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Acropolis Hill in Athens (Photo: Shutterstock)
Stepping into Greece feels like crossing a threshold into another world. It is a country where the echoes of ancient legends blend with the rhythm of contemporary life, a place where time-honored tradition meets Mediterranean charm. Sandwiched between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece's unique geographic position has cultivated a land of stunning landscapes, marked by azure seas, sun-drenched islands, and rugged mountains.
The Grecian weather is as welcoming as its people. The Mediterranean climate graces the country with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The warmth of the sun, almost ever-present, illuminates the natural beauty of the islands and the mainland, casting an inviting glow on its sandy beaches, whitewashed houses, and ancient olive groves.
Indeed, Greece’s enchantment goes beyond its stunning landscapes and rich history. The story of Jewish heritage in Greece, tracing back over 2,000 years, forms an integral thread in the nation’s cultural narrative. Jewish history in Greece reveals a captivating saga of resilience and tradition. This tale is brought to life in the country's ancient synagogues, powerful Holocaust memorials, and thriving Chabad communities, each contributing to a remarkable panorama of Jewish life across centuries. Kosher food is available mainly through Chabad restaurants and catering as well as a couple of other kosher restaurants.
In the labyrinthine streets of Athens, along the rugged trails of Crete, beneath the fiery hues of Santorini’s sunset, and within the long-standing Jewish landmarks, Greece reveals its multifaceted charm. For the curious wanderer, the casual tourist, or the traveler seeking a spiritual connection with their Jewish roots, Greece holds a realm of discoveries. This blog post unfolds the many layers of Greece, revealing a country that beautifully marries history, culture, and tradition in a manner as warm and inviting as its golden sunshine.
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Crete coastline (Photo: Shutterstock)
Unraveling Greece: Discovering the Ancient and Engaging in the Unique
In the very heart of Greece, Athens stands as a testament to a rich, historical past. Under the shadow of the iconic Acropolis, you can take a leisurely stroll through the Plaka neighborhood, buzzing with quaint cafes and souvenir shops. Then ascend to the monumental Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom.
Beyond Athens, Greece's islands hold their unique allure. Crete, the largest, invites you to delve into the ancient saga of the Minoan civilization at the Palace of Knossos. As you walk through its complex labyrinth, the mythology of minotaurs and tales of old come alive.
On Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife and iconic windmills, engage with local artisans. Try your hand at traditional pottery, an ancient craft dating back to the Neolithic era. Create your own Greek pot or vase, a tangible connection to Greek culture, history, and art.
Santorini, with its cliff-top towns of white and blue houses, draws visitors for more than its postcard-perfect views over the Aegean sea. Here, you can join the locals in a traditional Greek folk dance, a lively expression of unity and the vibrant spirit of the Greek people.
The historic city of Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, offers a vibrant medley of cultural influences. Here, you can wander through Ano Poli, the old town, where time seems to have paused, the Byzantine walls narrating tales of a bygone era. At the city's heart, Aristotelous Square pulsates with energy, lined with cafes where locals enjoy 'frappe' coffee and share animated conversations. Thessaloniki is also home to the Rotunda, a massive round building that's transformed from a mausoleum to a church, to a mosque, and now a museum, truly a symbol of the city's varied history and cultural coalescence.
Further afield, the Peloponnese, the southernmost region of mainland Greece, is a treasure trove of medieval castles, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages. Travel north to Delphi, a place once regarded as the center of the world by ancient Greeks. Here, amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery, the site still exudes a mystical aura that harkens back to its revered status in antiquity.
The Rotunda of Galerius, Thessaloniki, Greece. UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Photo: Envato)
Greece's Sun-Kissed Beaches and Family-Friendly Attractions
No exploration of Greece would be complete without a mention of its sun-kissed beaches. From the pink sands of Elafonisi in Crete to the azure waters of Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, these coastal retreats offer stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and countless opportunities for relaxation and water sports.
Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, with its turquoise waters and white pebble sand, is a must-visit. Snorkeling here can give you glimpses of a rich underwater world teeming with colorful marine life. For surfers, Prasonisi Beach in Rhodes provides excellent wind conditions for an exhilarating surf.
The beaches of Mykonos, apart from their natural beauty, also offer a host of activities for the entire family. You can try out water sports, go for boat tours, or just build sandcastles with your children. When the sun begins to set, the beachfront transforms into a hub of entertainment with beach bars playing music.
If you're traveling with family, Greece is packed with attractions that are both educational and fun for kids. The Hellenic Children's Museum in Athens provides interactive exhibits that make learning about Greek history and culture exciting. In Crete, you can visit Dinosauria Park, a hit among the little ones with life-size dinosaur models.
For a unique experience, consider a visit to the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Athens where you can learn about the conservation of these magnificent creatures. Also, the Attica Zoological Park, housing over 2000 animals from 290 species, offers an opportunity to see wildlife from close quarters.
Last but not least, don't miss the Waterland Thessaloniki, a water park featuring a variety of slides, a lazy river, and several pools, sure to provide hours of fun for the whole family.
Navagio Beach or Shipwreck Beach, also referred to as "Smugglers Cove", is located on Zakynthos (Photo: Shutterstock)
The Jewish Heritage of Greece
The story of Jewish communities in Greece is a fascinating tale that dates back to ancient times. Jews have been a part of the Greek cultural fabric for over 2,000 years, with evidence of their presence extending as far back as the Hellenistic period. Over centuries, Jewish communities in Greece flourished, weathered adversities, and made significant contributions to the socio-cultural landscape of the country. Check out our Insider's Guide to Jewish Athens by Salvador Levy, a Greek-Jewish tour guide raised in Athens.
Several key landmarks in Greece bear testament to this rich Jewish heritage. For example, in Thessaloniki, once home to a large and thriving Sephardic community, one can visit the Modiano Market, named after the Jewish architect Eli Modiano. Though most of the synagogues were sadly lost during World War II, the city still houses the historic Monasteriotes Synagogue, a testament to its once vibrant Jewish life.
In Rhodes, the 'Island of the Knights,' the Jewish Quarter in the Old Town invites a deeper understanding of Jewish history. The Kahal Shalom Synagogue, built in 1577, stands as the oldest synagogue in Greece and continues to serve as a place of worship and a museum.
Ioannina, in northwestern Greece, also narrates a captivating chapter of Jewish history. The city had a significant Romaniote Jewish community, Greek Jews who have historical roots in the country dating back to Roman times. Visit the Kehila Kedosha Yashan Synagogue here, a site that beautifully encapsulates the unique Romaniote culture.
Greece also houses several Holocaust memorials and museums. The Jewish Museum of Greece, located in Athens, provides a poignant exploration of Greek-Jewish history, especially focusing on the Holocaust. The museum's collection, including artifacts, photographs, and testimonies, offers an in-depth understanding of Jewish life before, during, and after World War II.
In Thessaloniki, a city that lost 96% of its Jewish population to the Holocaust, stands a moving Holocaust Memorial. It commemorates the city's Jewish community and stands as a solemn reminder of the atrocities of the past.
Visiting these landmarks, absorbing their history, and understanding their significance helps travelers to not just learn about the Jewish heritage of Greece, but also appreciate the resilience and the cultural contributions of its Jewish communities. This exploration forms an essential part of experiencing the diverse cultural palette that Greece offers.
Santorini Island, Greece (Photo: Shutterstock)
Keeping Kosher and Celebrating Shabbat in Greece
Maintaining a kosher diet and observing Shabbat in a foreign country can often be a challenge. However, in Greece, there are several resources available that make it easier for Jewish travelers to adhere to these religious customs.
Kosher food is available in Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete and Rhodes. In 2020, there were plans to open more kosher locations, but Covid changed that. On some popular Islands, like Kos and Mykonos you can get kosher meals delivered from Chabad of Greece. Check out our kosher guide to Greece for more details. There are one or two restaurants in each city, most run by the local Chabad. The local Chabad house also organizes Shabbat meals and kosher catering. They have minyan on Shabbat and weekdays, depending on the amount of tourists and which city you are in so best to check with them when you are planning your trip.
Exploring a new country while keeping kosher and finding a minyan can be a challenge. However, thanks to the resources in Greece, Jewish travelers can find this journey not only manageable but also rewarding. It provides a remarkable opportunity to establish connections with local Jewish communities, savor the flavors of kosher Greek cuisine, and observe the peace of Shabbat, all while being surrounded by the captivating allure of this Mediterranean gem.
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Kalafatis Beach on Mykonos (Photo: Shutterstock)
Wrapping Up the Greek Odyssey
Greece is a special place. It's a country where the past meets the present, where the sun shines brightly over the sea, and where ancient ruins stand next to lively cities. Whether you're exploring a quiet island or strolling through a bustling city, Greece always has something new to discover. It's a fascinating mix that leaves a lasting impression on its visitors.
A fundamental aspect of Greece's charm is its deep-seated Jewish heritage, a testament to centuries of history, tradition, and community resilience. From the solemn walls of ancient synagogues to the hauntingly beautiful Holocaust memorials, and from the life-affirming presence of Chabad houses to the array of kosher culinary offerings, Greece opens up a world of discovery for Jewish travelers. See our guide to kosher and Jewish life in Greece to help you plan your trip.
For history buffs, beach lovers, cultural explorers, or curious wanderers, Greece is a treasure trove of experiences. Its rich history, scenic landscapes, pristine beaches, unique traditions, and the inspiring narrative of its Jewish community make Greece a destination that surpasses the usual. It's a place that offers something for everyone, combining relaxation and adventure, the ancient and the modern, in one unforgettable journey.