Nov 3, 2025 | Culture, Greece, Tours, Uncategorized
The Process of Making Raki on the Island of Crete
If you’ve ever visited the beautiful island of Crete, you may have had the opportunity to experience the traditional Cretan spirit known as “raki.” This strong alcoholic drink holds a special place in the hearts of locals and is an integral part of their culture. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating process of making raki, also known as “rakokazana,” and explore the rich history behind this beloved drink. So, grab a glass and let’s journey into the world of tsikoudia!
What is Raki or tsikoudia?
Raki is a traditional alcoholic beverage that is widely consumed in Crete and other parts of Greece. It is made by distilling grape pomace, the leftover residue from winemaking, and then aging it in clay or copper stills. The result is a clear, potent liquor that is typically consumed as an aperitif or digestif. In Crete, raki holds a special significance and is often enjoyed during celebrations, social gatherings, or simply as a way to relax and unwind after a long day. (more…)
Mar 27, 2025 | Culture, Greece
Orthodox Easter
Orthodox Easter is a major spiritual celebration for Orthodox Christians. Church of Christian Orthodox, traditions and symbolism show their strong faith and rich cultural heritage on this holiday.
Believers gather to celebrate Christ’s resurrection, finding hope and joy. It is the most important feast in the Orthodox Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Orthodox Easter falls on a different date than Western Easter because the Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar, happening one to five weeks later. (more…)
Sep 8, 2024 | Culture, Greece, Wine
In the annals of humanity, numerous societies have been built upon the cultivation and production of wine. Even today, many individuals naturally associate wine with culture. In ancient times, in regions conducive to wine production, the emergence of a civilization and its culture closely followed, and vice versa: Once a culture had developed, its prosperity and well-being became closely intertwined with the vine and wine. This correlation is not coincidental: Wine cultivation requires settling in one location and giving up nomadic lifestyles. It can thrive in poor soil, leaving fertile ground for other types of cultivation. Winemaking necessitates specialized knowledge and techniques, while its commercial aspect depends on the presence of transportation and expertise in trade, economics, and shipping, among other things. The most illustrious and enduring culture in history, the Greek wine culture is one such example. The ancient Greeks recognized wine as a natural gift and transformed it into an art form. (more…)
Aug 8, 2024 | Cooking, Culture, food, Gastronomy, Greece, Wine
GREEK CUISINE
Greek cooking is rooted in seasonality, simplicity, continuity, regionality, and healthfulness. The country’s exceptional raw ingredients, grown in a perfect Mediterranean climate, have led to a deep respect for pure flavors, especially in traditional Greek cuisine, which remains closely tied to the seasons.
Greek cuisine has ancient origins. Greek olive oil, olives processed and flavored in much the same way over centuries, Greek honey, wild foods (especially game birds and hares, now replaced by rabbits), herbs, shoots, buds, a multitude of wild greens, ancient legumes such as fava beans, split peas, chickpeas, and lentils, fish and seafood, snails, nuts, sesame seeds, whole grains, and a few simple goat’s and sheep’s milk cheeses are the timeless components of Greek meals. Overall, Greek cuisine maintains its core values while being adaptable enough to evolve with the times without losing its timeless essence. (more…)
Jul 14, 2024 | Culture, Greece, History, Uncategorized, Wine
Wine in Ancient Greece was an integral part of daily life. It was consumed during meals, religious ceremonies, and social gatherings. The Greeks also believed that wine had medicinal properties and was often used as a form of medicine. Additionally, wine played a significant role in Greek mythology and was associated with the worship of the god Dionysus. Overall, wine held great cultural and symbolic importance in Ancient Greek society.
Wine in Ancient Greece and its presence during ancient meals and banquets were essential, where it was plentiful. However, the ancients did not consume wine in the same way we do today. They diluted it not only with sweeteners but also with seawater, avoiding untempered wine. They considered the water-to-wine ratio important, typically diluting it with half or three parts water to two parts wine. Depending on the season, the water used was either lukewarm or cold, and sometimes ice cubes were added, obtained from mountains and preserved in straw, as chilled wine was considered a luxury. They also utilized cool wells as refrigerators and stored snow in special bins to chill the wine and water. (more…)
Mar 2, 2024 | Culture, Greece, History
Nafplio
Nafplio is a beautiful town in Greece that was the first capital of the modern Greek state. It is named after Nafplios, son of Poseidon. It is home to Palamidis, their local hero of the Trojan War and supposedly the inventor of weights and measures, lighthouses, the first Greek alphabet, and the father of the Sophists. Although the capital moved to Athens, the city of Nafplio attracts visitors daily because of its rich history and beauty. It is like a living museum where you can admire the Venetian fortress of Palamidi, the Acronafplia with its stunning vista of the Argolic Gulf, and the fortified islet of Bourtzi. It’s as lively as any city in Greece, making it a popular destination for Greek and foreign tourists. (more…)
