The Bee in Ancient Greece: A Symbol of Health and Healing

Depictions of the bee appear very early in the development of coinage in ancient Greece, with Ephesus, an ancient city in Ionia (Aegean coast of Turkey), having a particular claim to the tradition after it adopted the insect as its civic emblem.
Charon obol. Depictions of the bee appear very early in the development of coinage in ancient Greece, with Ephesus, an ancient city in Ionia (Aegean coast of Turkey) having a particular claim to the tradition after it adopted the insect as its civic emblem. Credit: CNG. CC BY-3.0/Wikimedia Commons/CNG

Depictions of the bee appear very early in the development of coinage in ancient Greece, with Ephesus, an ancient city in Ionia (Aegean coast of Asia Minor), having a particular claim to the tradition after it adopted the insect as its civic emblem. Bees were also depicted in jewelry and statues of goddesses in ancient Greece.

Centuries before people formed agrarian societies, relying on agriculture in settled communities, honey gathered from the hives of wild bees was valued as a precious substance. Being that the honeybee is native to the lands surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, domestication of this pollinator was crucial for the growth of many fruit crops in the region.

Such was the value of honey as a commodity that the Egyptian hieroglyph for ‘bee’ came to be used as the symbol for the ruler of Lower Egypt.

In ancient Greece, bees and honey were a significant symbol, often linked with knowledge, health, and power. The insects were even considered servants of the gods, with honey being worshipped for its healing attributes.

The goddess of the bees in ancient Greece was Melissa. According to Greek mythology, a nymph had revealed to her the use of honey by the bees themselves. She was one of the nymph nurses to Zeus when he was born to Rhea in a cave that was supposedly sacred to bees. There are two versions of the myth, one stating that the bees nurtured Zeus, with his son then nurtured by the Melissae (priestesses in the temples of the goddesses), and another saying that it was Zeus who was fed with the milk of goats and with honey by the Melissae.

The bee on the coinage of Ephesus in ancient Greece

The ancient Greek city of Ephesus was the location of a famous temple of Artemis, and the high priest of the temple was known as the “king bee.” There are nearly a thousand different known types of bee-and-stag coins from the city, and unpublished new types appear frequently. One of the earliest known examples is a rare electrum hemistater, dated to around 550 BC, which was sold for 25,000 dollars at a US auction in 2015.

Ephesos AR Drachm 550 BC.
Ephesos AR Drachm 550 BC. Credit: CNG. CC BY-2.5/Wikimedia Commons/CNG

Bees possess two pairs of wings, but typical representations of the insect in ancient times generally only showed one pair with the early exception of a silver obol of Ephesus from around 550 BC. It showed all four wings. Early in the classical era (480-450 BC), bees depicted on silver drachms from Ephesus were etched with curved wings and curly antennae, giving the insect a cartoon-like appearance.

By the fourth century BC in ancient Greece, Ephesian die-cutters, having advanced in their art, were engraving much more realistic bees, which included details like the sting, jointed legs, and the segmented abdomen.

Ephesos, 370-360 BC, silver tetradrachm, bee.
Ephesos, 370-360 BC, silver tetradrachm, bee. Credit: ArchaiOptix. CC BY-4.0/Wikimedia Commons/ArchaiOptix

Some of the coins, popular with collectors, are inscribed with the abbreviated name Ephesus (E-Φ) on one side, and on the other, alongside the stag, the name of the then-magistrate is spelled out.

In 356 BC, the Temple of Artemis was burned down. Several sources from the time claim this was the doing of Herostratus, who supposedly set fire to the wooden roof-beams, seeking fame at any cost and giving rise to the term “herostratic fame.” Over the following centuries, the structure was repeatedly demolished and rebuilt, and in the background, the city continued to issue civic coinage bearing the bee and stag until around 133 BC.

The bee begins to disappear from the coinage of Ephesus after the city became part of the Roman empire, a society in which the emperor appears on the coins, leaving no room for the insect.

Other Greek cities where the bee appeared

Several other cities in ancient Greece adopted the image of a bee for their coins, possibly signifying economic ties with Ephesus or the hosting of a local cult of Ephesian Artemis. The side angle of the bee, as seen in Egyptian hieroglyphs, is very rarely seen on ancient coins, but it does appear on a very small hemiobol from an unknown Ionian mint, along with a turtle on the reverse.

The insects also occasionally appeared as decorations on ancient coin-like items, or tokens, such as one gold disc which was not dated but sold in a 2007 US auction. One theory is that these disc objects have magic powers, and they were buried with the dead to pay Charon, the boatman who ferried souls to the afterlife.

Drachm of Ephesus, 330 B.C.
Drachm of Ephesus, 330 B.C. Credit: William S. Kimball & Company. CC BY 1.0/Public Domain/Met Museum

In around 202 BC, Ephesus forged an alliance with the Phoenician city of Arados (present day Arwad, a small island off the Syrian coast south of Tartus). Arados later marked this partnership by taking on the bee and stag design for its coinage, and the coins of Arados can be distinguished by the word Aradion, inscribed in Greek on one side. It is thought that this alliance lasted for some time.

A number of other towns in ancient Greece adopted the bee, too, such as Gentinos, a small town in the region of Troas (northwest Anatolia), which used a bee and palm tree on its fourth century BC bronze.

Praisos, an ancient city on the island of Crete, put a bee with a rose on the reverse of a rare silver hemidrachm around the fourth to third centuries BC, and another Cretan town, Elyros, had the image of an atypically detailed bee—particularly the veins on its wings—on its silver drachm around 300 to 270 BC. The relatively unknown town of Iulis on the present-day island of Kea also placed a bee on the reverse of its third century BC bronze coinage.

The beehive is surprisingly rare on ancient coins. The city of Deultum in Thrace (now Burgas on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria) depicted a beehive on one side of its rare local bronze coins, issued during the mid-third century.

Ancient Fossil Unveils ‘Dragon’ From 240 Million Years Ago

0
Dinocephalosaurus orientalis Fossil Reveals 240 Million Year-Old ‘Dragon’.
Scientists have disclosed the extraordinary fossils of an ancient marine creature often identified as the “Chinese dragon.” Credit: National Museums Scotland

Researchers in China have unveiled the remarkable fossils of an ancient sea creature commonly known as the “Chinese dragon.”

This creature, known as Dinocephalosaurus orientalis, lived around 240 million years ago during the Triassic period. It had an incredibly long neck, which it used to surprise its prey in shallow waters.

Although bits and pieces of this species were discovered back in 2003 in limestone deposits in Southern China, it’s only now that scientists have managed to put together enough remains to reconstruct the full picture of this magnificent carnivore.

The Chinese dragon stretched out to about 16.8 feet (or 5 meters) in length, as reported by Live Science.

Chinese dragon had 32 separate vertebrae in neck

The researchers shared their latest findings in a study released on February 23rd in the journal Earth and Environmental Science: Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Nick Fraser, who oversees natural sciences at National Museums Scotland, remarked that this finding adds to the already strange and fascinating world of the Triassic period, which keeps surprising paleontologists. Its striking resemblance to the legendary Chinese Dragon is sure to capture the attention of people worldwide.

The fossil exposes remarkable features of the ancient sea dragon. One standout feature is its long neck, stretching almost 7.7 feet (2.3 meters) and comprising thirty-two separate vertebrae. This is quite a contrast to giraffes and humans, which have only seven neck vertebrae.

The dragon’s flexible, snake-like neck probably allowed it to stealthily approach its prey. It would use its flippered limbs to position itself before striking. Inside the belly of this sea monster, scientists have found preserved fish caught in its serrated teeth, as reported by Live Science.

The researchers emphasize that, while the sea creature may remind some of the Loch Ness Monster, it’s not closely related to the long-necked plesiosaurs that inspired the mythical creature’s fame.

“We hope that our future research will help us understand more about the evolution of this group of animals, and particularly how the elongate neck functioned,” said Stephan Spiekman, the lead author and a postdoctoral researcher at the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History.

The Chinese dragon adapted to more open waters

The distinctive features in the appendicular skeleton and the paddle-shaped autopodia of Dinocephalosaurus orientalis suggest it adapted to more open waters compared to Tanystropheus hydroides, says the study.

Dinocephalosaurus orientalis and Tanystropheus sp. didn’t coexist in the eastern Tethys, based on where their fossils have been found. All Tanystropheus sp. discoveries so far are from the latest Ladinian or earliest Carnian sequences.

While the exact purpose of Dinocephalosaurus orientalis’ exceptionally long neck remains uncertain, it likely helped in catching fish. Evidence of fish found in the stomach contents of one specimen supports this notion, according to the study.

The Magical World of Wit and Wisdom of Ancient Greek Comedy

Ancient Greek theater masks carved in stone, displayed in a row.
AI depiction of Ancient Greek Theater Masks. Credit: Midjourney for the Greek Reporter

In the rich history of ancient Greek culture, comedy shines as a vibrant example of literature and theater that deeply shaped the world of art.

Originating from the joyous celebrations in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine, fertility, and festivity, ancient Greek comedy evolved into a significant art form. Comedy not only entertained the people but also provided a unique way for Greek society of the time to examine itself deeply.

The ancient Greek comedy’s rich heritage

The Greek comedy focused on satire, poking fun at political figures, the norms of the society, and even the gods themselves.

This came in direct contrast with the solemn themes associated with its dramatic counterpart, tragedy. This genre offered an opportunity to audiences for laughter and lightness. Nonetheless, its implications and insights were anything but superficial. When we dig deeper into ancient Greek comedy, we can find a sophisticated, dynamic form of storytelling, which remains profoundly relevant to this day, resonating with audiences around the world. 

The roots of ancient Greek comedy are deeply connected with the Dionysian festivals. These were vibrant celebrations dedicated to Dionysus, one of Greece’s most beloved gods. These widespread festivities were rich and extravagant, offering the fertile ground from which the earliest forms of Greek comedy came into existence.

Initially, the performances of comedy were improvised. They were also unstructured and part of a broader tradition that wanted people to enjoy themselves and mock each other. This was a fundamental part of the seasonal celebrations of Dionysus’ cult.

However, as Greek society continued to evolve, so too did its comedy. It soon transitioned through several distinct phases, starting from the Archaic to the Hellenistic periods.

From Archaic to Hellenistic: the evolution of Greek comedy

The Archaic phase saw the formalization of comedy as a distinct genre. The fundamental change was the introduction of structured competitions at major festivals like the Dionysia and Lenaia in Athens. This period was marked by what we now call the “Old Comedy.” This form was characterized by its completely unrestrained satire of public figures. The daring ridicule even extended to the gods, apart from obvious societal norms. It was clear that for a comedy to be good, it had to spare no one from its critical gaze.

Following the Old Comedy was the Middle Comedy. This phase marked a shift away from personal satire. This time, the Greek comedy turned its focus towards a broader criticism of societal trends and the general human condition. The themes of comedy plays became less political and more focused on the everyday life of the Greeks, with a clear focus on ordinary people.

Following on, the Hellenistic period was the time when the so-called “New Comedy” appeared. This stage further refined the genre, adding new elements to it.

New Comedy was marked by the works of playwrights like Menander. This type of comedy focused on romantic as well as purely domestic situations. The comedy writer employed characters in plots that revolved around love, everyday misunderstandings, and relations of the family.

The transition away from the political and social satire of the Old Comedy to the more personalized nature of the plays reflected the changing dynamics of Greek society. This was fundamental in comedy’s ability to survive over time, as it found a way of evolving and not becoming obsolete. It illustrated the genre’s ability to shape itself based on its audience’s preference and the socio-political climate of the times.

Relief sculpture of a playwright interacting with comic masks from Ancient Greece.
Roman, Republican, or Early Imperial Relief of a seated poet (Menander) with masks of New Comedy, 1st century BC. Credit: Princeton University Art Museum, Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain

Unique structures and themes in Greek comedy

What made the ancient Greek comedy unique was primarily its unique structure. It incorporated elements such as the chorus, parabasis (a direct address to the audience by the chorus), and episodes of dialogue that moved the plot forward.

The chorus was often dressed in extravagant costumes and provided the necessary commentary for the play. It also sang songs and interacted with the characters of the play. This helped bridge the gap between performers and audience. Thus, the chorus, one could say, was the intermediate between the actors and people. 

On the other hand, the parabasis, a crucial component of Old Comedy, allowed the playwright to speak directly to the audience. It offered a direct satirical explanation of contemporary issues that were at the forefront of the minds of Greek society.

Now, of course, the themes of ancient Greek comedies were as varied as they were bold. They tackled everything from political satire to social rules and the common attributes of human nature. Politicians and their policies were frequent targets of the comedies. They provided a platform for serious political critique, served under the guise of humor.

Furthermore, social commentary was another important element of these plays. From the role of women in society to the eternal battle between the wealthy and the poor and the wisdom of the gods, they covered a wide spectrum of topics central to everyone’s lives. This blend of sharp wit, good-old satire, and societal critique ensured that comedy was not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

Engraved illustration of a scene from Aristophanes' play "The Birds" featuring costumed characters on stage.
A scene from Aristophanes’ “The Birds,” by Henry Gillard Glindoni (1852— 1913). Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Welcome Images CC BY 4.0

Aristophanes and Menander, the pioneers of the Greek comedy

Aristophanes and Menander, of course, stand out as the big titans of the ancient Greek comedy. Each one of them left an indelible mark on the genre for the coming generations to admire. Aristophanes was the master of the Old Comedy. He is best known for his sharp political satire and very imaginative plots around complex issues.

His works, such as Lysistrata and The Clouds, entertained but also provided critical ways of thinking on Athens’ political landscape. These included hot topics such as war, and social issues related to work, trade, and even love. Through his plays, Aristophanes brilliantly demonstrated the power of comedy to challenge any type of authority whilst provoking thought. All these were always served in a beautiful and laughing manner.

Menander, on the other hand, was a crucial figure in the development of New Comedy. His plays, such as Dyskolos (The Grouch), shifted their focus from societal issues to the intricacies of human relationships and personal dilemmas. The comedies of Menander played a crucial role in the future of drama, too. They were characterized by complex characters, intricate plots, and positive moral lessons. All these laid the groundwork for the romantic and situational comedy that would influence Western literature in centuries to come.

Ancient Greek theater
Ancient theatre of Epidaurus. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Carole Raddato, CC-BY-SA-2.0

The role of festivals in ancient Greek comedy performances

Clearly, comedy in ancient Greece was not just a form of entertainment. It was a key element of religious and cultural festivities, notably the Dionysia and Lenaia festivals. These religious and cultural events provided a venue for dramatic competitions, with playwrights presenting their works to be judged by the public. The performances of these plays were considered to be significant events by many in ancient Greece. This is why, quite often, people used elaborate costumes and masks that exaggerated facial features. 

The competitive nature of these festivals also promoted innovation and excellence in performances. This explains why playwrights tried their best to gain the favor of the audience and the accolades that came with potential success. Additionally, the use of masks allowed actors to portray multiple characters and genders, offering much-needed flexibility to the producers. This also helped the plots, adding a layer of versatility and anonymity to the performance. 

How ancient Greek comedy shaped modern theater

The legacy of ancient Greek comedy is far-reaching and extends far beyond its historical period. It has profoundly influenced the development of modern theater and shaped Western societies deeply.

The structural elements, such as the use of a chorus, direct audience address, and the blending of satire and serious critique, have managed to find their way into the modern theater we all know today. The comedies we enjoy, from Shakespeare’s plays to television sitcoms, owe a huge debt to the groundbreaking innovations of the ancient Greek comedy.

The timeless topics of love, friendship, political satire, and family affairs, introduced by playwrights like Aristophanes and Menander, continue to resonate with us all to this day. They clearly show the universality of human life across the ages and cultures. 

The lasting influence of Greek comedy

To conclude, we need to admit that Greek comedy, with its rich combination of satire, humor, and thoughtful insight, remains a cornerstone of Western theatrical tradition. By exploring its origins, we understand the importance of its existence.

As we enjoy our next comedy in a theater or from the comfort of our living room, let’s not forget the influence of ancient Greek traditions on today’s theatrical expression.

The Top 10 Countries Dominating Global Gold Reserves

0
gold reserve
Gold continues to be an important indicator and store of value in the modern era, and these are the countries with the largest reserves of it. Credit: Flickr / Bank of England CC-BY-ND 2.0 DEED

Gold continues to be an important indicator and store of value in the modern era, serving as a hedge and retaining its value even during times of economic crisis. With that in mind, here are the top 10 countries by gold reserves as of September 2023, based on data from central banks, the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the World Gold Council.

Gold hit a new record in December of last year during challenging times. There was uncertainty both geopolitically and regarding interest rates, proving once again that the metal is extremely important in the global economic context.

The majority of the world’s gold is stored in several places, including central bank vaults, private depositories, and jewelry holdings. Nations around the world hold gold reserves for a number of reasons.

Firstly, gold is a stable and dependable store of value, signaling a country’s economic stability, particularly in times of financial uncertainty. Secondly, despite the gold standard having lost some relevance, a few countries still regard gold reserves as crucial for maintaining currency stability. Furthermore, gold’s tangibility allows nations to diversify their overall portfolio. Almost one-fifth of all the gold ever mined is currently held in storage by central banks.

Top 10 countries with largest gold reserves

At the top of the list of countries with the largest gold reserves is the US, which has 8,133 tons stored away in twelve federal reserve banks across the county.

 

In second place is Germany, with 3,353 tons in its gold reserves, followed by Italy, which has holdings of 2,452 tons. France has taken the fourth spot with 2,437 tons, and Russia is fifth with 2,333 tons. China has the sixth largest gold reserves with 2,192 tons while Switzerland possesses 1,040 tons of gold and the seventh largest gold reserves in the world.

With 847 tons, Japan has the eighth largest gold reserves, while India, with its 801 tons places ninth. The Netherlands has 612 tons, meaning it is tenth among the top 10 countries with the largest gold reserves. Turkey has 479 tons, putting it in eleventh place.

Experts often discuss the concept of “peak gold,” which refers to the time period within a given year when humans are said to have mined the greatest possible amount of gold ever. Some believe that point may have already been reached. Gold mine production totaled 3,531 tons in 2019, which was one percent lower than in 2018, according to the World Gold Council. This represents the first annual decline since 2008.

“While the growth in mine supply may slow or decline slightly in the coming years, as existing reserves are exhausted, and new major discoveries become increasingly rare, suggesting that production has peaked may still be a little premature,” Hannah Brandstaetter, a spokesperson for the World Gold Council, told the BBC in 2020.

Germany Legalizes Recreational Cannabis Use

Germany's parliament has backed a law which permits the recreational smoking of cannabis in the country.
Germany’s parliament has backed a law which permits the recreational smoking of cannabis in the country. Credit: ubiquit23. CC BY-2.0/flickr

Germany’s parliament has backed a new law permitting the recreational use of cannabis for over-18s in the country, who will be allowed to possess substantial amounts of the drug despite strict rules which will make it challenging to buy.

On April 1 in Germany, smoking cannabis in many public spaces will become legal, with possession of up to 25g, equivalent to several strong joints, permitted in public spaces, and 50g permitted in private homes.

Allegedly, police in some areas of Germany, like Berlin, already turn a blind eye to smoking in public, despite possession of the drug for recreational use being illegal and grounds for prosecution. Use of cannabis by young people has been on the rise for years despite the existing law, said Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, who is instigating the reforms – as reported by BBC.

He is determined to undermine the black market, protect smokers from contaminated cannabis and destroy revenue streams for organized crime gangs. However, legal cannabis cafes will not suddenly start appearing all over the country.

The Cannabis Decriminalisation Debate in Germany

A debate around the decriminalisation of cannabis has been ongoing for years in Germany, with doctors’ groups sharing concerns for young people and conservative politicians stating that a liberalisation law will fuel drug use.

Following a ferocious debate today (Friday, February 23) in the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament, the decision was eventually passed by 407 votes to 226. There were four abstentions.

Simone Borchardt of the opposition conservative CDU told MPs that the government had gone ahead with its “completely unnecessary, confused law” despite the warnings from doctors, police and psychotherapists. However, Lauterbach claimed the present situation was no longer deniable, saying “The number of consumers aged betwen 18 and 25 has doubled in the past 10 years.”

After the decision had been taken in parliament, he said the law would “dry out the black market” and fix “a failed drug policy.” The law that has been approved in Germany is complex, with smoking cannabis in some areas, such as near schools and sports grounds, still illegal. Also of significance is that the market will be strictly regulated so buying cannabis will not be easy.

Initial plans to permit licensed shops and pharmacies to sell the drug have been thrown out due to EU concerns that this approach may lead to a surge in exports. Instead, non-commercial members’ clubs, called ‘cannabis social clubs’, will grow and distribute a limited amount of the drug.

Each club will have an upper limit of 500 members, smoking cannabis on site will be prohibited, and membership will only be available to German residents.
Growing cannabis will also be allowed, with a maximum of three marijuana plants permitted per household. Which means Germany will be allowing the possession of substantial amounts of the drug, while simultaneously making it hard to purchase.

The Greek City That Was the Ceramic Center of the Ancient World

Ancient Greek Klazomenai
Klazomenai was the ceramic center of the Ancient Greek world. The decorations on the works produced mainly depicted groups of fighting animals, chimaerai and battle scenes and were usually oriented towards the ideals of the nobility. Credit: Dosseman / CC-BY-SA-4.0 / Wikimedia Commons

The Greek city of Klazomenai located near today’s Izmir (Smyrna) was the center of ceramic production in the ancient world.

Unique Ancient Greek ceramic figures along with a 2,500-year-old type of water-basin used for rituals have recently been discovered during excavations.

According to the excavation’s director Professor Yasar Ersoy, “The excavations unearthed a sink foot and its base decorated with fantastic mythological creatures and chariot races. This sixth-century B.C. artifact is about 2,500 years old. It is decorated with figures, embossed and painted in this way. It is the first of its kind.”

Klazomenai is located in modern Urla on the western coast of Anatolia and on the southern coast of the Gulf of İzmir about twenty miles west of İzmir.

The city was originally located on the mainland at Limantepe but probably relocated to the Karantina island just off the coast during the early fifth-century BC Ionian Revolt from the Persians.

Soon afterward, the Greek city of Chyton was founded on the mainland in the late fifth century BC. Both Greek cities had conflictual relations, but Alexander the Great eventually connected Karantina island to the mainland with a causeway, the remains of which are still visible.

An important Ancient Greek ceramic production center

The Klazomenai olive oil workshop, which is one of the earliest Ancient Greek workshops in the Aegean region that has survived thus far, exemplifies the existence of mass production in ancient times. It is dated to the sixth century B.C.

Klazomenai
The Klazomenai olive oil workshop is one of the earliest workshops in the Aegean region that has survived thus far. Credit: Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons

Ersoy added that “Klazomenai is considered to be one of the most important ceramic production centers in the region, especially in the Archaic period in the sixth century B.C.”

“In the excavations carried out here, we also find many…ceramics produced in workshops connected with the city,” Ersoy said.

“The sink we found is decorated with fantastic mythological creatures and chariot races. This artifact, which dates to the sixth century B.C., is about 2,500 years old. We do not know of an example embossed and painted like this sink.”

“At the same time, another type of vase, which is identified with Klazomenai, is a commercial amphorae,” Ersoy further added.

“Olive oil or wine used to be stored and carried in these amphorae. We see vases of this type in many places in a wide geography, mostly on the northern, eastern, and western coasts of the Black Sea and in the Western Mediterranean and Eastern Mediterranean. This shows us the dominant commercial activity of the city from the seventh century B.C. to the beginning of the sixth century B.C.”

Klazomenai in ancient times

Researchers generally trace the establishment of Klazomenai between the 11th and the 7th century BC. However, according to the most recent archaeological data, the Greek presence in Klazomenai goes back to the Late Bronze Age.

Recent archaeological excavations in the settlement have discovered an abundance of artifacts of the Late Bronze Age, as well as Mycenaean shells and Aeolian “bucchero” vessels, while there are also traces of the Protogeometric (10th century BC), in the southern part of the settlement. Many of these findings are houses at the Museum of Acropolis.

Accounts of the founding of the city are confusing. According to Strabo, the founder was Paralos, while Pausanias mentions Colophonius Parforos as an inhabitant.

Aelianos, on the contrary, considers the city to have been built by Niles, the son of the Athenian king Kodros.

Pausanias mentions that the original population of the city was mainly Peloponnesians from Kleones and Fleiunda, who fled after the descent of the Dorians and arrived at Klazomenai, having previously failed to establish themselves at the foot of Mount Ida.

The ancient Greek city was originally located near Limantepe, but the inhabitants, alarmed by the encroachment of the Persians, moved to the Karantina island of the bay and settled down there.

During the 6th century, Klazomenai was attacked by the King Alyattes of Lydia. In the 5th century, the town was for some time subject to the Athenians but about halfway through the Peloponnesian War (412 BC), it revolted.

After a brief resistance, however, it again acknowledged Athenian supremacy and repelled a Lacedaemonian attack. In 387 BC, Klazomenai and other cities in Asia were taken over by Persia, but the city continued to issue its own coins.

Klazomenai
Ancient coins of Klazomenai. Credit: Classical Numismatic Group, Inc. / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Many notable ancient figures originated from Klazomenai. The philosopher Anaxagoras (c. 510 to 428 BC), often referred to as “Anaxagoras of Klazomenai,” was born in the city, as was the earlier philosopher Hermotimus of Klazomenai.

In addition, Herodotos of Klazomenai was the first Klazomenian Olympic winner, his victory being in the boys’ foot-race. Finally, Scopelian or Skopelianos of Klazomenai was an ancient Greek sophist.

The Ten Most Beautiful Lakes in Greece

0
Greece lakes
One of the most stunning lakes in Greece, Dragon Lake in Tymfi. Credit: Stavros Charos /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lakes in Greece are somewhat under-appreciated because of the country’s wealth of beaches and islands, but Greek lakes are surely enchanting and worth a visit!

These lakes, often nestled at the foot of high mountain ranges, offer spectacular sights and great recreational opportunities for the whole family.

If you feel like exploring something different but equally as beautiful as the amazing Greek coast and islands, then read on to find out about ten of the most beautiful lakes not to miss in Greece.

The top 10 best lakes in Greece

Prespa Lakes

Greece lakes
Small Prespa Lake on the Greek side of the border. Credit: ΡΟΥΛΑ ΣΙΛΙΝΤΖΗ /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

The Prespa Lakes are two large freshwater lakes in southeastern Europe which are shared by the nations of Greece, Northern Macedonia, and Albania.

The lakes are surrounded by mountains and provide a breathtaking sight. They reflect the beautiful wooded slopes of the surrounding mountains in their waters while offering great birdwatching opportunities in a habitat vital to migrating birds.

Great Prespa Lake is divided between the nations of Greece, Northern Macedonia, and Albania, while Small Prespa Lake is shared only between Greece and Albania.

Lake Volvi

Greece lakes
Lake Volvi, Greece. Credit:Πέτρους Πέτρος/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Volvi is located at the foot of the Chalkidiki peninsula in the Thessaloniki regional unit of northern Greece.

The environment surrounding Volvi Lake features rare hydrophilous plants and trees with their unique hydro-habitats and ecosystems.

More than 200 species of birds, including herons, egrets, storks, and flamingos, spend the winter in these regions. Fortunately, they are protected by the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

Lake Kerkini

Kerkini
Man-made Lake Kerkini. Credit: Ziegler175/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

Lake Kerkini is a man-made lake, located near the city of Serres, a city in the region of central Macedonia in Northern Greece.

This lake is also protected by the Ramsar Convention, and the surrounding region is a protected national park which features vibrant fauna and flora, including deer, buffalo, wolves, and many different types of birds.

Lake Kerkini is the perfect location to spot cormorants, eagles, and pelicans, as well as many other avian species. You can enjoy an array of outdoor activities there, including cycling, boat rides, and hiking. In addition, there are several photo and bird-watching tours organized by local operators.

Lake Plastira

Plastira
People riding horseback next to Lake Plastira, Greece. Credit: Christospappis/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Plastira, another man-made lake, is found in Thessaly, the heart of mainland Greece  close to the city of Karditsa.

A total year-round destination, Plastira is a favorite with Greek vacationers in the fall and winter. This spectacularly lovely lake, which looks like it could be in Switzerland, most certainly deserves to be known by foreigners, as well.

Lake Plastira provides many opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, cycling, and relaxing walks through the lush forests surrounding it.

Lake Petron

Greece lakes
Lake Petron or Petres, Greece. Credit: Despina Michailidou/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Blessed with stunning beauty, Lake Petron is found in western Macedonia in northern Greece at the foot of Mount Voras and Mount Vermio.

The lake is part of the Natura 2000 protected areas, as it is home to more than ninety different bird species, some of which are endangered.

Lake Petron, where the rare pygmy cormorant and the lesser white-fronted goose make their home, is another great choice for bird-watchers.

Lake Orestiada

Orestiadas
An autumnal path by Orestiadas Lake. Credit:Jimzoun/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Orestiada is located in the region of Macedonia in northwestern Greece.
The lake is home to over 200 species of birds, including herons, swans, and wild ducks, as well as vibrant flora and fauna, which make it a beautiful place to explore.

The area’s natural wonders, along with the Byzantine heritage of the town, provide ample reasons for visiting this scenic town of northern Greece.

Other activities to be enjoyed include sailing, waterskiing, rowing, and fishing. A nice stroll around the lake will allow visitors to take in the reflection of the city on the lake’s surface, which perfectly mirrors Mother Nature’s beauty, especially during the colorful weeks of autumn.

 Lake Pamvotida

Greece lakes
Pamvotida Lake. Credit: Thodorisv/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Pamvotida is found in Epirus in the central part of the Ioannina regional unit of northern Greece.

The lake is associated with a famous legend in which Kyra Frosini, a young local girl, had an affair with Mushtar Pasha, the son of the local Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha. When this was discovered, the story holds that she was executed and thrown into the lake.

The lake is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, and many water activities are  available, including canoeing and kayaking, rowing, and water skiing. The lake also has a small islet, where one can find seven monasteries, as well as tavernas, souvenir shops, and a museum.

Doiran Lake

Greece lakes
Structure in Lake Doiran. Credit: Makedonski biseri /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

Doiran Lake (Dojran Lake) is found between North Macedonia and Greece. According to local legend, a local girl named Dojrana was drawing up water from special springs which needed to be sealed back up after their use.

One day, as Dojrana was filling her water jugs, she learned that the young man she loved had returned from the army, and she forgot to seal the springs. Doiran Lake was the result of her careless euphoria on that day.

The large amount of algae on the lake’s surface and the large quantity of weeds which grow in the lake are used for treating skin and respiratory diseases, such as rheumatism, and many tourists visit the lake for the health benefits of these natural remedies.

Lake Trichonida

Greece lakes
The crystal clear waters of Trichonida lake. Credit: Atigoni/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

Lake Trichonida is the largest natural lake in the entire nation of Greece. It is found to the southeast of the city of Agrinio in central Greece. Despite its size, Trichonida is relatively unappreciated and seldom visited by tourists.

The lakeside vegetation consists of plane trees, cottonwoods, cypresses, eucalyptus, willow, and ash trees. The lake includes around ninety types of rich phytoplankton, and it is home to 25 species of fish, sixteen of which are edible while eleven are indigenous to Greece.

Both the lake and the surrounding areas are ideal for outdoor activities, but respect for the local ecosystems and the pristine environment are vital. A favorite outdoor activity one can enjoy is swimming, as the waters of Trichonida are crystal-clear. Other activities you can enjoy at the lake are water cycling, boat rides, and paragliding.

Dragon Lake, Tymfi

Dragon Lake
The stunning views of Dragon Lake, Tymfi. Credit: John Grivas /Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 2.0

Greece is also home to what is called “dragon lakes,” or simply put, alpine lakes, which were formed back in the last Ice Age. According to local folklore, these lakes were once the dwelling places of dragons.

Sources of beauty and home to unique ecosystems, these lakes are found at altitude in Greece’s highest mountain ranges. The Dragon Lake of Tymfi, which is located in northwestern Greece in the region of Epirus, is one of the most stunningly beautiful of all such lakes.

The enchanting “dragon lake,” which is surrounded by a starkly beautiful landscape, can be reached only after a four-hour hike, after departing from the village of Mikro Papigo, in the Zagorochoria region.

Videos of lakes in Greece:

Some breathtaking videos of stunning lakes you could visit in Greece are shown below:

 

 

 

More Than 32 Million Tourists Visited Greece in 2023

Greece tourists
Modern and ancient Athens. Credit: Public Domain / Wikimedia Commons

More than 32 million tourists visited Greece in 2023, resulting in roughly €20.5 billion in income, according to data from the Bank of Greece (BoG) released on Thursday.

Travel receipts were 15.7 percent higher than 2022, the BoG says.

A significant factor in this is the increase in income from residents of countries in the European Union, which amounted to more than €11 billion, as well as the increase of tourists from non-EU nations, which added up to €8.5 billion.

The report says that receipts from residents of countries from the eurozone came to €9 billion, an increase of 12.4 percent, while the revenue from residents of EU countries outside the eurozone showed an increase of 7.8 percent and amounted to slightly more than €2 billion.

German visitors contributed €3.5 billion in income, an increase of 9.5 percent, and French tourists amounted to €1.4 billion, an increase of 11.6 percent.

From non-EU countries, the United Kingdom contributed €3.3 billion (5.8 percent increase) and the United States contributed to €1.3 billion (a whopping 14 percent increase).

The income from Russia understandably decreased by 20.8 percent and amounted to €32.8 million.

In terms of travel traffic, there was an increase of 17.6 percent to 32.7 million tourists in comparison to the 27.8 million tourists in 2022.

Specifically, traffic through airports saw an increase of 12.7 percent while travel through road border stations increased by 34.9 percent.

Travel traffic from EU countries came to 19.6 million travelers, an increase of 15.6 percent compared to 2022, while travel traffic from non-EU nations increased by 20.8 percent and came to 13 million travelers.

Travel traffic from countries in the euro zone increased by 11.5 percent as did traffic from outside the euro zone area, which went up by 24.4 percent.

Tourist traffic from Germany rose by 9.5 percent and reached 4.7 million travelers, while traffic from France increased by 4.2 percent and came to 1.831 million travelers.

Regarding countries outside the EU, travel traffic from the UK increased by 2.4 percent to 4.5 million travelers. From the US, traffic amounted to a 29.2 percent increase, specifically to 1.4 million travelers.

Greece heads for a new record in tourists for 2024

Greece is heading for a new record year in tourism in 2024, industry officials say, pointing to early bookings.

The current trajectory of airline reservations, encompassing both sold tickets and seats allocated by airlines for the upcoming season, indicates a potential tourism surge of up to 10 percent in 2024 compared to the remarkable highs achieved in 2023.

“Greece is heading for the highest performance of all time,” in 2024, TUI tourism group’s Head of Communications, Aage Dünhaupt, told the Athens-Macedonian News Agency (AMNA).

He pointed out that Crete, Rhodes, and Kos remain top destinations for customers of the company, which, this year, is beginning the summer season in Greece earlier than in any previous year.

Alexander the Great and the Eighth Wonder of the Ancient World

Alexander the Great Dinocrates Athos
Modern engraving of Dinocrates’ proposal for Mount Athos. Public Domain

Alexander the Great is said to have rejected a colossal project to sculpt Mount Athos, as had been proposed by his architect and technical advisor, Dinocrates.

The architectural proposal, which, had it been carried out, would perhaps have been the eighth wonder of the ancient world, involved carving into the flank of Mount Athos a colossal image of Alexander holding a small city in one hand and with the other holding a gigantic pitcher from which a river poured into the sea.

Athos is a mountain in the distal part of the eponymous Athos peninsula and is, nowadays, an important center of Eastern Orthodox monasticism in northeastern Greece.

Dinocrates of Rhodes (last quarter of the 4th century BC) was a prominent architect of his time. He is known for his plan for the city of Alexandria, the monumental funeral pyre for Hephaestion and the reconstruction of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, as well as other works.

The ambitious proposal described in a book by Vitruvius, a Roman architect and engineer during the 1st century BC, was politely rejected by Alexander the Great.

Alexander the Great Dinocrates
Modern engraving of Dinocrates’ proposal for Mount Athos. Public Domain

The Macedonian king saw the plan when Dinocrates, trusting in his projects and his ingenuity, marched from Macedonia to a meeting with Alexander.

Dinocrates vowed to transform Mount Athos into Alexander the Great’s image

In Vitruvius’ book, Dinocrates says: “I am Dinocrates, architect of Rhodes, and I work on projects and services worthy of your greatness. I can transform Mount Athos into the figure of a manly statue; in his left hand he holds the walls of a large city and in his right a huge patera that collects the waters of the rivers that flow in that mountain, in order to pour them into the sea from his own hand.”

Alexander was pleasantly satisfied with the description of the project, and, at once, he asked if, near the planned city, there were fields that supplied it with wheat harvests.

When Dinocrates told him that the supply was not possible, Alexander replied, according to Vitruvius:

Dinocrates, I carefully observed the magnificent structure of your project and I like it. But just as a newborn baby without milk cannot develop, so a city can not grow, if it does not have the fields that accompany it.

Regarding your plan, you deserve compliments, but the location of the city should be disapproved. It is my wish that you stay by my side because I want to use your work. 

Urban planner of Alexandria, Egypt

The story, as recorded by Vitruvius, has been dismissed by some scholars. The excessiveness of the project makes it hardly credible. In addition, Dinocrates demonstrated in the planning of Alexandria and other works a talent incompatible with the fatuity of this project as Vitruvius describes it, according to alexandreion.wordpress.com.

Dinocrates no longer left the king and followed him to Egypt, where in 332 BC Alexander appointed him as director of the surveying and urban-planning work for the city of Alexandria.

Vitruvius says:

When Alexander observed that he found a port protected by nature itself and an extraordinary market, in addition to the fields planted with wheat that covered the whole of Egypt, as well as the enormous advantages provided by the impressive Nile River, he ordered that he found there [a] city, named Alexandria, in honor of his own person.

In Babylon, Dinocrates designed the funerary monument to Alexander’s general Hephaestion, who died in 324 BC, which was described by Diodorus Siculus, Arrian, Strabo, Plutarch, and others. It was built of stone in imitation of a Babylonian temple, six stories tall, and entirely gilded.

Dinocrates was also involved in reconstructing the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world, which had been destroyed by Herostratus in an act of arson on July 21, 356 BC. This was the same night, it was said, that Alexander was born.

He also worked on an incomplete funerary monument for Alexander’s father, Philip II. Other works include several city plans and temples in Delphi and Delos among other Greek cities.

Aristotle Onassis’ Historic Olympic Airways Plane Displayed in Athens

Onassis Olympic
Aristotle Onassis descends from an Olympic Airways Boeing in the early ’70s. Public Domain

The beloved plane of the late Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis, an Olympic Airways Boeing 747, was recently moved to a permanent place at Hellinikon, the former airport of Athens now being transformed into the largest metropolitan park in Greece.

Earlier in the week, the “OLYMPIC EAGLE” (SX-OAB) was moved next to the main building of the old Athens Airport (referred to as the East Terminal) created by the world-renowned Finnish-born American architect Eero Saarinen.

He had already gained international recognition for the original and elegant expressionism of the TWA passenger terminal in New York and the Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC.

The Saarinen building was inaugurated in 1969, the same year that Aristotle Onassis placed the order with Boeing for this aircraft. This is also the reason why we called it “The Airplane of Aristotle Onassis.”

Lamda Development, the developers of Hellinikon, honored an agreement signed in May 2023 with the Cultural Center of Olympic Aviation Employees to showcase the historic aircraft.

History of Olympic Airways from Onassis to the final flight

In July 1956, the Greek State signed an agreement with Onassis, for the exclusive use of air transport in Greece. On April 6, 1957, the company was renamed Olympic Airways. The first domestic flight started the same year. Generally, Olympic had an upswing on a domestic and international level, as well.

In addition, in 1971, a subsidiary airline, Olympic Aviation, was established to serve the Greek islands more economically and efficiently, and flights were expanded globally.

In 1972, Olympic turned to the important Greece-Australia market, beginning Boeing 707–320 operations between Athens and Sydney twice a week via Bangkok and Singapore.

In 1973, the death of Onassis’ son, Alexander, in a plane crash shocked Greek people, and a new phase began for Olympic Airways. A few months later, Onassis sold all of the OA shares to the Greek state and died in 1975.

The year of 1976 was a landmark year in the history of Olympic. The airline passed into Greek government’s dominance. The same year, the firm obtained the first Boeing 737-200 and created Olympic Catering. Twenty-five aircraft and thirty international destinations were served.

From December 1977 until January 1978, there was the biggest strike ever in the history of Olympic, lasting thirty-five days. The main reasons for the strike were the creation of labor regulations, crew composition, and new wage. This prolonged strike had a pleasant end for employees.

The beginning of the 1980s found Olympic facing more strikes, which sought to implement regulation flights and improve economic earnings. In 1982, the airline celebrated twenty-five years of operation.

In the early 1990s, the staff had picked up Sundays, holidays, and night itineraries. However on October 4th, bloody incidents unfolded between strikers and redundant and riot police outside the building of Olympic Catering.

On March 28, 2001, the airline made its last flight, from the Hellinikon airport for Thessaloniki.

On December 31, 2009, Olympic Airlines ceased all operations, as flights to Greek islands had already been allocated and were being flown by other carriers. Flights to destinations outside of the European Union had been allocated to other carriers, which began operating them from January 1, 2010.