This southeastern European country contains thousands of islands and is often called the cradle of Western civilization. Athens, the capital, is the city that retains the ancient Parthenon temple and 5th century B.C. Acropolis citadel. Greece is also known for its beautiful beaches. The black beaches of Santorini and party resorts in Mykonos are among the country’s most popular attractions. Read on to learn more.
Geology
This popular account of the geology of Greece is meant to appeal to tourists, amateur and professional geologists, and archaeologists who wish to learn about the country’s geological history. It does not, however, aim to cover the specific geological interests of those working in the region. It is aimed at anyone interested in Greece’s rich geological history, from the ancient past to the present. A geological museum in Greece offers a fascinating insight into the country’s complex past.
Topography
The topography of Greece is defined by its tectonic history. Greece was formed by massive regional faulting. Approximately 150 million years ago, Pangea broke apart and the African plate started moving northward. This caused the oceanic crust below the Tethys Ocean to subduct under the continental crust of Europe. This process created the karst landscapes of Greece. Until the present day, the landscape of Greece is a mixture of mountain and valley relief.
Culture
The plant life of Greece is diverse, with several species of pine, cypress, and oak. In the northern mountains, deciduous trees such as ash, beech, and fir thrive. Greece also has rich cultivated land, with areas of fertile soil suitable for wheat cultivation, and barren terrain suitable for grazing sheep. The country is known for its plethora of festivals and the enduring beauty of its architecture.
Economy
The Greek economy has faced numerous problems over the past years, but the recent election of Syriza has resulted in a fear-anger spectrum in Greek politics. Fears of the country leaving the European Union alternate with anger over a high unemployment rate and deep recession. Due to populist claims and inflated unemployment, extremist parties have emerged. Furthermore, the last two governments were elected based on the assumption that they were better equipped to resist the demands of creditors.
Tourism
Southeastern Europe is home to thousands of islands and a country called Greece. The cradle of western civilization, Greece is the home of the Parthenon temple and the 5th-century B.C. Acropolis citadel. Beaches abound in Greece, from the black beaches of Santorini to the party resorts of Mykonos. Greece has something for everyone, whether you want to relax on a romantic beach in Santorini or have a wild nightlife experience in Mykonos.
Crete
The climate of Crete is temperate to subtropical, with an average annual precipitation of 25 inches. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild. Mountain areas experience cool air and higher precipitation than other areas of the island. Mountains often have snowfall, and it can remain on the highest peaks for months. Despite the mild climate, Crete offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. If you’re planning a vacation to this island, here are some suggestions for outdoor activities:
Athens
As the first European city to be approached from the Middle East, Athens is a mixture of Eastern and Western influences, with a bustling street life. The city’s isolation during the Ottoman period made it far removed from European civilization, but it’s Greek and Athenian culture that has made it a world-class city. Its ancient history has given it a unique place in human history, and its renowned museum and theater scene make it an ideal place for a family vacation.