in the second and third places - Italy and Bulgaria, respectively). Therefore, we will highlight, in our opinion, ten very best sights of Greece, although in fact they are much more.

Top 10 Best Sights of Greece:

Cities and resorts

The largest Greek cities are Athens, Piraeus, Patras, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion.

The coastline in Greece is 13,676 kilometers, and this means that there there is a huge number of beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, which are surrounded by rocks with pines and palm trees.

The most popular beach resorts in Greece are Athens, O-in-in Santorini, Oh-to Mikonos, Oh-in Corfu, Oh-in Rhodes, Oh-in Kos, Chania and Chalkidiki Peninsula.

Souvenirs / Shopping

• Greek shoes (in particular, handmade sandals).
• Golden decorations.
• Folk talismans that "distingate evil eye".
• Buzuki (Baglam) - a small string musical instrument.
• CDs with Greek folk music.
• Olives, olive oil.
• Greek cheese.
• Kitchen dishes.
• Alcoholic beverages - Uzo, Tsipuro (Tsyicuda or Craki) and Brandy "Metax".

Work hours of institutions

Bank work time:

Mon-Thu: 08: 30-14.30
Fri: 08: 30-14.00

Banks on large islands, as a rule, work in the afternoon to serve tourists.

Shops in Greece are open from Monday to Saturday, starting from 9:00 (in the summer - from 8:30)

Visa

Useful information for tourists about Greece, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information on the population, the currency of Greece, the kitchen, the features of visa and customs restrictions of Greece.

Geography of Greece

Greece is a state in the south of Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. Borders with Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey. Washed by the Aegean and Ionian Sea. Greece includes about 2 thousand islands, which account for almost 20% of the whole country.

Mountains occupy almost a quarter of the surface of the country. The highest point of Greece - Mount Olymp (2917 m).

Mountain rivers, short, stormy, with picturesque thresholds and waterfalls prevail, often flowing to the sea in narrow canyons. SAMI long river Greece - Alialymon (almost 300 km). Greece has more than 20 lakes with an area of \u200b\u200b10-100 sq. Km.

State

State device

Parliamentary republic. Head of State - President. Head of Government - Prime Minister.

Language

State language: Greek

Also used: English, German, Italian, French.

Religion

Orthodox (97.6%), Muslims (1.3%), Catholics (0.4%) and others.

Currency

International title: EUR

History of Greece

The emergence of the first settlements in the pool of the Aegean Sea dates back to the era of Neolithic. Already with the III Millennium BC on the island of Crete there are state organizations of early refortel type. Later cultural centers There are in the south of the Balkan Peninsula, the islands of the Aegean Sea, the coast of Frakia, the west coast of Malaya Asia. Ancient Greece (Elda) is the general name of the ancient Greek states. A centuries-old story tells about their formation, development, stormy bloom, wars (Greco-Persian, Peloponne), victories and defeats. In the II century BC, these states became the Roman province, in the IV-XV centuries of our era were part of the state-formed by the Roman Empire of Byzantium. The capital of this state was Constantinople.

From the XV century, Greece was under the rule of Turkey. In the course of the Greek National Liberation Revolution (1821-1829), the independence of Greece was proclaimed, after the defeat of Turkey in the war with Russia under the Andriaapol peace treaty, its autonomy was recognized. Since 1830 - Greece is an independent state.

Until 1973, Greece was a constitutional monarchy, the official chapter of the state was King Constantine II, asked for the throne in 1964 after Paul I. In April 1967, Junta "Black Colonels", headed by Georgios Popadopoulos, made a coup and installed military dictatorship regime. On June 1, 1973, the Government was declared about the overthrow of Constantine II, Greece was proclaimed by the Presidential Republic. After falling the reaction regime in July 1974, the civil government led by Konstantinos Karamanlis came to power. Since the election on November 17, 1974, Greece is a parliamentary republic with a presidential form of government. The final elimination of the monarchy appeared, thus, not the result of the dictatorial regime maneuvers, and the expression of the will of the Greek people, one of the largest political events in the country in post-war years.

The emergence of the first settlements in the pool of the Aegean Sea dates back to the era of Neolithic. Already with the III Millennium BC on the island of Crete there are state organizations of early refortel type. Later, cultural centers arise in the south of the Balkan Peninsula, the islands of the Aegean Sea, the coast of Frakia, the west coast of Malaya Asia. Ancient Greece (Elda) is the general name of the ancient Greek states. A centuries-old story tells about their formation, development, stormy bloom, wars (Greco-Persian, Peloponne), victories and defeats. In the II century BC, these states became the Roman province, in the IV-XV centuries of our era were part of the state-formed by the Roman Empire of Byzantium. The capital of this state was Constantinople. ...

Popular attractions

Tourism in Greece

Where to stay

To date, Greece attracts tourists not only with amazing beauty by nature, but also developed tourist infrastructure. Greece's hotel infrastructure is represented by economy class hotels to chic, both on both the mainland and the islands. Many hotels operate according to the "All Inclusive" scheme, although the excellent selection of hotels working with half board or offering breakfast is also presented. It is worth noting that in Greece there is an "old" system of gradation of hotels - literal. That is, the level of the hotel class is indicated by letters, that is, gradation goes from L - suite, an analogue of European five stars, and to E - hotels that have not been assigned any category.

Most of the family-type hotels are located on Chalkidiki, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu. Thanks to the rapid development of the tourist infrastructure, over the past 10 years, many new hotels have been erected in Greece, as well as the old ones are upgraded. In a competitive struggle, hotel owners have become more attention to creating special conditions for resting precisely with children, which today makes it possible to declare with confidence that Greece is perfect place For family holidays. As a rule, such hotels are equipped with children's playgrounds, attractions, sports fields, an animators work on the supervision of children.

For those who care about their health and want to combine recreation with rehabilitation, then in Greece you will find many hotels that have well-equipped fitness rooms, gyms, spa, saunas, beauty salons and more.

Book hotels in Greece stands in advance, especially in season. The cost of living in the coastal zone in July-August can significantly increase.

Relaxing in the private sector continues to be very popular, namely renting villas, cottages or apartments in close proximity to the sea. This option is the most optimal for large companies, families with children, as it allows you to save a large number of people in accommodation. Plus accommodation in the cottage - you feel like in your home, minus - service (food, cleaning, washing) is not leased. The cost of living varies depending on the location of the real estate object, as well as the season.

Registered Greek Pension (Paradosiakoi Oikismoi) can be called. They can be found both in large cities and in the province. Pension pensions are either individual apartments with a shower, designed for 2-3 people, or small cottages with rooms for 4 people. The cost of residence per person in such pensions depends on the capacity of one number and is comparable to the "top d-class".

In Greece, there are a large number of well-equipped camping places. It should take into account that the parking lot is prohibited outside of their limits. As a rule, the cost of overnight in the campsite is 5-7 euros per person (living in the house), within 8 euros for the "caravan" and a little less over the night in a tent. However, many travelers note that the security situation in Greek campsites is a little worse than in European countries, repeated cases of theft of personal belongings.

In Greece there are 10 youth hostels, which are included in the International Association. However, here you can find a large number of hostels included in the Greek Association of Youth Hostels. If you want to stay in such a hostel, you will need an IYHF card. In many cases, you can purchase it directly in the hostel, or pay a little over the tariff. Towels and bed linen must be paid separately. Standard accommodation prices range from 7-9 euros per day, however, may vary depending on the location of the hostel.

For pilgrims, and just believing tourists, there is the possibility of living in the monasteries. It is worth considering that living in such a place, you will need to fully observe the routine of the monastery, as well as the requirements for the form of clothing. Also, a very likely option of gender accommodation, that is, men can only stop in male monastery, women - respectively, in female.

Popular hotels

Excursions and attractions in Greece

The history of Greece is rooted in the distant past. Ancient country is rightfully considered a cradle of Western civilization and democracy. Unique natural landscapes, a wonderful climate, an abundance of historical and architectural attractions, impressive religious shrines and, of course, traditional Greek cuisine attract a huge number of tourists from all over the world.

Athens's capital of Greece is one of the most beautiful and oldest European cities with abundance of museums, exquisite architectural structures, unique ancient monuments and churches of different historical eras. The real pearl of Athens is an ancient Acropolis with its majestic antique structures that perfectly illustrate the skill of ancient architects. The National Archaeological Museum contains a unique collection of ancient artifacts, representing colossal historical value.

The most interesting attractions of Greece include the ruins of the ancient Greek city Delphi, located on the slope of the Parnass Mountain, which in the ancient world was considered the center of Earth. There was also a sanctuary of Apollo with his famous Delphian Oracle (the most revered oracle in the ancient Greek world). An important historical monument is the ancient Greek city of Eleusin, known for its Eleusinsky mysteries.

Among the abundance of religious shrines Greece, the famous Meteor Monastery Complex, which is located near the city of Kalambac. Meteor acquired his fame, thanks to their unique location on the tops of huge sheer cliffs in the Fessica Valley.

Greece includes about 2 thousand islands. Crete is the biggest island of Greece. In antiquity it was the center of the Minoan civilization (approximately 2600-1400 BC). The island is rich in excellent architectural structures and especially the period of Venetian domination, but the most interesting landmark is the Palace of the Minoan Epoch. Crete and its picturesque gorges.

Rhodes Island is considered to be the pearl of the Mediterranean and is one of the most beautiful islands of Greece. His picturesque bays, transparent azure water, the most important archaeological monuments and knightly castles create a unique flavor. The world fame of Rhodes acquired thanks to the statue of a colossus of the Rhodes located here in ancient times - one of the seven wonders of the world.

Impressive I. natural beauty Islands Corfu. His picturesque landscapes are perfectly harmonized with unique architectural attractions, which remained in the heritage from the mixing of various cultures ever thrilling on the island. The main square of the capital of Spianada Island (Esplanade) is the second largest area in Europe.

In the southern Aegean Sea is the Cycladic Archipelago, in the center of which is the island of Delos. It is one of the most important mythological, historical and archaeological monuments of Greece. Uninhabited Island Delos is a unique place being, in fact, a huge open-air museum. Among the popular tourist destinations of the Kiklada archipelago, it is worth highlighting such islands like Naxos, Mykonos, Tire and Paros. Tira Island (Santorini) acquired his historical fame thanks to the acting Santorin volcano, the eruption of which is 3,500 years ago is considered the most powerful in the entire history of the Earth. There is a hypothesis that this is the eruption of the volcano ruined the legendary Atlantis.

Awesome nature and an abundance of a variety of attractions that greatly illustrate the centuries-old history of Greece will definitely provide an unforgettable vacation and a lot of impressions.

Kitchen Greece

Greek cuisine is simple, useful, unpretentious and uses the best products: seductive olives, fruits and vegetables, fresh fish prepared on the best local olive oil. Meat - usually it is lamb or pork - stew, baked or prepared on a barbecue. Very important cheeses: Salty feta is used in salads, Hallumi is often preparing on the grill, and Amari, soft unshakable cheese like ricotta, is used in sweet and spicy dishes.

The unusual aroma of Greek cuisine is also achieved by the use of rosemary, basilica, parsley, coriander, oregano and mint.

At the heart of Greek cuisine, simplicity of tastes, high-quality fresh products transformed with fragrant, dried in the sun, herbs and excellent Greek olive cold pressing oil. The result is a traditional, but live kitchen, light and complete freshness rich in Mediterranean flavors. In the roots of Greek cuisine - the separation of meals with family and friends, so the dishes are prepared in an unbalanced and simple manner.

Most of the kitchen is based on fresh products that flourish in a dry climate of the Greek Islands: Sweet tomatoes, chubby olives, acidic lemons, pillars, wild greens, shiny zucchini, long green peppers, majestic eggplants, juicy melons and figs.

The main meat is lamb - used in all kinds, ranging from small cubes, ending with the whole carcass on a spiner, which often bakes to mark the completion of religious holidays.

Water in Greece is crystal clear and rich in fish, which usually bake on the barbecue. Of other types of seafood often prepare delicious walks.

Metsse is very popular from Greek cuisine - a set of Greek snacks that everyone can try - it looks like Spanish Tapas - creating an unbalanced and friendly atmosphere.

The Greeks also love pies like sweet and savory. Goules are prepared thick and rich, seasonal products add in them; The composition also depends on local culinary customs. Risoli - Cutlets pies, which add all that delicious - vegetables and beans, meat and seafood.

Greek yogurt - thick and creamy, revitalizes desserts, sauces, soups, add it to dice and nappy, or are served just with honey.

Olives - which are most often exported - used in a variety of dishes. Juicy and fragrant olives of Kalamata with purple skins and aroma of red wine vinegar - Some of the best. Often they are stuffing with Zira, Fengele and Pimiente.

And in conclusion, the quality of olive oil does not tolerate the compromise. Greeks highly appreciate this "Liquid Gold" and almost all over it all. It is impossible to imagine life in Greece without him.

Greek cuisine is simple, useful, unpretentious and uses the best products: seductive olives, fruits and vegetables, fresh fish prepared on the best local olive oil. Meat - usually it is lamb or pork - stew, baked or prepared on a barbecue. Cheeses are very important: Salty Feta is used in salads, Hallumi is often preparing on the grill, and Amari, soft unshakable cheese like ricotta, is used in sweet and spicy dishes ....

Tip

Tipping waiters usually make up 5-10% of the order amount, but this is an exclusively good willa of the client. Taxists are not accepted to leave taxi drivers.

Visa

Work hours of institutions

Churches and monasteries are open to public visits each in accordance with their own rules. The churches are open during the service. As a rule, museums are open daily, with the exception of Monday, from 8 to 15 hours. Some museums work until 19. Acropolis is open in the midst of full moon.

Typically, shops are open on weekdays and Saturday from 9 to 15 and from 17.30 to 20.30. Supermarkets are open from Monday to Saturday from 8 to 20 h.

On weekdays, banks are usually open from 8.30 to 14 h (on Friday to 13.30).

Purchases

In Greece, value added tax (VAT) ranges from 8% to 36%. VAT refund is possible when purchases in stores, which have the inscription "Tax-Free". The store issues the buyer a special receipt that should be shown at customs when leaving Greece with a purchased thing. Customs officers put a stamp on receipts and send it to the store, which during the month should translate you the amount of VAT.

Medicine

Pharmacies work all days except Sunday, and on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday they close at 13 o'clock. In the case of acute ailments, it is necessary to call an ambulance, and not to look for the nearest hospital.

Safety

Beware of pocket thieves and bags of bags. Especially be vigilant in the center of Athens, in public transport, popular among tourists historic places Greece.

Emergency phones

Tourist Police - 171 (in Athens), 922-7777 (outside Athens)
Police - 100.
Fire Protection - 199
Ambulance - 166

National Features of Greece. Traditions

Shocking your head from the bottom up, in Greece means "no", and from top to bottom - "yes." In Greek, the sound "NE" means "yes", and the denial sounds like "Ohi".

Greek "Tomorrow" ("Avryo") means something indefinite or refusal.

In the Greek house, it is not customary to remove shoes.

Questions and Reviews of Greece

Corfu Island - Question-Reply

Question answer

Crete Island - Question-Answer

Brief information about the country

Independence date

Official language

Greek

Form of government

Parliamentary republic

Territory

131 957 km² (95th in the World)

Population

10 772 967 people. (75th in the world)

Timezone

EET (UTC + 2, summer UTC +3)

The largest city

$ 294.339 billion

Internet domain

Telephone code

- One of the most amazing and unique countries in Europe. Located in the south of the continent, on the Balkan Peninsula, it is small both in the territory - the area along with the islands adjacent to the coast of Asia is 131,994 km² and in the population, which has 10.3 million people. However, by historical, cultural, archaeological and linguistic heritage with Greece, not every major state can be compared. The capital of Athens is the oldest and most beautiful city of the world, the metropolis with a 4 millionth population, based on about 7 millennia to our era.

Video: Greece

Highlights

Ellada - so his homeland is called the Greeks themselves - filled with various attractions, a significant part of which dates back to ancient times. It is not for nothing that it is said that in Greece ancient times there are literally at every step. Wherever you find yourself - in Athens or Delphi, in philas or meteors, on the holy Mount Athos or in rocky monasteries - everywhere you will find a meeting with interesting monuments, original folk traditions. Here, in the homeland of Homer and Pythagora, Sofokla and Democritus, Aristotle, Euripid, Plato and other famous personality of the past, you will get so vivid impressions that you will definitely want to come here again!

Being a recognized as a cradle of Western civilization and a place where the first in the history of democratic states appeared, Greece became the center of the origin of the very concept of "democracy". In ancient Elda, every adult citizen took an active part in the discussion of public affairs and could be elected to any administrative, military or judicial position. The traditions laid in the antiquity are preserved in Greek society today.

And Greece is a gentle sun, excellent beaches, a warm sea with crystal clear water and picturesque islands, the most popular of which are Corfu, Rhodes, and Crete. The country is not in vain called paradise for tourism and recreation. Soft subtropical climate Located in amazing harmony with the exquisite beauty of nature. It is hardly somewhere else you will see such cute trees that fit on mountain slopes, or immersed in a thick green houses covered with red tiles. And it doesn't matter at all, for what purpose the traveler steps on this blessed land - deeply examine her historical heritage or just lazily lie on the beach. Obviously one thing: in Greece everyone will find a lesson for themselves and will never regret the trip.

Cities of Greece

All cities of Greece

Sights of Greece

All attractions of Greece

Geographical features

Greece, which is also called the country of gods, the birthplace of philosophy and the Olympic Games, has a very interesting and very advantageous geographical location. Perhaps, no state of Europe owns such the number of islands - there are more than two thousand of them here (although they are inhabited of them only 227). Some - for example, the famous Lesbos are located directly off the coast of Turkey. The islands account for almost 20% of the country's territory, which is quite a lot.

Greece is washed by four seas: Mediterranean, Ionian, Libyan (South Coast of Crete) and Aegean. The latter and at all can be called the "inner sea" of this country, the entire coast of which is scenicly rolled with the bays. It is enough to look at the card to make sure: there are no similar outlines anymore in the continent.

Material Greece is conditionally divided into several regions - this is Macedonia, Frace, Epirus, Fessiona and the Attica Central Greece, Fthyda, Fokid and others. Geographically to the central part of the country include the ionic islands. The biggest Greek island is Crete, the second place in magnitude is occupied by Evie, which with the mainland connects the bridge through the shed Evrip. The largest peninsula recognized as a hearth ancient civilization On the territory of Europe, is Peloponnes. Here is the famous Corinthian Channel, a breakthrough by the French company in the XIX century.

Interesting fact: the most distant distance from sea coastWhich point of Greece you go, does not exceed 100 kilometers.

Natural landscape

Greek nature is distinguished by enviable diversity, which has become possible due to the merger of factors such as geographical position, local climate features, the presence of large mountainous arrays, a big length of the coastline.

The mountains occupy about 60% in Greece landscape, which makes it one of the most high mountain countries in Europe after Norway and Albania. Moreover, unlike the names of the states, the Mountains of Eldlands almost all go down to the sea. The highest mountain peak is Olympus (2915 meters), it is the most famous in the ancient Greek myths as the abode of the gods, in particular, the thunder of Zeus. From other large and beautiful Greece Mountains, you can call such as Ida (Psloritis) and White Mountains (Lefka Ori) in Crete, Grambos and Smiths in Macedonia, Taiguene on Pindos, Pindos and Ori Atamany in the region of Epir.

Greece's water resources are represented by a combination of natural and artificial lakes, a delt and mouth of rivers, waterfalls and lagoon. The largest reservoir of the country is the Lake Trichonide, located in the Etolia region, which in Western Greece. You can not get around the attention and lake of the Vouliagmena in Attica (it is known for its thermal mineral waters), artificial lake Tauropos in the Fessiona, which is surrounded by thick coniferous forests And, of course, the most high-altitude lake - Dragolimni, located on the slopes of Timphi and Zmolikas at an altitude of 2050 meters. From the rivers, the longest is Aliacmonas (297 km), which is inferior in the length of Aheloom, Pinios, Nestos, Epros, Strimeonas, Alfios, Aranuofos.

The identity of the natural landscape of Greece gives local caves, many of which have internal lakes, "thickets" of stalactites and stalagmites that are attracted here not only ordinary tourists, but also professional speller researchers. It will be interesting in caves and historians, ethnographers and cultivologists, since they are inextricably linked with the plots of ancient Greek myths. And the caves themselves are archaeological monuments that can reveal many secrets of the Paleolithic era. Not everyone knows, but the famous artifact - skull of an ancient person who is considered to be a transitional form from Homo Erectus to Homo Sapiens - was found in one of these Caves of Greece. She is called petrolone and is located on the Halkidiki Peninsula.

Separate mention deserve gorges or canyons with which the local landscape is literally dotted. They can not not impress their concernly towering sheer cliffs, water flows and various types of birds and animals, which for many centuries prefer to settle here. The most famous Greek gorge - Samaria - is located on the island of Crete. It can easily cross it, and a lot of travelers enjoys such an opportunity. Captures the spirit and beauty of the Victor Gorge in national Park In the mountains of Pind (Pindos) in the northeast of the Epir district. It is located on the southern slope of the Tumba Mountain, reaching 20 kilometers long.

And finally, two Water Park Greece. The first one is called Alonisos and is located on the islands of northern sprays in the Aegean Sea - in 1992 he was declared the authorities of the environmental territory. Here lives the disappearing type of Mediterranean seals - Monachus Monachus. The second is the National Marine Park on Zakynthos, one of the Ionian Islands, which received the status of the environmental territory by the seven years later. It is here that the type of turtles like Caretta Caretta is mainly bred.

Cities and Islands of Greece

The Saromic Islands - the Archipelago, which usually choose the tourists who would usually choose those tourists who do not want to swim in the sea far from Athens are secluded between the historical attachment and Peloponnese. Only here in the peak of the season on the local beaches is crowded, especially on the island of the aigina, which is not everyone can like. But here there is a great coast, not to mention that the receipt of a bronze tan can be combined with sights of attractions, for example, the Afai Temple, which is perfectly preserved to the present day.

Peloponnese itself, against the background of the rest of Greece, looks like a mansion. In the sense that his landscapes are most often deserted, which, however, is compensated by the presence of invaluable historical monuments. This is the Citadel Agamemnon Mycenae, and the theater in the epidavre, and the house of Helena and Menel in Sparta, and the Palace of Nestor in Pilos, and the same Corinth, from where one of the writers of the New Testament The Apostle Paul appealed to the Messages to Corinthians. Acquaintance with the sights can be perfectly combined with a vacation in local beaches, who are hardly considered the best in all southern Europe.

If you have not yet forgotten from school lessons of history, where the birthplace of Apollo and his sisters of Artemis, then they guessed that our story would go about the Islands of Cyclades. From them, stretching in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, it makes some serenity and tranquility. But the Cycladic Archipelago is associated, first of all, with the island of Mykonos, whose coastline reaches 89 km. Its visiting card are vintage narrow streets and a very modern boutique hotel - the most expensive in Greece. An important transport hub on the archipelago is Paros, famous for its beaches and wide opportunities for water sports.

There are places in sunny Greece, where to the "Turkish shore" hand to file - this is the islands of Dodecanese, which are part of the archipelago of the Southern Sporads and a chain stretched along the western coast of Malaya Asia Peninsula, almost closely adjacent to the territory of the neighboring state. The islands of Rhodes and Kos are the most famous of them. Popularity came to them thanks to top-class beaches and hotels and, of course, saturated excursion programs - especially in the historic part of the city of Rhodes included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Groups of tourists, among which there are many representatives of Christian denominations, seek to visit the legendary island of Patmos, which is called the "Aegean Sea Jerusalem", and this interest is quite explained. It is here that the cave is where John the Bologosov recorded the Divine "Revelation", which became the last book of the Bible New Testament. And this place itself is also called the "cave of the apocalypse."

Some of the most picturesque in Greece is, of course, Ionian Islands. The magnificent greens, harmoniously combined with the azure shades of Marine, creates the impression of a real paradise garden, and at some point it may seem to see that the Lord forgave the pregnursions of mankind and returned to them the initial conditions of existence, as in Biblical Eden. The present pearl of the archipelago is the island of Corfu - it is the most popular among tourists and, accordingly, the most expensive in the plan of stay and residence in Greece. Ithacan is well known - the stories of Homer about Odyssey, with whom they acquainted with the lessons of history. Bright impressions remain from the island of Kefalonia: Cute villages, rocks at the very edge of the sea and excellent beaches cannot be forgotten. As, however, there are excellent local wines.

Now we will move to the second largest city of the country, which rightfully received the nickname "Greek Constantinople". He is the religious center of Greece, the population of which professes mainly Orthodoxy. Here is the Athos Peninsula and Holy Mountain with the same name. It is called the "autonomous monastic state of the holy mountain" in the administrative division system. During the century, nothing has changed here: women step on Mount Athos is still forbidden.

Northern Aegean Islands - a kind of "mix", in which the influence of simultaneously Western and Eastern cultures was mixed. If you do not know that this is Greece, it seems that you are in Turkey, which, in general, not far, and it owns two islands of the archipelago - Bozgaad and Goekcheada (Greek names, respectively, Teedos and Avevros). The most unusual of the islands is samos, all covered with trees and famous for its vineyards. Isolated beaches attract tourists on the island of Chios, the famous and its ancient monastery of Na-Mona.

Climate and weather

The climate of Greece, if to speak as a whole, is distinguished by the softness, and in this a huge "merit" of the Mediterranean Sea, which seems to be skidding and protects this small country. Summer here is roast and dry: The average monthly temperature of July varies within + 30 ... + 32 degrees Celsius, humidity reaches 55%. The beach season in Eldead begins in mid-May and continues until November. Winter in the country does not differ by severeness. The temperature in January is an average of 10 degrees with a plus sign, and humidity is 75%.

Meanwhile, several climatic zones stand out in Greece. In the mainland of the country weather Remind Balkan, for whom the cold winters and hot wet summer are characteristic. Attica, Crete, Dodecanese, Cyclades, Center and East Peloponnese Climate Typically Mediterranean regions. Warm weather is last saved in Crete: on the southern coast of the largest Greek island you can swim and sunbathe from April to November.

There are rains in Greece and its rainy season, which starts in most areas in mid-October and continuing until February. In July and August, the entire east coast of the mainland country, including the capital, and the islands of the Aegean Sea are under the rule of the strong Northern Wind. On the one hand, he carries the diluting heat to the coolness, on the other, it makes it forces late ferries and delivers the inconvenience of resting, "warming" they have beach umbrellas. As for the actual summer heat, he still influenced the habits of the Greeks, shifting the afternoon rest of the Ellinons at 15: 00-18: 00. In this watch, it is not accepted to disturb anyone, not to mention the appointment of meetings.

History of Greece

The first settlements in Greece, as evidenced by archaeological excavations, originated during the Paleolithic period, which corresponds to 11,000-3000 years before our era. It was Ellada that is the birthplace of the Minoan, myna and Cycladic civilizations that existed in 2600-1100 to our era. The classic period in the history of Greece is the so-called "golden age", which covered the VI-IV century BC. e. It is notable for giving the world of the greatest scientists and outstanding artists - historians and philosophers, doctors and architects, architects and sculptors, poets, mathematicians and playwrights. The active formation of Greek civilization occurred after the first Olympic Games in 776 to our era. The colonial expansion of ancient Greece began, cities-states appeared - in particular, on the Black Sea coast.

Ancient Ellade survived several interventions - first the army of neighboring Persia, who invaded several times in a row, and then, in 146 BC, Roman legionnaires. But the Romans not only did not persecute Greek culture, but also became her conscious successors. You can judge this on the monuments of the Rome era, the prototypes for which similar Ellin's works of architecture served. Moreover, Roman artifacts have reached our days in the best form, and we, contemporaries, can judge on them about the great heritage of the ancient Greeks. And after the division of a huge Roman Empire to the Western and Eastern part, the last, that is, Byzantia with the capital in Constantinople, became the carrier of Greek and culture and existed to eleven centuries, until May 29, 1453 fell under the onslaught of the Turks.

Greece itself was under the authority of the Ottoman Empire almost 400 years. The national liberation struggle of the Greek people ended in 1821 to the proclamation of an independent Greek state, who later became a decade of monarchical. The whole second half of the 20th century Greece made tremendous efforts to return their primordial lands that remained under the occupation of the Ottoman port. Participation in the Balkan wars of the time and the First World War helped partially realize these tasks.

The country participated in the Second World War. First, the fascist Italy was attacked on her, but the Greeks were able to give a worthy repulsory. When the Germans and their allies intervened, Greece fell and was under their occupation from 1941 to 1945. However, the victory over the Third Reich did not bring the long-awaited world: in the country broke out civil War, ended only in 1949.

After that, the period of quiet development of Greece, broken by the state coup of 1967, as a result of which Konstantin II king was overthrown and military dictatorship was established in the country. This period was kept in history as the mode of "black colonels", headed by Georgiosa Papadopoulos (1967-1973) and Dimitrio Ioannidis (1973-1974). Military junta made a lot of mistakes, including strategic - on international arena. This provoked the invasion of the Turkish Army in 1974 into Cyprus and the occupation of part of its territory with the formation of the unrecognized "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus". The failures in the so-called "Cyprus issue" led to the fact that in 1974 the dictatorship of the "black colonels" was overthow.

On December 8, 1974, a nationwide referendum was held in Greece, according to the results of which a democratic political regime with a parliamentary form of government was established in the country. On June 11, 1975, a new constitution was adopted, operating to this day. In 1986 and 2001, some changes were made to it, which, however, did not affect the democratic foundations of the state. Since 1952, Greece has been a member of NATO. True, in 1973 it came out of the organization, and returned to it only in 1981. In the same year, Greece joined the European Union, and on January 1, 2002 - in the euro area.

Sights of Greece

Greece is a country of antique monuments, Orthodox shrines and very open, sincere and incredibly charming people. Having been here at least once, in love with her architecture, unique nature, original culture and, of course, the national cuisine, to which we will come back.

General acquaintance with some sights of the country Let's start with the capital of ancient Eldla. In Athens, who carefully keep their historical and cultural and architectural heritage, it is necessary to visit the famous Acropolis, whose temples are partially renovated. The constant interest of travelers is caused by the temple of one of the three Olympic gods - Poseidon, the old quarter of the Olympic gods - Poseidon, the old quarter of the Claim, living with its special, saturated life City Square, an impressive stone theater - Odeon Herodota Attic and numerous Athenian museums.

Separately, I would like to mention the breathtaking stadium Panathinaikos. It was created according to the fragments of an ancient predecessor, using only white marble in construction. And in Athens, with their own eyes, you can see the ancient temples of Zeus, Agora and Gefesta, mentioned in the myths and legends of antique Greece.

Many vintage artifacts focused on Crete, one of the most popular tourist destinations of the country. Here you can see the archaeological monuments of the Minoan era, the castle in Venetsian style in Rethymnon, luxurious, enjoy the views of the largest natural palm forest on the continent on the beach of Wai. The ancient Temple of Apollo, preserved in the small town of Gorina, will take you to the Dorian Epoch, and in Festa it is necessary to see one of the most dickers in the form of architectural structures - the Palace of Tsar Minos.

Rhodes are also related to the most famous Greek islands, which has the fame of the largest center of Knight's culture and a wonderful resort. His business card is a knight castle, built in the XIV century and in the first half of the last century renovated. A large collection of antique items is stored here, not to mention the accurately recreated atmosphere of the dwelling of a knightly order, giving a unique feeling of realism.

To feel like a contemporary of the legendary deities of Antique Greece will allow one of the most significant attractions - Mount Olympus. Once here, judging by the myths, Thunderzz Zeus lived, the God of the Seas Poseidon and the rule of the kingdom of the dead aid. Now, this "house of the gods" is turned into a unique biosphere reserve, rich in various types of plants and animals, and from where stunning views of the surroundings are opening. Olympus Although high mountain, but for hiking is quite affordable. Traveling on numerous paths, you will not even notice how time will fly.

Another Mountain-Celebrity is, of course, Athos, included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. It is a unique place, which is honored by all Orthodox believers, is inhabited and only men can visit. It is devoted to prayers, reflections and attachment to spirituality. The Holy Mountain de facto has autonomy, but under the sovereignty of the Greek state. To get here, you need to get a special permit, and only 110 people (100 of them must be orthodox believers) can visit it - if desired, of course - every day. Many such a bureaucracy may turn away from the intention to visit Mount Athos, but if you are not afraid of such inconvenience, the excursion here with a visit to two dozen local monasteries will be an unforgettable episode in your life.

National cuisine

In the national cuisine Greece, the culinary traditions of the Balkan peoples, Apennine, France and even the Middle East are perfectly combed. In general, this is typically Mediterranean cuisine with a "admixture" of love with which each dish is prepared, and the original Greek temperament. For the Greeks, like, for example, for the Japanese, the adoption of food is a whole ritual. At the table here is not just eating, but communicate and rest. The total meal is a great way to establish friendly connections between unfamiliar people and even business relationships. Which is not discussing the Greeks at lunch, but most of all, in addition to the purely family topics, they love to talk about football and politics.

Many have already guessed that in the local menu the royal position is occupied by fish and seafood. Squids are prepared very tasty: they roll them in flour, and then fried on olive oil. Be sure to try fresh mussels cooked in tomato sauce and such exotic, like octopus meat - it is baked on coals with the addition of spicy herbs. Taste and flavor dishes such that words do not transfer - it is better to try!

What dishes in modern Greece are the most popular? We will call some of them: squid stuffed with cheese and baked at coals ("Kalamary Yemist MEM TERY"), cooked for a couple of mussels ("Multi-Ahnista"), grilled shrimp ("Garides Sgaras"). One of the crown dishes of national cuisine is spaghetti with Langstom (Mankoranada Me Astako). From traditional and familiar fish dishes in local taverns, you can taste fish in all her culinary "manifestations" - fried and stew, stuffed and pickled, dried, smoked and just salty - to a delicious local beer!

Fans of meat food in Greece are offered a rich selection of pork dishes, beef, birds, lamb. "Brizolees" and "Paidakia", prepared on the grill, respectively, meat with a bone and lamb ribs are always obtained very tasty and juicy. Local kebabs are two species: from small pieces of meat ("Suvlaki") and large ("Kondosuvli").

It is worth trying and "kokoretsi" - the same name is the dish, something resembling our home sausage: the intestines are filled with lamb wanders and baked on the grid. True gourmet can not do not come to tasted in white wine rooster (Kokoras Krasatos) and stewed rabbit ("quench"). And the most, perhaps, the famous Greek meat dish is Musaka - laid in layers meat minced meat, potatoes and eggplants and baked under Beshemel sauce.

The kitchen of Greece is impossible to imagine without cheese and one of his most famous varieties - Feta. It is done only from sheep milk and stored in wooden barrels. Popular in the country and, accordingly, among tourists, and such varieties of cheese as "Kefalotiri" (solid, prepares from goat milk), "Tulumotiri" (the most ancient of all local varieties) and refined "Manuri" (white, with a very spicy taste ).

In completion, we will mention the famous "Greek salad", in its homeland, referred to as "Rustic", who love to prepare and Russian hostesses. "Original" differs in taste from submitted in our cafes and restaurants or prepared at home. What exactly is the difference, in words, it is also difficult to convey: it must be observed, trying both options. And what is needed for this? Right: come to rest in Greece!

Language

Modern Greek (Dimatochi), which occurred from people's LanguageUsed in the late Tartal period, became the official language of the country only in 1976. Prior to that, there was Kafarevusus ("Purified Language"), fortunately for tourists, many Greeks speak at least one foreign language: most often in English, but also in German, French or in Italian.

Nevertheless, a few words in Greek will be assessed. If you have a little time, try to learn a couple of main phrases and alphabet. Although signs and pointers are often represented in Latin transcription, but still it does not always happen; In addition, knowledge of the alphabet will allow you to navigate in banks, restaurants and other institutions.

Holidays in Greece

• January 1 - New Year.
• January 6 - Epiphany.
• March 25 - Independence Day.
• May 1 - Labor Day.
• August 15 - the Assumption of the Virgin.
• October 28 - Day "Ohi", in memory of the Greek resistance of the Italian occupation of 1940.
• December 25 - Christmas of Christ.
• December 26 - Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Holidays that do not have exact dates are the first day of the Great Post (Clean Monday), Holy Friday, Easter Monday, Ascension, Spirit Day.

Money

The national currency of Greece - the euro, divided into 100 euro scents. Basically, all calculations are made in cash, which, naturally, leads to the strengthening of the shadow economy. An increasing number of hotels and restaurants in tourist areas, however, make credit cards, but some of them are removed from an additional 3% to 5%, sometimes not even notifying it. If you have a "visa" or "mastercard" card, then you can easily withdraw money in an ATM. Travel checks can be credited to the bank or hotel, just do not forget their passport.

Opening hours

Despite some general trends, for example, a big break in work during the Seside, the hours of organizing organizations in Greece are quite floating. Shops are usually open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from about 8.30-10.00 to 15.00, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays to 14.00 and then from 17.00 to 20.00-21.00. This rule does not affect local shops, especially grocery stores operating sometimes even on Sunday.

Museums and places archaeological excavationswhich can be visited, closed on Monday, sometimes on Wednesday, and the smallest - the whole period from November to March. Mode of operation - from 8.00-8.30 to 15.00 outside the season, and until 17.00 and even 19.00 in July and August. Remember that the last visitors are allowed for half an hour before closing.

Banks, as a rule, work from 8.00-8.30 to 14.00 from Monday to Thursday and until 13.30 on Friday; Some make exchange operations on Saturday.

Shopping in Greece

In Sunny Greece, it is ride not only for a beach holiday on the islands or studying the attractions of antique times famous for the whole world, but also shopping. To the note of those who still do not know: Greece along with Italy - one of best places In Europe for shopping. Despite the difference in currency rates, find here, for example, a relatively inexpensive fur coat or a beautiful vase that will decorate the interior of your home, will not be much difficulty.

For a long time tested way to save - it is, of course, shopping for the sale season. Winter sales in Greece begin in mid-January and continue on February inclusive, and summer covers the second half of July and all August. Moreover, in many stores they do not begin to slow down the price with a small - say, from 20-30%, and immediately indicate the price tags: a discount of 80%, so in such vending points there are often a queue. Prepare to lose some time in anticipation, but to get away with a good purchase.

Discounts are distributed not only on clothes and shoes, but also on household appliances, modern electronics, decor items and even good, good furniture. True, such goods discount does not exceed 40% of the cost, but it is not bad. In outlets and drains that are also not worth forgetting, the rejoices of the price tags are present and at all round year. In major shopping centers, intersonic sales, discounts can reach 50%.

But back to buying fur coats. Especially for this, shopping tours are organized in Greece, which are with obligations and without any. If you choose the first (that is, a tour with obligations), then flights to the country and hotel accommodation, usually not exceeding 3-4 days, pays the fur factory. For the convenience of choice, it is recommended to get acquainted with the range of different manufacturers in advance, and the photos of the liked models saved. Otherwise, if you begin to try all the models in a row, not only spend time and tire, but you can eventually buy not what they wanted, and you will regret.

Motherland of Greek fur products is traditionally considered to be the castor, the city in the north-west of the country, in Western Macedonia. There are a lot of fur factories, the greatest fame among which is used by the EGO Group, Rizos Furs, Estel Furs, Avanti Furs. Do not look for prices on the official sites of these and other manufacturers - they are not accepted, which makes it possible to bargain in place. Language barriers usually do not occur, since almost all sellers own Russian.

But not everyone goes to Greece behind clothes or household items - many would like to purchase local products. In this case, welcome to Greek supermarkets: in Athens - Sklavenitis, in Crete - Ariadni, in Thessaloniki - Masoutis. AB Vasilopoulos Premium Supermarkets also enjoy popular among tourists, the LIDI German supermarket chain.

It is not bad to twitch in the markets and bazaars, which in the country there are a lot, including flea. The latest and inexpensive goods from the food basket can be used here: olive oil, feta cheese, local wine. The main thing is to have time until 15:00, since then the markets and markets are closed until the next day.

To take advantage of tourists: Citizens of the Russian Federation, since they are not residents of the European Union, can take advantage of the right to return VAT (Tax Free), but provided that the purchase amount is not less than 120 € and it is made in a trading point that participates in the system. To determine this, you carefully look closely: the designation "Tax-Free for tourists", which is literally translated from English "for tourists without tax", in this case it is applied to display cases, cash register or directly to the entrance to the store. On the mainland, the amount of returned value added tax will be 23%, on island territories - 16%.

Public transport

In Greece, it is convenient to travel by bus, besides, the trip will cost inexpensively. However, drivers who understand English, not to mention Russian, very, very little. Urban public transport runs from 5:30 am and up to midnight, there are special night flights. The most developed in the transportation is, of course, the capital. Car communication in it, as well as in other cities, chaotic, can occur with parking. The cities have a speed limit: 50 km / h.

Alternative to buses - electric transport (trams and trolleybuses). In Athens, as it should be the metropolitan metropolis, there is a subway, the passage acts within 1.5 hours. There are no subway in other cities.

In Greece, there is a network of railways, only experienced tourists do not advise travel in second-class trains, since they are purity and comfort, unlike first-class trains, can not boast. But regardless of the category, the train was and remains in demand by the option for night trips: fell asleep in one city, and in the morning I woke up - you already had a rested and fresh in the destination!

Since Greece is partially an island state, by bus or train you can not get to all points of the country. For maritime travel, one of the water vehicles will have to choose: ferry or high-speed boat. When parking on a ferry of its or rented car should be attentive, as cars are usually located very close to each other.

Car driving

The driver's license operating in Russia will be enough to rent a car in Greece. Prices in numerous local companies are quite acceptable, but check the condition of the machine and the availability of insurance in case of an accident. The minimum age of the driver is 21 years old, sometimes 25 years old. Driving experience should be at least a year.

Large highways are very good for car enthusiasts, and in addition, thanks to the funds allocated by the EU, in recent years, the Greece road network has been significantly improved. There are ground roads leading mainly to beaches and secluded monasteries. Speed \u200b\u200blimit is 50 km / h in the city (sometimes less), 80 km / h - on highways, 120 km / h - on highways, although sometimes looking at the Maneru driving Greeks, it's hard to believe ... if you bring to go At night, we fear unlit sites and stades of animals, passing the road. It is not easy to ride in the city, especially in Athens, due to numerous traffic jams and unilateral roads.

Communication and Internet

Mobile communications in Greece is well developed, the network covers almost the entire territory of the country, except for some small remote islands. Especially good "catches" in the cities, and in Athens even in the subway. If you are going to call the Greek rooms, that is, it makes sense to buy a SIM card of one of the local cellular operators. If there is no such need, and you plan to call only home in the Russian Federation, you can use the roaming service, which all Russian operators provide their subscribers.

The leaders of the Greek mobile market are companies such as Cosmote, Wind and Vodafone. The first is the state and main advantage in the eyes of competitors, you can consider a good level of customer service. Wind was once a monopolist in the local market and has long established itself with high quality communication. Well, and Vodafone, as a transnational operator, does not need an additional presentation. The quality of the coating is not inferior to competitors, but it has a little more "dead zones", where communication is not available.

Moral standards

Despite the fact that the summer is very hot if you are outside the beach, be dressed properly. To visit the monastery, women should wear a skirt or dress below the knee and handkerchief, men - pants.

If you are offered to drink or invite dinner, do not refuse, as it can offend the Greeks. Also remember that everything that concerns relations with Turkey is a rather delicate question, avoid joking on this topic.

Controversial moments

Check your account in the restaurant: In the most tourist places, it may increase on one additional dish or drink ... You also pay attention to the prices on the windows: they sometimes relate to the sale on the removal and can dry out if you eat on the spot. Finally, if you want to pay a credit card, make sure that the tips (3-5%) are not removed without your consent. As a rule, any misunderstanding can be easily settle, it is worth only to remain alert and remember the possibility to call the tourist police specializing in the settlement of such problems.

Safety

Greece, with all wishes, cannot be attributed, as, for example, Iceland or Sweden, to the safest to tourists to the countries on the continent. Unfortunately, small thefts are common here, especially in places of large cluster of people: hotels, at airports, train stations near attractions. Pockets can fly and public transport. In Athens, as in any major city, there are its dangerous areas, it is the squares of the bells and Wati and the quarter of the red lanterns in the vicinity of Omonia.

Women are especially able to beware of ... obsessive boyfriends or "Kamakov" (from the Greek "Kamakis" - "GarPuner"). This, as a rule, a pleasant appearance of men emitting charm and temperament, which is very persistently achieved by the location of lonely foreign tourist turbs. Their ultimate goal is to "hook" for a while, and if you are lucky, then for the whole season, a rich companion. Milic ladies are also not recommended to sit in a car to unfamiliar men or walk at night, as there is a risk of becoming victims of rape.

The Greeks spend their hot southern temperament not only to find love adventures, but also participation in all sorts of protests and strikes. And although the "righteous anger" of demonstrators is usually not aimed at people, to the street during the rally it is better not to go out. Police for overclocking protesters usually applies tear gas, which is valid not only for direct purpose, that is, eye. He is able to cause serious complications in patients with bronchitis and asthma. And even if the guards of the order with their means of deterrence will be far from you, there is a risk of falling under someone's hot hand or get injured in a crush.

In addition to human factor, a certain danger is made in themselves and factors natural. And the mainland part of Greece, and its islands fall under the determination of seismically dangerous zones, which means a high probability of earthquakes. Underground shocks with a high amplitude, fortunately, happening not so often, but a small force of the oscillation of the earth's crust is a common phenomenon. Do not forget about the risk that forest fires arising from a hot climate. In these cases, it should be brought directly to the Fire Protection Office by phone 199 or in the rescue service at 112.

Hotels in Greece

Both on the mainland, and on the islands of the hotel's tourists for every taste and wallet. In Greece, in addition to the traditional class of classifying the number of stars, the alphabetic designation of the hotel class is used. So, the letter L means that you got to the hotel-luxury, which corresponds to the five stars; C - three stars; And E corresponds to the level of 1-2 stars. But it is often encountered a kind of "anomaly": in class E hotels, the level of service is higher than in hotels that have the designation C.

Be prepared for what you can face the problem of lack of numbers, especially on the most popular Greek islands. The excitement here is the usual phenomenon, especially on weekends and holidays, when local residents join the rest of foreigners. To avoid tourist "pillars", book the apartments in advance. So, using the Booking.com service, you can find excellent accommodation in Greece to 60% discounts.

The owners of most local hotels are local owners, but the largest international networks are also presented in Greece, for example, Best Western and Hilton. You can remove the extra-class number in local network hotels, such as Luxury Collection of Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Louis and Chandris. The cost of living in them is from 150-200 euros.

Many tourists prefer to stop in private hotels (guesthouses), the most fully transmitting the spirit of local lifestyle and the hospitality inherent in the Greeks. In cities you can rent a separate apartment for two or three people, in the suburbs - small houses designed for four guests. Prices vary from 40-60 to 90-120 euros per night.

Hostels in Greece are not as popular as in others european countriesHowever, you can stay in one of the five Athenian youth hostels that are members of the International Hostel Association. Similar to thessaloniki, Paros, Corfu and IOSE, and they also come to the named association. Overnight in the hostel will cost you about 10 €, the cost depends on its location.

The homeland of democracy can also be stopped in monasteries, only the rules of their stay in them may seem not so democratic. For example, if you are looking for overnight together with the opposite sex satellite, then get a failure. In addition, it is necessary to dress in accordance with the generally accepted norms of decency, otherwise they will not be taken either. And if you are not allowed, you will have to comply with the "Commandant hour": return to the monastery - for example, after the excursion - later the deadline is not allowed.

) and charter.

In the peak of the tourist season, that is, in summer, flights to Greece are carried out, including russian citieslike Krasnodar, Kazan and Perm.

For staying on the territory of the country, the Russians require an abroad passport with an affiliated Schengen visa.

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), Patras (cm. Patters), Heraklion. (cm. Heraklion)Hair, Larisa (cm. Larisa), Yanina, Alexandroupolis.
State device
Parliamentary republic with presidential form of government. The head of state is the president (elected by Parliament). The legislature is a unicameral parliament. Executive power is carried out by the Government led by the Prime Minister.
Administrative-territorial division
52 NOM, 264 Dima (district).
Population
OK. 96% of the population - Greeks, there is a small number of Turks, Macedonians, a Russian community. Official language - Greek (Novogreic). 97% of the population - Orthodox. Muslim minority is concentrated in Western Frace and Dodecanese Islands. Catholics and Uniates form small communities in Athens and the Western Islands who previously belonged to Italy. Greek legislation denies division into national communities. The urban population is 65%. The population density is 80.8 people / km 2.
Nature
Mainland Greece includes: Macedonia - the Northern Region of Greece, Frace - the North-Eastern region, Epir - the North-Western region, from the south-west is washed by the Ionian Sea; Fessiona is the most flat area, from the east is washed by the Aegean Sea; Central Greece; Attica - area around Athens; Peloponnennese is the largest Peninsula of Greece, connected to the mainland by a narrow Corinth Carniff, through which a breakthrough canal. Approximately 4/5 of the territory are the average mountains (the highest height of 2917 m, Olympus) and plateaus. The coast is strongly dissected. There are few plains, they are concentrated in the eastern half of the country, with the exception of Peloponnese, where the plains are dominated by the west coast. Mountain rivers, short, stormy, with picturesque thresholds and waterfalls prevail, often flowing to the sea in narrow canyons. The longest river Greece is Alialymon (almost 300 km). Others large rivers - Ebros, Nestos, Strimon, Wardar, Ageloos. Love: PPESP, TPIHONIS. Climate in Greece Mediterranean with dry hot summer and cool rainy winter. In antiquity and mainland and island Greece were covered with dense forests, but the unlimited grazing of goats led to their disappearance and replacement of shrubs (McWis, Shiblyak) or olive groves and vineyards. National Parks: Wykos-AOOS, Mick-PPsa, this and DP.
Economy
Greece is an industrial-agricultural country. GDP per capita 24,000 dollars (2006). The public sector of industry gives about half of GDP. The most developed light and dug industry. The industry employs 21% of the workable population. Boxitov, pyrite, nickel ore, magnesite are mining. On the island of Naxos (cm. Naxos) - The world's largest deposit. The metallurgical industry is developed, although in accordance with the EU decisions, steel production in Greece is reduced by 30%. There are enterprises of machine-building, petrochemical and woodworking industries. The priority development was obtained by textile, food industries and construction of building materials (it is believed that in the city of the hair is the largest cement production factory in the world). Under the Greek flag since the 1970s. Many ships from different countries are registered, so nominally Greece has the largest civilian fleet in the world. Fisheries in coastal waters is extremely important.
Commodity agriculture It is not sufficiently developed due to the lack of fertile soils, a small amount of precipitation falling out for the year and the ineffective system of land tenure (the basis of it is small farms). About 30% of Greece lands arable. Only in the valleys of Fessenia, Frakia and Macedonia is possible large-scale production. It is grown wheat, corn, barley, sugar beets, cotton and tobacco. Greece is the leader among EU countries for the production of the last two cultures.
Gardening and vegetable growing are well developed. Olives are grown (most immediately processed into the oil), grapes, melons, peaches, oranges, tomatoes. Citrus and Bachch cultures Greece exports to EU countries. Historically, Greece produces wine with resin additives, but in lately Exports began to produce varieties without such specific additives, although Greek wines are still in popularity can not be compared with wines from other European countries. Greek agriculture is the main recipient of the EU subsidies.
In year, Greece takes approx. 10 million tourists, which gives the main part of foreign currency revenues to the country.
The monetary unit is euro.
Historical essay
In culturally, modern Greece is the succession of ancient Greece (cm. ANCIENT GREECE) and Byzantium (cm. BYZANTIUM). From 1453 with the fall of Constantinople, Greece fell under the power of Turkey. The national liberation movement began at the end of the 18th century. After the defeat (cm. Russian-Turkish Wars) Turkey in war with Russia 1828-29 Turkey on the Adrianopol peace treaty (cm. Adrianopol World) 1829 recognized the autonomy of Greece, so the Greek revolution ended (cm. Greek revolution), Ottoman Igo was overthrown. From 1830 Greece is an independent state. In February 1862 a revolution occurred in Greece. Greece - Participant of the Balkan Wars (cm. Balkan Wars) 1912-13, as well as the First World War (on the side of the Entente (cm. ENTENTE)). Antacts Power inspired Greek-Turkish War 1919-22 (cm. Greek-Turkish War). In 1924, Greece was proclaimed by the republic. As a result of a falsified plebiscite (1935), the monarchy was restored in Greece; In 1936, a military dictatorship was established. In October 1940, Italy's troops were invaded to Greece (in November 1940 expelled from the country). In April 1941, Germany attacked Greece, soon occupied it. King George II fled from the country. In September 1941, the Greek National Liberation Front (EAM) was created, in December - the People's Liberation Army (Elas), at the head of which were the Greek Communists. By the end of October 1944, all the mainland of Greece was released. The "Government of National Unity" created in May 1944 called for English and American troops to Greece, which began in December 1944 fighting against elas. Greek peasants so that they do not support the communists, material assistance was provided. By 1949, the guerrilla war stopped, in September 1946, the king returned to the throne after the plebiscite. In 1967-74, "black colonels" came to power. In July 1974, the civilian government came to power in Greece. As a result of the referendum (December 8, 1974), the monarchy was eliminated in Greece. In 1981, Greece joined the European Union (cm. EUROPEAN UNION). In NATO since 1952. After the collapse of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s. Greece places claims to Macedonia, demanding from changing the name that considers as exclusively a Greek heritage.
National holiday - March 25 (Independence Day, the beginning of the revolution of 1821).

encyclopedic Dictionary. 2009 .

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Located on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula and most of the islands of the northeastern part of the Mediterranean.
Greece is washed by four seas - Mediterranean, Ionian, Aegean and Libyan.

Borders of Greece
Greece borders: in the north - with Albania, Bur Macedonia, Bulgaria; In the East - with Turkey, and on a greater length, the border passes through the sea.

Greece sizes
Greece covers an area of \u200b\u200b131,940 square meters. kilometers, and only 18,472 square meters. Kilometer is occupied by land (about 14%). Usually, Greece is divided into three main parts: Mainland Greece, Peloponnese and Aegean Islands.

On 2,000 Greek islands account for about 20% of the country area.
The dimensions of the Greek islands are very diverse. The biggest is Crete, Evie, Lesbos and Rhodes.
The smallest island of the Ionian Sea is traditionally considered to be Paksi (on the map). Its exemplary sizes are 10 by 3 kilometers. The smallest island of the Aegean Sea is Dilos, 4.5 by 2 kilometers (on the map). But everything is relative - in the Greek seas a lot of lonely islets-rocks and a much smaller size. Probably in such statistics only inhabited islands, and their no more than 200.

Landscape
Greek landscape can be called typically Mediterranean. For a Russian person it is better to call it typically Crimean. Moreover, from a geological point of view, these territories have the same history and almost the same mineral composition.
The fourth part of Greece is occupied by mountain arrays. The highest point of Greece - Mount Olympus height 2917 meters (on the map). Above 2000 m, Mountains Pinda, Parnas, mountain chain In the north Peloponnes and Taygetos.

The widespread limestone spread led to the formation of rope molds. Cars of funnels, caves, mountain plateaus are raised with moisters and hollows. Many and karst lakes. In the north-west of Greece there is the largest lake - Yanina (on the map), with an area of \u200b\u200bmore than 22 square meters. kilometers.

As for the seabed, the Greek seas have a rather smooth relief. The average depth of the sea does not exceed 300 meters. But there are also small depths of depth to 2.5 kilometers. And Peloponnesh Peninsula from South-West is limited by underwater canyons, the depth of which exceeds 5 kilometers

Beaches of Greece
Beach holidays - the main holiday, for which they go to Greece. The beaches in Greece are very diverse. Pebbly beaches predominate, but the sandy beaches are very frequent. More than 400 Greek beaches have a "blue flag." In this number, Greece is constantly in the top three leaders. The vast majority of sandy beaches are located on the Halkidiki Peninsula (on the map). A significant number of excellent beaches has a dodecanis archipelago (on the map), as well as the Greek Islands of Crete, Corfu, Lesbos, Rhodes and Cefalinia. More about the beaches and regions of Greece -.

Hydrology
The most significant rivers of Greece is Alcmond (the longest river - more than 320km.), Bound, Nestos, Strimon, Wardar, Aheloos. Love: PPESP, TPIHONIS,
Mountain rivers with rapid flows and narrow canyons prevail. Greek rivers are not suitable for shipping, but are of great importance for the production of electricity. For Greek rivers, a seasonal fluctuation of flow is characterized. Always dried in summer, they turn into stormy and dangerous streams during melting of snow.
The wet western half of Greece has more permanent rivers.
In Greece, there are more than 20 lakes, different areas - from 10 to 100 square meters. kilometers. Most of them were formed as a result of the tectonic movements of the earth's crust. The largest - PPESP, TPIHONIS.
Many small lakes and on islands. For example, one of the most beautiful - Kurn Lake on Crete (on the map).

Flora and fauna
Despite the relatively small territory, Greece has very diverse ecosystems. Rocky mountain ranges, fertile plains, mountain lakes and rivers, a variety of gorges, relict forests - all makes a contribution to biological diversity.
In antiquity and mainland and island Greece were covered with dense forests, but an unlimited grazing of animals, the use of construction led and other factors led to their disappearance and replacement by shrubs (McWis, Shiblyak) or olive groves and vineyards.
At the moment, only 25% of Greece is covered with forests.

The main rocks growing in Greece can be called juniper, pine, cypress. Oliva is widespread - the most valuable tree of Greece. In wet places you can find beautiful oak, beech, robby, coniferous and chestnut groves.

Another tree without which it is impossible to present Greece - Platan. Huge trees are an unchanged attribute of almost every rustic square. Platan can reach up to 50 meters in height and up to 20 meters in diameter.
Greek mountains are very rich in various types of herbs and colors. Plateau Crete and Peloponnese are covered with an amazing carpet from Chebrets, Sage, Hyacinth, Irisov.

Fauna Greece It is very diverse, but the number of animals is small. Most of all can be found small animals - hares, badgers, dictums.
Among the large animals can be called a boar, fox, lynx. Rarely found brown bears.
The most numerous representatives of the Greek fauna can be considered reptiles - snakes and lizards.
Greece is also populated by a large number of feathered - chas, owls, eagles, partridges and others.

But the blooming variety is under water. Greek seas are inhabited by a huge number of fish, mollusks. Often you can find sea turtles, seals and dolphins. In coastal waters, many octopus and jellyfish.

National parks
The thousand-year history of the development of nature, a large number of tourists and other factors affect the safety in many ways of unique Greek ecosystems. In this regard, a large number of interesting national parks have been created in Greece: PARNAS, PARAS (on the map), Kefalinia, Sunion, IT, Olympus, Lefka Ori ...
In the near future we are planning to provide the most detailed description Greek protected areas.

Dangerous natural phenomena
Greece is an area with high seismic activity. In frequency and strength of earthquakes, Greece stands on 2 place in Europe, after Italy.
The force of earthquakes rarely exceeds 5 scores on the Richter scale. Nevertheless, throughout Greece, the construction of houses is made on seismic-resistant technologies.

Volcanic phenomena. The most famous volcanic eruption in Greece, of course, is the catastrophe of Santorini volcano in 1450 to our era. Currently, Santorini (on the map) retains its activity. After the explosion to the Minoan era, the volcano is an island in the idea of \u200b\u200ba crescent, in the inner water area of \u200b\u200bwhich there are 2 newly formed volcanic cones - Islands of Nea Cana and Palea Kamen. The last eruption of the volcano occurred in 1956 and was accompanied by a very strong earthquake and high (up to 17 meters) tidal waves. Most of the buildings of the island were destroyed.

The second in the fame of the Vulcan of Greece - Nisiros (on the map). Probably even impressive than Santorini. Volcanic Dome Profitis Ilias rises 698 meters above sea level. The volcanic ridge, which he heads, separates the "residential" part of the island from the remnants of a huge caldera. In 1422, as a result of a strong earthquake, the volcano exploded, and his peak (about 1400 meters height) ceased to exist.
The last eruption occurred in 1873 and left behind several ash cones. Today, tourists can explore the caldera and study the fancy volcanic landscape, places tightened with smoke and sharply smelling gray.

Floods are perhaps the most common disaster in Greece. Floods occur regularly and caused by heavy rains from which all southern Europe suffers.

Administrative division of Greece

Greece consists of 13 administrative districts - periphery, each of which is divided by prefectures.
The monastic Republic of Athos is a special autonomous periphery of Greece.

The capital of Greece is the city of Athens (on the map).

All about the Greek People, Religion, Traditions - Look in the article "Ellina"

Economy
Greece is an industrial-agricultural country.
Iron ore mining are manufactured: bauxite, pyrite, nickel ore, magnesite. Greece possesses the largest deposit of emery stone - on the island of Naxos.
In Greece, the metallurgical industry is highly developed, however, in accordance with the EU decisions, steel production in Greece is reduced by 30%.
Food, textile industry received great development. The construction industry is especially developed - in the city of hair (on the map) there is the world's largest cement plant.

About 30% of Greece lands arable. Only in the valleys of Fessels, Frakia and Macedonia are grown wheat, corn, barley, sugar beet. Greece stands on 1 place in the EU for the production of cotton and tobacco. Grapes, melons, peaches, oranges, tomatoes grow. Greek olive oil has an excellent taste and won its market share. Greek wines are also a good income for the country.

Greece has the largest fleet in the world - passenger, cargo, oil-oil, which brings most of the income, leaving the tourist industry in second place. Greek vessels are registered usually under the "comfortable flags", the crews are international, but the offices of most shipping companies are located in Greece, in traditionally marine areas of the Greek capital: in Pirae, Faliro, Alimos, Glyfade. For many years in a row, Greece holds the first place in the number of new ships built in the world in the world in order to order Greek shipowners. The fishing fleet in Greece is small, presented mainly by small ships, full-size trawlers a little. It serves the needs of the local market and does not have such industrial significance at the international level, both in Italy or Spain.