Greece is a beloved destination for summer holidays. It’s also loved by tourists who prefer a bit cooler yet still pleasant weather and who travel in the off season. As it has a lot to offer when it comes to active rest, cuisine, culture, and history, it’s a good choice for almost anyone. Perhaps you have already researched the best Greek language learning apps and you are planning your trip to this beautiful country. But did you know these 7 interesting facts about Greece?
Thousands of Islands
There are around 6,000 islands that belong to Greece. What’s interesting is that only about 200 of them are inhabited. You have probably heard of Santorini, Crete, Mykonos, or Corfu. Depending on your preferences, you can party in Mykonos, enjoy the tranquil beaches of Zakynthos, or even find some smaller, peaceful islands, undiscovered yet by crowds of tourists. Whatever you choose, you can be sure to enjoy diverse landscapes, small, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters.
Many UNESCO Heritage Sites
A trip to Greece is a real treat for anyone who loves visiting heritage sites. There are 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece. 16 of them are cultural sites (including the Acropolis, Temple of Apollo, and the Medieval City of Rhodes), and two have cultural and natural significance (Mount Athos and Meteora).
Great Festivals
Throughout the year in Greece, you can enjoy many festivals and celebrations. One of the most famous is the Athens Epidaurus Festival, during which you can see ancient and contemporary theater performances, all of them being shown in ancient theaters. The Carnival of Patras, the Easter celebrations in Corfu, and National Day are also spectacular events to see.
The Largest Producer of Olive Oil
Greece holds the title of the world’s largest producer of olive oil. Fertile soil and the mild Mediterranean climate are perfect for the cultivation of olive trees. Olive oil has been intertwined with Greek cuisine for centuries, and olive trees, aside from the obvious agricultural sides, also have a great symbolic meaning for Greeks.
80% of Greece Is Mountains
Probably while thinking of Greece, you imagine sandy shores, clear oceans, and ancient ruins. Because of that, you might be surprised to learn that the majority of this country is mountainous. As over 80% of the country is covered with mountains, it’s one of the most mountainous countries in Europe.
137 Kilometers Away from The Sea
Greece has over 16,000 kilometers of shoreline. What’s interesting is that there is no place in the whole country that is more than 137 km away from the sea. That’s great information for everyone who loves bathing in blue water.
Greece Has the Largest Number of Archeological Museums
The crib of Western Civilization has many cities and places that remember ancient history. Perhaps this is why Greece is home to the largest number of archeological museums in the world. One of the most popular and well-known is the Acropolis Museum in Athens. If you love visiting magical places and taking a lot of stunning pictures, be sure to also visit Knossos palace.