Activities Menu
A programme of cultural activities which offers an introduction to the rich local history and traditions of the Aegean. In Greek and English. This programme is free for the students of the Greek Language and Culture Programme (20 hours/ week).
You can also select one or more activities from the Menu below as a tailor-made private programme.
1. Introduction to Greek language –crash course “our roots, our language”
This crash course is an entertaining way to start learning Greek. It introduces to the basic vocabulary of every day communication. You will also discover the Greek alphabet and words of Greek root in other languages. Learn how to greet people, introduce yourself and, most importantly, order a drink in a ‘kafeneio’ or ‘taverna’. The teacher starts with greetings and introducing oneself in Greek, and then teaches the alphabet and some useful words of every day communication. She / he uses flash cards in order to make the lesson fun and effective. At the end gives as a present to every learner a card with her/ his own name in Greek.
2. Traditional Greek dance lesson and presentation of Greek dances/ Greek religious festivals
The ‘Zorba dance’ is well-known, but in Greece you’ll discover many other traditional dances, especially when you visit different festivals. The lesson begins with a presentation, and videos, on the most popular dances, their history and their role in people’s everyday lives. Then we learn a few dance steps ourselves.
3. Singing Greek songs and presentation of Greek music
Learning through singing is effective and fun! It helps us to practice our Greek accents, and also to express ourselves and overcome language barriers. After the presentation on Greek musical genres, we learn to sing some songs. For non-Greek speakers, we provide versions in Latin script, as well as translations into English and other languages.
4. Visit to a local farmer and presentation of Santorini products
A walk through the vineyards of Megalochori takes us to a local farm outside the village. There we meet a local farmer who shares the secrets of the Santorini soil on which he grows some of the island’s delicious products.
5. Ceramics lesson and presentation of ceramic art
In ancient times, pottery manufacture was vital to the local economy. Rediscover that creative past and mould your own masterpiece, with the help of award-winning artisan potter Andreas Makaris. The inspirational atmosphere of the potter’s studio will leave you relaxed and invigorated.
6. Guided tour to a winery and wine tasting of three wines
It’s our pleasure to show you a Santorini winery. We visit either Venetsanos, the island’s first winery, or Santo Wines, the biggest winery in the Cyclades, which belongs to the Santorini cooperative. You will sample three wines, and discover the unique aromas of the island’s viticulture. It is an evening of sensory delight.
7. Walking tour in Megalochori
Our walk takes us through the traditional village of Megalochori, one of Santorini’s most beautiful. We learn about its history and culture, and talk to local people for an authentic insight into village life. The walk ends at the caldera, with its breath-taking view of the sunset.
8. Walking tours from Megalochori to Pyrgos or to Emporio
Our route passes through Megalochori and the surrounding vineyards. In one direction lies Pyrgos, the highest village in Santorini, with its beautiful castle. The other way leads to Emporio, also with a medieval castle. These two atmospheric walks avoid the island’s busier roads and are safe for all.
- Students of the Greek Language Programmes participate at no extra cost. Their friends and relatives can choose any activity at a 50% discount.
- Each activity lasts about 2- 2.5 hours. The activities usually start at 19:00 on week-days, but they can be also organized in the morning upon request. Some activities can be moved during Saturday.
- The fees for the activities include: transportation from the HCC in Megalochori, written informational material on the topic, interpretation into Greek-English, and instruction by an educator of the HCC team.
