12/09/2024in Epirus, Greece, Thesprotia

Glyki: The Historic Village of Epirus with Natural Beauty and Flowing Waters

Located near the banks of the Acheron River, in a fertile plain, lies Glyki, a village in the Souli region of Epirus. Known for its breathtaking natural landscape, the village is surrounded by springs, flowing waters, and ancient trees.

This small, primarily agricultural village has gained international recognition due to the legendary Acheron River. According to one local legend, its name comes from a miracle.

Saint Donatos is said to have slain a dragon that lived at the river’s springs, poisoning the water and making it deadly for both humans and animals. After the saint’s blessing, the water turned sweet, giving the village its name, Glyki.

Historical Significance

In the modern village, ruins of an ancient settlement can still be found, showing continuous habitation from the Hellenistic to the Byzantine periods. The remains of a Christian basilica suggest that this could have been the ancient city of Evroia, the seat of a bishop mentioned in Byzantine sources from the 4th century AD.

The settlement’s longevity was due to its strategic position, as it controlled the passage across the Acheron River, where the eastern branch of the Roman road linking Apollonia, Buthrotum, and Nikopolis passed through.

The Springs of Acheron

Just 2 kilometers from Glyki lie the springs of the Acheron River. The mythical river, creating serene landscapes of extraordinary natural beauty, continues its endless journey towards the Ionian Sea, emptying into the area near Ammoudia.

The Crystal Clear Waters of Acheron

In winter, the river’s waters are fast and powerful, while in the summer, they become easily accessible. The river passes through gorges, forms pools and small lakes, and is home to a rich ecosystem protected by the Natura 2000 network.

Ancient plane trees provide shade, while towering cliffs stand guard along its path. The rich wildlife and the chorus of countless birds add to the enchanting atmosphere, breathing life into this mythical land of natural splendor!

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09/09/2024in Attica, Greece, Piraeus

Where to eat traditional and delicious Armenian food in Athens

If you’re looking for a place in Athens where you can enjoy authentic and delicious Armenian food, there’s a spot you should definitely visit. If you’re a fan of international flavors, especially oriental and spicy dishes, there are excellent choices to try traditional foods from other countries within the city.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to take a gastronomic trip to Armenia without leaving Athens, specifically by visiting Nikaia, where you’ll find the restaurant “Paraga.” “Paraga” is known for its authentic Armenian cuisine, served with care and attention to detail. Petros and Gariné have created a menu full of traditional recipes, all handmade, that promise unforgettable flavors. The restaurant is located at 48 Karaiskaki & Belogianni in Nikaia and is open daily from 18:00 to midnight (except on Sundays).

As for Armenian cuisine, while it’s mostly known in Greece for its cured meats like pastirma and sausages, its flavors are influenced by a wide range of sources. From Turkey, Georgia, and Azerbaijan to Lebanon, dishes like lahmacun, moussaka, mantı, içli köfte, and hünkar beğendi offer a rich culinary experience. One of the most characteristic traditional dishes is Harissa, a porridge made of meat and bulgur. Another popular dish is khorovats, the Armenian kebab, which uses pieces of meat, often served on the bone. The cuisine also incorporates yogurt, garlic, hot peppers, and aromatic herbs like parsley and basil.

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08/09/2024in Athens, Attica, Greece

The best rooftop bars in central Athens to enjoy your cocktail

Summer never truly ends in Greece, so if you find yourself in Athens, what better way to enjoy it than with a cocktail in a beautiful setting with panoramic views? With the warm weather still in full swing, the city becomes even more enchanting. Bustling streets, sunshine, seaside strolls, and open-air spaces invite us to enjoy lovely evenings out.

With Athens at its finest, rooftops become the perfect destination to take in the city’s stunning views while sipping on your favorite cocktail. Here are 5 of the best rooftop bars in the heart of the city!

Thea Terrace Bar

Located at the Central Hotel on Apollonos Street, Thea Terrace Bar offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis and a welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of the city. Situated in the historic center, it provides an elevated vantage point over the city’s most iconic landmarks, allowing you to relax with an excellent cocktail and a snack. Open all day, it’s ideal for a coffee break or quick snack between work, a stroll, or shopping. It’s a great spot for a bit of relaxation whenever you need it!

360 Cocktail Bar

Just steps away from the Acropolis, the 360 Cocktail Bar offers such a close-up view that it feels like you could almost reach out and touch it! As soon as you exit Monastiraki station, the 360 Cocktail Bar is right nearby. In addition to its spectacular panoramic views, you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated food menu.

Couleur Locale Athens

Couleur Locale is more than just a rooftop bar. It’s a multi-purpose venue that brings a unique atmosphere to the center of the city. Its standout feature is the stunning rooftop, which offers a breathtaking view of the Acropolis, making it a must-visit. Nestled in the charming streets of Monastiraki, the bar not only serves exceptional cocktails but also offers delicious food options. At night, the ambiance becomes even more magical.

 

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The Zillers

No list of the best rooftops in Athens would be complete without mentioning the popular Zillers. Located next to the Athens Cathedral, the rooftop of this boutique hotel offers a little slice of paradise. With its elegant design and prime location, it boasts stunning views of the city. Here, you can enjoy coffee, cocktails, daily desserts, and exceptional dishes from the menu.

 

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Luv n Roll

Welcome to the house of love! Luv n Roll is the first multi-cultural space in Greece that blends fine and applied arts, including gastronomy, mixology, tattoos, art, a design studio, live music, events, and more. Open for about a year in the heart of Athens, this innovative space allows you to enjoy its rooftop views, cocktails, and food, while also offering a selection of clothing and jewelry for sale.

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