About Greece
It is often said that Greece is the shining jewel of southern Europe
with its chalk-white buildings set against the deep blue of the
Mediterranean Sea. Its relaxed lifestyle, excellent food, and wonderful
beaches make it a major tourist destination, especially during the
winter months. It is the birthplace of the modern Olympics and the home
to such ancient philosophers and thinkers as Plato and Socrates. More
than 4000 years of recorded history make Greece an ideal laboratory to
study ancient civilization. Early Greek studies in law, justice,
liberty, and government established the foundations for much of Western
civilization, and many words in the English language are derived from
Greek roots, especially in scientific disciplines. Greece’s central
location makes it an excellent jumping off point to explore other
Mediterranean countries including Egypt, Turkey, Malta, and the French
and Italian Riviera. Greece has a president who is head of state and a
prime minister who is head of government. The Vouli or National
Parliament has 300 members. Greece is an agricultural country producing
wine, wheat, wool, cotton, olives, and raisins. It also produces some
petroleum products and minerals. Tourism fuels a major portion of its
economy. Greeks love sports such as soccer, basketball, swimming, and
sailing. They also enjoy socializing, and spend a great deal of time at
outdoor cafes with their friends catching up on the latest news. The
College Year in Athens program is located in the capital of Greece with
its 4 million inhabitants. The hill of Lykavittos dominates the skyline,
and by ascending it to the beautiful white chapel of St. George,
students can have a view clear over to the Parthenon of Acropolis beyond
the port of Piraeus. Students live in apartments at the foot of
Lykavittos, and during their daily walk to classes are able to interact
with this setting.
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