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For want of some water…

This gallery contains 7 photos.

By the time the Greek War of Independence broke out, in 1821, the Acropolis had become one of the most heavily fortified castles in Greece. Three of its slopes were so steep that an attack there was impossible. The only … Continue reading

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The theatre of Dionysus in the spring

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In our digital journey there are no constraints of time or distance; we’ll simply go where free association will take us. Our first stop will be the Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus, on the south slope of the Acropolis of Athens. … Continue reading

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Spring came to Eleusis

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A short distance from Athens, Eleusis was the centre of the cult of goddess Demeter, who embodied Earth’s fertility. It was the place where the famous Eleusinian Mysteries took place. Initially it was a rite symbolising the circle of life … Continue reading

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“Tsougrisma,” a Greek Easter custom

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There is no Easter bunny hiding eggs for the Greek children to find. The eggs are in plain sight, on the table, for everyone to take. Yet, no one may eat them before “cracking” them with someone, exchanging wishes and … Continue reading

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Dionysus in Delos

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Most people think that Dionysus, the god of wine, was no more than the drunken sidekick of Greek mythology. In fact, he was a rather powerful god who controlled the wild forces of nature. He did not care for the … Continue reading

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The Greek Carnival

This gallery contains 14 photos.

The Greek Carnival begins today; it is a festive period of three weeks, celebrated on the cusp of winter, usually in late February or March. It is a period of fancy costumes, parties and country-wide celebrations, culminating on Clean Monday.   … Continue reading

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Photo of the week: between the columns of Zeus

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The week is nearing its end and I almost forgot to post my customary photo. This is a favorite of mine: it is a view of the Acropolis as seen between the columns of the Temple of Olympic Zeus. To … Continue reading

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Photo of the previous week: orange trees

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I wish there was technology to capture smells as well as pictures. I chose this picture, of an orange tree in full bloom, but it can’t really convey what Athens smells like the first two weeks of April. Come April, … Continue reading