GREEK ISLES
History | Food & Drink | Sports & Recreation | Sights

Greek Isles' History
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Greek culture originated in the late 3rd millennium BC with the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete. During the Golden Age of Greece in the 5th century BC, years of peace help to serve as a basis for extraordinary achievements. Democracy flowered, the Parthenon and other temples were built, great strides were made in the arts and sciences, and the study of philosophy reached its zenith.

The Romans may have conquered the land in 2nd century BC, but Greek culture remained influential. Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire, mainly due to the prevalence of the Greek language.

Independence was won from the Ottoman Empire in 1829 and the Bavarian prince Otto was installed on the throne in 1833. He was replaced 30 years later by George I who, during his 50-year reign, regained much of Greece's former territory.

Greece was declared a republic in 1924, but the monarchy was restored under George II in 1935. The invasion of Italy in 1940 brought Greece into WWII and German occupation lasted from 1941-44. A civil war between communists and royalists was waged from 1946 to 1949. Under a democratic coalition government Greece joined NATO in 1951.

In 1974 the monarchy was abolished in favor of a republic. Greece joined the European Economic Union in 1981.

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Greek Isles' Food & Drink
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Greek cuisine features fresh, healthy foods, simply prepared, seasoned with olive oil, lemon, garlic and herbs. It is customary to visit the kitchen and select the dish of your choice. Favorite dishes are souvlaki (spit-roasted meat) and moussaka (layers of eggplant and minced meat baked in a white sauce). A Greek salad with feta cheese can be a meal in itself.

Traditional Greek coffee can be ordered strong, medium or sweet. Instant coffee is widely available. Greek wine can be excellent, although retsina, flavored with pine resin, is an acquired taste. Ouzo is a strong, aniseed-flavored liquor.

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Greek Isles' Sports & Recreation
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Although Greece was the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 BC, today's favorite sports are soccer and basketball. With its many islands and extensive coastline, Greece has excellent beaches and abundant harbors; these provide opportunities for water-skiing, paragliding, diving, fishing and sailing. Walking and mountaineering, horseback riding and skiing are among the land-based activities.

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