Sights of our side

  Περιφορά του Επιταφίου και Μεγάλη Παρασκευή (στα Ελληνικά): Η Μεγάλη Παρασκευή είναι μία από τις πιο ιερότερες και κατανυκτικές ημέρες της Ορθόδοξης Χριστιανικής πίστης. Είναι η ημέρα που τιμάται η Σταύρωση και η Ταφή του Ιησού Χριστού. Οι πιστοί τηρούν αυστηρή νηστεία και συμμετέχουν σε ακολουθίες γεμάτες συγκίνηση και σιωπή. Το βράδυ της Μεγάλης Παρασκευής πραγματοποιείται η περιφορά του Επιταφίου. Ο Επιτάφιος είναι μία ξύλινη κατασκευή που στολίζεται με λουλούδια και συμβολίζει τον Τάφο του Χριστού. Κατά την περιφορά, ο Επιτάφιος μεταφέρεται έξω από την εκκλησία και περιφέρεται στους δρόμους της ενορίας, συνοδευόμενος από ιερείς, ψάλτες και πλήθος πιστών που κρατούν κεριά. Η πομπή είναι σιωπηλή και κατανυκτική, με ψαλμούς και θρηνητικά τροπάρια να δημιουργούν μία ιδιαίτερη ατμόσφαιρα πένθους και ελπίδας. Η περιφορά του Επιταφίου είναι μία βαθιά ριζωμένη παράδοση, που ενώνει τους ανθρώπους σε ένα κοινό βίωμα πνευματικής συμμετοχής και συγκίνησης. The Epitaphios Procession ...

| Easter Celebrations in Turkey / Türkiye’de Paskalya Kutlamaları  🎡 Paskalya Nedir? | What is Easter? TR: Paskalya, Hristiyanlık inancında İsa'nın çarmıha gerildikten sonra dirilişünü anmak için kutlanan kutsal bir bayramdır. Her yıl bahar aylarında, Mart sonu ile Nisan sonu arasında kalan bir Pazar günü kutlanır. EN: Easter is a holy festival celebrated in Christianity to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus after his crucifixion. It is celebrated on a Sunday between late March and late April each year. 🕍 Türkiye'de Kimler Paskalya Kutlar? | Who Celebrates Easter in Turkey? TR: - Rum Ortodoks Cemaati - Ermeni Apostolik Kilisesi - Katolik Cemaatler - Süryani Hristiyanlar EN: - Greek Orthodox Community - Armenian Apostolic Church - Catholic Communities - Syriac Christians 📍 Kutlamalar Nerelerde Yapılır? | Main Celebration Locations TR: - İstanbul (Fener Rum Patrikhanesi, Sent Antuan Kilisesi) - İzmir (Alsancak'taki kiliseler) - Hatay (Antakya...

  Οι μαθητές του Ε.Ε.Ε.ΕΚ Καλύμνου ετοίμασαν Πασχαλινές δημιουργίες για να στείλουν τις ευχές τους στα μέλη του eTwinning έργου "The Sights of Kalymnos: Exchanging Cultures and Experiences". Με αγάπη και δημιουργικότητα, μοιράζονται το Πασχαλινό πνεύμα και συνεχίζουν να χτίζουν γέφυρες πολιτιστικής ανταλλαγής και συνεργασίας! The students of the Special Vocational Education and Training School (EEEEK) of Kalymnos prepared Easter creations to send their warm wishes to the members of the eTwinning project "The Sights of Kalymnos: Exchanging Cultures and Experiences." With love and creativity, they share the spirit of Easter and continue to build bridges of cultural exchange and collaboration!

Ευχόμαστε το φως της Ανάστασης να γεμίσει τις καρδιές μας με αγάπη, ελπίδα και δύναμη. Ας είναι αυτές οι άγιες μέρες μια ευκαιρία για αναγέννηση, γαλήνη και ενότητα. Με υγεία, χαρά και ευλογίες για εσάς και τους αγαπημένους σας! Καλή Ανάσταση και Καλό Πάσχα! May the light of the Resurrection fill our hearts with love, hope, and strength. Let these holy days be a chance for renewal, peace, and unity. Wishing you and your loved ones health, joy, and many blessings! Happy Easter and Happy Resurrection! Αρτεμισία Κουκιανάκη Α΄ Γυμνασίου Artemisia Koukianaki 1st Grade of Junior High School Καίτη Καλαργύρου Α΄ Γυμνασίου Kaiti Kalargyroy 1st Grade of Junior High School Σωτηρία Κουκιανάκη Α΄ Γυμνασίου Sotiria Koukianaki 1st Grade of Junior High School Τάσος Γαρείος Α΄ Γυμνασίου Tasos Gareios 1st Grade of Junior High School Έλενα Μαλαματένια Β΄ Γυμνασίου Elena Malamatenia 2st Grade of Junior High School Δήμητρα Κωνσταντά Φιλόλογος - Συμμετέχουσα στο πρόγραμμα Dimitra Konstanta Philologist –...

          Turkish and Greek cultures share a deep and rich musical history, influenced by centuries of mutual interactions. This long-standing cultural exchange has led to the development of various musical instruments that are remarkably similar in both traditions, despite their distinct national identities. These instruments not only reflect the shared history but also highlight the common sonic elements that exist between the two cultures. Below are some of the most prominent instruments found in both Turkish and Greek music. Bouzouki (Greece) / Baglama (Turkey)      The Bouzouki in Greece and the Baglama in Turkey are both stringed instruments with a rich sound and deep cultural significance. While the bouzouki has a longer neck and often comes in a larger size, the baglama is smaller and more compact, though both instruments are played with a plectrum. They share similar tuning systems and are fundamental in both folk and traditional...

  When it comes to Turkish cuisine, there are countless regional dishes that stand out. But if you ever find yourself exploring the Thracian region of Turkey, there’s one flavor you simply can’t miss: Tekirdağ Köftesi —the iconic meatball dish named after the charming coastal city of Tekirdağ , located along the Marmara Sea. A Culinary Symbol of Tekirdağ Tekirdağ Köftesi is more than just food—it's a source of local pride , a time-honored tradition, and one of the city’s most famous exports. This savory dish is often hailed as one of the best köfte (meatball) varieties in all of Turkey. What makes it so special? It's all about the quality of the meat, the unique blend of spices, and the meticulous preparation passed down from generation to generation. What’s in a Tekirdağ Köftesi? Unlike ordinary meatballs, Tekirdağ Köftesi has a distinctive taste and texture. The ingredients may seem simple, but the balance is everything: High-quality ground beef (sometimes mixed wi...

  When exploring the bustling streets of Istanbul , most visitors expect to be amazed by mosques, palaces, and vibrant bazaars. But hidden beneath the city lies a magical, underground world that feels like something out of a fantasy novel—the Basilica Cistern , known in Turkish as Yerebatan Sarnıcı , or literally “The Cistern That Sinks Into the Ground.” A Glimpse Into the Past The Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to store and supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings in the area. It is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul, many of which are still being discovered. The name "Basilica" comes from the fact that it was constructed under a large public square called the Stoa Basilica. The cistern could hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water and was fed by aqueducts from the Belgrade Forest, over 19 kilometers away. A Marvel of Ancient Engineer...

  Çiftetelli is one of the most iconic and widely recognized traditional dances of Turkey. Known for its lively rhythm , expressive movements, and joyful energy, Çiftetelli is often performed at weddings, festivals, and special gatherings. It’s not just a dance—it’s a celebration of life, love, and shared happiness. Etymology and Origins The word "Çiftetelli" comes from Turkish and means "double string" ( çifte = double, telli = stringed ), referring to the style of playing on the violin or other stringed instruments that accompanies the dance. The dance has roots in both Anatolian and Eastern Mediterranean traditions , and has been influenced by both Turkish and Greek cultures over centuries. While its exact origin is debated, Çiftetelli has long been part of communal life in various parts of Turkey, especially in the western and southern regions. Dance Characteristics Çiftetelli is usually a duet or group dance , and it can be performed by both men and w...

  Among the traditional dances of Turkey, Zeybek stands out with its solemn elegance, deep symbolism, and heroic spirit. Originating from the Aegean region of western Turkey, Zeybek is more than just a cultural performance—it is a dance that tells stories of bravery, honor, and freedom. Historical Origins Zeybek is believed to have emerged during the Ottoman period , influenced by the local warrior communities known as “Efe” and “Zeybeks.” These were bands of fighters, often operating in the mountains of the Aegean region, who protected villages and upheld justice in times of unrest. The Zeybek dance reflects their strong sense of identity, courage, and independence. The dance became a way to honor fallen comrades , celebrate victories, and display solidarity. It was also used in ceremonies, weddings, and village gatherings, symbolizing respect and unity. Dance Characteristics Zeybek is typically a solo or group dance , performed in a circular formation. The lead dancer ,...

  One of the most energetic and captivating traditional dances in Turkey, Horon originates from the vibrant and mountainous Black Sea region, particularly from the provinces of Trabzon, Rize, Artvin, and Giresun. Characterized by fast-paced footwork, rhythmic movements, and a strong sense of community, Horon is much more than a dance—it is a cultural identity, a celebration, and a way of life. Origins and Cultural Significance Horon has deep historical roots, with influences tracing back to the Pontic Greeks and ancient Anatolian civilizations . Its name is believed to have derived from the Greek word "choros," meaning dance. For centuries, people living in the Black Sea region used Horon as a way to express joy, unity, and resistance to life’s hardships. Traditionally, Horon was performed during celebrations, weddings, harvest festivals, and even after fishing or hunting trips. It was also believed to strengthen solidarity within the community and serve as a form of s...

  Located in the heart of Giresun, a picturesque city on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, Giresun Castle ( Giresun Kalesi ) stands as a timeless witness to history, nature, and culture. Perched atop a hill that offers sweeping views of the Black Sea and the city below, this ancient fortress is not only a historical monument but also a beloved local landmark. Historical Background Giresun Castle dates back to the 2nd century B.C., during the reign of Pharnaces I of Pontus. Built by the Kingdom of Pontus, it served as a military stronghold to protect the city, known in ancient times as Kerasus . Over the centuries, the castle has been occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and eventually the Ottomans, each leaving traces of their presence within its stone walls. Architecture and Structure Though only parts of the original walls remain today, the castle once featured strong stone fortifications, watchtowers, and gates. The inner section of the castle is better preserved, and visitors can stil...