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If you’re looking for an exotic destination to travel to, Greece is the place to go. Influential in ancient times, it’s often called the cradle of Western civilization. Located in Southeast Europe, with more than 2000 islands, Greece offers an experience of a lifetime with its rich culture and heritage, idyllic sights and mouth-watering cuisines.
In this article, we will be looking into 5 reasons why every Muslim should visit Greece once in their lifetime.
1. Picturesque Islands and Mosques
The Medieval town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 14 mosques including the major landmark of the town, Suleiman Mosque. Built in 1552, to commemorate Ottoman Sultan Suleiman’s conquest of Rhodes, this was the first mosque in the town. Rhodes also has the Hafiz Ahmed Agha Library founded in 1793, which has various rare manuscripts of Islamic science.
Syros, Sifnos, Hydra, Milos, Santorini are a few islands in Greece which has been named by CN Traveller as the best Greek islands to visit in 2021. Rich with historical architecture and culture, photogenic and dramatic coastline and beaches, be sure to have your camera on you to take pictures of the sights as memoirs.
2. Flavorsome Mediterranean Cuisine
Enjoy authentic Greek food by the Mediterranean Sea, which offers flavorsome notes and gastronomical experience of a lifetime. The country’s cuisine reflects the influence of Turkish rule, particularly in dishes like Baklava (honey-based dessert) and Doner Kebab (spit-roasted meat).
You can find many halal food options in Greece as they also has an amazing Mediterranean diet full of fresh fish and delicious vegetable dishes and fresh fruit from the market. Some popular dishes to try include Spanakorizo (spinach rice), Calamari, Vegetable fritters and Ladera.
3. A Rich Collection of History, Culture and Politics
Considered as the cradle of Western civilizations, being the birthplace of democracy, political science, historiography, major scientific and mathematical principles and more, Greece has a rich and fascinating past. You can find centuries old-ruins scattered throughout the country, some with current constructions and modern works of art.
For a glimpse into the past, you should visit the museum where you can expect to see a rich collection of historical artifacts and Greek Mythology. Moreover, the Hellenic Festival held every summer, brings forth concerts and theatre performances which re-enacts the country’s past.
4. Islamic Heritage
Although, Greece is famous for its ancient civilization and its world-class monuments, it has a rich Islamic heritage. Greece was part of the Ottoman Empire from the fourteenth century until its declaration of independence in 1821. Today, Muslims make up about 1.2% of the Greek population, with the majority being of Turkish descent.
In Athens, you can visit the old Islamic monuments, such as Tsisdaraki Mosque, the Fethiye Mosque and the remains of the old madrasah. The Benaki Islamic Museum is a must-visit sight as it showcases items from India, Persia, Mesopotamia, the Middle East, Arabia, Egypt, North Africa, Sicily, Spain and Asia Minor and covering Islamic art from the 7th through the 19th centuries.
5. Affordable Holiday
Hotel prices have gone down due to the economic crisis in Greek. However, the beauty of Greece has not being affected by this and the quality of hospitality is up. You can expect to find great deals for airfare, travel, dining and shopping.
