The Role of Color in Ancient Greek art

When we think about ancient Greek art, the image that often comes to mind is of white, polished statues and big, shiny temples. This is the classic image that has been passed down through history. However, recent discoveries have dramatically changed this view. Scientists and archaeologists have uncovered traces of color on many ancient Greek objects, revealing that the art was not only white but also vibrant and full of life.

These discoveries suggest that ancient Greek art, from statues to buildings, was much more colorful than we ever imagined.

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Tsipouro, ouzo and rakomelo are Greek traditional drinks.
One of the most common discussions among a group heading to a taverna is whether they prefer tsipouro or ouzo.
Both of these spirits are traditional Greek drinks with a long history and distinct flavors that pair well with appetizers and bring friends together at the table.

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March 25th: A Greek National Celebration and Independence Day. Greece has lived through major historical events and the country was involved in many wars: Persian wars, the wars of Alexander the Great, etc. In modern Greek history, from 1821 till of today, two major wars Greece was involved in, were the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire and the 2nd World War. Every year, Greeks remember these historical events with the celebration of two national anniversaries on October 28th and March 25th. 

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Every year on February 9th, people around the world celebrate International Greek Language Day (Παγκόσμια Ημέρα Ελληνικής Γλώσσας).
This day honours the Greek language and its important role in literature, science, philosophy, and world culture. Greek, known as “Ελληνικά”  in Greek, is one of the world’s oldest recorded living languages, with a history spanning over 3,400 years. It has influenced many other languages, including English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

 

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Carnival in Greece is a big winter celebration, during which Greeks enjoy themselves, organize parties and eat a lot of meat!
In 2025, the festivities will take place between February 9th and March 2nd. Followed by “Kathara devtera” on March 3rd.

The aim of Carnival is to encourage all citizens, and visitors, to be a part of a lively, fun-filled celebration, which takes place in many venues, squares, streets and schools of villages, towns, or city neighborhoods.  Read more about those traditions, while learning useful Greek vocabulary.

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The Vasilopita is a nice Greek Tradition , a special cake for the New Year. When cutting the cake into slices on New Year’s Day, Greeks will name each slice as they cut it, after everyone in the family and friends. Usually, also a coin is hidden in the bottom of the cake. Whoever is lucky enough to get the coin in their slice is considered especially blessed in the coming year! So maybe a nice Greek tradition to also try it with your family and friends back home?

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Stand-up comedian Fisfis has gained in popularity, thanks to his ability to turn mundane everyday situations into an endless source of laughter through his sarcasm and expressiveness. So, let us introduce you to well-loved Greek stand-up comedian, actor and screenwriter Lambros Fisfis.
All this, while improving your Greek of course 🙂

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Omilo students attending a Greek course on the island of Syros usually take the opportunity to taste the traditional sweets of the island: loukoumi and halvadopita. In the capital of Syros island,  Hermoupolis , you can see many shops selling these delicacies; so enjoy those little sweets along with your Greek coffee, or as a small treat with a glass of water.

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How Do Greeks Celebrate Easter? And what are the Greek Easter Traditions?
Greek Orthodox Easter is probably the biggest celebration of the year for most Greeks, with a lot of special traditions and family gatherings.
It is also one of the reasons Omilo organizes every year a Greek Easter course.
For 26 years in a row, the Omilo-team is celebrating Easter together with students (except of the “covid years  in 2020 and 2021”).
If you can not be in Greece during Easter time, but you are curious, then read below what Greek Easter is about, and/or watch some videos!

 

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There are many Greek Christmas and New Year Traditions in Greece!  Here below you will find more information about those traditions.
In the meantime, in order to improve your listening skills,  you can click on the button below, where you will find the translation in Greek
as well as the Audio


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