Greece has been responsible for framing civilization, as we know it today. If it were not for the ancient Greeks, their love for art, aesthetics, and fine living, as well as their profound mythology, humanity would probably never have been able to define culture. Greece is the inspiration behind much of modern language, beliefs, art, and architecture.

Greece has a long, rich history, which has given birth to a varied culture that continues to evolve to this day. The country?s geography left it isolated for much of its earlier existence. The distinctive Mediterranean climate has also contributed to the development of its culture and provided a unique setting for the rise of several great people. Greece was successively occupied by the Persians, the Romans, and the Turks, each leaving an imprint of its civilization on Greece. Greece has been at the center of global development and its customs and traditions are symbolic of the world as a whole.

The most significant aspect of Greek culture is its language. Modern English derives its roots, the script of its alphabet and its pronunciation key from Greek. Much of the dialects spoken in the country have been influenced by Latin, Arabic, and Spanish. Greek writers such as Homer, Aristotle, and Sappho continue to mold modern schools of philosophy and thought. Greek music and dance are vibrant and colorful representations of the region?s culture. The music varies tremendously from local folksongs to the Gregorian chants of the Greek Orthodox Church. The most popular type of music is the ?Laikimusiki?, which is comprised of ballads sung to traditional instruments like the ?Bouzoukis' (a small guitar). The Greek believe that people who can dance are gifts from the Gods and dance is a very essential component of Greek life. Traditional folklore forms have been blended with modern dramatization to give rise to dances such as Zorba and Greek dance-dramas called Chlorodrama.

Greek festivals are derived from a variety of sources from ancient traditions as well as modern Catholic influences. Carnivals and feasts are held to commemorate various saints and sanctified pagan deities. Amongst the modern celebrations, the most popular is the Rockwave Fest, which is a platform for all types of alternative music and theatre.

Author's Note: Greece provides detailed information on Greece, Ancient Greece, Greece Flights, Greece Hotels and more. Greece is affiliated with Zuid Holland.