Travel Guide - Greece: Culture
Religion is important to daily life in Greece. Between ninety-five and ninety eight per cent of the residents of Greece belong to the Greek Orthodox faith.
Also important is the idea of the meeting place, known in Greece as the Agora. Originally a place where citizens would gather for official meetings, it evolved to include the idea of a marketplace. Stalls are set up by merchants, who then sell their goods to the masses, and this continues today.
Greek cuisine typifies Mediterranean gastronomy, with similarities to Italian and Turkish foods. The use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, various meats, olives and yogurt is standard. Ingredients and recipes vary with the season and geographical position
The tradition of Greek dancing is linked with the country’s musical rituals. Greek music is diverse and distinct, and shares some elements with Middle Eastern music. Distinctive of Greek music is the use of the bouzouki, an instrument similar to a lute of guitar.
And the nightlife in Greece is legendary. Clubs and bars stay open until 6 or 7 am, and showcase wide range of music, from traditional Greek to live DJ sets.
Some Greek art has survived since ancient times, mainly in the forms of sculpture, pottery and architecture, though painting and jewelry-making are other popular artistic endeavors. The sculpture and architecture of ancient Greece greatly influenced that which came after it. Greek sculpture was generally replicated from live models, and showcased an interest in naturalism. Architecture in Greece is typified by the use of marble and limestone columns to decorate temples and arenas.
