Greece — map and facts

Greece is a country in south-eastern Europe, situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, with coastlines along the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas. With a population of approximately 10.7 million and a history that directly shaped Western civilisation, Greece occupies a unique place in world culture. The capital is Athens. The currency is the euro (EUR).

About Greece

Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, is a parliamentary republic. It comprises a mainland in the southern Balkan Peninsula and an archipelago of approximately 6,000 islands and islets, of which around 220 are inhabited. The most important island groups are the Aegean Islands (including the Cyclades and Dodecanese), the Ionian Islands, and the large island of Crete to the south. Greece borders Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. It has been a member of the European Union since 1981 and uses the euro.

Geography and landscape

Greece covers approximately 131,957 km². Around 80% of the land is mountainous — the Pindus range runs through the mainland, and Mount Olympus (2,918 m) is the country's highest point. Greece has one of the world's longest coastlines relative to land area — approximately 13,700 km — due to its many islands and deeply indented bays. The climate is predominantly Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The Aegean Sea, dotted with islands, is one of the most recognisable maritime landscapes in the world.

History

Greece is considered the cradle of Western civilisation. Ancient Greece produced the world's first known democracy (Athens, 5th century BCE), the Olympic Games, foundational philosophy (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle), drama, and architecture. Alexander the Great's campaigns spread Greek culture from Egypt to India. Greece was later incorporated into the Roman Empire, then the Byzantine Empire, which preserved Greek culture and Orthodox Christianity. Ottoman rule lasted from the 15th century until the Greek War of Independence (1821–1829). Modern Greece emerged as an independent state, later a republic.

Economy and currency

Greece is a developed market economy. Tourism is the largest sector: Greece is one of the world's most visited destinations, with major draws including Athens, the Greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Corfu), and ancient archaeological sites. Shipping is another cornerstone — Greek-owned vessels constitute the world's largest fleet. Greece adopted the euro in 2001. Following a severe economic crisis from 2010 to 2018, Greece has returned to growth.

Culture and language

Greek is the official language, one of the world's oldest recorded languages with a continuous written tradition of over 3,400 years. The Greek Orthodox Church is central to culture and identity. Ancient ruins at the Acropolis, Delphi, Olympia, and Knossos attract millions of visitors; the monasteries of Meteora, perched on rock pillars, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Greek cuisine — moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, fresh seafood, olive oil — is beloved worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Greece? Athens, one of the world's oldest cities, is the capital and cultural centre.

What currency does Greece use? The euro (EUR), adopted in 2001.

What is the Acropolis? The Acropolis of Athens is a rocky outcrop topped by ancient monuments including the Parthenon, built in the 5th century BCE and dedicated to the goddess Athena. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How many islands does Greece have? Greece has approximately 6,000 islands and islets, of which around 220 are inhabited. The largest island is Crete.

Is Greece a member of the European Union? Yes. Greece joined the EU in 1981 and adopted the euro in 2001.