29.12.2023
The Colossus of Rhodes is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world, and its existence is shrouded in mystery. Some researchers still wonder about exactly how it was constructed and where it stood.
The island of Rhodes in ancient times had the reputation of “kallistin” (best) of Greek cities. The island was known for its philosophical and art schools, conservatories, markets, harbors, and thousands of public statues. It is no wonder that they produced one of the greatest masterpieces, the Colossus of Rhodes, sometime around 280 BC. This massive statue was almost 30 meters tall and depicted the god of the sun, Helios. The Colossus of Rhodes also symbolized the unity of the people of Rhodes. It took a large number of builders who cast the outer bronze skin parts. The base was made from Pentelikon marble, which is the same marble used for the Parthenon.
Some historians draw connections between the Statue of Liberty in the United States, which has a similar pose and is just a little bit taller, at 34 meters. Both the Statue of Liberty and the Colossus of Rhodes are symbols of freedom, and were built at the entrance to the city. Inside the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty is an inscription that says “The New Colossus, not like the brazen giant of Greek fame.”
The Colossus of Rhodes was built for the sun god, who was worshipped in many areas around Greece. The cult was also followed by Socrates, who greeted the sun with prayers every day. A written account of this is found in Plato’s Symposium.
In the 7th century A.D., the Arabs conquered the island of Rhodes. Later, an earthquake destroyed large parts of the statue, and the Arabs sold it as scrap metal. A caravan of 900 camels was used to carry away the remains.
Historians do not know exactly where the statue was constructed. Many believe that it stood where the stag and deer columns are now in the port of Rhodes. Some other historians believe this is not possible, because building on both sides of the port would have likely closed boat access during the building process. If you want to visit the supposed building location of the Colossus of Rhodes, you can reach it easily by walking to the edge of Mandraki Harbor in Rhodes.
05.10.2026
Leonard Cohen's poem "Days of Kindness", from 1985, describes Greece as being a good place to read by moonlight on the terrace. He knew this from experience. Hydra was his home for much of the 1960s. He arrived in the spring of 1960, aged 25, and bought a house on the island, where he wrote much of his early work. Many places on Hydra still carry traces of him, even now that Hydra has become far better known.
16.04.2026
Greece is often associated with ancient history, island landscapes, and carefully preserved traditions. Less discussed, however, is another layer of its identity: its place names. Across the mainland and the islands, thousands of villages carry names that can sound unexpectedly funny or strikingly literal to a modern Greek speaker. These are not recent inventions or deliberate attempts at humor. Most date back centuries, shaped by geography, daily life, local dialects, and historical circumstances. What makes them stand out today is the shift in language over time. Words that once served as straightforward descriptions of land, resources, or communities can now feel unusually direct or unexpectedly humorous. Looking at these names more closely offers insight into how earlier generations observed their surroundings and chose to define them.
20.03.2026
Greece has long been more than a travel destination. For centuries, writers have been drawn to its history, natural beauty, and authenticity, finding in Greece not just a setting, but a source of inspiration that shapes narratives, characters, and perspectives.
19.02.2026
02.01.2026
In Greece, the holiday season does not end on New Year’s Day. Instead, it culminates in one of the most symbolic celebrations of the year: Epiphany, known in Greek as Theofania. More than a religious holiday, Epiphany in Greece represents the triumph of light over darkness, a spiritual “new beginning” for individuals and communities. For anyone living in Greece, or dreaming of owning a home here, Epiphany offers one of the most authentic snapshots of local culture. From the blessing of the waters to ancient folk rituals, this day reveals the deep connection between the Greek people, nature, and tradition.
30.12.2025
Crete is stepping into the global spotlight once again. According to Airbnb’s latest travel trend insights based on worldwide search data from Q3 2025, the island — and especially the iconic Samaria Gorge National Park — ranks among the most sought-after nature destinations for 2026. This surge reflects a broader shift in how people choose where to travel, live, and invest. Travellers are no longer looking only for beaches or city breaks. Instead, they are drawn to authentic natural environments, outdoor experiences, and destinations that offer both beauty and balance, qualities that Crete delivers effortlessly.
19.12.2025
Greece is known mostly for its pristine beaches and its endless summers. Also, Greek cuisine, with its unique Mediterranean dishes, is widely sought after. What might feel surprising is the magical beauty during Christmas in Greece. The country has a long festive season that runs from Christmas to Epiphany (the “Φώτα” on 6 January), full of local customs, food traditions, and small village rituals that still matter to people today. Winter destinations are also famous in Greece, as according to the latest Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel report (Wave 23) by the European Travel Commission (ETC), Greece ranks among the top 10 most desired European destinations for travel between October 2025 and March 2026, holding a solid 7th place.
19.12.2025
Spending New Year’s Eve on Greek islands is about much more than fireworks, food and champagne. It’s about little family rituals, centuries-old customs and the warm feeling of being part of a close community. For anyone dreaming of a holiday home or a new life in Greece, New Year's Eve is one of the unique moments to experience the soul of island life, when most tourists aren’t there, and you can experience authentic community moments with locals. As we’ve mentioned in an older blog post, cutting the famous Vasilopita, a special bread to honour the Greek Santa Claus, is the most important custom happening in almost every house in Greece at the turn of the year. A lucky coin is baked into the cake, and whoever finds it will have good luck for the next year or may even take a gift. But let’s explore a bit more of Greece’s rich traditions and local communities, from its enchanting islands to the unique customs celebrated on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
