Interesting facts about Greece: history, geography, legends

Greece is one of the most interesting places in the world. The richest history, which is permeated with hundreds of interesting myths and legends, the world-famous rulers of the mythical Mount Olympus and the unique tradition of the eponymous competitions – all this is an integral part of the sunny country. But our impressions of Greece will not be complete until we get to know the most interesting and unique facts and events from the bright history of this country.

History, geography and other subtleties

The territory of modern Greece is approximately equal to the territory of the US state of Alabama. At the same time, the number of living Greeks is 10 million people, which is more than twice the population of the said state. This is facilitated by a favorable climate, developed infrastructure and a variety of unique attractions.

Greece is one of the most visited countries in the world. Every year, 16.5 million tourists from all over the world come to plunge into the world of the ancient Hellenes. Despite these impressive figures, tourism revenues account for just over 16% of the country's total GDP. Another interesting fact is connected with tourism. The fact is that Greece boasts the largest number of airports in the world.

In Greece, there is a special attitude towards the expression of will. No citizen eligible to vote in an election has the right to refuse to vote. This is a sacred duty of the Greeks, which must be performed by everyone who is 18 years old. Remember, the Australians have the same approach? Interesting facts about Australia in our article.

Greece is famous for its marble. At least 7% of the world's marble is mined in the local quarries. Moreover, it is Greek marble that is considered the highest quality and is associated with luxury.

Another leading position of this country is associated with the production of olives. As you know, the Greeks have been growing these glorious trees since ancient times. Just imagine, there are real old-timers in the country. Olive trees, which were planted in the 13th century, still give a very good harvest. Therefore, Greece rightfully occupies the third position in the world in terms of the number of olives and olive products produced.

Unusual facts and legends

According to one of the ancient Greek legends, each city had to have its patron from among the gods. Olympian lords arranged entire competitions for individual cities. The famous Athens was of considerable interest among the celestials. The right to become the patron of the city was chosen by the goddess Athena, who presented a better gift than her main competitor Poseidon. It was the olive tree that was offered as a gift.

Athens in one day – a guide for independent tourists.

Since the territory of the whole of Greece is streaked with mountain ranges, there is not a single navigable river here. Not every country in the world can boast of such reliefs that are located in Greece. Only a fifth of the country is represented by plains. The rest of the territory is covered with mountains.

In general, the Greeks are very fond of all sorts of myths. And it must be admitted that local legends are very interesting and original. For example, according to one of them, when God created the world, he sowed the soil through a sieve, and threw the remaining handful of stones over his shoulder. This is how Greece was born.

The Greek language is very rich. Many of the words familiar to us are of Greek origin. Although many of us do not even know about it.

Greece is considered the most educated country. 95% of Greeks have a sufficient level of education. And this despite the fact that back in 1950 the literacy rate of the local population did not exceed 30%.

For those who do not know, Greece is represented not only by the mainland. The vast territory of the country is occupied by islands. There are more than 200 of them, of which approximately 85% are inhabited by people.

Athens is considered not only one of the most ancient cities in the world, but also the cradle of democracy. It was in Greece that equality was born, politics became competitive, and science was born. The most important discoveries in the field of mathematics, physics and philosophy were made by the Greek sages.

Greece has the largest fleet. Only merchant ships account for up to 70% of all ships of the EU countries. In this case, an interesting rule applies. The crew on each ship must be 75% Greek.