Continent
Europe
Population
10,768,477 (July 2017 est.)
Ethnic Groups
Greek 93%, Other (foreign citizens) 7% (2001 census)
Languages:
Greek (official) 99%, Other (includes English and French) 1%
Religions:
Greek Orthodox (official) 98%, Muslim 1.3%, Other 0.7%.
History
Beginning with the prehistoric and historic Cycladic and Minoan civilizations and rising to a golden height during the Classical period, the world power of ancient Greece influenced its surroundings in art, architecture, shipbuilding, politics, philosophy, metallurgy, literature, theater, and language, among many other cultural components. Contemporary Western society continues to be highly influenced by ancient Greece. Our U.S. governmental system is a close descendant of Athenian democracy. The founding fathers of the U.S. adopted the neoclassical architectural style to establish a symbolic link to the power of ancient Greco-Roman society, the beautiful columns and temple-like facades of which can be seen in governmental and educational facilities alike, among other structures. Even the decoration of coins with a profile relief sculpture on the face is a result of ancient Greco-Roman influence.
Note: Images are of the temples of the Acropolis and the temple of Hephaestus (Athens).
Biblical History
The biblical history of Greece is vast. Ancient cities with biblical significance include:
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Athens
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Thessalonica (modern Thessaloniki)
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Philippi
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Corinth (modern Corinthos)
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Crete
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Patmos
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Berea (modern Veria)
Ruins from many of these Bible-mentioned cities can be visited today.
Note: Images are of ancient Corinth and Mars Hill (Athens).
Flora & Fauna
The climate is typical of the Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers that enjoy extended periods of sunshine.
The fauna includes bears, wild cats, brown squirrels, deer, wolves, and many species of wild goats.
The flora varies throughout the country. Some forests have mostly fir trees, pine trees, and bushes, while others have poplars, oaks, and cypress trees. Olive trees are abundant.
Flowers include roses, daisies, poppies, orchids, and lilies.