Today, the site is an open-air museum, housing archaeological remains, tombs, and other ancient monuments that are part of ancient Athens. It is a place rich in history and well worth exploring for visitors to the city.

Whether indulging in water sports, savoring exquisite Mediterranean cuisine, or simply unwinding under the Mediterranean sun, the Asteras Vouliagmenis Peninsula promises an unforgettable experience of Greek hospitality and serenity.

In his greeting, Dendias referred to George Gordon Byron’s special relationship with Greece and his contribution to the struggle for Greek independence. Dendias concluded his address by reading verses from Byron’s poem “The Isles of Greece.” Byron, who is revered in Greece as one of the great philhellenes, died in Mesolongi on April 19, 1824. [Defense Ministry/AMNA]

A lack of male pygmy hippos in captivity had complicated breeding efforts, so zoo staff were “absolutely thrilled” the baby was a boy, Noi Psaroudaki, the zoo’s wildlife veterinarian, told Reuters. “This is the first birth in the zoo in 2024, and what a birth!” Psaroudaki said. “Every captive birth of pygmy hippos is extremely important. We’re very happy to see this baby grow into a healthy adult hippo, and hopefully one day reproduce,” she said. Pygmy hippos are native to swamps and rainforests in western Africa. They are listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and it is estimated only about 2,000-2,500 still live in the wild. Weighing 7 kg (15.4 pounds), the male calf – whose name will go to a vote – was born on Feb. 19 and joins his parents Lizzie and Jamal as the only pygmy hippos at the zoo. The hippo, solitary and nocturnal by nature, will remain with its mother for a couple of months until it ventures into the outdoors enclosure. [Reuters]   Pygmy hippo: Not only cute, but extremely important The birth of a male pygmy hippopotamus at Athens’ Attica Zoological Park on feb. 19 was viewed as an important development for the survival of its species. The hippo belongs to one of the rarest and most endangered species. It is estimated that only 2,000 – 2,500 live in the wild and more specifically in the Ivory Coast, Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Their main characteristic, as evidenced by their name, is their size. It is five times smaller and 10 times lighter than ordinary hippos, while they also have a smaller upper jaw. This particular hippopotamus – still unnamed – has now reached 18 kilograms. The experts who monitor its health say that they are particularly happy with his development, adding that the fact that it is a boy is a positive development.  “The ratio of female to male pygmy hippos in zoos is 7 to 1, so you understand that the birth of a boy is important for the evolution of his species,” zoo founder and CEO, Jean Jacques Lesueur, tells Kathimerini. The young mammal’s parents, Lizzie (named after late Queen Elizabeth II, as she was born on her birthday) and Jamal, are in their 20s, and hippos of this species reach around 30 years of age in captivity. The important thing is that both have a registered family tree, as in such rare animals there is always the risk of inbreeding. “Consider that in 2023 we had a total of 12 births in zoos and about half survived. Lizzie had previously given birth to four other babies, three of whom survived. We don’t have them here in the park, just like we won’t keep the baby hippo that was just born,” he adds. The Attica Zoological Park is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) which monitors and records the genealogy and reproduction of endangered species through special programs. For each species there is a corresponding coordinator, who will decide where the little hippo will continue its life. “As soon as it reaches the age of three, its species coordinator will tell us which park to send it to, so that it can be paired with a suitable mate, thus avoiding even the slightest possibility of inbreeding,” Lesueur explains. Dimitris Posantzis, the zoo’s veterinarian, along with a colleague and the caretakers, monitored Lizzy throughout her pregnancy, but without any particular stress. “We did not have to intervene, as these animals usually give birth easily and do not require any help from us. Of course, we watched Lizzie from the first stages of her pregnancy, we did ultrasounds for the development of the fetus, while during the days when she would deliver there was additional monitoring through the cameras. Although Lizzie is now used to human presence we didn’t want to burden her by being around her all the time. Fortunately, everything went well and we are very happy,” he tells Kathimerini. Both Lesueur and Posantzis point to the contribution of zoos to saving endangered species. “There are many cases,” Lesueur says, giving as an example the Bali myna, also known as Rothschild’s mynah, a beautiful white songbird, which fell victim to the uncontrolled rare animal trade in Bali. “In 2001 there were very few left in the wild, the number recorded was 6! At the same time, however, in zoological parks the species has successfully been reproduced and through repeated reintroductions the species is beginning to recover. The current population in Bali comes from zoos. But it is still in danger.” Another example that comes up for discussion is the scimitar oryx (Oryx dammah), a species of antelope that, although it was one of the most common large mammals in the Sahara, was in danger of extinction in the 1980s-90s, as its huge horns had made it a target for hunters. It was declared “extinct from the wild” in 2000, but has now been reintroduced throughout North Africa.  “Thanks to zoo breeding programs, the species survives today,” Lesueur says, closing our discussion with the story of the Rodrigues fruit bat, also known as Rodrigues flying fox, that lived in Rodrigues, an island in the Indian Ocean. “In the 1970s, after a devastating cyclone, the population of this species dwindled to less than 100. Then the Durrell Wildlife Park on the isle of Jersey began a very successful breeding and reintroduction program. Now their population is considered safe, even in the event that disaster strikes again in nature,” he says.

They were among five members of a Greek rescue team who were killed en route to the flood-ravaged city of Derna. The awards were given to their father Kanakis Mandalios and their sister Lilian Mandalios, in the presence of their mother, relatives and friends. The ceremony was attended by Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis. [Thodoris Manolopoulos/President’s Press Office]

This renaissance is fueled by state support, breathing new life into these historical structures. Through careful renovation, these buildings are being restored to their former glory, revealing their true beauty. These architectural gems, steeped in history, are now gleaming anew, reflecting Athens' rich heritage and its commitment to preserving the past while embracing the future. This revival is not just about restoring buildings, but about revitalizing the soul of the city itself. Discover the most beautiful "jewels" in the districts of Monastiraki and Psiri. You should especially keep your eyes open on Athinas Street, Aiolou Street and Ermou Street. More about: Neoclassical Buildings in Athens  

Seen as a man sleeps in Tripiti beach in Gavdos island, the southernmost point of Greece and Europe, early Sunday, on August 13th, 2023. [Petros Giannakouris/AP]

 August 1st, 2023. [Alkis Konstantinidis/Reuters]

Step into the vibrant world of Plaka, Athens, where ancient history meets a kaleidoscope of colors. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis hill, this enchanting neighborhood beckons travelers with its charming streets and picturesque alleyways. As you stroll through Plaka's labyrinthine pathways, you'll be captivated by the mesmerizing hues that adorn its walls, doors, and windows. From the vibrant blues reminiscent of the Aegean Sea to the warm terracotta shades that evoke the Mediterranean sunsets, Plaka's color palette is a feast for the eyes. Each shade tells a story, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this historic district. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, the colors of Plaka will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. More about the Plaka Find this pic @Instagram