Thessaloniki celebrated the Anniversary of the National Polygenesis of March 25, 1821, which this year coincides with the completion of 200 years since the Greek Revolution of 1821.
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Greeks celebrate the Anniversary of the National Polygenesis of March 25, 1821, which this year coincides with the completion of 200 years since the Greek Revolution of 1821. On this day, we pay tribute and gratitude to our heroic ancestors, who kept with their struggle, through the centuries, the flame of the Nation. We honor the heroes of 1821, who made the dreams and hopes of all previous generations come true, securing for us, among other things, the two supreme goods: our independence as a nation and our freedom as a people.
The events will take place again this year in the Region of Central Macedonia with all possible splendor and formality, despite the cancellation of all military and student parades, due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
Municipality of Thessaloniki
On Tuesday, March 23, a huge banner will be hung at the City Hall of Thessaloniki, referring to the 200 years since the Greek Revolution. Also, two flags of the Revolution of 1821 will be hung on the masts of the town hall: The Flag of the Kolokotronians, which is perhaps the most widespread flag of the Greek Fighters, as well as the Flag of Emmanuel Pappas.
On the day of the national anniversary, at 11.00 in the morning, the action of the Municipal Gallery "Animating the paintings" will be shown. For its implementation, five emblematic works of the Greek Revolution have been selected: "The Massacre of Chios" and "Greece in the ruins of Messolonghi" by Eugène Delacroix, "Greece Grateful" by Theodoros Vryzakis, "The Sacrifice" by François - Ilemile de Lasanc and "Greek women beg the Virgin for help" by Ary Scheffer. The images of these works have been printed on large banners, in front of which actors in the same costume represent the central form of each work (tableaux vivants).
On the afternoon of March 25, the date, the message of the Revolution of 1821 and the image of a Greek Fighter will be illuminated on the surface of the White Tower. Anniversary tributes have also been prepared by the municipal media.
The World Turns Greek on March 25 to Mark Greece’s Bicentennial
The entire world will turn Greek to mark Greece’s bicentennial, celebrated on March 25, 2021, commemorating 200 years since the declaration of its War of Independence. Iconic landmarks all over the world will be illuminated in blue and white in honor of the Greek people and their struggle for freedom 200 years ago.
United States
California
San Francisco City Hall will be illuminated with the colors of the Greek flag on March 25.
Los Angeles
The City of Los Angeles will mark the celebration of the Greek bicentennial of its War of Independence on March 25 by illuminating the iconic pylons outside its international airport, LAX.
The Santa Monica Pier’s “Pacific Wheel” will also have a special, evening-long Light Show for Greek Independence Day on the 25th.
Chicago
Greektown Chicago is hosting a free virtual celebration of the 200th anniversary of Greek Independence Day on Thursday, March 25 at 7 pm CST (8 pm Eastern Time). The festivities will include a special performance from popular Greek singer Glykeria of the song “Να ‘τανε το ’21” (“Let it be ‘21”), which commemorates the beginning of the Greeks’ fight for independence in March 1821. The event will be streamed on the Greektown Chicago Facebook page.
Canada
A series of important landmarks in Ontario, Canada, will glow in the blue and white on March 24 and 25 as well. Οn Thursday, March 25, following the sunset, at approximately 7:36 pm, the iconic CN Tower in Toronto will be illuminated. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the official CN Tower website.
Niagara Falls
The illumination of this wonder of nature, shared between the US and Canada, will take place on Thursday, March 25, from 9:45-10:00 pm EST. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the official Niagara Falls website (no password required).
Vancouver
The City of Vancouver, British Columbia, will honor Greek Independence Day by raising Greek flags in varied municipalities; most notably the raising of a total of 56 Greek flags on city property.
Australia
Sydney
The New South Wales government agreed that the iconic Sydney Opera House will be bedecked in the Greek flag for March 25, the Bicentennial of the War of Independence. The blue and white will also fly proudly in various locations across Canberra.
South Africa
The Hellenic Federation of South Africa (HFSA) will also celebrate several commemorative events in Johannesburg, South Africa on March 25. The largest (1,500 square meter/16,146 square feet) thread-sewn Greek flag ever produced will be flown as part of the celebrations. A large-scale “Greek Freedom Dance” was choreographed to an original composition produced by one of the Greek South African community’s Greek scholars as well.
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Clean Monday is one of the most important feasts all over Greece and comes together with a wide range of cultural and religious traditions that are brought to life again. The day is traditionally celebrated with outdoor excursions and the consumption of fasting foods.
What Is Clean Monday
This day marks the beginning of the Great Lent period for Orthodox believers and the end of the Greek Carnival. It is celebrated 50 days before Orthodox Easter.
In Greek, this day is known as “Kathara Deftera” or “Koulouma”. Koulouma means the massive visit of people to the countryside to celebrate Clean Monday. The word derives from the Latin word “columus”, which means excess and aplenty.
Clean Monday menu: 5+1 dishes that must be on your table on this day.
The various accompaniments may change, but the Clean Monday table is not complete without:
Lagana: the Greek Sesame Flatbread! Prepared specifically for this day, Lagana is thin, crunchy and absolutely delicious!
Olive oil: the golden product of the Greek land has a major part on Clean Monday’s table. Olive oil makes the food taste better and is also the perfect starter with a slice of lagana bread.
Taramasalata: creamy, smooth, and intense flavored, this dip is a must on Clean Monday’s table. Made from fish roe, olive oil, lemons, onions, and breadcrumbs, it is considered to be an authentic Greek fish roe dip.
Fasolada: no Clean Monday’s table is ready without the “National Dish” of Greece! The traditional Greek white bean soup taste is hearty and it is often accompanied by salted sardines.
Seafood: as meat is not part of the menu, all kinds of seafood play a major role. Grilled octopus, grilled or stuffed squid, oysters, and mussels are just a few of this day’s specials.
Halva: With no eggs or dairy in the recipe, this is the most common dessert during the Lent period. Fact: There are two types of recipes. The first one consists of semolina pudding and raisins and the second one is made out of sesame tahini. The second one is the choice for Clean Monday, as it does not contain olive oil, butter or eggs.
Kite-flying and picnic in the city
If the weather holds up, then Kathara Deftera is the day Greeks fly kites apart from devouring delicious treats. We could say that this day is the unofficial start of Spring.
Kite-flying has become a “must” on Clean Monday, especially by those who have children expecting to go kite-flying. If they are blessed with fine weather, locals and families tear themselves away from the table, wrap up a chunk of sweet halva and head to a park to enjoy the spectacle of hundreds of colorful kites dancing in the air.
Seih Sou Suburban forest, the beach of Nea Krini , the thematic parks of Nea Paralia and the gardens of Pasha are on the top of the list of the places that locals gathering to enjoy springtime.
Getaways
Countryside and 1-day excursions from the hustle and bustle of the city is also a great idea for all those who want to mix up with the locals, enjoy the sea, the sun, the fresh air and all the good things nature has to offer.
Irresistible blues, crowded and isolated beaches, dozens of taverns, literally on the beach, fresh seafood and traditional clean-Monday-dishes accompanied by excellent local wine and raki made by local producers in the traditional way, are just a breath away from Thessaloniki. The Municipality of Thermaicos is one of the most famous getaways on this day and the reason is simple: it is an all-in-one destination!
Another escape for the day is the dam of Thermi. With its artificial lake, the dam of Thermi (Fragma Thermis) is an oasis of coolness for the locals. Walk among lush pine trees, discover paths and trails, take a deep breath and feel the brisk forest air fill your lungs. From there you can follow the marked path of Vathilakkos that will lead you to Platanakia in Panorama, for the perfect ending to the day: fasting dishes!
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Sandy beaches of Thermaicos
Just a breath away from Thessaloniki, you can find irresistible blues. Choose among "potamos", "fanari", "agelaradiko", "Aggelochori ", "Aghia Triada" , Baxe Beach" or "Perea". In dozens of taverns, literally on the beach, you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes accompanied by excellent local wine and raki made by local producers in the traditional way, born and transferred from generation to generation.
Lake Kerkini National Park
In the North‑West part of Serres perfecture, about 100km from Thessaloniki , the National Park of Lake Kerkini awaits you. With the Kroussia Mountain range to the west and Mt. Beles to the north, Lake Kerkini is an ideal destination for nature and physical activity lovers. During your visit, don’t miss the chance to participate in various outdoor activities that will refresh your mind and soothe your soul. Be sure that you take a break and taste the Lucullian meals at local villages followed by sweets made with buffalo milk.
The dam of Thermi
From the southeastern shores of Thermaikos to the mountain range of Chortiatis and Holomontas, the municipality of Thermi can be the ideal getaway for those who search to explore unknown corners of special natural beauty. Head for the dam of Thermi. With its artificial lake, the dam of Thermi (Fragma Thermis) is an oasis of coolness for the locals. Walk among lush pine trees, discover paths and trails, take a deep breath and feel the brisk forest air fill your lungs. From there you can follow the marked path of Vathilakkos that will lead you to Platanakia in Panorama.
Mt Olympus
It’s the imposing mountain of Gods; the 70 kms of unspoilt, sandy beaches; the cosmopolitan environment and the vibrant nightlife; the sporting activities; it’s Pieria that composes the most beautiful picture that every visitor will always keep in his memory. Whether you want the challenge of reaching Greece’s highest peak or fancy exploring some of the hiking paths along the lower slopes, Mt Olympus lives up to its legend as home of the 12 Olympian gods.
Halkidiki
They say that nowhere in Greece can boast beaches like those of Halkidiki. The region has the perfect combination of that distinctive Greek light, unspoiled landscapes, colours and fragrances. And the glorious natural setting is complemented by the rich culinary fare of the region and the living religious traditions of its people, manifested in a host of feast days and other ceremonies and rituals. This is a place where all your senses will come to life, whether on the endless expanses of sand of the fashionable, cosmopolitan beaches, or in the intimacy of the many secluded bays and coves. The scent of the pine trees and the salt brine of the sea combine to relax the body and spirit, leaving you at peace to enjoy the grandeur of the regions famed sunrises and sunsets.
The western side of the coastal front
Just a few kilometers away from the beating heart of Thessaloniki, there is an unknown to many, extensive wetland, natural ecosystem of spectacular natural beauty, integrated in the Natura 2000 areas. The area of Kalochori is the "gate" to the protected area from Thessaloniki. Starting from the Kalochori Lagoon and the estuary of the Gallikos River that hosts the water buffalo, enjoy a 28 km coastal route to the estuary of the Axios Delta, where wildlife declares its presence. Here, we meet the authentic beauty of the west side of the coastal zone of Thessaloniki.
Ancient Dion
At the foothills of Mt Olympus there is the ancient Dion, sacred town of the Macedonians where at the shrine of Olympian Zeus, Alexander the Great offered magnificent sacrifices before starting his campaign in Asia. The city of Dion, the ancient theater of the Hellenistic period, the Roman theater, the walls, large baths, the villa of Dionysus, the necropolis, the sanctuaries of Zeus, Demeter and Isis and the Archaeological Museum are included in the archaeological site of Dion and can be visited.
Vergina
Aigai, located in the place of the current Vergina, is the first city of the Macedonians and the core of the ancient Kingdom. The place where for more than three centuries reigned the family of Philip II and Alexander the Great. Here Alexander was proclaimed king and decided to start in the spring of 334 BC his great campaign that sealed the fate of the ancient world. The archaeological site with the Royal Tombs Museum is an impressive underground construction which is externally in the form of an earth mound and is listed as UNESCO World Heritage site with huge radiation.
Pozar Thermal Baths
At the foot of Mt Kaimaktsalan, the Pozar Thermal Springs is an ideal destination for those who want to combine contact with nature, relaxation and the benefits of hydrotherapy. In the historic district of Pella, the capital of the Ancient Greek Kingdom of Macedonia, the beauty of Greek nature will add to your desire for wellness.
Monasteries of Meteora
Meteora offer a unique perspective of nature’s grandeur in conjunction with history, architecture, and man’s everlasting desire to connect with the Divine. The area today is the largest archaeological site of Greece in terms of the area that it covers. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989 and an official holy place for Greece since 1995. A vast complex of giant rock pillars with monasteries made on the picks of the sandstone cliffs centuries ago creates a truly surreal landscape found nowhere else in the world!
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Embark on a unique journey in ancient Greek mythology and music, with Theodore and SEIKILO’s award-winning tour “Experience Ancient Greece”, where you will have the chance to learn, take a closer look, or even play with many ancient Greek music instruments such as the lyre of Hermes, the barbiton of Sappho, the pandura, the Cithara of the Golden Age, the Phorminx of Homer, the Tympanon of Dionysus, etc.
What’s more, a professional lyricist will perform live for you, while sharing surprisingly interesting details about Hermes, Apollo, Zeus, Plato, etc.
What they will offer You?
You will be granted access (to see, hear, hold, or even play) to more than a dozen ancient musical instruments from ancient Greece and other civilizations.
Who can Participate?
This experience is for anyone interested in ancient Greek civilization, music, and mythology! This experience can be tailored to your level of knowledge, so let us know if you are an amateur or even professional musician!
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By C.Sfikas | Tourist Guide & UNESCO journalist
Thessaloniki, with the number “456” on the list, has been declared an UNESCO city for its most important churches. The extremely well-preserved city walls and Greece's most important Roman monument, the Rotunda of Galerius, is the first monument to be declared as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Rotunda, almost intact from time to time, adds value to the city's architectural heritage with its famous mosaics, giving us a wonderful set of early Christian art.
Two steps away, the basilicas of Achiropoietos and Agios Dimitrios represent the early Christian face of the city while Hagia Sophia, the old metropolis of Thessaloniki, introduces us to the Post-Byzantine period.
Magnificent mosaics decorate the walls, the arches of the 3 churches and the dome of Hagia Sophia. The 11th- century Panagia Chalkeon and the palaeological temples of Agios Panteleimon, Agia Aikaterini, Metamorfosi tou Sotiros, Taxiarchon with the once dynamic Byzantine bath, Agios Nikolaos Orfanos and the most important temple of the 12 Apostles of the city in the West, create a rare set of a Byzantine city in Europe.
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See and listen to how an object can “make” history in one of the largest museums in Greece and the central museum of Νorthern Greece.
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki since its founding in 1962 operates as the metropolitan museum of Macedonia. Today the museum is a place of cultural reference and inspiration.
Even if you only have one hour available, don’t miss the chance to explore its permanent collections and immerse yourself in the world of Ancient Greece.
50,000 antiquities of various types, materials and functions, from the prehistoric to Roman times, from the wider area of Thessaloniki as well as from sites in Central Macedonia, shed light on various aspects of life in antiquity and invite you to immerse yourself in the stories that they have to tell.
Find out how ancient Macedonians lived their everyday life, what they ate, how they were dressed, how they used to travel. Discover the God’s they worshipped and how they were organized socially and politically. Take a glance at how they communicated with each other by exchanging ideas and objects. Explore the largest collection of gold wreaths in the world and the largest relief metal vessel of Classical antiquity, the famous Derveni Krater. Learn about the Derveni Papyrus, the oldest “book” in Europe (340–320 BC).
Last but not least, discover the open-air exhibitions in a beautiful public space and the permanent exhibition “Macedonia from Fragments to Pixels” with original interactive system based on ambient intelligence, which will give you the opportunity to approach antiquity in an innovative way, and also to explore digital reconstructions of ancient artefacts and travel in time and space.
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On January 16, 2021 we woke up to this view ❄️ Thessaloniki covered in a white blanket of snow!
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Heptapyrgion Festival is a big celebration of Culture with music performances, theatrical narrations, poetry, that was born in Thessaloniki in 2019on the initiative of the Cultural Center of the Regional Government of Central Macedonia in collaboration with the Ephorate of Antiquities of the City of Thessaloniki.
Heptapyrgion Festival is under the auspices of UNESCO and takes place at the inner courtyard of Heptapyrgion Fortress.
During this year's Festival that will take place from Monday 5 to Thursday 29 July 2021, 12 events, including 7 major productions, will be held.
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