From the Olympics to My Fat
Greek Wedding, Greece has always been a cultural centerpiece in the history
of man. Summing up its contribution requires a small library, but here
is an overview.
Overview of Greece for
Travelers
Greece was home to some of
the earliest advanced civilizations. From the Minoans of the second BC
millennium to Mycenaeans who established the basis of the current language,
the country has produced cultural, philosophical, political and sport advancements
unrivaled by others.
The modern Greek state obtained
independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1830. It has carried on what seems
like a constant conflict with Turkey and was also involved in both World
Wars. In 1981, Greece joined the European Community that eventually evolved
into the European Union.
The official name of Greece
is the Hellenic Republic. Greece covers an area of roughly 51,000 square
miles. Athens is both the capital and largest population center with roughly
3.5 million inhabitants. Thessaloniki is the second largest population
area with just over one million people. The terrain of Greece ranges from
mountains in the north to flat plains in the south and beautiful islands
off the coast. Winters are mild while summers are hot and dry making Greece
a huge tourist destination.
The people of Greece are
known as Greeks. They total more than 10.96 million. Population growth
exists, but it is just above .2 percent annually. Greek is the official
language. From a religious perspective, 99 percent of Greeks claim Greek
Orthodox as their religion. Literacy rate is 95 percent and all levels
of education are absolutely free. Life expectancy is 76 for males and 81
for women.
Greece is a relatively small
country, but has accounted for a remarkable number of developments in the
trek of mankind through history. Whether you are going to see the culture
or loaf on the islands, Greece is a top travel destination for a good reason.
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