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With its ancient history, Greece is one of the most significant destinations within the cultural heritage of the world. Even today, the country continues to reflect its rich culture in many areas of daily life. From mythology to ancient Greek theater, from traditional dances to a delicious and generous cuisine, Greece carries the spirit of the Mediterranean with pride. Its traditions, shaped through centuries and woven into everyday living, are equally captivating. So how did these traditions form, and how do they appear in the Greek understanding of celebration and joy? Here is what you should know about the culture and traditions of Greece.

Taverna Culture

For Greeks, the very idea of entertainment immediately brings to mind the taverna. Offering both the atmosphere of a tavern and a restaurant, the taverna is much more than a simple entertainment venue. It is a place to gather, share a meal, talk freely, and enjoy companionship. Meals stretch into long hours, and as the music fills the room, people begin to dance naturally and spontaneously. This atmosphere emerges on its own, and the Greek people are wonderfully accustomed to it.

The music in tavernas is created with the bouzouki, an instrument symbolic of Greek culture. With the bouzouki, musicians play either melancholic Rebetiko songs or more cheerful songs known as Laiko. In tavernas, dancing begins without effort or planning, and anyone who wishes is welcome to join. These places are cultural meeting points where local people and visitors come together and share the same spirited environment.

The Greek Zeibekiko

The Greek dance known as zeibekiko resembles our own zeybek, yet for Greeks it carries a deeper and more emotional meaning. To them, zeibekiko is a powerful ritual, an intimate moment of releasing emotions. It is not a dramatic display in the sense of sorrowful storytelling, but rather an expression of inner pain and pride.

The dance begins with one person stepping forward while the others crouch down to create space for the dancer. The person who remains standing dances entirely according to inner feelings, without any choreography or rules. Because of this, the mood of the dancer, the rhythm of the music, and the energy of the environment come together to create a performance that is completely unique every time.

The Ritual of Ouzo and Meze

In Greek culture, ouzo holds a very special place. This drinking ritual resembles our own rakı table, yet it has notable differences. The way ouzo turns white when mixed with water carries a mystical meaning for the Greek people. According to them, the flavor of Greek ouzo is something to be appreciated with patience.

Therefore, nothing on the table is consumed in a hurry. Drinks are enjoyed slowly while conversations continue with ease. The meze on the table represents companionship and togetherness. After a while, songs rise joyfully, and anyone who wishes can get up to dance.

A Symbol of Greek Identity: Sirtaki

One of the most recognized symbols of Greek culture, sirtaki is actually a modern dance created for the 1964 film Zorba’nın Günü (Zorba The Greek). Over time, it was embraced wholeheartedly by the Greek people and became a proud part of their identity. Dancing in the same rhythm feels like a celebration of community spirit and the joy of living.

Sirtaki begins slowly and grows faster with time. You do not need any technical knowledge to dance it. Once dancers line up shoulder to shoulder, they naturally find a shared rhythm and gradually accelerate. During the liveliest moments of a taverna night, Greeks embrace life with sirtaki and end the evening all together with cheerful unity.

Greek Nights at Elite World Grand İstanbul Basın Ekspres

Would you like to experience the unique spirit of Greek entertainment without traveling far?

If your answer is “Yes!”, then we invite you to the Greek Nights of Elite World Grand İstanbul Basın Ekspres. During these nights, you can feel the salty breeze and calming atmosphere of the Aegean without leaving İstanbul.

In these special events, where the bouzouki, talented vocalists, and the enchanting sounds of the accordion blend together, you can surrender to the flow of music and escape the rush of daily life. Sirtaki, the symbol of Greece, is also one of the highlights of the night. You can feel the lively joy and sense of freedom that belongs to Greek culture, and you can even experience the traditional plate breaking ritual that reveals the mystical side of this culture.

These unforgettable nights, held at The Grill, also include the signature flavors of Greek cuisine. Delicious dishes are accompanied by ouzo and a variety of meze. With the refined tastes of Mediterranean cuisine, you can enjoy a delightful and indulgent evening.

For an unforgettable Greek Night experience, you can contact Elite World Grand İstanbul Basın Ekspres.You can ask for detailed information and reserve your place in advance.

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