30 English Words You Didn’t Know Come from Ancient Greek

The English language, like a tapestry woven from countless cultural threads, owes much of its vocabulary to the ancient Greeks. From the philosophical musings of Plato to the bustling democratic assemblies of Athens, Greek civilization has left its indelible mark not only on politics, science, and art—but also on the very words we use today. Below is a journey through time, exploring thirty English words that, though modern in sound, are rooted in the language of Homer, Aristotle, and Socrates.

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1. Philosophy – φιλοσοφία (philosophía)

Literally, “love of wisdom” (φίλος = love, σοφία = wisdom). This word encapsulates the core of intellectual pursuit.

2. Democracy – δημοκρατία (dēmokratía)

From δῆμος (people) and κράτος (power), democracy is the quintessential Greek invention that has shaped political systems worldwide.

3. Politics – πολιτικά (politiká)

Derived from πόλις (polis = city), politics originally referred to affairs of the city-state, the heart of ancient Greek civic life.

4. Economy – οἰκονομία (oikonomía)

A term composed of οἶκος (house) and νέμω (to manage), economy once referred to household management, later expanding to larger economic systems.

5. History – ἱστορία (historía)

Meaning “inquiry” or “knowledge through investigation,” history was first systematized by Herodotus, often called the “father of history.”

6. Chaos – χάος (cháos)

A primordial void or abyss from which all things emerged—this word hints at the ancient Greeks’ cosmogonic narratives.

7. Cosmos – κόσμος (kósmos)

Originally signifying “order” or “adornment,” κόσμος came to mean the ordered universe—a concept central to Greek philosophical thought.

8. Atmosphere – ἀτμός (atmós) + σφαῖρα (sphaîra)

A poetic image: vapor (ἀτμός) encasing the world in a spherical shell (σφαῖρα).

9. Planet – πλανήτης (planētēs)

From πλανάομαι (to wander), planets were “wandering stars,” their movements distinct from the fixed stars.

10. Telescope – τῆλε (tēle) + σκοπέω (skopeō)

A modern coinage from Greek roots meaning “to see far,” embodying the fusion of ancient language and modern science.

11. Telephone – τῆλε (tēle) + φωνή (phōnē)

Literally “distant voice,” the telephone is another product of applying Greek etymology to new technology.

12. Cinema – κίνημα (kínēma)

Derived from κινέω (to move), cinema captures the Greek fascination with movement, drama, and storytelling.

13. Acrobat – ἄκρος (akros) + βαίνω (bainō)

Meaning “one who walks high,” acrobatics are as daring in origin as they are in execution.

14. Syntax – σύνταξις (syntaxis)

From σύν (together) and τάξις (order), syntax reflects the precise and logical structuring valued in Greek rhetoric.

15. Anatomy – ἀνατομία (anatomía)

Combining ἀνά (up) and τέμνω (to cut), this term evokes the meticulous dissections that furthered Greek medicine.

16. Dialogue – διάλογος (diálogos)

Through διά (through) and λόγος (word), the term implies the flow of ideas—a hallmark of Socratic teaching.

17. Idea – ἰδέα (idéa)

From ἰδεῖν (to see), the word carries Platonic weight: ideas are eternal forms, seen with the mind’s eye.

18. Drama – δρᾶμα (drâma)

Meaning “action” or “deed,” drama was both sacred ritual and artistic expression in the Greek world.

19. Music – μουσική (mousikē)

The art of the Muses, divine patrons of creativity and knowledge. All music, for the Greeks, was divine inspiration.

20. Tragedy – τραγῳδία (tragōidía)

Literally “goat song” (τράγος = goat, ᾠδή = song), this term hints at early Dionysian rituals—perhaps involving goat sacrifices or choral dances.

21. Hyperbole – ὑπερβολή (hyperbolē)

From ὑπέρ (beyond) and βάλλω (to throw), hyperbole literally means “to overshoot”—perfect for exaggeration.

22. Metaphor – μεταφορά (metaphorá)

μετά (beyond) + φέρω (to carry): metaphor is the carrying of meaning beyond the literal.

23. Epidemic – ἐπιδημία (epidēmía)

Composed of ἐπί (upon) and δῆμος (people), an epidemic is something that befalls the population—a concept well understood in ancient city-states.

24. Horoscope – ὡροσκόπος (hōroskopos)

Meaning “watcher of the hour,” it stems from Greek astrological practices and divination.

25. Autopsy – αὐτοψία (autopsía)

From αὐτός (self) and ὄψις (sight): “seeing for oneself.” The ancient Greeks valued empirical observation even in death.

26. Apocalypse – ἀποκάλυψις (apokálypsis)

Literally “uncovering” or “revelation,” this word took on profound eschatological meaning in early Christian texts.

27. Ethics – ἦθος (ēthos)

Referring to habit or character, ethics was central to Greek philosophy, especially in the works of Aristotle.

28. Theory – θεωρία (theōría)

From θεωρέω (to observe), theory is more than speculation—it is contemplation grounded in the act of witnessing.

29. Athlete – ἀθλητής (athlētēs)

Born from ἆθλος (contest), the athlete embodies the Greek ideal of competitive excellence.

30. Academy – Ἀκαδημία (Akadēmía)

Named after the grove of Akademos where Plato taught, the Academy became the prototype of educational institutions.

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A Living Legacy

The richness of the English lexicon owes much to ancient Greek thought, reflecting a civilization that placed immense value on observation, logic, artistic expression, and the pursuit of knowledge. These words are more than just etymological relics—they are living traces of a worldview that continues to influence us.

Whether you’re discussing politics, pondering a theory, or writing a dialogue, you’re channeling the spirit of ancient Greece—one syllable at a time.

The Apollo Kouros: A Giant Ancient Statue on a Hill in Naxos Island for Centuries

A giant ancient statue has stood on a hill on the island of Naxos for centuries.

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The Apollo Kouros, also known as the Colossus of Dionysus, is an incomplete statue measuring 10.7 meters tall, made from light gray Naxian marble and weighing around 80 tons.

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It has never stood upright as originally intended, remaining incomplete in its current location to this day.

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Dating back to the 5th or 4th century BC, the statue is located in the northern part of Naxos, in the picturesque fishing village of Apollo. The statue has a frontal pose, with its arms pressed against its sides and elbows bent. Additionally, the left leg is longer than the right.

By Paolo Trovo shutterstock

Typically, kouros statues depict young men standing nude, with their arms resting at their sides. However, it is clear that the Apollo Kouros was meant to represent an elderly man with a beard, and its right arm would have been outstretched in front of him.

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Ancient kouros statues were usually interpreted as depictions of Apollo. However, due to the beard, the Apollo Kouros is often identified as the Greek god Dionysus.

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Experts suggest that the ancient sculptors did not complete their plans for the statue’s final form, leaving part of it unfinished. Most believe that the statue was too heavy to be transported, which hindered its completion.

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It has been speculated that during the production process, it was realized that the statue had several cracks. Alternatively, the ancient sculptors might have feared that the statue could break during the cutting process from the ground or that the sculpture was never paid for.

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The Sets of "Odyssey" Left by Nolan in Messinia After Filming Wraps

Christopher Nolan has fulfilled the request of the residents of Messinia by leaving behind some of the sets used for the filming of "Odyssey", so they can be utilized for tourism purposes.

However, a significant portion of the filming was moved to Sicily, as the overall filming is not yet complete.

The Acrocorinth, the Castle of Methoni, Nestor's Cave, and the beaches of Voidokilia and Almyrolakka in Messinia were the locations chosen by the Hollywood director to bring the Homeric epic to life.

Below are photos of the sets in Messinia:

"How the Presence of Humans Affected the Earth and How the Earth Itself Influenced Human Civilizations"

Peter Frankopan, The Transformations of the Earth: Climate, Ecology, and History, translated by Nikos Ligris, published by Alexandria Press

Peter Frankopan is rightly regarded as one of the best historians in the world. His works have all contributed significantly to the analysis of global history, but more importantly, they have helped the general public better understand it. Among his works translated into Greek and published by Alexandria Press are The First Crusade: The Call of the East, The Silk Roads: A New History of the World, The New Silk Roads: The Present and Future of the World, and the book we will discuss here, The Transformations of the Earth: Climate, Ecology, and History.

It may seem somewhat cliché, but it’s worth mentioning: when as a reader you hold such a massive volume in your hands—707 pages, excluding references and other notes—it’s impossible not to admire the extensive research and study of so many diverse sources conducted by the author to present such a scientifically grounded work. And the fact that his observations in this book span the entire planet and cover a timeline from the origins of the world—approximately 4.5 billion years ago—up to the 21st century, makes the completion of such a monumental work even more impressive.

The truth is, most things and events in history—at least those we can know—have already been said. Therefore, today’s historians often turn to comparative studies and interdisciplinary approaches to their subjects, such as the one Frankopan uses in this book. The author examines how the climate, land transformations, and ecological changes influenced the development of human history. More specifically, he explores how climate change has dramatically contributed to both the rise and fall of civilizations over time.

The impetus for writing this book was undoubtedly the current climate change, which is driven by human activity and is now widely supported by 99% of scientists, according to the author. The truth is, this is the first time in history that a climate change affects the entire planet and is clearly visible across all continents. Previous climate periods, like the Roman Warm Period or the Medieval Warm Period, did not impact the entire world and did not have the same effects on all civilizations.

Frankopan examines human interventions in the environment, starting from prehistory through to the industrial era and the 20th century, when human interference with the natural world reached unprecedented and irreversible scales.

So, did the "invention" of agriculture result from a warmer climate? How did volcanic eruptions over the centuries affect the global climate? Were there laws in ancient times that prohibited deforestation? Can the rise and fall of Rome be explained by climate factors? How did the Little Ice Age in Europe impact the development of privacy? Did globalization begin in the 15th century? What exactly happened during the so-called "Columbian Exchange"? What is the biggest pollutant on our planet today? Are there sustainable solutions? These are just a few of the many questions the book addresses.

In conclusion, this is a book of knowledge that will make us reflect on how the presence of humans has affected our planet over the centuries—and how the earth itself has shaped human civilizations, as well as the uncertain future of our world.

A "Careful Person" Went for a Walk and Accidentally Discovered a 1,000-Year-Old Viking Bracelet

On a casual stroll through the Kalmar region of Sweden, an ordinary passerby stumbled upon something that turned out to be an extraordinarily rare archaeological find: an iron bracelet from the Viking era.

At first, it appeared to be just a dull, rusted bracelet, but it was revealed to be a rare object dating back to the Viking period—specifically about 1,000 years ago.

The Significance of the Discovery

The announcement from the Kalmar County Administration reports that the object was found by a "careful person," who initially thought they had discovered a common, rusted bracelet. However, after confirmation from experts, it was revealed to be a rare type of iron bracelet characteristic of the Vikings.

Archaeologist Karl-Oskar Erlandsson from Kalmar stated that, of the more than 1,000 Viking bracelets held in the Swedish National Historical Museum, only three are made of iron.

This rarity is due to iron’s susceptibility to corrosion, and it is believed that the marshy area where the bracelet was found helped preserve it much better than other materials. This preservation also allowed the intricate craftsmanship to be revealed after a millennium.

Details of the Bracelet

The newly discovered bracelet is a C-shaped piece, beautifully decorated with rows of dots and animal heads at the ends.

According to the statement, “The new bracelet discovery is exceptionally beautiful, with rows of dots and animals at the ends.” Similar finds have been made in Gotland, but this particular example has not been found in exact replicas until now.

The Öland region, where the bracelet was discovered, was once a major trade center for Sweden, especially during the Viking age. The island, the second-largest in the country, is located in the southeastern part of Sweden, surrounded by the Baltic Sea. It was famous for the Borgholm Castle and is home to the Swedish royal family’s summer residence, Solliden Palace.

Future Research on the Origin of the Bracelet

Authorities plan to investigate the origins of the bracelet further, hoping to discover any markings that might indicate where it was made, such as a signature from a workshop or blacksmith.

There may still be more rare treasures in the area, although the fact that the bracelet was found in a marsh reduces the chances that it originated from a lost settlement or tomb, according to the statement.

As soon as the weather permits further investigation, authorities plan to use metal detectors to uncover more lost Viking-era objects in the region.

Amateur Archaeologist Discovers 1,000-Year-Old Ring – The Details Will Fascinate You

An "astonishing" ring, dating back at least 1,000 years, was recently discovered off the coast of Scotland. However, this remarkable find wasn’t made by an experienced archaeologist, but by an amateur who stumbled upon this ancient piece of jewelry.

John Ralph and the Volunteer Excavation

John Ralph, a 68-year-old retired engineer, began volunteering in excavations to make the most of his free time. "I had recently retired and saw an announcement for volunteers in the Burghead excavation," he told BBC Scotland.

"My sister still lives in Burghead, and it seemed interesting, so I thought, why not? I’ve now participated in three excavations there, each lasting two weeks."

The area being excavated is believed to have been a settlement that served as a “significant seat of power” during the reign of the Picts between 500 and 1000 AD. Initially, Ralph made several fascinating discoveries, but experts explained that they were just shiny pebbles.

"I enjoyed every moment, but my initial excitement about discoveries was somewhat diminished by my ability to get excited about shiny pebbles," Ralph said.

"I had found a few interesting items, like bone pins, and it was great being part of the team."

The Astonishing Discovery

This all changed when Ralph was clearing the floor of a building. First, he found a metal pin, then "suddenly, he found the ring."

"John was digging and came over to me saying ‘look what I found,’" said Professor Gordon Noble, an archaeologist from the University of Aberdeen, who has been leading the excavations for the past three years.

"It was truly amazing. We could see the gleam from what was likely garnet in the ring, despite more than 1,000 years in the ground."

The Significance of the Discovery

What makes this discovery even more impressive, according to Noble, is the fact that “very few Pictish rings have been found, and those we know of usually come from hoards that were placed in the ground for safekeeping.”

The Picts, known as Picti by the Romans due to their tattoos, were northern tribes that made up the largest kingdom in Scotland during the Dark Ages.

Despite their military strength, the Picts "disappeared" from history at the end of the first millennium, as their story was "swallowed up" by the rise of the Gaels.

Implications for History

The ring discovered by Ralph not only connects the present with an important period in Scotland’s history, but it may also provide a greater understanding of the Pictish kingdom, which has been "lost" to history. The ring is currently at the National Museum of Scotland for analysis.

This discovery could shed light on a time and culture that has remained partly enigmatic, offering new perspectives on the history of Scotland and the role of the Picts in ancient British society.

70 Ancient Indigenous Settlements Discovered, Dating Back 4,000 Years - Pit Houses and Sacred Finds

The Chilcotin River. Photo: Williams Lake First Nation.
"The homes built in these trenches are older than the pyramids! It's incredible that we are still uncovering new information about communities that thrived here for thousands of years," explains Whitney Spearing, Director of the Natural Resources Department of the Williams Lake First Nation, who helped coordinate and guide the recent study and excavations.

Urgent Action Leads to Historic Discoveries

The Secwépemc Tribe, known to non-Indigenous people as the “Shuswap,” is a nation of 17 groups that once inhabited the southern-central part of British Columbia, Canada. The ancestors of the Secwépemc lived in the interior for at least 10,000 years.

When they first interacted with Europeans in the late 18th century, the Secwépemc had claimed vast territories. Their nation was a political alliance that regulated the use of land and resources, safeguarding the Shuswap lands.

Although the groups within the nation were distinct and independent, they were united by a common language—Secwepemctsin—and a shared culture and belief system.

Traditionally, the Secwépemc territory covered an expansive area of about 180,000 square miles. It was a diverse environment, though much of the once-thriving ecosystem has been destroyed by logging, mining, mass tourism, and other commercial activities.

In the most recent case, a natural disaster put the Secwépemc lands at risk. Fears of additional landslides, which could destroy historically significant sites, prompted immediate action. Just one day after the first landslide, on August 1st, the Williams Lake First Nation Foundation secured LiDAR scanning of the area, with support from the Province of British Columbia.

Later that month, the Williams Lake First Nation Foundation, Esk’etemc, and the Province of British Columbia signed an intergovernmental agreement to address the impacts of the landslide.

The agreement outlined a collaborative strategy to protect fishing grounds, combat environmental degradation, preserve cultural heritage, and share key information.

Though the landslide did not cause widespread destruction, it impacted several of Secwépemc's village sites that had not been affected by European contact. Among the most damaged were the villages of Tecwilúps, Nexelp, and Kwomesken. Tecwilúps, a once-important settlement at the confluence of the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers, suffered extensive damage.

The leader of the Secwépemc tribe in the 19th century, Lolo, the most popular and recognized chief of the First Nations in British North America, with his wife and two daughters, in 1865. Photo: Archives Canada (C. Gentile).

Nexelp and Kwomesken, located near Farwell Canyon, also sustained significant losses. These villages, recorded in archaeological and ethnographic records for years, were known to be central to Secwépemc life. Although many have since vanished, the first phase of the new research revealed a much broader history than previously recorded.

“We’ve always known there were more than the four major villages that were mentioned in Teit’s work,” explains Spearing, referring to the prominent ethnographer who documented many of the Secwépemc sites.

“We never expected there would be so many, or that some of them would be so large.”

Between August 15 and November 29, scholars conducted on-site studies of the identified areas using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), LiDAR scanning technology, and visual assessments of the areas affected by the landslide.

The findings were impressive: 70 archaeological sites were recorded, both new and previously documented. Among them, 31 were verified to be Secwepemc villages predating European contact, while seven contained sacred elements such as burial grounds, stone art, and caves. Nearly half of the sites explored, besides the landslide damage, had also been affected by the devastating wildfires of 2017 in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region.

Reconstruction of an ancient pit house. Photo: Bonnie Leonard (SNTC)

“It’s remarkable when you think about how much history has remained hidden until today,” Spearing reflects.

“The findings redefine our understanding of the past and confirm the deep, historical connection the Secwépemc people have to this land.”

“Historical and ethnographic records show that the Secwépemc communities in the canyon, known as Ste’tlemc, played an important role in regional trade networks for over 4,000 years.”

However, the smallpox epidemic of 1860 decimated these communities, forcing survivors to seek refuge in other Secwépemc villages like Esk’etemc and Stswecem’c Xget’tem.

Many also maintained smaller settlements to the west of the Fraser River, continuing their deep relationship with the land.

“Esk’etemc had homes at River Camp (Se’tl) until 1963, when they were burned,” says Chief Francis Johnson Jr.

“There were also sites at the Douglas refuge that were lost in the floods of the Chilcotin River.”

Looking Ahead: The Cultural Heritage Restoration Plan

With the completion of the first phase, preparations are already underway for the second phase of the restoration program for the cultural heritage impacted by the Chilcotin River landslide.

The next phase focuses on the protection and documentation of archaeological and cultural sites affected by the landslide, along with gathering detailed research data to assess the damage and design recovery strategies.

“The findings have not only changed what we know about the past but also how we can protect this history in the future,” Spearing concludes.

Secwepemc Tribal Dwelling at Cultural Heritage Park. Photo: Bonnie Leonard (SNTC).

Tribe dwelling, Secwepemc Cultural Heritage Park. Photo: Bonnie Leonard (SNTC).

“Each site we recognize, every piece of history we document, is a step toward reclaiming and preserving our history.”

This sentiment is echoed by Chief Willie Sellars of the Williams Lake First Nation.

“The Chilcotin River landslide was an event that not only affected the land but revealed deeper truths about our history and our connection to this land,” he explains.

“Cultural heritage studies strengthen what our ancestors always knew—that they lived, thrived, and kept their knowledge alive long before recorded history.”

“This project is not just about archaeology,” adds Chief Sellars. “It honors the stories of our ancestors, protects the places where their spirits live, and ensures that future generations will walk this land with the same knowledge and connection.”

“The Williams Lake First Nation Foundation is committed to protecting the unity and respect for these cultural sites and strengthening ties with those who share the need to protect this land.”

The Secwépemc Tribe has lived on the land of present-day British Columbia for thousands of years, with deep cultural and historical ties to the region. Each new discovery deepens the understanding of their long-standing presence and history.

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A Lion Painting Hung in a Family’s Living Room for Years – It Was an Authentic Delacroix Piece

A "lazy" painting of several lions, which had been hanging in a family's living room for years, was auctioned yesterday (March 28) at a prestigious auction house in Paris.

But in reality, this painting is not what it seemed. As it turned out, the piece titled Study of Reclining Lions was the long-lost artwork of one of France's greatest modern painters, Eugène Delacroix.

The French artist, known for his masterpiece Liberty Leading the People, painted these lions in a brown and ochre savanna. The painting was sold in 1830, and since then, it had vanished.

The artwork was rediscovered in the home of a family in the central Touraine region of France when Malo de Lussac conducted a home appraisal. The family had owned the painting since 1860.

"The owners didn’t know it was a Delacroix," said de Lussac in an interview with Agence France-Presse. "When I entered the living room, my eyes were immediately drawn to the painting because it magnetized me. It was very moving. Delacroix’s works are in many museums, but very few are in private homes."

Sophia Anderson of Smithsonian Magazine notes that Delacroix was particularly fond of observing the tigers and lions kept in the animal enclosures at the Jardin des Plantes zoo in Paris.

"How necessary it is to… stick your head out of the door and try to read from the creation, which has nothing in common with cities and works of man," Delacroix once wrote.

The painting was auctioned by the Hôtel Drouot auction house, with an estimated value between 200,000 and 300,000 euros.

Vergina: The Hunting Mural in Philip II's Tomb – A Groundbreaking Depiction of a Masterpiece

The Ministry of Culture, the General Directorate of Antiquities, and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Imathia collaborated with the National Hellenic Research Foundation on the research project "The Hunting Mural from Tomb II in Vergina: An Innovative Interdisciplinary Approach to the Study and Representation of a Classical Antiquity Painting Masterpiece."

A Masterpiece of Classical Painting

The hunting mural, which adorns the frieze of the façade of Philip II’s royal tomb in Aigai, stands as the most significant and largest painting of the classical world ever discovered.

The interdisciplinary ReVis project, led by Dr. Charikleia Brecoulaki, represents the first comprehensive and scientifically documented study of the Aigai mural, employing pioneering, non-invasive diagnostic and imaging techniques.

Advanced Research Techniques and Digital Restoration

The ultimate goal of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of the technique and iconography of the mural while proposing a new digital restoration at its original scale. This restoration is based on archaeometric data collected during the study and incorporates artificial intelligence tools (by visual artist Christos Simatos) and modern artistic techniques (by painter Emmanouil Bitsakis).

Through this groundbreaking research, new insights have emerged regarding ancient pigments, painting techniques, and the imagery of this iconic Aigai mural, as well as monumental Greek painting of the 4th century BCE in general.

Cutting-Edge Scientific Analysis

During the on-site study at the UNESCO-listed Aigai archaeological site in March 2023, researchers utilized non-destructive diagnostic methods such as X-ray fluorescence (MAXRF) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to examine the mural’s surface. These analyses were conducted by the XRAYlab team from ISPC/CNR in Catania and the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics at the "Demokritos" National Center for Scientific Research.

Presentation of Findings

The findings of this extensive research will be presented at an international conference, where all participating teams will discuss their contributions. The event will showcase the diagnostic techniques used in the in-situ examination of the mural, as well as the new proposal for its restoration. Distinguished scientists will provide commentary on the proposed digital reconstruction of the hunting scene.

Collaboration and Funding

This project, funded by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (ELIDEK), is being carried out in collaboration with the "Demokritos" National Center for Scientific Research and the Institute of Nuclear and Particle Physics, under the leadership of Research Director Dr. Andreas Karydas. The Ephorate of Antiquities of Imathia, represented by Dr. Anastasia Georgiadou, Head of the Department of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities and Museums, is also a key partner.

ReVis has secured access to the advanced technological infrastructure of the European IPERION-HS/MOLAB consortium, further strengthening its research capabilities.

A "Mysterious" Ancestral Population Contributed 20% of Our Genome—And May Have Boosted Brain Function

A new genetic model suggests that the ancestors of all modern humans split from a mysterious population 1.5 million years ago, only to reunite with them about 300,000 years ago. This unknown group contributed 20% of our genome and may have played a crucial role in enhancing brain function.

Unlocking Evolution Through the Genome

"The fact that we can reconstruct events from hundreds of thousands or even millions of years ago just by examining DNA today is astonishing," said Aylwyn Scally, a geneticist at the University of Cambridge and co-author of the study. "It tells us that our history is far richer and more complex than we ever imagined."

The study, published in Nature Genetics on March 18, introduced a new genetic modeling method called "cobraa," which allowed researchers to trace the evolutionary history of modern humans (Homo sapiens).

By applying this method to DNA data from the 1000 Genomes Project and the Human Genome Diversity Project, the team identified two major ancestral groups that split about 1.5 million years ago. They labeled these groups Population A and Population B.

Shortly after this split, Population A underwent a drastic decline, likely losing significant genetic diversity. Over time, however, it rebounded, eventually giving rise to Neanderthals and Denisovans. Then, around 300,000 years ago, Population A reconnected with Population B, contributing to the genetic makeup of modern humans.

Their findings indicate that approximately 80% of the modern human genome comes from Population A, while 20% can be traced back to Population B.

The Influence of Population B on Human Brain Development

Some of the genes inherited from Population B—particularly those linked to brain function and neural processing—may have played a vital role in human evolution, according to study co-author Trevor Cousins, a genetics researcher at the University of Cambridge.

Interestingly, while genetic material from Population B may have slightly reduced reproductive success, Cousins pointed out that "the genome is a complex space, and even non-coding regions can have significant effects."

The study also noted that early human species such as Homo erectus and Homo heidelbergensis, which lived in Africa and beyond during this critical period, are potential candidates for Populations A and B. However, the genetic model alone cannot determine which fossils belong to which group.

"Phantom Populations" in Human Evolution

Some researchers refer to such groups as "phantom populations"—ancestral groups that diverged and later reconnected, leading to gene flow between them.

"What’s fascinating about this study is that the pattern in the model suggests a deep African structure that is common to all modern humans," said John Hawks, a biological anthropologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, who was not involved in the study.

"These aren’t just isolated phantom populations contributing to specific groups; rather, they represent a significant portion of genetic material that merged into the African population from which all modern humans emerged."

However, Hawks pointed out a limitation of the model: it relies on the 1000 Genomes Project, which underrepresents African populations. "I see this more as proof of concept rather than a definitive guide to ancient human history," he explained.

Rethinking Human Origins

The origins of modern humans remain one of the most debated topics in paleoanthropology. Advances in DNA and genome analysis over the past two decades have provided new insights—while also raising new questions.

"What’s becoming increasingly clear is that the idea of species evolving in clean, distinct lineages is far too simplistic," said Cousins. "Interbreeding and genetic exchange likely played a major role in the emergence of new species across the animal kingdom, including in our own evolutionary past."

The Enchanting Ancient City of Pompeii Brought to Life in Stunning 3D

A breathtaking digital reconstruction of Pompeii as it stood before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD has captivated audiences worldwide.

This remarkable 3D video, originally published by the online newspaper La Nuova Sardegna and later featured on Repubblica.it, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the lost city's vibrant streets, grand villas, and bustling marketplaces. Through the power of cutting-edge technology, viewers can experience the ancient world as it once was—before it was frozen in time by volcanic ash.

The video brings to life the charm and splendor of Pompeii, allowing us to step back in time and witness history like never before.

The 10 Most Important Quotes by Plato and Their Significance

Plato’s ideas continue to influence political theory, philosophy, and scientific thought to this day. Here are 10 of his most important quotes, along with an analysis of their significance.

Plato (427-347 BC), a student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, is one of the greatest philosophers of antiquity. His ideas deeply impacted philosophy, political theory, ethics, and scientific thought. Through his works, especially his dialogues, he developed fundamental concepts about knowledge, the ideal state, and the immortality of the soul.

Although some may view him as a controversial figure due to his ideas indirectly helping the spread of Christianity (with contributions from Apostle Paul), and the subsequent distancing from the great thinkers of antiquity for many centuries, he remains a thinker who has profoundly influenced the development of the Western world.

1. "The beginning is half of the whole."

Perhaps his most viral quote, it underscores the importance of starting anything with proper preparation. Plato believed that the right preparation and planning were the keys to success. If a task begins well, its completion becomes easier. This idea applies to every aspect of life, from education to governance.

2. "Knowledge is power."

Although often attributed to Francis Bacon, the essence of this quote lies in Plato’s philosophy. In his "Republic," he emphasizes that true power does not come from violence or wealth but from knowledge. The wise should govern, as they alone understand the essence of justice and truth.

3. "You can learn more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation."

Plato saw play as a mirror of the soul. People, when playing, reveal their true character, free from social conventions and hypocrisy (except, perhaps, in some football players in the Greek league). This quote highlights the importance of observing an individual’s behavior in spontaneous situations to understand their true nature.

4. "Music is the moral law of the universe."

Plato believed that music was not merely an art form but a force that shapes the character and soul of individuals. In the "Republic," he argued that the right kind of music can lead to a harmonious society, while inappropriate music can corrupt citizens.

5. "Justice is the virtue of the soul."

In his "Republic," Plato defines justice as the balance of the three parts of the soul: the rational, the spirited (which includes emotion and will), and the appetitive (which holds desires). A just society and a just individual operate harmoniously among these elements.

6. "The wise speak because they have something to say; the fools because they have to say something."

Plato believed that the essence of communication is not idle chatter but the meaningful transmission of thoughts and ideas. This quote remains particularly relevant in modern times, where excessive information often overshadows meaningful content.

7. "The soul is immortal."

Plato believed in the existence of an eternal and immortal soul, which exists before birth and continues after death. In the dialogue "Phaedo," he develops the idea that the soul returns to the world of Ideas, where true knowledge resides.

8. "The good of man is to resemble God."

A phrase that was quite convenient for Apostle Paul. Plato believed that humans should strive for perfection, wisdom, and justice. Approaching the divine is not about worship but about moral evolution through virtue and philosophy.

9. "The greatest punishment for those who do not engage in politics is to be governed by inferiors."

In Greece, we have a doctorate in avoiding public affairs and then complaining about the state of things. Plato believed that governance should be in the hands of the wise philosophers, not demagogues. If the worthy do not take responsibility, societies risk being governed by the incompetent. This quote remains timeless and highly relevant today.

10. "Education is the lighting of a flame, not the filling of a vessel."

Greek parents, and generally our educational system, have thrown this quote down the abyss. Real learning is not about mechanical memorization (the infamous "parrot learning") but about awakening thought. Education should cultivate critical thinking and the ability to investigate and discover.

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The Most "Strangely Beautiful City in Greece" Is the Result of an Experiment by Two Renowned Architects

What do you expect to see when you arrive on a small island in the Aegean? Probably not a city with wide streets, large squares, unique urban planning, striking architecture, and bullet holes from World War II still visible on some buildings.

Certainly, you wouldn’t expect to encounter Lakki. This one-of-a-kind coastal village on the island of Leros feels like a scene from a Giorgio de Chirico painting or a Federico Fellini film. It stands as one of the most daring and rare architectural and urban planning experiments of the 20th century.

The masterminds behind this project were the Italians, who had possession of the Dodecanese islands since 1912. Benito Mussolini considered Leros to be a "key" location for his geopolitical plans in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Gulf of Lakki, the second-largest natural harbor in the Mediterranean after Malta, was deemed the perfect spot to house the headquarters of the Royal Italian Navy, which would control maritime routes from the Dardanelles to the Middle East.

Mussolini sent two of Italy's top architects of the time, Rodolfo Petrecco and Armando Bernabiti, to Leros with the task of designing a city from scratch on a largely uninhabited area filled with marshes, bordered by a fishing village. The architects drew inspiration directly from de Chirico's paintings, as well as from the geometry of ancient temples and the optimistic modernism of Art Deco. They defied architectural conventions, embracing a unified minimalist style with a bold mix of influences—such as Art Deco, Bauhaus, Venetian, and Renaissance elements—throughout the buildings and key infrastructures.

"From KV 28 – Work by the uploader, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=389956"

The result is still striking to this day. The city that Winston Churchill dubbed the "Malta of the Dodecanese" in 1944 has only one architectural counterpart: Messina in Sicily.

Construction lasted from 1930 to 1938, and the new city was named Portolago. It is considered the only authentic example of Rationalist Architecture (the blend of Art Deco and Bauhaus) outside Italy.

The natural harbor of Lakki was already transformed into a large, ultra-modern aeronautical base, turning Leros into the "flagship" of Rome in the region. The harbor hosted two destroyers, two small missile boats, and four submarines, and it had facilities for seaplane landings. Beyond military infrastructure, the Italians needed to create a broad plan to cover administrative, educational, healthcare, and tourism needs. Portolago served all these purposes, offering housing for soldiers, officers, and their families. "The church, the theater, the school, the hospital, the artillery barracks, the hotel, and above all, the circular market with the clock tower, form a cohesive architectural ensemble that could easily be featured in a 1930s international architecture exhibition," says architecture professor Vasilis Kolonas in his book Italian Architecture in the Dodecanese 1912-1943.

Depositphotos

The design by the two architects—who, according to historian and local resident Giorgos Trampoulis, "were talented but eccentric and didn't quite fit in with Italy's fascist regime"—featured wide, curved roads, prioritizing functionality, harmony, and order, all while blending the beauty of the landscape with architectural aesthetics.

Inside the city, the residential zone included separate homes for workers and officers of various ranks. Some of these homes have been renovated and are spacious cylinders and cubes with large gardens.

A large hospital was also built, and hundreds of pine trees and eucalyptus were planted in large urban blocks. Just outside the residential area were the customs house, the cinema, the market, and the hotel. Behind the hotel stands the impressive outdoor market complex with a grand courtyard and the iconic clock tower.

"They took advantage of the lack of constant and direct oversight from Rome, exploring and experimenting with luxury while combining rationalism with local architectural styles," says Trampoulis.

The city was designed to accommodate 30,000 residents. Today, however, with only about 2,000 people living there and many buildings still marked by wartime bombings, Lakki feels like a beautiful ghost town, resembling a movie set.

Today, time seems to have stopped in the area—caught in an Art Deco rhythm from the interwar period. In 2018, the BBC described Lakki as the "strangely beautiful city of Greece" and noted that "few people even know of its existence, and even the locals view their city with some degree of skepticism."

Mussolini's grand plan ultimately failed, the Axis powers were defeated, and in 1947, the Dodecanese became part of Greek territory. Portolago was renamed Lakki, and much of the impressive city was left at the mercy of time. The fact that the city was built under Mussolini's orders, housing offices and activities for the fascist party and youth, as well as serving as a reminder of the hardships endured under the fascist regime, led to its post-war neglect and abandonment.

The negative reputation of the Leros State Psychiatric Hospital—which was built in Lakki and the nearby Lepida area, housing mentally ill patients in inhumane conditions for many years—along with Leros being used as a place for the exile of political prisoners, contributed to the region's continued decline, both politically and socially. According to Italian architect Donatella Mancella, who has studied the uniqueness of Lakki, the area's lack of attention is due to years of insufficient resources and the absence of a culture that values, evaluates, and protects architectural heritage.

In recent years, however, attitudes have started to change, with more people recognizing the city's significance as part of the world’s cultural heritage. Today, the cinema, hotel, and market complex have been designated as protected monuments, and the Municipality of Leros aims to make the entire city a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is no easy task, given the unsuitable interventions over the years, but the Greek government has finally decided to take action. The Ministry of Culture and Sports has commissioned the National Technical University of Athens to draft a strategic plan for the "promotion of the architectural and urban identity of the settlements of Lakki and Lepida," with a presentation of the project taking place on December 5.

The National Technical University of Athens is collaborating with the University of Thessaly as part of a broader initiative to highlight historical tourism and the unique character of areas in Greece that were battlefields during both World Wars, based on sustainable management and future prospects.

Moral of the story? Better late than never, even if it’s 74 years later…

BBC’s Special Feature
Greek-American journalist Alex Sakalis writes:

"Lakki in Leros is truly unique. Its church, austere and minimalist, is a perfect example of Bauhaus architecture. The school, with its spacious entrances, is a hybrid of modernist and Byzantine elements. The Art Deco cinema seems to be heading toward the sea like a fast-moving train. Right behind it, a courtyard clings to the imposing clock tower, and a strange disc-shaped structure protrudes from the tower like a toaster. As if all this surrealism wasn’t enough, the four clock faces show different times.

"At its peak, in the late 1930s, Lakki had over 8,000 residents. Today, it has fewer than 2,000. The wide streets and large buildings allowed the city to become a commercial center for the island once again, but at night, the streets empty, and the city falls silent.

"The buildings evoke a sense of sadness. Walking through Lakki at night feels like walking through an old movie set after the lights have gone out, and the actors have gone home."

Delphi, the "Navel" of the Earth in a Breathtaking Video! - Friends of Art and Philosophy Delphi, the "Navel" of the Earth in a Stunning Video!

The ancient Greeks believed that Delphi was the center of the world. Over the ruins of the ancient city, the UP DRONES team flew their drone, capturing images that will amaze you.

Nestled in a lush green landscape with pine-covered slopes on the southern foothills of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is home to one of the most important religious centers of antiquity. It has been attracting visitors from all over the world ever since its establishment.

Delphi is famously known as the "navel of the earth." According to mythology, when Zeus released two eagles, one from the east and the other from the west, to determine the center of the world, they met at Delphi. This is why the place became identified with the term "navel of the earth."

Additionally, according to tradition, the sanctuary originally belonged to Gaia, who lived there with her son Python. However, the god Apollo, transformed into a dolphin, arrived at the port of Delphi, killed Python, and established his own sanctuary, the Temple of Apollo. This myth of Apollo's dominance survived through festive representations in local celebrations like the Septiria, Delfinia, Thargelia, Theophania, and Pythia.

The city was first mentioned in Homer's time as Pytho. At the beginning of the historical era, it was one of the cities of ancient Phocis, but gradually, its role grew stronger, and it developed into a pan-Hellenic center and a sacred city for the ancient Greeks. It also became the center of the Delphic Amphictyony, a federation of twelve tribes from Central Greece and Thessaly, originally a religious union that later gained political importance. Initially, the Amphictyony's center was in Anthilê of Malis, but from the mid-7th century BC, it moved to Delphi.

Delphi maintained its significance until the end of the 4th century AD, when the oracle's function was officially ended by a decree from Emperor Theodosius I. In the following centuries, the city declined and was permanently abandoned during the Slavic invasions.

The ruins of Delphi were brought to light through systematic excavations by the French School of Archaeology, which began in 1893 after the ratification of an intergovernmental ten-year agreement.

After the expropriation and removal of Kastri, the village that had been built on the sacred site since the Middle Ages, and the large accumulations of earth that had gathered due to landslides, the remains of the monuments adorning the two temples of Apollo and Athena Pronaia were revealed.

Over five thousand inscriptions of all kinds, statues, various works of craftsmanship, and pieces of architectural decorations were discovered, representing the great artistic centers of antiquity. In addition to the temple, the Stadium, the Gymnasium, the settlement of Delphi, and the necropolises were also uncovered.

Delphi: The "Navel of the Earth" from Above.

Source: dinfo

10 Important Facts About Aristotle: Only 31 of His 150 Works Survived

Aristotle’s Philosophy

From ethics to metaphysics, Aristotle not only laid the foundation for Western philosophy but also created a framework for human understanding that continues to spark debate today.

Born in 384 BCE, this master of logic mapped the universe with the precision of a surgeon, offering ideas that continue to challenge and inspire us. However, within the deep wisdom he imparted, there lies an intriguing truth: out of the 150–200 works Aristotle wrote, only 31 have survived the ravages of time, like precious relics of a lost civilization.

1. Aristotle (384 BCE – 322 BCE) – One of the most important philosophers in Western thought – was born in Stagira, Chalkidiki, in 384 BCE. His father, Nicomachus, was the royal physician to King Amyntas III, and his mother, Phaestis, was a midwife.

2. Both of Aristotle's parents died when he was around 13 years old. The Proxenus of Atarneus briefly took the young orphan in before sending him to Plato's Academy in Athens, where he would study diligently for 20 years.

3. From logic to rhetoric, Aristotle wrote on a wide range of topics. Despite the vast scope of his writings, only 31 of his 150 works are still circulating today.

4. Aristotle's teaching method was certainly unique. Rather than standing before his students and giving lectures, he walked around the grounds of his school, teaching as his students followed him. This is why his school was called the “Peripatetic School.”

5. One of Aristotle’s most famous ethical principles is known as the Golden Mean. According to this system of thought, one operates best when living between two opposite extremes. Simply put, it’s about achieving perfect balance.

6. Aristotle devoted much time to examining what makes a person truly good. One of his suggestions was that all good people knew how to converse. The qualities of good conversation, according to his philosophy, were quick-wit and a great sense of humor.

7. He believed that goodness arises from habit. If someone is morally flawed, we shouldn’t punish them for their deficiencies but instead offer better teaching and guidance.

8. Aristotle believed there were three categories of friendship: friendships based on mutual benefit, friendships based on pleasure, and true friendship based on mutual love.

9. Aristotle invented rhetoric, the art of persuasion. His general advice to public speakers and writers was to recognize the emotions of their audience. In doing so, you form a connection with them. After that, make your points and then illustrate them, guiding the audience on how to properly apply what they’ve learned.

10. In 322 BCE, Aristotle died in Chalkida, suffering from digestive issues. He requested to be buried next to his wife, Pythia. His works would remain nearly forgotten, stored in a cellar for almost two centuries. His philosophy would be revived around 100 BCE and would significantly influence medieval thought.

Read more about philosophy below:

Manolis Andronikos: Remembering the Archaeologist Who Discovered the Royal Tombs of Vergina The Significant Discovery of King Philip II's Tomb in Vergina

Who Was Manolis Andronikos?

Manolis Andronikos was born on October 23, 1919, in Bursa, Asia Minor. After the Greco-Turkish War and the subsequent Greek Catastrophe of 1922, he and his family relocated to Thessaloniki.

He studied archaeology at the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Thessaloniki (1936-1940), earning his doctorate in 1952 with his dissertation "Plato and Art."

In 1941, Andronikos worked as a teacher in Didymoteicho, but he soon escaped to the Middle East, where he participated in military operations against the Axis forces. After the war, he worked as a philologist at the Aglaia Schina girls' schools in Thessaloniki and was appointed to the Archaeological Service in 1949.

Between 1954 and 1955, Andronikos pursued postgraduate studies at Oxford University under the famous professor John Beazley, a leading figure in Greek vase-painting.

In 1957, he was appointed assistant professor of archaeology at the University of Thessaloniki, with his dissertation on Laconian Reliefs. By 1961, he became a professor of Classical Archaeology at the same institution, where he worked until 1983.

His archaeological work spanned various regions in Northern Greece (Veria, Kilkis, Halkidiki, Thessaloniki), but his most significant excavation project took place in Vergina, where he initially worked as an assistant to his mentor Konstantinos Romaios (1938-1940). From 1952, he conducted his own research, leading to the discovery of the royal tombs of Macedonia in 1977, including the probable tomb of King Philip II.

Andronikos' Account of the Discovery of King Philip II’s Tomb in Vergina

“I took the small trowel I’ve carried with me since 1952, bent over the pit, and began to dig stubbornly and anxiously under the archway's key. My collaborators were gathered around me. (…) I continued to dig and soon I was certain. The stone of the western wall was in its place, untouched, firm. (…) 'It’s undisturbed! It’s sealed!' I was deeply happy. I had found the first undisturbed Macedonian tomb. At that moment, nothing else mattered. That night – as every night afterward – I couldn’t sleep more than two or three hours. Around midnight, I took my car and went to make sure the guards were in their positions. The same happened at 2 and 5 a.m. I was thinking, there must be a wonderful surprise hidden inside the sarcophagus.

The only difficulty we encountered was when we lifted the lid. We clearly saw its contents, and we had to remain composed to continue our work, despite our eyes being dazzled by what we saw and our hearts racing with emotion. Inside the sarcophagus was a golden coffin. On its lid, an imposing relief star with sixteen rays, and at its center, a rosette. With great care and even more emotion, I lifted the lid with the star by grasping it at the two front corners. We all expected to see the burnt bones of the deceased inside. But what we saw when it opened took our breath away, blinded our eyes, and filled us with awe: indeed, inside the coffin, there were the charred bones. (…) But the most unexpected sight was a golden wreath of oak leaves and acorns, carefully folded and placed on the bones. I had never imagined such an incomprehensible image. I can vividly recall the reaction I had as I thought to myself: 'If your suspicion is true, that this tomb belongs to Philip, and the golden coffin only confirms this suspicion, then you hold in your hands the coffin with his remains. It is an incredible and terrifying thought, completely unreal.' I don’t think I have ever felt such turmoil in my life, nor will I ever again.”

Excerpt from Manolis Andronikos' book “The Chronicle of Vergina” published by the Educational Foundation of National Bank of Greece...

Contributions Beyond Archaeology

In addition to his archaeological and academic endeavors, Andronikos was deeply involved in education, literature, and the arts. He published studies and articles in numerous magazines and newspapers, many of which are collected in two volumes: "Education or Sleep-Education" and "History and Poetry." His scholarly works on archaeology include many publications in both Greek and international journals and standalone volumes. He also taught and gave lectures at universities across Europe and the United States.

Andronikos was a lifelong member of the Archaeological Society of Athens, a regular member of the Society for Macedonian Studies, the German Archaeological Institute of Berlin, AICA (International Association of Art Critics), “Art” of Thessaloniki, the “Explorer’s Club” of New York, an honorary member of the Spanish Society for Classical Studies Pastor, and the Society for Greek Studies in London. He served as president of the Archaeological Council (1964-1965), the State Theatre of Northern Greece (1974-1975), and vice president of the National Foundation for Research.

In 1980, the Academy of Athens elected him as an honorary member, and in 1982, he received the “Olympia” prize from the Onassis Foundation. In 1992, he was awarded the Grand Cross of the Phoenix by President of the Republic, Konstantinos Karamanlis, who had supported his work during his early years as Prime Minister following the restoration of democracy.

Manolis Andronikos was married to philologist Olympia Kakoulidou. A permanent resident of Thessaloniki, he passed away on March 30, 1992, at the age of 73.

Why Were Julius Caesar’s Last Words in Greek?

A striking painting captures the dramatic moment of Julius Caesar’s assassination—surrounded by Roman senators in flowing togas, their daggers raised in chaotic unison. According to historical accounts, Caesar’s last words were spoken not in Latin but in Greek: "Kai sy, teknon Brute?"—"You too, child Brutus?" But why did he choose to speak Greek in his final moments?

The Assassination of Julius Caesar

On March 15, 44 BCE, Julius Caesar entered the Senate for what would be his final meeting before departing for military campaigns. Ancient historians, particularly Plutarch and Suetonius, describe the dramatic sequence of events leading to his death. As he arrived, the conspirators split into two groups—one standing near him and the other positioned by his seat.

Tillius Cimber, supported by several senators, approached Caesar under the pretense of pleading for his exiled brother’s return. When Caesar refused, Cimber aggressively grabbed his toga—a signal for the attack to begin. Casca struck first, stabbing Caesar in the neck, though the wound was not fatal. Shocked, Caesar reportedly grabbed Casca’s knife and asked, “What are you doing?” Panicked, Casca called for help, and the other conspirators took turns stabbing Caesar.

Brutus, whom Caesar likely regarded as a son, delivered the final blow—a deep stab to the groin. According to the physician Antistius, who later examined the body, only one wound—the stab to the chest—was fatal. Plutarch adds that Caesar collapsed at the base of Pompey’s statue, a deeply symbolic moment, as Pompey had been his greatest political rival. Some believe Caesar deliberately fell there, while others suggest he was dragged by the conspirators.

Brutus and Julius Caesar: A Complex Relationship

Caesar had once been romantically involved with Brutus’ mother, Servilia, who was married at the time. Historians such as Suetonius and Appian confirm this relationship, and Plutarch even suggests that Caesar may have believed Brutus to be his illegitimate son, given their close bond.

Brutus had been a trusted protégé of Caesar, who not only pardoned him after the civil war against Pompey but also granted him prestigious positions, including the governorship of Cisalpine Gaul. Despite his initial opposition to Caesar, Brutus eventually became part of his inner circle.

However, Brutus ultimately led the conspiracy to assassinate him, believing that Caesar’s rising power—culminating in his appointment as dictator for life—posed a threat to the Roman Republic. In his mind, he was defending the ideals of democracy against what he saw as the looming danger of monarchy.

Caesar’s Last Words and the Role of Greek Culture

The phrase "Kai sy, teknon Brute?" has come to symbolize an unexpected betrayal by someone deeply trusted. Shakespeare later popularized the Latin version, "Et tu, Brute?", forever associating those words with Caesar’s death.

While Shakespeare’s version became widely known, earlier sources—including Suetonius—suggest that Caesar actually spoke in Greek: "Kai sy, teknon?" ("You too, my child?"). This phrase conveys a profound sense of personal betrayal.

Suetonius speculated that Caesar’s choice of Greek was intentional, emphasizing the emotional weight of Brutus' betrayal. Greek was the language of the Roman elite, commonly used in philosophy, diplomacy, and literature. For a man of Caesar’s intellect—who was fluent in Greek—it would have been a natural choice for expressing his deepest emotions in his final moments.

What Happened in Santorini When the Volcano Awoke? The Day That Changed Everything!

The Eruption of Santorini’s Volcano: When Fire and Ash Consumed a Thriving Civilization

How the Great Eruption of Thera Reshaped the Aegean World and Echoed Through Myth and History

A Sleeping Giant Beneath the Sea

Long before whitewashed domes and sunset-chasers arrived in Santorini, the island was home to a flourishing Bronze Age civilization known today as the Minoans. Back then, around 1600 BC, the island wasn’t even called Santorini—it was known as Thera, a thriving hub of trade and culture in the southern Aegean Sea.

But beneath this vibrant world lay a monstrous force: a volcano, quiet for centuries, building pressure deep below. One fateful day, that sleeping giant awoke—and what followed was one of the most cataclysmic volcanic eruptions in human history.

The Day the Sky Turned to Fire

The eruption of Thera, dated between 1627–1600 BC (based on radiocarbon dating), was no ordinary volcanic event. It was colossal, estimated at VEI 6 or 7 (Volcanic Explosivity Index), putting it on par with Krakatoa and possibly even stronger.

It began with a series of massive earthquakes—shaking the foundations of Minoan settlements. Panic likely gripped the people of Akrotiri, Thera’s bustling port town. The ground cracked. The sea may have drawn back ominously. Then came the explosion.

What erupted was not just lava—it was a fountain of fire, ash, and pumice that spewed more than 30 cubic kilometers of volcanic material into the sky. The island itself tore apart, forming the caldera we see today.

Within hours, darkness fell over the Aegean as ash clouds reached heights of 30 to 35 kilometers, blocking the sun. Tsunamis—some possibly 15 meters high—radiated outward, devastating nearby coasts, especially northern Crete, the heartland of Minoan civilization.

Akrotiri: The Minoan Pompeii

Beneath the ash, something remarkable survived: the city of Akrotiri.

Unlike Pompeii, where human remains were found in abundance, Akrotiri reveals a strange silence. The city’s streets were empty when the ash fell. No skeletons. No panicked bodies. This suggests the residents had early warning and evacuated—perhaps in the days of tremors before the final blast.

Thanks to the volcanic preservation, Akrotiri offers a rare glimpse into Bronze Age life: multi-story homes, elegant frescoes, paved streets, indoor plumbing, and vibrant art. This wasn’t a crude village—it was an advanced society lost in time.

A Disaster Felt Across the Ancient World

The effects of Thera’s eruption weren’t limited to the island itself. Ash fell as far as Anatolia, Cyprus, and even Egypt. Sunlight dimmed. Crops failed. Climatic disruption followed.

Most dramatically, it weakened the Minoan civilization. Whether it was the tsunamis that hit Crete’s northern shores or the economic devastation from lost trade routes, the once-dominant Minoans declined soon after. Within a few generations, the Mycenaeans of mainland Greece rose to power, absorbing Minoan influence but replacing their dominance.

Atlantis, Echoes in Myth?

Could this cataclysm be the real story behind the legend of Atlantis?

Many scholars believe Plato’s tale of a great island civilization destroyed in a day and a night might be a mythologized memory of Thera. The sudden disappearance of a prosperous, sea-faring culture… swallowed by the sea… sounds eerily familiar.

Though Plato placed Atlantis beyond the “Pillars of Heracles,” some argue he was drawing on older, garbled tales passed down through Egyptian sources—tales that could trace their roots to the volcanic fury of ancient Thera.

Santorini Today: Beauty Born of Fire

Modern Santorini is a place of stark contrasts—black sand beaches, white villages clinging to cliffs, and a still-active caldera at its center. Tourists sip wine and watch the sun dip below the volcano’s rim, often unaware they’re gazing into the heart of a cataclysm that changed the course of history.

Santorini’s beauty today is the direct legacy of that terrible day when the volcano awoke.

Conclusion: The Day That Changed Everything

The eruption of Thera wasn’t just a geological event. It was a turning point—a cultural, political, and environmental shockwave that altered the trajectory of the Aegean world. It likely contributed to the fall of the Minoans, reshaped Mediterranean trade, and echoed down through legend and myth.

When the volcano awoke, it did more than destroy an island—it reshaped a civilization and left behind a haunting beauty that still captivates the world.

Did the Ancient Greeks Invent Football? What FIFA Says and What the Evidence Shows

The origins of football trace back to various ancient civilizations, each contributing in its own way to the evolution of the game we know today. Among them, the Ancient Greeks played a notable role with their ball game known as Episkyros.

Episkyros: An Ancient Greek Ball Game

Episkyros was a team-based game played between two groups of 12 to 14 players. It was highly physical and allowed full contact, with players using both their hands and feet to control the ball. A central white line, known as the skyros, separated the two teams, and the objective was to throw the ball over the opposing team's heads. While the game was primarily played by men, historical evidence suggests that women occasionally participated as well.

FIFA's View on Football’s Origins

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) acknowledges Episkyros as an early form of football. However, it officially recognizes the Chinese game Cuju as the first documented version of the sport.

Cuju (translated as “kick ball”) dates back over 2,000 years and is mentioned in military manuals from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). The game involved kicking a leather ball through a small opening in a net and was widely practiced as a form of military training.

Greece vs. China: Two Distinct Games

Although both Episkyros and Cuju involved a ball and required teamwork, their gameplay and objectives differed significantly:

• Episkyros was more like a mix of rugby and football, allowing hand use and physical contact.

• Cuju, on the other hand, strictly prohibited hand use and focused on kicking skills, aligning more closely with modern football rules.

Did the Ancient Greeks Invent Football?

While the Ancient Greeks contributed to the early history of ball games, FIFA credits Cuju as the first true form of football. Therefore, even though Episkyros bore some similarities to the modern sport, it does not qualify as its direct ancestor.

How Was Santorini Formed? The 4 Volcanoes That Shaped It

Santorini, the stunning island of the Cyclades, owes its very existence to a series of volcanic eruptions and seismic activity spanning hundreds of thousands of years.

This dramatic geological evolution sculpted the island’s unique landscape, characterized by its towering caldera cliffs, vibrant beaches, and a breathtaking central lagoon.

Early Volcanic Activity

Approximately two million years ago, submarine volcanoes west of what is now Santorini began erupting, gradually accumulating lava and forming the island’s landmass.

Over time, successive volcanic eruptions and lava flows overlapped and expanded, creating a complex volcanic structure—the foundation of the Santorini we know today.

The Formation of the Caldera

Santorini’s striking landscape is the result of at least four major volcanic eruptions, each of which played a role in shaping its famous caldera:

1. Southern Caldera (180,000 years ago) – This was the earliest and most significant eruption, forming a massive depression in the island’s southern region.

2. Skaros Caldera (70,000 years ago) – A later eruption further reshaped the island’s terrain, creating what is now known as the Skaros caldera.

3. Akrotiri Caldera (21,000 years ago) – Another significant eruption contributed to the island’s modern geological structure.

4. The Minoan Eruption (3,600 years ago) – One of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in recorded history, it ejected vast amounts of magma and rock, causing the collapse of the island’s central region and forming Santorini’s present-day caldera.

The Minoan Eruption: A Catastrophic Event

Around 1600 BCE, the Minoan eruption dramatically altered Santorini’s landscape. This massive explosion expelled an estimated 28–41 cubic kilometers of volcanic material, burying the island under thick layers of pumice and ash.

The eruption led to the collapse of Santorini’s central landmass, giving rise to the modern caldera. Many historians believe that this event contributed to the decline of the Minoan civilization, as the resulting tsunamis and climatic changes had far-reaching consequences.

Post-Minoan Volcanic Activity

Volcanic activity didn’t stop after the Minoan eruption. It continued primarily in the Kameni islands, located within the caldera. Historical records document several eruptions, the most recent occurring in 1950.

These eruptions gradually expanded the Kameni islands and influenced the region’s geothermal features, shaping the Santorini we see today.

Would you like to witness the island’s volcanic history for yourself? Watch the video below to explore Santorini’s fascinating geological past!