Greece
By Megan Clifford
History
Greece joined the European Union in 1981. They had city-states then were conquered by Philip of Maceodonia in 338 BCE. They became an independent nation in 1991.
Location
Greece is near the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It's a peninsula with over 2,000 islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas and only 165 are inhabited.
Flag
The flag of Greece was adopted on December 22, 1978. It represents the seas surrounding Greece with its blue water and white crest waves. The white cross symbolizes their religion, Orthodoxy.
Currency
Greece used Drachma until 2002 when Euro replaced it and is now Grreces currency.
Government
The government is a presidental parliamentary republic. The president is the head of state and they have a 5 year term and may hold a second term. All citizens over the age of 18 have the right to vote. All the other elected representatives are elected in a 4 year term.
Geography
Greece has over 2,000 islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas and only 165 inhabited. 80% of Greece's terrain is mountainous. They have a lot of natural resources, including petroleum and marble. They also have severe earthquakes. The coastal areas are densely populated.
Capitol and Major Cities
Athens is the Capitol of Greece and the largest city with many historical monuments. Major cities of Grece include Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, and Volos all with many tourist sites to visit.
Tourism
Athens
Athens is the Capitol of Greece and also the largest. It has many historical monuments that is visited by millions of people each year. They have a vibrant culture with a welcoming climate.
Santorini
Santorini is a chain of islands in the south Aegean Sea. The town is built in a unique architecture that is amazing to witness.
Zakynthos
Zakynthos is the third largest of the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos is known for its clubs, bars and the various parties held here. The city has many ancient and historical sites. They have white shores and crystal clear water.
Interesting Facts
- The official name of Greece is Hellenic Republic
- The population as of 2011 was around 11 million
- Greece has the 11th longest coastline in the world at 8,498 miles long
- Greece is one of the most mountainous regions in Europe
- The Olympic Games originated in Greece
Citations
- "Greece.".N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2014.
- "Three Major Cities of Greece: Athens, Thessaloniki and Piraeus."N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec.2014.
- "Greece Geography.".N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2014.
- "Subscriber Area Only." :.N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Dec. 2014.
- "Fun Greece Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about Greece." N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Dec. 2014.