Greece Study Abroad Country Profile

Greece study abroad programs will immerse students in Greece’s past and present. The culture of Greece is one that has evolved over the course of thousands of years, through many of the most well-known and widespread eras and civilizations in history. Greece has longstanding, celebrated traditions in creative areas like art, architecture and literature, including the first recorded works in the Western literary tradition by Homer and Hesiod. Despite rich ancient legacies in creative areas, Greece has a strong modern literary movement. Greece has also made many significant contributions to math, science and philosophy – most students are familiar with the work of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. Today, Greece celebrates its past while looking toward the future.

Because of its extremely lengthy history, many of Greece’s most widespread cultural contributions are also quite old. Greece’s influence has spread to high schools and universities around the world – many students read Homer’s famous works The Iliad and The Odyssey. Literary genius isn’t confined to Greece’s past; there have been two contemporary Nobel Prize winners in literature. Greek music is also strongly rooted in the past, though the folk music that was once confined to local villages has now become mainstream and widespread as it has become stylized and more modern.

Apart from it's academic and musical traditions, Greece's food is one of the most recognized aspects of Greek culture. This Mediterranean diet incorporates fresh ingredients into a variety of local and national dishes. Many of these dishes date back to ancient Greece.

Greece’s creative tradition lends itself to a wide variety of unique study abroad programs. Study abroad programs with a focus on the fine arts and visual arts are popular, as are programs that allow students to study Greece’s music, past to present. Travel to Greece to study the country’s rich legacy of literature on a Classics program, or participate in a creative writing program. Programs centered around the intensive study of the Greek language are also popular.

For students with a more generalized interest in Greece, there are programs that survey Greek culture. There are also Greece study abroad programs geared entirely toward history buffs, and budding archaeologists will find programs catering to their interests, too.

Greece has many unique advantages as a study abroad destination. Here are ten reasons why you should consider studying abroad in Greece.

1. Greek Language

For students interested in studying Greek, there is only one place to go. Take advantage of being completely immersed in Greek language and culture.

2. Food

Mediterranean diets are considered some of the healthiest (and most delicious) in the world, and Greece is no exception.

3. Beaches

Greece has some truly amazing Mediterranean beaches. Trips to Greece’s various islands make great weekend activities.

4. The Acropolis

One of Greece’s most famous ancient ruins, the Acropolis is not to be missed.

5. Palace of Knossos

The palace of Knossos is absolutely massive and seeing it is a full-day endeavor. 800 of 1300 rooms are available for viewing.

6. Friendly People

Feel at home in Greece! Greek people are friendly and helpful.

7. Hellenic Festival

Take in classical Greek dramas, dance and theater performances, as well as food and great music.

8. Mount Olympos

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the challenge of climbing Mount Olympos, thought to be the home of Zeus.

9. Scuba

Although diving isn’t permitted in areas with submerged artifacts, there are a number of various diving opportunities around Greece in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.

10. Photo Ops

Greece is a beautiful place, and from scenic coasts with white-washed buildings to ancient ruins, you’re sure to get a lot of memorable pictures.

Greece Country Ranking: 13

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