Greek History 101: From ancient beginnings to modern glory

Greece's rich history stretches back millennia, encompassing the birth of democracy, the flourishing of ancient philosophy, and the conquests of Alexander the Great. Read on to find out how this proud ancient past still informs and inspires the modern nation we know today.

Ancient origins

The history of Greece commences with the emergence of early civilizations during the Neolithic period around 7000 BCE. These pioneering settlements laid the foundation for Greek culture and society. The Minoan civilization on the island of Crete and the Mycenaean civilization on the Greek mainland left behind remarkable archaeological remnants, offering glimpses into their advanced societies.

Classical Greece

The classical period of Greek history, spanning from the 5th to 4th centuries BCE, is celebrated as Greece's golden age. This era birthed influential city-states, such as Athens and Sparta, which contributed significantly to philosophy, art, politics, and science. The philosopher Socrates, playwrights like Sophocles and Euripides, and the historian Herodotus all hail from this period. The Greco-Persian Wars, including the famous Battle of Marathon, showcased Greek valor and unity against the Persian Empire.

Alexander the Great

The conquests of Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE expanded the Greek world's reach across three continents, culminating in the establishment of the Hellenistic Empire. Greek culture fused with that of conquered regions, creating a diverse and cosmopolitan society. The Library of Alexandria in Egypt, one of the world's most renowned centers of learning, flourished during this time.

Roman influence

In 146 BCE, Greece came under Roman rule, marking the end of the Hellenistic era. But Greek culture continued to thrive in the eastern part of the Roman Empire, influencing art, philosophy, and governance. Prominent Greek thinkers, such as the Stoic philosopher Epictetus and the historian Plutarch, contributed greatly to Roman intellectual life.

Byzantine brilliance

When the Roman Empire divided in the 4th century CE, the Eastern Roman Empire, known as the Byzantine Empire, emerged with its capital in Byzantium, later renamed Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). Greek became the official language, and the Byzantine Empire preserved and expanded upon Greek traditions, producing notable works like the Corpus Juris Civilis (Justinian's Code) and exquisite religious art and architecture, including the Hagia Sophia: 

Ottomans to independence

Greece came under Ottoman rule in the 15th century, with its people being forced to endure four centuries of foreign domination. But still Greek culture and identity persisted. The Greek War of Independence (1821-1829) sparked a resurgence of nationalistic fervor. Greece achieved independence, marking the end of Ottoman rule and the birth of the modern Greek state.

Nation building

The 19th and 20th centuries saw Greece navigating the challenges of nation-building. The country experienced territorial expansion, political upheaval, and involvement in two world wars. During World War II, Greece endured Nazi occupation followed by a brutal civil war. In 1947, Greece emerged from this tumultuous period with a renewed commitment to democracy.

Greece today

Since the mid-20th century, Greece has thrived as a democratic nation, adapting to the demands of modernity while preserving its rich cultural heritage. The country boasts a vibrant arts scene, with renowned filmmakers like Theo Angelopoulos and contemporary writers like Odysseas Elytis and Giorgos Seferis earning international acclaim. Greece's ancient ruins, including the Acropolis in Athens and the Sanctuary of Delphi, continue to attract visitors from around the globe.

What better way to experience Greece’s history than to visit its ruins and museums with SA Expeditions. First peruse our most popular itineraries; then speak to one of our Destination Experts about crafting your own Greek adventure.