March 2011 Newsletter Bookmark and Share
 This Month
March's Article: The Greeks of Australia Special Feature: Zakynthos: Food, Wine & Products
What's New: Sterling Silver & Gold Jewelry, 2011 Gouria Good Luck Charms, Costume Jewelry & Accessories, Greek Music, Children's DVDs in Greek, Ancient Greek Toys & Museum Replicas, Greek Orthodox Icons & Komboskini Prayer Ropes Latest Arrivals: Vintage Greek City Photo & Advertisement Posters, Children's Books in Greek & English, Books in Greek, Greek T-shirts & Sports Gear
Featured Destination: Cyclades - Siphnos March's Recipe: Whole Fish Roasted with Fennel, Olives, and Chilies
Saint Namedays in March Suggestions, Comments, Subscription Info






 
Indoor Greece Flag (3' x 5')

Indoor Greece Flag (3' x 5')
Greek Paper Flag 10 x 6.5 in

Greek Paper Flag 10 x 6.5 in
Greek Flag String 16ft long

Greek Flag String 16ft long
Greek Flag Sticker Sheet

Greek Flag Sticker Sheet
 Greek Flag Party Toothpicks 100 pc.

Greek Flag Party Toothpicks 100 pc.
Greece Flag Lanyard

Greece Flag Lanyard
Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Greek Flag 123379

Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Greek Flag 123379
 
Greek Flag Worrybeads

Greek Flag Worrybeads
Greek Flag Dog Collar

Greek Flag Dog Collar
( in Greek )
Greek Flag Coffee Mug

Greek Flag Coffee Mug
Amalia Costume for Girls Size 2-6 Style 643003

Amalia Costume for Girls Size 2-6 Style 643003
Tsolias Costume for Boys Size 8-16 Style 644208

Tsolias Costume for Boys Size 8-16 Style 644208
 
GREECE Flag Hooded Sweatshirt Style D550b

GREECE Flag Hooded Sweatshirt Style D550b
Crystal Rhinestone Greek Flag Longsleeve Style 5650

Crystal Rhinestone Greek Flag Longsleeve Style 5650
March's Recipe:
Whole Fish Roasted with Fennel, Olives, and Chilies
(Psari Psito)


There are just three steps to roasting a fish whole, and none of them are hard. First, pan-sear your fish in a large sauté pan on top of the stove. Then take the fish out, add thin slices of fennel, and put the fish back in the pan; the fennel slices absorb the flavor of the broth, the fish, and the chilies. Finally, roast the fish in the oven. You can grill a whole fish if you prefer, but be sure to finish it in the oven. You can grill a whole fish if you prefer, but be sure to finish it in the oven so the juices of the fish have a chance to mingle with the herbs and spices. 

I like to serve a whole fish to each person. This recipe explains how to cook four whole fish in a home kitchen. You'll have to sauté two fish at a time, but you can roast them all at once; use a large roasting pan and don't overlap the fish. If you're serving two people, just halve this recipe.

I like snapper (particularly red or Thai snapper), but you can use this cooking method with just about any fresh, firm-fleshed fish, such a s striped bass, rouge, black bass, or trout. Try it with any whole fish that's between one and two pounds.

I love the flavor of  Calabrian chilies with fish. You can find them packed in oil in specialty stores...

Ingredients:
  • 4 whole snappers, about 1 1/2 lbs each, cleaned and gutted
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
  • 3 cups fish or vegetable stock
  • 2 tsp chopped Calabrian chilies or 2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 450°F.

Rinse the fish in cool water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub each fish with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat 1/2 cup of the olive oil in a 12-inch sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add  two of the fish to the pan and sear on each side until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per side.

Remove the fish from the pan and pour off the excess oil Place half of the fennel slices in the pan and lay the seared fish on top of the fennel. Add 1 1/2 cups of the stock, bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, and immediately remove from the heat. Carefully transfer the fish and fennel slices to a large roasting pan, cover and set aside. Discard the cooking liquid. repeat with the remaining fish, 1/2 cup olive oil, fennel slices and stock.

Roast, covered, until the fish is cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes. Warm 4 plates during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove the pan from the oven, carefully set the fish aside, and divide the fennel into four servings. Spoon a serving onto each of the warmed plates and place a whole fish on top of the fennel. Transfer the liquid from the roasting pan to a saucepan. Add the thyme, chilies, and olives and bring to a simmer. Pour over the fish and garnish with the parsley.

Serves 4.

Excerpts and Photography from: Cat Cora's Kitchen



March's Article:
The Greeks of Australia


The Greeks of Australia

The nature of chain immigration brought together settlers from the same villages and regions. the necessity to preserve the local customs, coupled with the tendency of the Greeks to accept mainly their fellow villagers and islanders considering any person from their neighboring village a ksenos (foreigner), triggered the establishment of a plethora of local brotherhoods and societies as early as 1912. These prevailing attitudes created hundreds of weak collective entities, with independent administrative committees, constitutions and bannes, utilizing the names of local saints and heroes. The eagerness for allilovoitheia (mutual aid) led to the formation of more that 100 legally registered brotherhoods by 1945 (Allimonos, 2002). The number increased to more than 1000 by 1995. After World War II settlers from the two prefectures of Messinia and Florina alone formed more than 100 by 1995. After World War II settlers from the two prefectures of Messinia and Florina alone formed more than 100 societies (Tamis and Gacakis, 2002). Narcissim, fervor for political power and the segregation of the local agrarian communities in Greece could be considered the reasons for this parochialism. the multiplicity of these regional organisations generated antagonisms and rivalries within the jeopardizing the financial welfare of Panhellenic Communities. In certain cases, the transplantation of entire villages from Greece to Australia created the logical perspective for the establishment of fraternal societies. Numerically strong Greek regional groups settling in large urban centres dominated the political and communal arena setting their own parochial principles and values: the Kastellorizians in Perth, the Ithacans in Melbourne, the Kytherians in Sydney, the Kalynmians in Darwin, the Cypriots in Home Hill and the Macedonians in Shepparton and Werribee. The first organized association of Greek women began in Brisbane in 1913, with the establishment of a committee for the raising of funds of Greek disabled victims of the Balkan Wars. Associations of Greek women with nationalistic and philanthropic objectives were formed after 1926 in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.

The zeal shown for the study of the parent tongue and the desire to maintain the Orthodox faith became the Greeks' prime concern. The Hellenic heritage, which 'inspired the entire western world', ought to be preserved at any cost within the family environment and its social milieu, while Orthodoxy represented 'the true faith'. Following the establishment of the Holy Trinity in Surrey Hills, Sydney (1898) and the Annunciation of our Lady (1900) in Melbourne, the community schools began their operation employing the services of the first priests. Utilizing their churches, vacant stores, backyard sheds and the lofts of family-run restaurants the first Greek Communities provided Greek language and culture classes. Immigrant parents haunted by the unwillingness of their children to acquire or use Greek, often demonstrated harshness and irreconcilable determination. Those children who ignored strict parental instructions and used English at home frequently experienced deprivation of certain luxuries or were made to spend hours in solitary confinement.

Greek immigrants were inspired by the diachronic continuity of Hellenic civilization and regarded their identity as the basic ingredient of western civilization. Community-based schools operated in all major cities, sponsored by the Greek business community, mainly restaurateurs and small proprietors. Greek Communities managed to employ qualified teachers of Greek with the appointment of Alezandra Vrachnas (1924) and Archimandrite Metrophanis (1931) in Sydney, Archimandrite Theophylaktos and Alexandra Vrachnas in Melbourne (1931), Archimandrite Germanos (1916) and Anna Perivolaris in Perth (1935), while the Greek Government appointed the first teacher to Perth in 1945. The services of the priests and certain female high school graduates were sought in most cases to act as classroom teachers, whose knowledge of pedagogy and English were very limited, often creating confusing experiences for students.

Greek Orthodox immigrants received pastoral guidance initially from the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, with the appointment of bilingual (Greek-Arabic) priest Athanasios Kantopoulos (1898) in Melbourne and Serafeim Fokas (1899) in Sydney (Tamis, 1997a, 1997b). However, following persistent intra-community strife, the Orthodox faithful of Australia were placed under the spiritual jurisdiction of the Church of Greece (1904) and twenty years later under the authority of the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The role and contribution of the clergymen was severely criticized by the people, who expected their priests to demonstrate compassion, high morality and a zeal for the preservation of Hellenism. The pioneer priests were criticized for their personal life, their indifference to teaching Greek, their public mode of behavior, even for their style of attire. By the time the first Greek Orthodox Metropolitan, Christophoros Knitis, an Oxford University graduate, was appointed by the Ecumenical Patriarchate (1924) more than ten priests had been replaced in Melbourne alone. They were criticized for their failure to propagate the faith and deal with the needs of their congregation. The majority of the Greek settlers remained loyal to the Greek Orthodox Church, however, the long period of feuding influenced negatively the attitude of the people towards their clergy, while the image for the ecclesiastical authorities was reduced to a low point.

Moreover, reconciliation to the notion of permanent residence in Australia severely weakened the bonds with Greece, even eradicating in certain cases correspondence with the closest relatives. The majority of the Greek settlers were concerned with their survival in a rather hostile environment for foreigners, whilst the successful businessmen were apprehensive about Australian issues and affair and their integration into the Australian society. On the other hand, community and organization leaders continued to retain an active interest in the affairs of the old country and to be sentimentally attached to Greece. The embarrassing succession of ephemeral governments in Athens, the prevailing social and political instability, and the imposition of the totalitarian regime of Ioannis Metaxas (4 August 1936) disheartened many Greek settlers, however, they never stopped short of raising the loyalty issue high in their agenda. They knew that the Greek temperament would never compromise the independence of Greece even in the face of the most tyrannical ruler. Four years later, following the invasion of Greece by the forces of Mussolini (28 October 1940) and the heroic resistance of the Greeks against the Axis, the admiration of the world embraced Greece. Furthermore, it enhanced the Greek Australians' status in the broader Australian society and increased the self-assurance of the rather insecure Greek community. Even those Greek Australians who had previously remained indifferent to Greek affairs suddenly recovered their enthusiasm and wanted the entire Australian society to know that they too were Greeks. Australian newspapers, cartoonists, philosophers, political and ecclesiastic figures, the Australian and British Prime ministers, the Australian Parliament, scholars and poets all assisted in popularizing the Greek miracle. A new era was emerging for the Australian Greek community. The old sentiment of contempt for the undesirable settler was replaced by the image of the loyal ally and devoted new Australian.

Article to be continued next month

 

Excerpts and Photography from
The Greeks in Australia
by Anastasios Tamis

 Special Feature:
 Zakynthos: Food, Wine & Products


Honey from the village of Volimes is the best. It is produced from the thyme plant. It is the main ingredient for mandolato and other sweets. Mandolato derives from the Venetian mandola, which means almond. It is a nougat which in the past was the treat at the first formal house visit after the betrothal. The bridegroom would offer it as a gift, along with soumada, an almond drink, to his bride-to-be. Pasteli is another delicacy, a kind of brittle made with sesame, almonds and honey. It is served mostly during panygiria. Fytoura is a Zakynhian delicacy similar to fried polenta. It is made with semolina, water and sugar, and fried in sizzling olive oil.

Spoon sweets are very popular as desserts. They are similar to preserves of jam. When in season, grapes, quinces, pears, cherries and many other fruits are cut in to small pieces, cooked and preserved. Presented on a special small dish and served on teh spoon, they are perfect for queests and always accompanied with Greek coffee.

Coffee was probably brought from the East. In the old days Zakynthians added ground chickpeas to increase the quantity since coffee itself was very expensive. Coffee was served not only as an eye opener but also as a reason for koutsoblio -the chatting and sharing of gossip and personal concerns- by the woman at their homes, a practice which is still followed. Today you may find many kinds of coffee from all over the world in Zakynthos.

Ortzada or soumada is a traditional almond drink made for weddings and baptisms.

In summer, women prepare vissinada, which is the syrup from the cherry spoon sweet, dissolved and served in a half glass of cold water, to serve as a treat.

Flowers of all kinds, especially wild ones, cover plains, valleys, and hills making a colorful tapestry in the spring. Janjaminia (jasmines), bougarinia (very tiny gardenias), grandukes (gardenias) and many other flowers decorate houses and balconies. they are even used for making perfumes and to decorate salads. Even thornplants are pretty in Zakynthos, especialy their colorful flowers which last long and can be used for decoration.

Zakynthos was called the Fior di Levante by the Venetians, and it is indeed a flower in the heart of Mediterranean. 

 

Excerpt from
Cooking and Traditions of Zakynthos
by Calliopi Toufidou

  What's New!
  Sterling Silver & Gold Jewelry
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Silver (13mm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Silver (13mm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Gold (12mm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Gold (12mm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Silver (24mm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Silver (24mm)
Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Gold (22mm)

Sterling Silver Bracelet - Greek Key Laser Print Blue and Gold (22mm)
14k Gold Earrings - Greek Key Motif (5mm)

14k Gold Earrings - Greek Key Motif (5mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant (35mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant (35mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant - Rounded (36mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant - Rounded (36mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant - Rounded Crucifix (33mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant - Rounded Crucifix (33mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix (30mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix (30mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix with White Gold (30mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix with White Gold (30mm)
18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix (23mm)

18k Gold Cross Pendant - Crucifix (23mm)
Platinum Plated Sterling Silver Pendant - Virgin Mary w/ Rope Border (14mm)

Platinum Plated Sterling Silver Pendant - Virgin Mary w/ Rope Border (14mm)
Platinum Plated Sterling Silver Pendant - Virgin Mary (13mm)

Platinum Plated Sterling Silver Pendant - Virgin Mary (13mm)
Sterling Silver Pendant - Ionic Column (40mm)

Sterling Silver Pendant - Ionic Column (40mm)
Sterling Silver Pendant - Ionic Column (14mm)

Sterling Silver Pendant - Ionic Column (14mm)
The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Swirls & Whorls Motif (32mm)

The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Swirls & Whorls Motif (32mm)
The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Butterfly Motif (32mm)

The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Butterfly Motif (32mm)
The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Rosette Motif (32mm)

The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Rosette Motif (32mm)
The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Octopus (32mm)

The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Octopus (32mm)
The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Swirls & Whorls Motif (32mm)

The Agamemnon Collection - Sterling Silver Pendant - Swirls & Whorls Motif (32mm)
Sterling Silver Pendant - Phaistos Disk Friendship Necklace (19mm)

Sterling Silver Pendant - Phaistos Disk Friendship Necklace (19mm)
Sterling Silver Pendant - Phaistos Disk Friendship Necklace (17mm)

Sterling Silver Pendant - Phaistos Disk Friendship Necklace (17mm)
Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Parthenon (18mm)

Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Parthenon (18mm)
Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Double Sided Greek Key and Floral Square (13mm)

Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Double Sided Greek Key and Floral Square (13mm)
Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Alexander the Great (16mm)

Sterling Silver Cufflinks - Alexander the Great (16mm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Double Greek Key Curve Clip On (20mm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Double Greek Key Curve Clip On (20mm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key Curve Clip On (19mm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Greek Key Curve Clip On (19mm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Swirl Motif Clip On (17mm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Swirl Motif Clip On (17mm)
Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings - Greek Key (44mm)

Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings - Greek Key (44mm)
Sterling Silver Earrings - Large Greek Key Motif Circle (51mm)

Sterling Silver Earrings - Large Greek Key Motif Circle (51mm)
Sterling Silver Ring - Serpent (Adjustable)

Sterling Silver Ring - Serpent (Adjustable)
Sterling Silver Ring - Serpent (Adjustable)

Sterling Silver Ring - Serpent (Adjustable)
Sterling Silver Ring - Owl

Sterling Silver Ring - Owl
Sterling Silver Ring - Greek Key Oval Stone (7mm)

Sterling Silver Ring - Greek Key Oval Stone (7mm)
Sterling Silver Ring - Spiral with Double Greek Key Motif (Adjustable)

Sterling Silver Ring - Spiral with Double Greek Key Motif (Adjustable)
Sterling Silver Ring - Double Phaistos Disc with Greek Key

Sterling Silver Ring - Double Phaistos Disc with Greek Key
Sterling Silver Brooch - Ionic Column (40mm)

Sterling Silver Brooch - Ionic Column (40mm)
Sterling Silver Brooch - Full Ionic Column (54mm)

Sterling Silver Brooch - Full Ionic Column (54mm)
Sterling Silver Brooch - Ionic Column Capital (37mm)

Sterling Silver Brooch - Ionic Column Capital (37mm)
Sterling Silver Brooch - Goddess Athena Sacred Owl (32mm)

Sterling Silver Brooch - Goddess Athena Sacred Owl (32mm)
Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif

Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif
Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif

Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif
Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif

Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif
Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif

Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Greek Key Motif
Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Vergina Star

Sterling Silver Tie Clip - Vergina Star
  2011 Gouria Goodluck Charms
  Costume Jewelry & Accessories
Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Large Mati Evil Eye 123336

Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Large Mati Evil Eye 123336
Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Large Blue Glass Cross 121409

Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Large Blue Glass Cross 121409
Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Minoan Swirl Motif 123317

Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Minoan Swirl Motif 123317
Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Greek Flag 123379

Greek Custom Name Good Luck Keychain - Greek Flag 123379
Mati Evil Eye Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones

Mati Evil Eye Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones
Blue Minoan Swirl Motif Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones

Blue Minoan Swirl Motif Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones
Blue Heart Minoan Swirl Motif Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones

Blue Heart Minoan Swirl Motif Necklace and Earring Set with Rhinestones
Ancient Greek Necklace and Bracelet Set - Serpent Motif and Lava Beads KO54

Ancient Greek Necklace and Bracelet Set - Serpent Motif and Lava Beads KO54
Ancient Greek Necklace and Bracelet Set - Serpent Motif and Lava Beads KO90

Ancient Greek Necklace and Bracelet Set - Serpent Motif and Lava Beads KO90
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif with Rhinestones - Black and White (33mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif with Rhinestones - Black and White (33mm)
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Swirl Motif with Rhinestones - Blue (25mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Swirl Motif with Rhinestones - Blue (25mm)
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Swirl Motif with Rhinestones - Pink (25mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Swirl Motif with Rhinestones - Pink (25mm)
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif with Black Detail (24mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif with Black Detail (24mm)
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif Silver and Gold Color (22mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif Silver and Gold Color (22mm)
Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif Silver and Gold Color (31mm)

Stainless Steel Cuff Bracelet - Greek Key Motif Silver and Gold Color (31mm)
Braided Leather and Stainless Steel Bracelet - Greek Key Motif B115

Braided Leather and Stainless Steel Bracelet - Greek Key Motif B115
Rubber and Stainless Steel Bracelet - Greek Key Motif B162

Rubber and Stainless Steel Bracelet - Greek Key Motif B162
Mati Evil Eye Leather Bracelet - Light Blue

Mati Evil Eye Leather Bracelet - Light Blue
Mati Evil Eye Leather Bracelet - Dark Blue

Mati Evil Eye Leather Bracelet - Dark Blue
Good Luck Decorative Charm with blue glass 121121a

Good Luck Decorative Charm with blue glass 121121a
Begleri with Mati Evil Eye Beads 130410

Begleri with Mati Evil Eye Beads 130410
Begleri with Mati Evil Eye Beads 130341

Begleri with Mati Evil Eye Beads 130341
Worrybeads with Lava Rock Beads and Swirl Motif

Worrybeads with Lava Rock Beads and Swirl Motif
Worrybeads with Metal Greek Key Motif Beads

Worrybeads with Metal Greek Key Motif Beads
Decorative Oversized Greek Worrybeads - Amber Color

Decorative Oversized Greek Worrybeads - Amber Color
  Greek Music
  Children's DVDs in Greek
  Ancient Greek Toys & Museum Replicas

"One of a kind" museum quality ceramic reproductions!
Each piece is made from clay that originates in the same field where
the original was found, ensuring the same look & feel.

Many of the original artifacts are featured in this book! ---->

Toys of the Ancient Greeks by Chris D. Lazos (In Greek)

Toys of the Ancient Greeks by Chris D. Lazos
(In Greek)


Boeotian Terracota Doll 8th century BC Replica, Archaelogical Museum of Athens

Boeotian Terracota Doll 8th century BC Replica, Archaelogical Museum of Athens
Ancient Greek Jointed Athena Doll (Daidali) replica, National Archaelogican museum of Athens

Ancient Greek Jointed Athena Doll (Daidali) replica, National Archaelogican museum of Athens
Ancient Greek Clay Horse toy replica, 4th Century BC, National Archaeologican museum of Athens

Ancient Greek Clay Horse toy replica, 4th Century BC, National Archaeologican museum of Athens
Ancient Greek Children's Spinning Top Replica, Archaeological Museum of Theves

Ancient Greek Children's Spinning Top Replica, Archaeological Museum of Theves
Ancient Greek Marbles Replicas from the National Archaeologican museum of Athens

Ancient Greek Marbles Replicas from the National Archaeologican museum of Athens
Ancient Greek Clay Rattle - Seistron Replica, Museum of Heraklion

Ancient Greek Clay Rattle - Seistron Replica, Museum of Heraklion
Minoan Bull 1550 BC Replica, Museum of Heraklion

Minoan Bull 1550 BC Replica, Museum of Heraklion
Terracota Minoan Ram Replica, 1550 BC, National Archaelogican museum of Athens

Terracota Minoan Ram Replica, 1550 BC, National Archaelogican museum of Athens
Tanagra Clay Cicada Replica 450 BC, Archaelogical Museum of Athens

Tanagra Clay Cicada Replica 450 BC, Archaelogical Museum of Athens
Owl Replica from the Archaic Period 500 BC, Archaelogical Museum of Athens

Owl Replica from the Archaic Period 500 BC, Archaelogical Museum of Athens
Terracota Tree of Life with seven Birds replica, 1100 BC,  Museum of Heraklion

Terracota Tree of Life with seven Birds replica, 1100 BC, Museum of Heraklion
Ancient Greek Double Spindle Whorl Replica Neolithic Period, Archaeological Museum of Lefkada

Ancient Greek Double Spindle Whorl Replica Neolithic Period, Archaeological Museum of Lefkada
Ancient Greek Single Spindle Whorl Replica Neolithic Period, Archaeological Museum of Lefkada

Ancient Greek Single Spindle Whorl Replica Neolithic Period, Archaeological Museum of Lefkada
Knossos Oil Lamp 1550 BC Replica, Museum of Heraklion

Knossos Oil Lamp 1550 BC Replica, Museum of Heraklion
Ancient Greek Aryballos (Oil bottle), 650-640 BC, Museum of Delphi

Ancient Greek Aryballos (Oil bottle), 650-640 BC, Museum of Delphi
Tanagra Goddess Figurine 3rd Century BC Replica

Tanagra Goddess Figurine 3rd Century BC Replica
Terracota Mycenean Goddess, 1400 - 1200 BC, National Archaelogican museum of Athens

Terracota Mycenean Goddess, 1400 - 1200 BC, National Archaelogican museum of Athens
Terracota Female Figurine, Cypriot Late Bronze Age Replica, Cyprus Museum

Terracota Female Figurine, Cypriot Late Bronze Age Replica, Cyprus Museum
Clay Mother Goddess figurine, Early Bronze Age Replica, Cyprus Museum

Clay Mother Goddess figurine, Early Bronze Age Replica, Cyprus Museum
Neolithic Female Figurine replica from Farsala, Athanassakeion Museum of Volos

Neolithic Female Figurine replica from Farsala, Athanassakeion Museum of Volos
  Greek Orthodox Icons & Komboskini Prayer Ropes
Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 14x20cm

Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 14x20cm
Orthodox Saints - Saint Loukas - 14x20cm

Orthodox Saints - Saint Loukas - 14x20cm
Orthodox Saints - Panagia Iparhousa - 14x20cm

Orthodox Saints - Panagia Iparhousa - 14x20cm
Biblical Composition on Wood - Any Scene - CUSTOM - 14x20cm

Biblical Composition on Wood - Any Scene - CUSTOM - 14x20cm
Biblical Composition - Virgins Mary Patron of Mt. Athos - 14x20cm

Biblical Composition - Virgins Mary Patron of Mt. Athos - 14x20cm
Biblical Composition - St. Athanasios and the Virgin Mary, Miracle of Holy Water - 14x20cm

Biblical Composition - St. Athanasios and the Virgin Mary, Miracle of Holy Water - 14x20cm
Biblical Composition - Dormition of the Theotokos - 14x20cm

Biblical Composition - Dormition of the Theotokos - 14x20cm
Biblical Composition - St. Arsenios, Elder Paisios of Mt. Athos - 14x20cm

Biblical Composition - St. Arsenios, Elder Paisios of Mt. Athos - 14x20cm
Catholic Saints - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm

Catholic Saints - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm
Catholic Saint - Madonna Del Carmelo - 10x13cm

Catholic Saint - Madonna Del Carmelo - 10x13cm
Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm

Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm
Orthodox Saint - Virgin Mary, Mt. Athos - 10x13cm

Orthodox Saint - Virgin Mary, Mt. Athos - 10x13cm
Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm Handcarved

Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 10x13cm Handcarved
Orthodox Saint - Holy Protection of the Theotokos - 10x13cm Handcarved

Orthodox Saint - Holy Protection of the Theotokos - 10x13cm Handcarved
Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 8x11cm

Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 8x11cm
Orthodox Saint - Saint Paraskevi - 8x11cm

Orthodox Saint - Saint Paraskevi - 8x11cm
Orthodox Saint - Saint Anastasia - 8x11cm

Orthodox Saint - Saint Anastasia - 8x11cm
Orthodox Saint - Saint Panteleimon - 8x11cm

Orthodox Saint - Saint Panteleimon - 8x11cm
Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 8x11cm Handcarved

Orthodox Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 8x11cm Handcarved
Orthodox Saint - Saint Nicholas the Russian - 8x11cm Handcarved

Orthodox Saint - Saint Nicholas the Russian - 8x11cm Handcarved
Orthodox Saint - Virgin Mary Consoling - 8x11cm Handcarved

Orthodox Saint - Virgin Mary Consoling - 8x11cm Handcarved
Crucifix 11x16cm Handcarved

Crucifix 11x16cm Handcarved
Crucifix 11x16cm

Crucifix 11x16cm
Any Orthodox Saint - CUSTOM - Hand Painted on Antique Wooden Bread Bowl

Any Orthodox Saint - CUSTOM - Hand Painted on Antique Wooden Bread Bowl
Virgin Mary Hand Painted Antique Wooden Bread Bowl

Virgin Mary Hand Painted Antique Wooden Bread Bowl
Any Three Saints - CUSTOM Trifold Icon - 25x38cm

Any Three Saints - CUSTOM Trifold Icon - 25x38cm
Archangel Michael, Virgin Mary, Archangel Gabriel - Trifold Icon - 25x38cm

Archangel Michael, Virgin Mary, Archangel Gabriel - Trifold Icon - 25x38cm
Catholic Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 19x25cm

Catholic Saint - Any Saint - CUSTOM - 19x25cm
Komboskini Greek Long Prayer Rope with Cross & Beads

Komboskini Greek Long Prayer Rope with Cross & Beads
Komboskini Greek Extra Long Prayer Rope with Cross & Gold Thread

Komboskini Greek Extra Long Prayer Rope with Cross & Gold Thread
  Latest Arrivals
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Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #4 - Animals, Garden, Toys & Food (In Greek)

Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #4 - Animals, Garden, Toys & Food (In Greek)
Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #5 - Numbers (In Greek)

Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #5 - Numbers (In Greek)
Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Box Set #6 - Animals (In Greek)

Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Box Set #6 - Animals (In Greek)
Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #7 - Colors (In Greek)

Greek Box of Knowledge - Mini Boardbook Set #7 - Colors (In Greek)
Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Box Set of 5 Books (In Greek)

Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Box Set of 5 Books
(In Greek)
Little Princess Board Book Set of 5 Books (In Greek)

Little Princess Board Book Set of 5 Books (In Greek)
Greek Magnetic Boardbook - Learning Numbers (In Greek)

Greek Magnetic Boardbook - Learning Numbers
(In Greek)
Greek Magnetic Boardbook - Learning the Alphabet (In Greek)

Greek Magnetic Boardbook - Learning the Alphabet
(In Greek)
Efharisto Parakalo / Please and Thank You Boardbook, by Dorling Kindersley (In Greek)

Efharisto Parakalo / Please and Thank You Boardbook, by Dorling Kindersley
(In Greek)
Dora's Greek Alphabet, Numbers, Shapes & Colors, by Kelly Demopoulos (In Greek)

Dora's Greek Alphabet, Numbers, Shapes & Colors, by Kelly Demopoulos
(In Greek)
Dual Language Fairy Tale - Little Mermaid / Mikri Gorgona (In Greek & English)

Dual Language Fairy Tale - Little Mermaid / Mikri Gorgona (In Greek & English)
Dual Language Fairy Tale - Snow White / H Hiona Ti Ke Oi Nanoi (In Greek & English)

Dual Language Fairy Tale - Snow White / H Hiona Ti Ke Oi Nanoi (In Greek & English)
Dual Language Fairy Tale - The Ugly Duckling / To Ashimopapo (In Greek & English)

Dual Language Fairy Tale - The Ugly Duckling / To Ashimopapo (In Greek & English)
Good Morning Good Night / Kalimera Kalinihta by Melanie Mitchell (In Greek)

Good Morning Good Night / Kalimera Kalinihta by Melanie Mitchell (In Greek)
Lullabies & Stories from the Crib with CD / Nanourismata Apo Tin Oneirohora (In Greek)

Lullabies & Stories from the Crib with CD / Nanourismata Apo Tin Oneirohora (In Greek)
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star / Oneira Glika Me Asterakia Fotina (In Greek)

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star / Oneira Glika Me Asterakia Fotina (In Greek)
Sweet Dreams Baby / Oneira Flika Moraki - Light Up Musical Book (In Greek)

Sweet Dreams Baby / Oneira Flika Moraki - Light Up Musical Book (In Greek)
To imerologio enos Spasikla, by Jeff Kinney (In Greek)

To imerologio enos Spasikla, by Jeff Kinney
(In Greek)
   
  Books in Greek
The Education of an American Dreamer, Peter G. Peterson (In English)

The Education of an American Dreamer, Peter G. Peterson (In English)
I skotini plevra tou Iliou by Chrisa Dimoulidou (In Greek)

I skotini plevra tou Iliou by Chrisa Dimoulidou
(In Greek)
Den mpori, tha strosei, by Lena Manta (In Greek)

Den mpori, tha strosei, by Lena Manta (In Greek)
Opws Ithela na Zisw, by Eleni Priovolou (In Greek)

Opws Ithela na Zisw, by Eleni Priovolou (In Greek)
I tehni tou na eisai giagia, by Hara Marantidou (In Greek)

I tehni tou na eisai giagia, by Hara Marantidou
(In Greek)
Ta Sakia, by Ioanna Karystiani (in Greek)

Ta Sakia, by Ioanna Karystiani (in Greek)
I ksypoliti twn Athinwn, by Filomila Lapata (In Greek)

I ksypoliti twn Athinwn, by Filomila Lapata (In Greek)
Skiouros ziti Berberitsa, by David Sedaris (in Greek)

Skiouros ziti Berberitsa, by David Sedaris (in Greek)
CIA, o aporritos fakelos tou Andrea Papandreou, by Marios Evriviades (In Greek)

CIA, o aporritos fakelos tou Andrea Papandreou, by Marios Evriviades (In Greek)
Ypo to miden, Tessera Sholia gia tin Krisi (In Greek)

Ypo to miden, Tessera Sholia gia tin Krisi
(In Greek)/strong>
Oi anthropoi mou, by Stavros Theodorakis (in Greek)

Oi anthropoi mou, by Stavros Theodorakis
(in Greek)
Mia Nea Eksoteriki Politiki gia tin Ellada, by Spiros Markezinis (In Greek)

Mia Nea Eksoteriki Politiki gia tin Ellada, by Spiros Markezinis (In Greek)
1821 - I Gennisi enos Ethnous, by Pashalis Kitromilidis (In Greek)

1821 - I Gennisi enos Ethnous, by Pashalis Kitromilidis (In Greek)
Psomi kai Alati, the Coobook, by Giannis Loukakos (In Greek)

Psomi kai Alati, the Coobook, by Giannis Loukakos (In Greek)
O giros tis Elladas se dekaeksi taksidia, by Kostas Horikos (In Greek)

O giros tis Elladas se dekaeksi taksidia, by Kostas Horikos (In Greek)
Profitikos Onirokritis by Tagra Magiahma - Dream Interpreter (In Greek)

Profitikos Onirokritis by Tagra Magiahma - Dream Interpreter (In Greek)
Super Onirokritis by Linardatos - Dream Interpreter (In Greek)

Super Onirokritis by Linardatos - Dream Interpreter (In Greek)
     
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 Featured Destination: Cyclades - Siphnos (part 5 of 22)


GEOGRAPHY. The fourth isle of the Western Cyclades lies between Seriphos, Kimolos and Antiparos. Seriphos is 74 sq. km. in area, has 70 km. of coastline and is 76 nautical miles from Piraeus. There is a car and passenger ferry from Piraeus every day, as well as connections with Seriphos, Kimolos and Melos, while during the summer there is a local service with Paros. The island's capital is Apollonia and its population is 2,027. A mountainous island (highest peak Profitis Ilias, 680 m. a.s.l.) intersected by small, fertile plains in the bays and along the coast. It also has considerable mineral wealth (schistose rocks, marble, granite and limestone). With its shining white houses, countless churches and lovely landscape, Siphnos is ideal for those seeking a quiet, island atmosphere, as well as for those wishing to combine relaxation with sophistication and company. The island is quite well equipped to cater for tourists and there are regular communications.

HISTORY. In ancient times Siphnos was extremely wealthy on account of its gold, copper and silver mines. It was first inhabited by Karians and Phoenicians who called it Akys or Meropia. Later it was called Minoa by the Minoans who settled there. In historical times it was colonized by Ionians and experienced a splendid floruit, as exemplified by the Siphnian Treasury, votive to the god Apollo in his sanctuary at Delphi. Prehistoric remains have been located at Kalamitsi, Aghios Andreas and Aghios Nikitas. Siphnos took part in the Persian Wars and afterwards joined the Athenian League. In Hellenistic and Roman times it followed the same fate as the other Cyclades and in the Byzantine period belonged to the Thema of the Aegean. Between 1207 and 1269 it was subject to the Venetian Duchy of Naxos. It was pillaged by Barbarossa in 1537 but only capitulated to the Turks in 1617, until which date the Gozzadini overlords managed to maintain their dominance. Siphnos played an active role in the 1821 Revolution and was liberated at the same time as the rest of the Cyclades.

SIGHTS-MONUMENTS. Apollonia, the island's capital, is built in its hinterland, spreading amphitheatrically over three hills. Its narrow streets with whitewashed paving stones are flanked by two-storied, brilliant white Cycladic houses, mansions of old families and churches (Virgin Ouranophora, Saviour, St. Sozon). North of Apollonia is the private convent of the Theologian tou Moungou. In town there is a folklore collection. 1.5 km. northeast, at a higher level, is picturesque Artemonas with its windmills on the crest of the hill and a stunning view. North of Artemonas is the Hellenistic tower of Kastanas. A pathway leads from Artemonas, through the olive groves and vineyards, to Kastro (there is also a metalled road from Apollonia, which is less picturesque). Kastro, built on a sheer cliff on the east side of the island overlooking the sea, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Excavations have brought to light some finds from the Early Bronze Age, but mainly of the Geometric, Archaic and Classical eras. This was the island's capital until 1836 when it was transferred to Apollonia. Traces of the ancient acropolis on the northwest slope of the hill have been revealed in excavations conducted by the British School of Archaeology, as well as the foundations of houses dating to the 8th and 7th century BC. The castle we see today was thus arranged in the 14th century and is architecturally similar to those on Kimolos, Antiparos, Sikinos and Pholegandros, where the houses are built one joined to the other, forming the external enceinte, and parallel with these is a second, internal row of houses. Several of the many churches within the castle have survived (St. Eleousa, Dormition, St. Catherine, St. Demetrius, Forty Saints). Housed in the old Catholic church of St. Anthony of Padua is a small archaeological collection. At Seralia, southeast of Kastro, remains of the medieval harbour installations are preserved.

A short distance to the southeast of Apollonia are the villages of Exambela (2 km.), birthplace of the poet Aristomenis Provelengios (further south is the 16th century Vrysi monastery), Kato Petali, (with the nearby monastery of Chrysostom, built in 1550) and Katavati (3 km.). A path leads from here to the hill of Aghios Andreas, on which stands a church of that name, built in 1890. Prehistoric finds discovered in this region confirm its continuous habitation from Mycenaean till Hellenistic times. There are quaint little villages at Platys Yalos (10 km. south of Chora) and at Vathy (where there are also potters' workshops). Northeast of Platys Yalos is a ruined Hellenistic tower and, on an eminence above, the monastery of the Virgin of the Mountain. On a spit in the gulf of Faros stands the 17th century monastery of the Virgin Chrysopigi, protectress of the island. The monastery of the Taxiarchs is situated above Vathy and that of Prophet Elijah in the island's interior is the most important Byzantine monument on Siphnos, dating back to the 8th century, according to tradition, and with a 12th century marble iconostasis in its katholikon.

At Kamares, the island's port, there are potters' workshops. From here one can take a boat trip to the bays of Vathy, Platys Yalos and Faros with their shallow, sparkling waters and sandy shores. There are other beaches suitable for swimming at Kamares, Chrysopigi, Seralia below Kastro and Chersonisos, which is a long way off and can be reached by caique. There is a refueling station for boats at Kamares. Accommodation is available in hotels, of which there are several, pensions and rented rooms.

Next month: The Islands of the Cyclades - Melos, Part 6 of 22
 


 March 2011 Greek Orthodox Calendar

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
    1
Fast Free

Cheesefare Tuesday

Eudokia the Martyr of Heliopolis

Andonina the New Martyr
2
Cheesefare Wednesday

Hesychios the Martyr

Our Holy Father Nicholas Planas
3
Cheesefare Thursday

Eutropios, Kleonikos, Vasiliskos, Zenos, & Zoilis the Martyrs

Theodoretos the Holy Martyr of Antioch
4
Cheesefare Thursday

Gerasimos the Righteous of Jordan

Paul & his sister Juliana and their Companions
5
Cheesefare Saturday

Konon the Gardener

Theodore the Recruit
6
Forgiveness Sunday

42 Martyrs of Amorion in Phrygia

Finding the Precious Cross by St. Helen
7
First Monday in Lent

The 7 Hieromartyrs of Cherson

Lavrentios of Megara, the Righteous
8
First Tuesday in Lent

Theophylaktos, Bishop of Nicomedea

Hermas the Apostle of the 70
9
40 Martyrs at Lake Sebaste

Caesarios the Righteous
10
First Thursday in Lent

Kodratos the Martyr & his Companions

Anastasia of Alexandria
11
First Friday in Lent

Sophronios, Patriarch of Jerusalem

Theodora the Righteous
12
First Saturday in Lent

Theophanes the Confessor

Symeon the New Theologian
13
Sunday of Orthodoxy

Removal of the relics of Nicephoros, Patriarch of Constantinople

Pouplios the Martyr, Bishop of Athens
14
2nd Monday of Lent

Benedict the Righteous of Nursia

Euschemon the Confessor, Bishop of Lampasakos
15
2nd Tuesday of Lent

Agapios the martyr & his Companions

Manuel the New Martyr of Crete
16
2nd Wednesday of Lent

Savinos the Martyr of Egypt

Christodoulos the Wonderworker of Patmos
17
2nd Thursday of Lent

Alexios the Man of God

Saint Patrick, the Enlightener of Ireland
18
2nd Friday of Lent

Cyril, Patriarch of Jerusalem

Trophimos & Eukarpion, Monk-martyrs of Nicomedea
19
Second Saturday in Lent

Chrysanthos & Daria the Martyrs

Demetrios the New Martyr
20
Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas

Righteous Fathers slain at the Monastery of St. Savas

Saint Cuthbert the Wonderworker, Bishop of Lindisfarne
21
3rd Monday of Lent

James the Confessor

Thomas I, Patriarch of Constantinople
22
3rd Tuesday of Lent

Basil the Holy Martyr of Ancyra

Kalliniki & Vassilisa the Martyrs
23
3rd Wednesday of Lent

Nikon the Holy Martyr & his 200 Companion Martyrs

Anatolios & Protoleon the Martyrs converted by the martyrdom of St. George
24
3rd Thursday of Lent

Forefeast of the Annunciation of the Theotokos

Saint Tikhon, Patriarch of Moscow
25
Annunciation of the Theotokos
26
Synaxis in honor of the Archangel Gabriel

26 Martyrs in Crimea

Irenaeus the Hieromartyr of Hungary
27
Sunday of the Holy Cross

Matrona of Thessaloniki

Paul, Bishop of Corinth
28
4th Monday of Lent

Hilarion the New

Herodion the Apostle of the 70
29
4th Tuesday of Lent

Mark, Bishop of Arethusa

Martyr Cyril the Deacon and Those with him
30
4th Wednesday of Lent

John Climacus the Righteous, author of The Divine Ladder of Ascent

Sosthenes Apollos, Cephas, Caesar, & Epaphroditos, the Apostles of the 70
31
4th Thursday of Lent

Hypatios the Wonderworker

Innocent, Enlightener of Siberia & Alaska
   


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