Ring of Minos Heraklion. Credit: Wikipedia/Jebulon/Public domain
The story of the ring known as the “Ring of King Minos” sounds like a tale made in Hollywood. It is a mix of ancient Greek history, mythology, and a plot involving a poor boy, a cunning priest, an English archaeologist, and hidden treasure.
The story begins in 1928, when a boy, Michalis Papadakis (1918-1974), accidentally found a ring at the archaeological site of Knossos. The place of discovery alone meant that the ring certainly had a very long history attached to it probably even going back to the Minoan civilization.
Indeed, several decades later, the shiny, gold, seal ring proved to be 3,500 years old (1,500 to 1,400 BC), as archaeologists assured him, and his was the most significant discovery of Minoan Civilization.
The boy’s father, a destitute farmer named Emmanouil, for some unknown reason, hid the ring from his wife and, for another unknown reason, two years later, he handed it over to the village priest, Father Nikolaos Polakis. Yet, before giving it away, he carved a line on the ring with his knife in order to mark its originality.
Father Polakis initially presented it to English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans with the intention of selling it. However, there was no deal struck between the two since the priest demanded an astronomical amount of money.
In 1933 or 1934, Father Polakis decided to take the ring to the Heraklion Museum. At the time, the distinguished archaeologists, Nikolaos Platon and Spyridon Marinatos, were on the staff of the institution. Platon decided that the ring was genuine while Marinatos believed the ring was a fake.
Since the two archaeologists could not come to an agreement, they decided it was best to return the ring to the priest.
The King Minos Ring at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Credit: Twitter/Bokeras
However, Platon kept a copy of the ring by casting it in plasticine. The cast was later located in Platon’s archive. Several years later, he manifested a new interest in the ring and returned to the priest to ask for it. Father Polakis told him that he had given it to his wife for safekeeping, but she had lost it.
Minos ring depicts three themes
Platon wrote a treatise on the ring saying that it depicts three themes: the Minoans’ rule of the seas (“thalassocracy”), tree worship (dendrolatry), and a goddess descending from heaven to earth and getting into a row boat.
There are other, more recent interpretations of the depictions of the ring including the worship of goddesses, such as Mother Dimitra, and offerings to the Great Mother Rhea and the Great Mother Artemis.
For some time, the ring remained lost. The only information about the ring came from the copies that had been made and a number of archaeological reports which were associated with those copies.
Many years later, when Father Polakis was in his final days, he felt great regret about the “disappearance” of the precious ring. He called Evangelia Papadakis, the wife of the farmer Emmanouil, and apologized for lying to her family. He admitted that he had actually sold the ring to Evans, the English archaeologist, for 100,000 drachmas back in 1938.
However, that was one last lie by the cunning priest. What he had actually sold to Evans was a fine replica of the ring.
Evans had returned to England with the belief that he had bought the actual ring, along with a copy, and donated both, along with other precious artifacts, to the Ashmolean Museum. Today, two replicas of the legendary ring continue to be exhibited at the Ashmolean.
The story of the ring was forgotten for decades, but in the early 2000s, Giorgos Kazantzis, a retired police officer, inherited the house of the priest who was the last person in Greece who had had possession of the priceless artifact.
During renovation work, Kazantzis found a jar hidden inside the wall next to the fireplace. Inside the jar was a ring, which indeed proved to be the original Ring of King Minos. It even had the scratch made by Papadakis over seventy years ago.
Kazantzis delivered the precious artifact to the state, and in 2002, the Central Archaeological Council and a panel of expert archaeologists confirmed the authenticity of the ring. The actual monetary value of the ring was estimated to be €400,000 although its cultural value is incalculable.
Yet, for finding the ring and promptly delivering it to the appropriate authorities, Kazantzis was given a measly finder’s fee of €440.
Today, the priceless, gold Minoan ring is exhibited in all its splendor at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
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Greece has about 6000 islands, 230 of which are inhabited. Here is a map explaining all of the Greek island groups. Image: Santorini, part of Cyclades Island Group. Credit: Dimitra Damian/Greek Reporter
You have probably seen the postcard of whitewashed houses gathered together overlooking the endless blue waters of the Aegean Sea countless times, and rightly so. Greece is known for its abundance of unique islands, which every summer offer visitors a chance to unwind like nowhere else in the world.
Greece has more than 6000 islands and islets under its name. Of these islands, 227 are inhabited. All of them, nevertheless, are clustered in the Greek island groups.
Each has its own character. Some reflect a unique history or influences from antiquity to the middle ages, to modernity. Others combine Greek tradition with a sophisticated atmosphere. Yet most have bewitching beaches, coastal caves and world class cuisine. Without a doubt therefore, the Greek islands are the most unique on earth.
The main Greek island groups
There are six island groups in Greece to keep in mind:
The Cyclades, the Sporades, the Ionian islands, the Dodecanese, the Saronic Islands and the North Aegean Islands.
Each of these groups is unique in character, architectural style, influences and things to do.
Map of Greek Island Groups. Credit: Dimosthenis Vasiloudis / GreekReporter
The most famous Greek islands are the Cyclades, known as the jewel of the Aegean Sea
The Cyclades group is in the center of the Aegean Sea and is well-known for the iconic white houses and churches with blue domes that adorn its architecture.
This island group is comprised of around 220 islands. The main ones are Amorgos, Anafi, Andros, Antiparos, Delos, Ios, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Folegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Syros, Tinos, Thera or Santorini, Irakleia, Koufonisia, Schoinousa and Donousa.
The perfect way to explore the region is through ”island hopping”. That is because the islands are close together, even if distinct in character. Mykonos, for example, is a cosmopolitan island globally famous for its party vibes and modern hospitality businesses. On the other hand Tinos, only a hop, skip and jump away, offers a religious feel. Despite the differences however, everyone who visits succumbs to the island’s peace and tranquility.
A blend of mythology and adventure
The name “Cyclades” refers to the islands forming a circle (the name in English means: “circular islands”) around the sacred island of Delos.
For the history and culture lovers, Delos , which is in its entirety a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a living archaeological museum, with the ancient temple of Apollo well worth visiting!
The island, referred to as “the sacred island of Delos,” is where, as Greek mythology tells it, Leto gave birth to Zeus’ twins Artemis and Apollo. Mythological history has it that because of Hera’s jealousy of Zeus and Leto, she ordered all lands to shun Leto, making it difficult for her to find a place to give birth. Zeus however asked Poseidon to find a secret, safe place for Leto to give birth. To that end, she sought out the island of Delos, where she was able to ensure the life of her twins, Artemis and Apollo.
In view of this, the small, rocky island was declared by Callimachus in the third century BC to be “the most sacred of all islands” of Ancient Greece, and was dedicated to Apollo.
One of the most popular islands of the Cyclades is Santorini. This popular destination is known for its colorful volcanic stone backdrops and its white houses and winding streets climbing the cliffs, leading you to villages and breathtaking views.
For the adventurous at heart, something you want to be sure to check out is a tour of the volcano and caldera. Another tip for those visiting is to hike the path between the main towns Fira and Oia, and of course visit the Red Sand Beach that looks like a landscape on Mars.
Much can also be said about the Cycladic cuisine, of course. The San Mihali cheese of Syros or the Naxos version of gruyere are world famous, while the fava of Santorini is a unique local delicacy, as are the mouthwatering fried tomato balls of the island. Mykonos has great sausages, while the xynotyri (sour cheese) of Ios is not to be missed.
The Sporades islands: the ”scattered” islands
Skiathos old town. Credit: dronepicr / CC-BY-2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
The name Sporades translates to “scattered”, which can broadly be applied to all islands outside of the Cyclades. The group is in the north-east of the Aegean.
This particular group consists of 24 islands. Four – Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros – are permanently inhabited.
Vast pine forests, huge olive groves and tall cypresses cover the small islands. According to legend, the islands were formed after the brothers Otus and Ephialtes of the Titans threw rocks.
Skiathos and Skopelos: the most popular
Two of the most well-liked islands in this group are Skiathos and Skopelos.
Skiathos is only 4 miles wide and no more than 7 miles long. Still, there are over 60 beaches to explore in that small space, the most popular being Koukounaries and Lalaria. The island is easily accessible, in contrast to the others, thanks to its small airport.
Another, Skopelos, is one of the many places across Greece that have never failed to enchant visitors throughout the decades. With its hilly, verdant landscapes and sparser crowds, it is a perennial draw for travelers from all over the world.
A beach on the stunning island of Skopelos, where the blockbuster movie Mamma Mia was filmed. Credit: Long lasting memories / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Skopelos is full of the traditional architecture of Greece, with whitewashed houses, terracotta-tiled rooves, blue-hued shutters and wooden balconies. Among its loveliest beaches are Kastani, Stafilos, and Panormos, all easily reachable from Skopelos Town.
This stunning Greek retreat was also the setting for one of the most engaging films of the last few years, “Mamma Mia!.” The universally beloved movie, with an iconic soundtrack by the band ABBA, turned it into the fictional island of “Kalokairi” for the original film in 2008.
The Greek Islands Of The Dodecanese
Lindos, Rhodes. Credit: Jebulon / Public Domain
The Dodecanese island group is in the south-east of the Aegean, between the Cyclades and Turkey. It consists of 165 large and small islands, of which 26 have permanent residents.
The Dodecanese serve as a bridge between the East and the West, as the islands are very close to the Turkish coast. They have long, dry summers and lots of sunlight all year round.
The major islands in the group are Agathonisi, Astypalaia, Chalki, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastellorizo, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nisyros, Patmos, Rhodes, Symi and Tilos.
Medieval architecture, romance and history
These islands are famous for medieval architecture, as well as their blend of history and romance, which permeates their small alleys.
Rhodes is the “medieval island” of Greece best known for its fortified port, seven gates, characteristic stag statue, and palace of the Grand Master. The Old Town lies inside ancient walls, but once outside them, you will find a more modern town which has cosmopolitan restaurants, shops, and bars.
Kos is also famous for its medieval architecture. On this island full of history, you can visit the ancient plane tree under which Hippocrates, the father of western medicine, used to teach. It is one of the oldest trees in Europe at more than 2500 years of age.
The castle of Kos island, Greece. Credit: Chris Vlachos / CC-BY-3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Patmos is a smaller and less busy island, though of great historical and religious importance. St John the Apostle was exiled here, and it is where he wrote the Revelation of Jesus Christ, the final book of the Bible.
Kalymnos, Prerimos and Karpathos are paradise islands, with beautiful beaches, seaside villages and breathtaking vistas. They each offer unforgettable hiking adventures, and picturesque villages that will take visitors on a journey back in time.
Saronic islands: the most sophisticated of all Greek island groups
Hydra, where the Modern Greek Merchant Marine began. Credit: dronepicr/ Wikimedia commons CC BY 2.0
This Greek island group is the most accessible from Athens. Many wealthy Athenians as well as Greek and international artists prefer to visit the islands of this group. Hydra, in particular, is a famous sanctuary for poets, writers and filmmakers, including Leonard Cohen and Axel Jensen. This group consists of the islands of Aegina, Salamina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, Agistri, and Dokos.
One of the best thing about them is that they’re untouched by mass international tourism. That is perhaps because places like Hydra, for example, is car-free. Everyone who visits gets around by boat, on foot or even by mule, giving you a truly old-fashioned feeling. It provides one with the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of modern everyday life.
Mules at Hydra port. Credit: Gabi Ancarola
Quaint alleys and 18th and 19th-century mansions typify the architecture, and the islands offer many beautiful bays and stunning beaches.
Hydra: where poets go to write
Hydra has been the most popular destination of the group since the 1960s. During that time, the island became a hub for international artists. One reason is that it combines elegance with a slow-paced lifestyle in a traditional setting. It was also the muse and longtime home of poet and songwriter Leonard Cohen.
Without a doubt, Hydra’s port is ideal for history lovers. Many of the critical battles of the War of Independence in 1821 occurred there. In fact, scars from some battles are still visible in the architecture.
Hydra’s beaches make it a great destination for summer trips, but its natural beauty and cosmopolitan town, filled with artisans’ shops, museums, and boutiques, make it the perfect spot for a short trip throughout the year.
Similarly, Spetses attracts visitors who seek to immerse themselves in the elegant and traditional setting of the island.
Ionian islands: the tropical islands
Zakynthos’ famous Navagio beach. Credit: Jimzoun Wikimedia Commons
This group consists of Corfu, Zakynthos (Zante), Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxos
Kythira, ithaki (Ithaca).
Their natural setting is the main factor that makes the islands of the Ionian completely different from any of the other Greek islands. Here, the rich greenery blends harmoniously with the turquoise of the sea and the blue of the sky, creating beautiful natural scenery reminiscent of a painting.
The most photographed beaches in Greece
The beaches are characterized by limestone rock formations, sand and smooth pebbles. Visitors who have traveled extensively around the world say that the turquoise, cool, crystal-clear waters beat those of the Caribbean. While the beaches are surrounded by pine trees rather than palm trees, one could still say that these are the “tropical islands” of Greece.
The Ionian Sea’s beaches are numerous and have been photographed countless times. Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos, the impressive Egremni Beach, the turquoise Porto Katsiki Beach of Lefkas, and Myrtos Beach of Kefalonia, are just some of the sandy stretches of heaven that make a holiday here unforgettable.
Porto Katsiki, Lefkada, Ionian Inslands. Credit: Antone Adi / Pexels
Yet there is more, of course. For example, the unbelievable “white” waters of Antipaxos, the lush greenery of Paxos with the little-known beaches of Ithaca that were the subject of Homer’s Ulysses. In addition, there is Marathonissi in the bay of Laganas on Zakynthos. Those are just a few of the sites that most deserve mentioning.
Strong Venetian influence
Another great characteristic of the Ionian islands is the Venetian presence in the architecture, the mellifluous speech of many locals, the musical influences, and even the food. For centuries, the islands of the Ionian belonged to the Venetians, and the western Mediterranean influence is still strong.
In terms of food, the Corfu pastitsada and sofrito are memorable dishes along with the island’s famous kumquat liqueur. Overall, all Ionian islands have cuisines influenced by their Venetian ancestors.
Corfu is one of the most famous islands, and it has a lot of history to its name. The old Corfu Town that is a World Heritage site is one of the most sophisticated towns in the Ionian island group.
Old Town of Corfu credit: metrogogo/Flickr CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Locals call the island Kerkyra, perhaps because according to mythology, it was the home of Kerkyra, the daughter of Asps, the river God. Kerkyra gave birth to Poseidon’s child, and from then, the Phaeacian race was born. Nevertheless, there is more to Corfu than mythology. Its history and architecture are also worth discovering.
Ithaca is another island that is famous for its mythology. This is reputed to be the birthplace of Odysseus, but it also has impressive beaches.
North Aegean islands: Stunning beaches, strong local flavors
Seychelles beach, Ikaria, Greece. Credit: Leeturtle/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0
The North Aegean island group includes Thassos, Lesbos, Samos, Lemnos, Chios, Samothrace and Ikaria. They make up some of the largest islands in Greece. Many visitors skip these islands because of their distance, which helps them to retain a strong local character and tradition.
Chios, Ikaria and Samos are the most visited. Chios is popular for its unique cultivation of “Mastica” (Greek: μαστίχα) a gummy resin that seeps out of the Pistacia lentiscus tree. The island is also home to an abundance of traditional villages.
For the adventure seekers, Lemnos is an excellent spot for hiking and biking. Worth seeing is the rugged Terran, a volcanic island which, according to legend, is the Walden belonging to Hephaestus, the God of fire.
Ikaria belongs in the Blue Zone list, a collection of spots around the world where people are said to live longer and healthier lives.
Another island worth visiting is Lesbos, in particular for fans of the popular Greek drink Ouzo, as it is the home of the spirit.
Finally, we can’t leave out Samos, a picturesque location which is ideal for history and culture lovers as it is birthplace of Pythagoras, the famous Ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician. The island is also home to many traditional taverns and provides visitors with traditional local dishes to die for.
Crete: a Greek island group on its own
The spectacular harbor of Heraklion, Crete. Credit: Greek Reporter
Crete is Greece’s biggest island and one of the largest in the Mediterranean.
There are many unique things to enjoy in Crete, from two beautiful pink-sand beaches (out of the less than twelve that exist in the world) to ancient cities, medieval castles and culinary experiences.
Crete is famous for its ancient Minoan palaces of Knossos and Phaistos. Yet various other sites and museums also depict the island’s rich history.
The island also offers to visitors a delicious local cuisine to experience. It revolves around olive oil, special herbs and local cheeses, and grilled seafood and meat.
Heraklion, the capital of the Greek island of Crete, is an ancient city that perhaps is under-appreciated for its many attractions for the international traveler. From first-rate hotels with swimming pools and rooftop bars that look out over the city and the many villages around the ancient city, the Heraklion area has much to offer.
Perhaps best known for its stunning cathedrals, picturesque old towns, and first-class restaurants and boutiques, Crete is in the midst of the sea and at the heart of Greece’s ancient history. This was the place where the Minoan civilization flourished, and it boasts traditions that go back into time immemorial.
Balos beach, Crete. Credit: Olaf Tausch / CC-BY-3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Europe’s oldest known civilization, which flourished on Crete between 2,700 BC and 1,450 BC, served as a trading center for gold, ceramics, and the precious spice and dye saffron.
The Koules (Greek: Κούλες) or Castello a Mare, (“Fort on the Sea” in Italian) a fortress located at the entrance of the old port of Heraklion, is another must-see place for anyone who visits this ancient city. It was built by the Republic of Venice in the early 16th century, and is still in good condition today.
Finally, anyone who visits Crete can experience its folklore and traditions, as performances of local dances take place all year round, as well as festivals and cultural events lasting for days.
Traditional fishing in the lagoons stretches back to Byzantine times and Venetian rule. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
The Messolonghi-Aitolikos Lagoons National Park in Western Greece is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional fishing, a practice deeply intertwined with the ingenuity of local communities and the sustainable management of natural resources.
This ancestral knowledge, vital to the region’s cultural identity, is now being meticulously recorded and preserved for future generations. For centuries, fishing here has been more than just a profession; it’s an art form with roots stretching back to medieval-Byzantine times and Venetian rule. Through collaborative efforts with local communities, this crucial element of the region’s heritage is being safeguarded.
Traditional boats in the lagoons. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
Part of the history and life of our country
“The traditional fishing of the Messolonghi Lagoon is part of the history and life of our country. It is connected to the collective cultural consciousness of the inhabitants of the region and travels through the depths of time,” said Spilios Livanos, the former Minister of Rural Development and Food.
The lagoon itself is a vibrant ecosystem, a living organism teeming with rich flora and fauna. This biodiversity, which boasts 290 bird species and over 100 plant species, underpins the traditional fishing practices and exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. The rich natural environment is a cornerstone of professional activity, sustainable development, and the preservation of the traditional way of fishing.
House built in the sea. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
Central to the unique fishing culture of the Messolonghi-Aitolikos lagoons are the distinctive methods and tools employed. The divaria, permanent fishing traps that double as natural fish farms, are a prime example. Across the lagoon complex, there are fourteen such facilities, eight of which are traditional and strategically located where the lagoon meets the sea.
Remarkably, the placement of these traditional divaria has remained unchanged since 1826, a testament to their enduring effectiveness and the deep-rooted knowledge of the local fishermen. These wetlands are highly productive habitats, attracting a vast array of aquatic organisms that are commercially exploited by the more than seven hundred active fishermen in the lagoon today.
Fishermen’s homes in the lagoons. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture
Beyond the stationary divaria, other key elements of this traditional know-how include the Pelades, the iconic reed houses built on stilts above the water, which serve as both homes and operational bases for fishermen. The gaites, unique flat-bottomed wooden boats, are essential for navigating the shallow waters of the lagoon and are built using specific types of wood, reflecting a deep understanding of local resources.
Flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) is the most famous fish species caught in these waters. This species is particularly important, as its roe is used to produce the famous Avgotaracho of Messolonghi, a protected designation of origin (PDO) delicacy.
Preserving traditional fishing in Greece’s lagoons
Despite the demanding conditions, generations of fishermen continue this tradition, making it an integral part of their historical and cultural heritage. This resilience was even a crucial factor in the survival of the people of Messolonghi during the city’s historic siege.
The rich tapestry of traditional fishing knowledge encompasses a wide range of skills: from constructing buildings and utilitarian objects to identifying suitable wood for boat building and crafting fishing tools like longlines, harpoons, and stafnokari (a type of net). These permanent installations (divaria) and mobile means (boats, gaites), along with the tools, collectively form a cultural heritage that continues to sustain the inhabitants of the region.
In 2022, the traditional fishing practices of the Messolonghi-Aitolikos Lagoons were included in the National Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Greece.
Collapse layer east of the Late Roman wall. Credit: Department of Antiquities, Cyprus
Archaeologists in Cyprus have uncovered a massive Late Roman wall at the ancient city of Amathous that may have formed part of a defensive system protecting the summit of the acropolis.
The structure, discovered on the site’s Western Terrace, offers new evidence of efforts to fortify one of the island’s most important ancient urban centers during the Late Roman period.
Details of the defensive wall
The wall reaches up to 2 meters (6.6 feet) in thickness and was built using large limestone ashlar blocks, smaller stones, and clay mortar. Excavation evidence shows that it underwent at least two construction phases, suggesting it remained an important feature of the acropolis over time.
Researchers also uncovered a floor surface associated with the wall, fallen architectural blocks, roof tiles, and mudbrick fragments from a collapsed structure. Together, the finds provide new insight into construction methods and defensive planning at Amathous during the final centuries of Roman rule.
The discoveries were made during the second excavation season of the French Archaeological Mission of Amathous, held from March 30 to April 24, 2026. The project is directed by Dr. Anna Cannavo and focuses on the Western Terrace of the Acropolis.
Expanded excavations reveal a substantial wall
The wall was first identified during excavations in 2025 following a geophysical survey conducted in 2024. During the 2026 season, archaeologists expanded Trench 1 and uncovered a much larger section of the structure.
The wall runs parallel to the natural edge of the terrace, with its southern section turning slightly toward the west. Its eastern face was constructed from large limestone ashlar blocks, while the interior was packed with smaller rough stones bonded with clay.
Researchers identified evidence for at least two building phases. The original wall measured about 135 centimeters (4.4 feet) in thickness. It was later strengthened by adding a second row of limestone blocks and filling the space between the two walls with stone rubble.
Foundations and associated floor date to the Late Roman period
A small trench excavated along the eastern side of the wall exposed its foundations and revealed a floor directly connected to the structure. Part of the floor was paved with reused roof tiles laid over a gravel bedding.
Excavation evidence indicates that both the wall and the floor date to the Late Roman period. East of the structure, archaeologists uncovered destruction deposits containing fallen ashlar blocks, roof tiles, and mudbrick fragments from the building’s upper portions.
Findings highlight the strategic importance of the Acropolis
Iron Age terracotta figurines and pottery. Credit: Department of Antiquities, Cyprus
A second excavation area, known as Trench 3, was opened at the northern end of the terrace. Although no architectural remains were found there, archaeologists recovered a rich collection of Iron Age artifacts, indicating earlier activity in the area.
Researchers believe the newly discovered wall formed part of a defensive system protecting the summit of the acropolis and the basilica that had replaced the sanctuary of Aphrodite, one of the most important religious centers in ancient Cyprus.
Future excavations will investigate the full extent of the fortification and determine whether the Late Roman remains were built over earlier structures, helping researchers better understand the long-term development of Amathous.
Suivi par près de 300 000 abonnés sur les réseaux sociaux, Amine Kassid, alias "Amine le Conquérant", dépoussière la visite des châteaux français. Salué pour son style direct et décontracté, il est aussi la cible d’insultes racistes et de critiques, certains voyant d’un mauvais œil qu'un Français d'origine marocaine raconte le patrimoine français.
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There is something about Greece that sets it apart from many other holiday destinations across the globe; its mythological sites.
Many ancient societies had different beliefs and myths, but none are more prominent in modern-day life than that of the Greeks. Their creatures have become legends, their tales inspiration for great fiction and their gods immortalized through the continued retelling of their conquests and trials.
Delos: an ancient mythological site in Greece
Matched only by the Acropolis of Athens, Greek mythological site the ruins on the island of Delos are an unmissable location for anybody interested in ancient Greek culture. One of the best-preserved examples of an ancient Greek civilization, the island is completely unblemished by modern architecture and as such, allows its visitors to delve deep into history.
However, it is not just a site of great historical importance, but a mythological one too. It was on this island that both gods Artemis and Apollo are said to have been born. As a result, the island became a sacred place. Sanctuaries and temples sprung up across its hillsides as people from across Greece came to the island’s shores to worship the deities.
Throne room of the Minoan Palace in Knossos, Crete Credit: Annatsach – Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
The Labyrinth, a famous site in Greek mythology
One of the most famous and exciting stories of Greek mythology is the tale of Minos, Theseus and the Minotaur. Minos was a powerful king, ruler of Crete and the son of Zeus, but after he betrayed Poseidon, he was cursed to raise a son with the body of a man and the head of a bull. Using this curse to his advantage, however, Minos built the fabled Labyrinth and trapped the Minotaur within it. He would then send victims to their deaths until Theseus, prince of Athens, ventured into the Labyrinth and slayed the beast.
While there are no Minotaur bones for you to see, there are two possible Labyrinths to explore. First is the likely home of King Minos, and therefore the most plausible home for the labyrinth, Kommos. Located along the southern coast of the island, Kommos is a great place to visit, with spectacular ancient ruins and beautiful ocean views.
However, if you venture deep enough into the ruins of this ancient city, you will find many maze-like corridors and walkways that may have been the Minotaur’s home; or at least the inspiration for its tale. However, just down the road you will also find Gortyn, a site of great archaeological importance to Crete and another suspected home of the Labyrinth. Further away from Minos’ home, these ruins bear a much similar resemblance to the maze of mythology. Perhaps then, it is best to visit both Greek mythological sites and decide for yourself.
The Island of Ithaca: an ancient Greek site and holiday destination
An olive tree on Ithaca that is thought to be 1,500 years old. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Ithaca, a well-known Greek mythological site for a holiday destination, is a place with a very interesting mythological past. Most notably, it was home to the legendary trickster Odysseus, the island’s greatest king and the brains behind the trojan horse.
Odysseus was also the protagonist of Homer’s “Odyssey.” His decade-long struggle to return home after the war is the source of many of the most enduring Greek myths.
The famous Cave of Zeus on the Greek island of Crete
Cave of Zeus in Crete, Greece Credit: Tomisti / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
Hidden away on the island of Crete is an extraordinary piece of Greek mythological history. Within a cave beneath Mount Ida, it is said that the King of Gods, Zeus, was born and raised.
The Cave of Zeus is a beautiful location, with one entrance leading into a network of caves filled with stunning rock formations and underground pools. It does indeed seem a fitting place for the beginnings of the greatest god Greek mythology has ever known. However, it was not by choice he was raised here but by necessity.
His father, the titan Cronus, was set on devouring all of his progeny to ensure that they could never contest his power. However, unbeknownst to Cronus, Zeus’ mother, Rhea, hid him within the cave so one day he could return to overthrow his tyrannical father; which, according to legend, he did.
Along the eastern coast of the Greek mainland, you will find one of the most well-known natural landmarks in the world; Mount Olympus. This legendary and iconic Greek mythological site is an awe-inspiring sight, however, there is more to it than meets the eye.
In Greek mythology, Olympus was created after the gods defeated the titans in the battle of Titanomachy; otherwise known as the War of the Titans. Atop its peak they then built the Pantheon, where Zeus sat upon his throne as King of Gods and the rest of the deities would convene to discuss matters of the world below and survey the world of men.
Seeing all these incredible mythological sites can be tricky, unless you charter a course aboard Deep Blue Yachting’s luxury sailing boat, the Glaros. It is a private vessel, you can set your own course and visit every site on this list, all in one trip.
Deux cent quarante ans après leur dernier séjour dans l'édifice, Louis XVI et Marie-Antoinette sont à l'honneur au château de Fontainebleau. La reine de France, guillotinée en 1793, suscite tout particulièrement l'engouement des visiteurs. Plus de deux siècles après sa mort, elle fait l'objet d'une véritable idolâtrie.
Guests and honorees gather on the red carpet during the 20th Los Angeles Greek Film Festival Closing Night and Orpheus Awards Ceremony at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood. Photo: UrbaniteLA
The Los Angeles Greek Film Festival marked its 20th edition in Hollywood with the Orpheus Awards Ceremony, honoring Greek and Cypriot filmmakers and paying tribute to Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat.
The festival’s Closing Night Film and Orpheus Awards Ceremony took place on May 31 at the Egyptian Theatre, in collaboration with the American Cinematheque. This year’s edition brought together filmmakers, artists, industry professionals, and supporters of Greek cinema for a week of screenings, red carpet events, tributes, and awards. The festival’s virtual film program continues through June 14.
Founded in 2007, LAGFF has grown into one of the most important platforms for Greek and Cypriot cinema outside Greece. Over the past two decades, it has screened more than 800 films, hosted over 700 filmmakers, and reached an audience of more than 50,000.
Alexandre Desplat honored at closing night
One of the evening’s major highlights was the presentation of the Honorary Orpheus Award to Alexandre Desplat, one of the most acclaimed film composers working today.
Desplat, who won Academy Awards for his scores for The Grand Budapest Hotel and The Shape of Water, received the honor for his contribution to contemporary cinema. Filmmaker Malcolm Washington presented the award during the Closing Night ceremony, while Fay Lellios produced the tribute.
The evening also included a remembrance tribute to George Kolovos of G.P. Kolovos & Associates, a longtime benefactor of the Los Angeles Greek Film Festival.
“The 20th celebratory edition of LAGFF left indelible memories,” said Aristotle Katopodis, Artistic and Festival Director of LAGFF. “Feting Alexandre Desplat, remembering Dean Tavoularis, and paying respects to our 20-year-long benefactors, the Kolovos family, are images deeply etched in our hearts and souls.”
Katopodis also congratulated the filmmakers whose work was celebrated this year and thanked the festival’s supporters, sponsors, and team for championing Greek cinema.
Oscar-winning composer Alexandre Desplat and Solre Desplat attend the 20th Los Angeles Greek Film Festival Closing Night and Orpheus Awards Ceremony in Hollywood. Photo: UrbaniteLA
Hold onto me wins best feature film
The Closing Night Film, Hold Onto Me, directed by Myrsini Aristidou, won the Orpheus Award for Best Feature Film.
The film, which previously won the World Cinema Audience Award at Sundance, was one of the leading titles of this year’s festival. Following the screening, actor Michael Grant hosted a Q&A with Aristidou.
KNX Radio’s Vivianne Linou hosted the Orpheus Awards Ceremony.
2026 orpheus awards winners announced by the Los Angeles Greek film festival
In the animation category, Dream by Semiramis Mamata won the Orpheus Award for Best Animation Film. The Special Jury Award for Animation Film went to Poppy Flowers by Evridiki Papaiakovou.
The Orpheus Award for Best Short Film went to Prelude to a Supernova by Christos Artemiou, while the Special Jury Award for Short Film went to Gekas by Dimitris Moutsiakas.
In the feature film categories, Hold Onto Me by Myrsini Aristidou won Best Feature Film. Krysianna Papadakis and Stergios Dinopoulos received the Orpheus Award for Best Director for Bearcave, while Amerissa Basta received the Special Jury Award for Best Director for Life in a Beat.
The Orpheus Award for Best Performance went to Denise Fraga for Dreaming of Lions. Niovi Charalampous received the Special Jury Award for Best Performance for Smaragda – I Got Thick Skin and I Can’t Jump, while Vangelis Mourikis earned an honorable mention for Patty Is Such a Girly Name.
Audience awards and social justice honors
The Audience Award for Feature Film went to Best Friends Forever by Konstantinos Mousoulis. The Audience Award for Short Film went to The Smoker by Alexa Economacos.
The festival also presented its Social Justice Awards in partnership with Loyola Marymount University’s Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts, Department of Classics and Archaeology.
The Social Justice Award for Short Film went to The Wolves Return by Stelios Moraitidis, while the Social Justice Award for Feature Film went to Maysoon by Nancy Biniadaki.
Award presenters included animator Aliki Theofilopoulos, actor and author Patricia Kara, music composer George Kallis, and film distributor Bill Vergos.
The jury panel included Leo Behrens, Nora Bernard, Karen Cifarelli, Cheng Guo, Harrison James, Chieh-Chih Liao, Eric Nazarian, and Irene Soriano Saxon.
Honorary Orpheus Award recipient Alexandre Desplat with LAGFF Artistic and Festival Director Aristotle Katopodis at the 20th Los Angeles Greek Film Festival Closing Night in Hollywood. Photo: UrbaniteLA
Los Angeles Greek film festival celebrates orpheus awards at the Egyptian theatre
This year’s Closing Night continued LAGFF’s collaboration with the Egyptian Theatre, Netflix, and the American Cinematheque.
The Egyptian Theatre, one of Hollywood’s most historic movie palaces, opened in 1922 and helped shape the early history of film premieres in Los Angeles. Restored through a partnership between Netflix and the American Cinematheque, the venue now combines its historic character with modern projection capabilities.
For LAGFF, the setting offered a symbolic backdrop for a festival that has spent two decades connecting Greek and Cypriot cinema with the wider Los Angeles film community.
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