Greek Culture

Modern Greek culture is based on the classical culture of the Ancient Greece, influenced by the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, the Venetian Republic, the British Empire, and more. The Modern Greek culture was fully shaped during the Greek War of Independence, when a modern Greek nation and culture were born.

Greece is the home to the Western culture, democracy and philosophy, as well as humanities and natural sciences. When it comes to art, some bright examples of the ancient Greek architecture and sculpture have been preserved either as originals or Roman copies.

Although Ancient Greeks had a powerful mythology, which was later adapted by the Roman Empire, today most Greeks are Orthodox Christians.

Greek cuisine is based on centuries of traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, where flavors change depending on the season and geography. Greek cuisine is based on the "Mediterranean triad": wheat, olive oil, and wine. Meat and fish are also very common. Contrary to the popular opinion, first pizza was created in Greece, not in Italy. Yet, it never became as popular in Greece as it became in Italy. Modern Greek cuisine has been also influenced by the Ottoman and Italian cuisine due to the Ottoman and Venetian dominance in the region. This is especially noticeable when it comes to spices, for example adding cinnamon to meat, which is a Turkish tradition.

Modern Greece is a beautiful country, with mountains, islands, picturesque blue seas, and friendly and hospitable people. This is a place most definitely worth visiting, and Greek is the language worth learning.