10 most famous things in Greece

Did you know that modern life can be tracked down back to ancient Greece? From democratic republic to medical technology, ideas and inventions have cemented this Southeastern European country’s place in history.

Most people, on the other hand, are more involved in Greece as one of the best travel destinations in the world. It’s no surprise that it’s encircled by the lovely Mediterranean Sea and multitudes of exotic islands.

Greece has a rich history and almost always has great weather. It has more than a dozen international airports, making it easy to get there from almost anywhere, and it’s surprisingly inexpensive. So, we have listed the 10 most famous things in Greece.

• The Greek Pantheon
• Theatre
• Marathon
• Hospitality
• Ancient Greek Mythology And Gods
• A large Number Of Islands
• Home Of Olympics
• Democracy
• Greek Cuisine
• Philosophy

1. The Greek Pantheon

Greece is famous for the Greek Pantheon and its myths and legends, and it is one of the world’s most well-known and impactful mythologies. The 12 gods of Olympus later influenced the Roman gods. They were distinct in that they resembled humans, with human limitations, flaws, and vices. You can visit this breathtaking architectural marvel by choosing Greece packages from India at Pickyourtrail.

Each of them was assigned a distinct obligation and role. Zeus was the god of thunder, Artemis was the goddess of the hunt, Athena was the goddess of wisdom and righteous war, and so on. The myths about their interactions with each other and with mortals continue to have an impact on art, culture, and philosophy today.

2. Theatre

The notion of tragedy and comedy, as well as a distinctive theatrical style, originated in Greece. Greece is renowned for being the birthplace of the theory of tragedy, viewership catharsis, and the term “deus ex machina,” which derives directly from Greek ancient tragedies: Deus ex machina is Latin for “god from the machine” and comes from the practice of a god appearing in tragedies to propose a solution to an unsolvable problem. It is one of the most famous things in Greece.

 This god would be performed by an actor who was last seen suspended in the air by a special machine, thus the phrase “deus ex machina.”

3. Marathon

Since the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, the Marathon has reigned supreme among running events. Pheiddipides ran the first marathon in 490 BC, which was not a race but a grueling sprint in need of urgency. Marathon is one of the most famous things in Greece.

He was a Greek hoplite who ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens to announce the Persians’ defeat. According to legend, he collapsed and died of exhaustion as soon as he announced the news. This event gave rise to the Marathon, both in terms of distance and name.

4. Hospitality

The country is well-known for its people’s warmth and friendliness. Greeks take pride in being gracious hosts. This is a part of the local culture and heritage that dates back to antiquity when guests were revered and protected by Zeus. Greeks are friendly, cheerful, and eager to provide tourists with the best possible experience in Greece, as they each consider themselves ambassadors of their country and culture.

5. Ancient Greek Mythology And Gods

Ancient Greek mythology is well-known throughout the world, and it appears that nearly everyone has heard at least one myth. Odysseus’ return to Ithaca, the naming of Athens after the goddess Athena, the legend of Theseus and the Minotaur, and Jason and the Argonauts are all popular Greek mythologies.

Though no documented evidence exists, probably, Ancient Greek mythology dates back to the 18th century BC. The first known sources are Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, as well as Hesiod’s Theogony and Works and Days. They discuss the origins of the world, the various gods and heroes, and shed some light on the Ancient Greeks’ customs, institutions, practices, and lives.

6. A large Number Of Islands

There are many islands in Greece. Thousands of them! The number is difficult to locate because so many islands are small and unpopulated. But there are between 2000 and 6000 islands there! Only 100–200 of them, though, are genuinely inhabited. These large numbers of islands are one of the most famous things in Greece.

Santorini, Crete, Mykonos, and Corfu are just a few of the well-known tourist spots on Greece’s islands. However, the nation is also home to a large number of uncharted islands, which makes it very simple to stray from the usual path and see some undiscovered locales throughout the globe. Island hopping is another popular activity in Greece, so you can visit several different islands in one journey!

7. Home Of Olympics

The ancient and modern Olympic Games both were born in Greece. From 776 BC until 385 AD, the ancient Olympic games were held in Olympia, Greece (or around this period). The Olympics were athletic competitions held every four years in ancient times.

However, it was Greek city-states that competed against each other in Zeus’ honour, so the modern Olympic Games are quite different.

The first modern Olympics Games were held in Athens in 1896, with 14 nations competing in the Panathenaic Stadium. The Olympic flame is also housed in this famous stadium.

8. Democracy

If you live in a democracy and want to depose a political leader, the city-state of Athens provides you with the opportunity. A 6,000-member Athenian Assembly voted on crucial matters in the 5th century BC. (It was all men, but it was a start.)

The city-state was ruled by aristocrats until the poor and oppressed revolted, causing such upheaval that the educated and enlightened devised a political system that is the foundation of today’s democracies. The term democratic means “democratic rights.” Peer jurors and jury trials were also invented in ancient Greece.

9. Greek Cuisine

Many travellers consider Greek food to be one of the best gifts Greece has given the world. Souvlaki (pork), mistakes, and pastitsio are well-known international specialties. Greek cuisine is based on a healthy Mediterranean diet, with the most important ingredients being olive oil, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

The great thing about Greek cuisine is that depending on where you go, you can try different variations of the same dishes. This is what makes Greek cuisine so varied and tasty. When visiting Greece, you should try different dishes in local taverns away from the major tourist areas. The Greeks are “foodies,” and you can feel it all over the country. Try wines, ouzo, and desserts like baklava.

10. Philosophy

Another great thing that evolved in ancient Greece was philosophy. In the sixth century, individuals such as Socrates began to investigate and attempt to explain matters other than mythology and religion. Philosophers started developing theories about ethics, politics, religion, and other topics.

Many ancient philosophers were born and grew up in ancient Greece, including Plato, Aristotle, Plutarch, and others who were well-known in their day. Aristotle, a famous philosopher, was Alexander the Great’s teacher.

Greece has left its mark on the world through its long and rich history, from the ancient Greeks to the modern Olympics. These are just a few of the attributes associated with Greece. There is much to learn about this fascinating country, from its mythology and culture to its delicious food. Greece has something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, landscapes, or nature. When you visit this beautiful Mediterranean country, you will undoubtedly discover more things for which Greece is famous.