Souvenirs from Greece: what to bring, approximate prices, where to buy. What to bring from Greece

Visiting Greece and not bringing home souvenirs and gifts is nonsense, as rare as a sudden snowfall on the coasts of this sunny and tradition-rich country. The main goals pursued by the tourist are to surprise loved ones with an exclusive present, save on purchases and get positive emotions from the very process of searching for Greek souvenirs. Greece has everything from expensive branded clothes to gastronomic delights that cannot be found in the original in other cities and countries.

CERAMICS

Large and small dishes and plates with images from ancient Greek myths will decorate every home. You can choose one of the traditional art objects - high floor vases, amphorae, aromatic lamps. Sellers of local shops offer products with a pattern applied by hand. Its cost is higher than the factory-made counterpart, but they also look exclusive, there are no two identical painted amphoras or dishes. Sets of tea and coffee sets with images of ancient Greece are made in several styles: ancient, Mycenaean and classical. Mycenaean masters decorate their products with images of nature, the ancient (archaic) style can be guessed by a complex geometric pattern, the classics are traditionally represented by ceramics from Athens with a predominantly white background, Corinthian craftsmen skillfully weave red and black figures into the overall composition.
Some specialists are allowed to make copies of museum exhibits, such products pass customs control, but are very expensive. Ceramics are painted directly in the museum using ancient technology, which guarantees a clear drawing of details down to minor cracks. Shopping on the street and in shops is cheaper, shops guarantee the originality of products and the exclusivity of some of them.
Tourists go for ceramics:
- "Zogas" (Kalaphos, Rhodes, following the main road Rhodes-Lindos; +3022440320-82);
- souvenir shop "Athinaios" (17 Agiou Spyridonos St., Corfu; +3026610200-29);
- workshop "Giannis Ceramic" (Kolimbia, Rhodes, 24th kilometer of the Rhodes-Lindos route, +3022410561-67) - has been operating since 1980, here you can not only buy products in traditional Greek technology, but also watch the process of making souvenirs live;
- "Crete Ceramics" (Heraklion 70014, Crete, +302810 781-600) - the workshop of the Kaparunaki family offers wholesale and retail masterpieces of pottery.
One of the most unusual souvenirs is a mug of Pythagoras, otherwise known as a "cup of greed". This vessel was invented by the ancient Greek thinker and mathematician Pythagoras, the purpose of the original dishes was, according to legend, in the equation for the amount of water consumed by slaves. Drinking water in those days was not enough for everyone, and we had to save money. If you pour a little more into the mug, greedy, the liquid will begin to flow out through the hole and after a few minutes the vessel will be completely empty.

GREEK COSMETICS

"Live cosmetics" is the best gift for a woman. Local masters, small firms and concerns for the production of organic cosmetics successfully use the country's climatic conditions. Olive plantations and fertile lands provide raw materials for the best ancient recipes for face and body skin care.
The Greeks have abandoned the use of artificial fragrances, parabens and silicones in their products. The main components in each tube: olive oil, honey, honey, aloe, medicinal herbs and mastiha (pistachio tree resin extracted from the island of Chios).
Creams and soaps made from olive oil are the most popular, they have an amazing rejuvenating effect on the skin. The secret is simple - each product contains approximately 90-95% oil, the remaining components enhance its effect. Particular attention should be paid to the following companies (the products are packaged in original tubes, turning an ordinary cream into a bright and exclusive present):
- Fresh line- living cosmetics, produced in Athens. An extract from medicinal rare herbs is used, made according to the recipe of ancient family soap factories from the island of Zakynthos. Often sold by shares, belongs to the inexpensive segment (8-13 euros per unit).
- Olive Way- the Greeks themselves use this cosmetics with pleasure, the basis of the products is olive oil. The price segment is 10-20 euros, for a natural elixir of youth you will have to pay about 30-40 euros, depending on the volume, but the effect is worth it.
- "Aphrodite"- body and face creams that can turn you into a Greek goddess. Mediterranean herbs and biologically active ingredients are added to olive oil (the cost is about 7-15 euros per product).
- "Yellow Rose"- at the heart of almost every care product is a substance extracted from the yellow rose, which is famous for its unique healing and rejuvenating properties. It is worth paying attention to camphor cream, which effectively relieves skin inflammation (5-6 euros).
-"Hera"- expensive cosmetics (20-100 euros), the name of the concern comes from the name of the patroness of family unions, Hera. High quality and the absence of harmful additives brings products to a leading position.
Where can you buy cosmetics in Greece:
- Adonis Store(Griva street 52, Rhodes, +302241033207);
- HELIXIR(Sissi, Crete, +302841071228) - the company offers a natural soap with a regenerating effect, some products are able to fight skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis;
- Love Nature Cosmetic Boutique(Ouranoupolis, 63075, Chalkidiki; +302377071258) - a cozy boutique with certified products, only the original from the manufacturer.
Remember that you will not find fakes in pharmacies, and in shopping centers the range is not so wide and is not designed for a demanding tourist. You should not start your acquaintance with natural Greek cosmetics from the mass market, the impression is unlikely to be positive.

SEA SPONGE

Packing suitcases, one should not forget about the traditional product - sea sponges. There are two types: decorative and those that can be washed. The former have a characteristic white or yellow tint, they are specially processed, but upon contact with water, they simply fall apart in your hands.
Practical sponges have a "dirty" tint, they are not very beautiful, but will last from 1 to 2 years depending on the frequency of use. It is better to buy such products on the island of Symi. A special subspecies of sponges, "elephant's ear", can be used as a natural humidifier. You need to take the present home in a wet state, having previously packed it in a tight bag with a zip fastener.

SAINTS FROM MOUNT ATHO

Mount Athos in Greece is one of the most attractive places for pilgrims; a woman has never set foot on the territory of a monastic country. But the lack of the opportunity to join an excursion group is not an obstacle in purchasing souvenirs from Athos. Among the assortment you can find amulets, icons, crosses. There are also exclusive gifts - figurines of monks, made and painted by hand. They are sold mainly in Ouranoupoli - the starting point of ships sailing to Athos. Small plaster elders cost about 5-6 euros, if you wish, you can collect a whole monastery in your collection.
Definitely worth a visit:
- shop "Simeon"(Kallithea 630 77, Chalkidiki, +306972959042) - here you can buy images and icons, the authors of which are Athos monks;
- church workshop (35 Egnatia str., 3rd floor, Thessaloniki, +306979786463) - everyone can buy amulets, pectoral crosses, copies of bishops' wands at affordable prices.
- "Zervopulos"(located on the Ring Road Meteora - Kalambaka, +306937457641) - a small icon-painting workshop, one of the largest in the country, provides an opportunity to buy icons of Athos monks, see with your own eyes the ancient technology of painting faces and learn the secrets of masters who will gladly share them.
- Mount Athos Tradition(Ouranoupolis, 63075 Halkidiki, +30697280-63-31) - the products of the church shop located on the coast differ from similar products in their unique technique, the use of natural colors and the thinnest sheets of gold leaf;
- "Strikudis"(8 Vlali Street, Thessaloniki Center, +302310225008) - here you can not only buy souvenir church utensils (lamps, crosses, icons), but also conclude an agreement for the supply of products to your country (offer for businessmen looking for business partners) - shop has been exporting its products internationally for many years.

RARE SOUVENIR TOKENS

One of the most unusual gifts are souvenir tokens. They are sold in small vending machines located in the most unexpected corners of the country. You just need to lower two euros (you can collect different coins) to get an exclusive token from the "Greek Treasure" collection. Among the images are illustrations of the epic, gods, sights, shrines. On the front panel of the machine there are windows with images like a token, so blind buying is excluded.
Some machines freeze periodically, but you should not worry about your finances, just contact the store on the wall of which they are located. You can always buy tokens in the following places:
- Baths of Kallithea (healing springs on the island of Rhodes)- Opposite the cash desk window in the arch;
- vending machine in front of the "donkey garage" in Lindos- this is one of the starting points of excursions on horseback on these touching animals;
-near the national reserve Valley of the Butterflies (Rhodos)- you need to look near the ticket offices and kiosks;
-on Aristotle Street (Old Town)- from Hippocrates Square to the Jewish Gates.
Original souvenir tokens can be purchased when visiting the aquarium-oceanarium on about. Crete. Image of sharks, ships, jellyfish and other aquatic life, engraved on white durable metal.

TEXTILE

Not every tourist will bring home high quality textiles without knowing where it is better to buy certain categories of things. Experienced travelers prefer to buy hand-embroidered napkins and tablecloths, bedding, towels with ornaments in Afanda, Archangelos and Lindos. Handmade lace, samples of national traditions in the form of garments are best obtained from Embon craftswomen.
Check out the following outlets:
- "KOSMEIN"(Afytos 63077, Halkidiki, +302374091221) - home textiles, original designer gizmos, the exact copies of which are not available (pareos, scarves, curtains, even carpets and blinds);
- "En lefko"(Tsimiski St. 25, 54624 Thessaloniki, +302310227617) - exclusive bedding with interesting textures and colors of fabrics, a company with 26 years of experience in the market can offer you more than you expected.
- Ergochiron(Filarmonikis street 19. Corfu, +302661025552) - handmade textiles, made with love (decorations for home, kitchen, napkins, potholders, curtains).
If you want to buy a handmade carpet, you need to determine from what and how it was made. The highest quality materials are silk and wool, handmade item looks rich, but also more expensive. And one more nuance, usually not familiar to tourists: local craftswomen weave carpets, the ornament symbolizes the life history of the weaver. You need to ask the seller what exactly is depicted on the carpet you like. It is unlikely that you will be happy to admire the ornament, symbolizing the sad or tragic events in the life of the master.

MARBLE FROM THE ISLAND OF TOSOS

When tourists first come to this paradise, the first thing that catches your eye is marble. It seems that everything is created from this material, except for living trees and shrubs. Thassian marble has two amazing features: it shimmers under the sun's rays (consists of millions of sparkling scales, it's an amazing sight when such millimeter-sized particles "hang" in the water column) and never heats up, even if the heat reaches a critical point. It is a very unusual feeling to step on cool pebbles, and at this moment the body is under the influence of the midday heat. You can bring a small piece of marble for free, you can find them on Marble Beach. You can get to it from the hotel "Makryammos Bunhallows", located near the island's capital Limenas. It is better to travel by hitchhike or a private car, since the road takes about 6 km, walking on foot can be rather tiring.

FIGURINES

Figurines of gods and figurines of goddesses and ancient Greek beauties can be purchased at any souvenir shop, you will also be offered busts of thinkers - Pythagoras, Socrates, Hippocrates, which can become a worthy decoration of the interior. The only inconvenience is the rather large weight of the plaster product, the maximum that one person can take away is two busts and one figurine, so you should choose based not only on aesthetic taste, but also on physical capabilities.
- "Ellinourgimata"(St. Nikiforou Foka 1, Thessaloniki, +302310274475) - a new store offering vases, figurines, gold-plated jewelry, after each purchase, regardless of its value, they give a keychain or a magnet with the image of sights as a gift.
- "That Anecdoto"(10 Aristotelous Street, Thessaloniki, +302314314495) - postcards, figurines of various sizes, you can order a commemorative gift, which will be made according to the parameters specified by the client;
- "Penny's shop"(a total of 3 stores are open, located in Halkidiki, tel. for inquiries - +302374024886) - a special, homely cozy atmosphere of the boutique allows you to feel the unhurried Greek life; among the assortment you will find bags, jewelry, alabaster figurines, Greek embroidery, leather sandals, handmade olive soap;
- hellenic shop(Kalithea, 63077 Chalkidiki, +302374023849) - hand-painted amphoras and decorative wall plates, a wide variety of vessels made of clay (you can store homemade wine or vodka in them), chasings and helmets with images of the great warriors of Ancient Greece will also delight tourists exclusive - Byzantine icons, made by hand in a single copy.
The original solution will be the "Leg of God" - a plaster sculpture (of different sizes depending on the manufacturer), which represents a foot in sandals. Estimated cost - about 15-20 euros per unit. Very often they buy small figurines of ceramic deer (paired and single), which are the guardians of the island part, washed by the seas.

OLIVE WOOD PRODUCTS

There are not so many professional craftsmen who are engaged in such crafts, and to find a truly high-quality and worthwhile thing made of olive wood not easy. Very popular is the kitchen utensils made of natural wood. It can freely come into contact with food: firstly, the material is not coated with harmful toxic substances or varnishes, and secondly, the olive tree does not deform during long-term use, does not absorb juice or oil. A striking example is a handmade wooden juicer for lemons and oranges, which can be purchased at specialized outlets. Also popular are large dishes for vegetables and fruits, cutlery from this amazing material. In order for them to serve for a long time, it is enough to lubricate them with vegetable oil after washing, removing the non-absorbed layer with a paper towel.
It is noteworthy that the purchased spoons and bowls, rolling pins and olive water scoops are made from a single piece of wood, no glue or auxiliary items are used. After some time, the dishes are a little darker, which makes them more noble and beautiful, exuding a subtle aroma.
There is a special demand for jewelry for women from this unusual tree. On the islands you can buy necklaces, earrings, bracelets, in contact with the skin, they radiate warmth and give unusual sensations.
It is worth paying attention to the Elaia stores (two outlets are open in Corfu) - the assortment includes decorative ships, guitars, wall panels, wooden horses, backgammon, rosary beads, photo frames, wall clocks and much more.
An hourglass is made from olive wood, designed for exactly three minutes. A special category of buyers - the British, they buy these interesting gizmos for a simple reason - for exactly three minutes the egg is boiled to the desired consistency for breakfast. In fact, the time interval was not chosen by chance, it is associated with the culture of Ancient Greece - that is how much the speaker was given for his speech on the Agora (Athenian Mount).

WOMEN'S JEWELRY

The country is famous for its gold jewelry, which can be purchased much cheaper than indicated on the price tag. The Greeks love to bargain and do it with particular pleasure. It is better to buy jewelry in souvenir shops. Very beautiful bracelets and necklaces are made from olive bark and wood, ceramics, shells, gems, marble, metal. A brooch, belt or talisman will become an original and inexpensive gift from the resort, the cost starts from 10 euros, bargaining is always possible.

GASTRONOMIC GIFTS

Sweets
Confectionery products from Greece are not much inferior to their eastern counterparts. Visitors to taverns have a chance to enjoy fresh desserts (baklava, kataifi) to take away a sweet piece of the country, it is better to visit supermarkets or souvenir shops. Delicacies are carefully packed and able to endure a flight of any duration.
In Crete, they sell whole baskets-sets, which include several varieties of sweets and desserts. The approximate cost of such a gift is about 12-15 euros.
You should definitely try "Caprice" - crispy tubes filled with nut paste and packaged in exquisite jars. Originally packaged caramel - small jars in the form of an amphora conceal sweetness with the taste and aroma of roses, ouzo alcohol or cinnamon.
Liquid gold - olive oil
Juicy olives are brought from here, they are sold in vacuum packaging and jars. During the rest, you can try all varieties and choose the most delicious from your point of view.
The best and highest quality olive oil is produced and sold in Crete and Santorini. It can be both in pure form and with an admixture of spices. An original gift will be an olive pate packed in elegant tins or plastic bags. Such food is not for everyone, but you definitely cannot buy this in Russia.
Alcoholic products
Greek moonshine Suma: the strength of different samples of alcohol is different, this is a strong drink and you won’t be able to enjoy it in large quantities. It is worth considering the fact that some types of moonshine can have a fortress of about 70 degrees.
Wine is the hallmark of Greece. It is produced everywhere, you can always buy a couple of liters of sweet Cahors from Mount Athos. The nest of winemaking is traditionally considered the village of Embona on Rhodes. There are many mini-factories here, usually the whole family is engaged in such fishing. You can buy the amount of wine you need from them. The specific drink "Retsina" is thick, viscous and tart, with a distinctly audible taste of resin.
Cognac "Metaxa" is a famous fragrant drink that has not lost its popularity for many centuries not only on the islands of the country, but also far beyond its borders. You should definitely try ouzo anise vodka (it has a specific taste, so you need to choose it as a gift with caution, the product is not for everyone), raki grape vodka (its variety rakomelo is distinguished by an admixture of honey).
The unique healing liquor "SETTE ERBE" (translated as "seven herbs") - insist on herbs that grow in the most remote corners of Rhodes, where no man has gone before. Its recipe is carefully kept by the monks from the monastery, located on the slopes of Filerimos hill. Connoisseurs will definitely like the kumquat fruit liqueur.
Honey
Each region produces its own original variety of honey, beekeepers are immensely proud of each of them, and this is justified. The most fragrant and delicious is produced in monasteries, where at the end of the tour you can try and buy it.
In the church of St. Nektarios (you need to go along the highway in the direction of Rhodes-Lindos), you can choose several varieties, including coniferous and sage. Such a product is suitable not only for enjoying the aroma and taste, but also for the prevention of colds and strengthening the immune system.
Honey from the Museum of Beekeeping (Pastida village) is sold in a shop nearby, here you can also find cosmetics made from bee products, sweets, Turkish delight and marshmallow. Many combine business with pleasure - in addition to shopping, they enjoy the view of the only working hive with live bees.
Cheese
Two varieties, originally produced only by the Greeks, are feta and graviera. It is better to buy them in duty free just before departure to bring fresh delicacy.
You can complement savory dishes, turning them into a masterpiece of culinary art, with a mixture of spices. Thyme, oregano, mint, and basil are available at any grocery store. But it is better to give preference to those shops that have purely herbs and spices in their assortment.

Greece is an amazing country, surrounded by seas, whose life is filled with sunshine. It is a unique center of all cultures and has a rich historical past. The gentle sun warms the inhabitants for more than nine months of the year, forcing tourists from various continents to return here again and again. Hospitable beaches, olive groves, ancient excavations do not leave anyone indifferent. Like any country, Greece is filled with its unique traditions, a piece of which every guest wants to take with him. The country is rich in souvenirs, gourmet products, chic clothes.

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Greece is famous for its special anise vodka, which is called Ouzo. The beneficial properties of the drink, such as improving digestion and sleep, are combined with excellent taste characteristics. Ouzo cocktails with the addition of orange or tomato juice will decorate any evening.

Corfu is known for its unique liqueur "Kumkuat". It has an original taste thanks to the citrus fruit kumkuat, which is a cross between an orange and a tangerine. Jam from this delicious fruit will appeal to lovers of jam. But Raki is distinguished by its special power - vodka made from grapes with a tart aftertaste, which is famous for its strong aroma.

Olives and their products

The fact that olives are a traditional Greek product is probably known even to those who have never been to the country. Greek olive groves produce some of the most delicious olives in the world. Green, black, they are preserved and are in great demand in stores around the world. In Greece, you can find stuffed olives with special spices. For salads, side dishes and other dishes, you can buy natural olive oil, which stimulates the appetite, enhances the taste of food and contains a maximum of useful properties.

Delicate olive soap will preserve the beauty of the skin of the hands. Its components, such as orange, rose oil and honey, will make the skin toned. The handmade soap makes it the perfect gift for the other half. It is ideal for body and face care. These products can be found in small shops, as well as in stores.

Orthodox symbols

Since Greece professes Orthodoxy and has many monasteries and temples in operation, believing tourists can purchase Orthodoxy items in monastery shops, such as icon lamps, amulets, hand-painted icons made by hardworking monks. In monasteries, they can be endowed with special power by applying to the relics of saints.

Food

In addition to olives, another symbol of Greece is Feta cheese. It is produced only in this country and is distinguished by its snow-white color and delicate salty taste. This cheese has a high fat content and is traditionally used in the preparation of the famous Greek salad. National Greek sweets are real works of art. Made with special love from biscuit and chocolate with the addition of nuts and fruits, they will decorate any table. Honey lovers will find a real abundance of this delicacy. Each region of the country produces its own honey with a unique taste.

Ceramics and paintings

A good souvenir will be ceramics, such as vases, jugs, sets. They are traditionally made with a special ornament - golden Greek motifs on a black background. Art connoisseurs will be able to purchase beautiful paintings depicting Greece, its landscapes and sights. There are simple works, as well as exclusive, custom-made.

Gold items

Since the time of the ancient gods, Greece has been famous for its wines. And although now we are more familiar with drinks from Italy, France, Spain and the New World, Greece is no worse - here Can buy such autochthonous wines (wines of certain grape varieties growing in a particular region) as Assyrtiko and Atiri, Lagorti and Savatiano, Roditis and Robola. Sounds unfamiliar, but try and bring definitely worth it to friends. You can buy a couple of bottles in local supermarkets or tourist shops. On average, a bottle of wine will cost 4-8€ .

Don't forget to bring cheese. The most famous - the hero of salads and cheese plates - feta. This soft salty cheese is sold in Russia in a modified form, not at all like the original. You should also pay attention to manuri or kefalotiri - cheeses made from sheep's milk, caseri (more of a hard variety) or graviera (made from a mixture of sheep, cow and goat milk).

We also advise you to get acquainted with crayfish - Greek vodka, the strength of which reaches 60 degrees (for comparison: in Italian vodka - up to 55 degrees, in Russian - up to 56). Raki is made in Crete, but finding it available all over Greece , in the same supermarkets and tourist shops. Average cost per bottle - from 10€. There is also ouzo - this is anise brandy, it can be light (20 degrees) and for the strong in spirit (40 degrees). Such gifts from Greece perfect for getting in touch with a tough boss.

Cosmetics

Goddess of beauty Aphrodite - for self-love and natural cosmetics based on olive oil, honey and other gifts of Greece. Here, at every step, there are shops with organic cosmetics, which you can bring as a souvenir from Greece to friends and relatives. Well-known brands include - Apivita (shampoo €12.80), Aphrodite (body cream-butter 14.90 €) , fresh line (moisturizing night cream 28 €).

Olive soap and natural oils included in its composition. Photo: Jelena Yukka/Shutterstock

Colleagues will get by with inexpensive creams from a souvenir shop, but beloved friends can buy world famous cosmetics of the Greek brand Korres (hair conditioner €14.30). It can be found in shopping malls. Hondos (these shops specialize in cosmetics, perfumes and clothing for women), any Greek pharmacy or duty free.

Tea, honey and sweets

restless colleague from Greece can be brought mountain herbal tea. It grows on rocks, has a mild taste, and is also very good for health and nerves. The most famous is the Cretan mountain tea Malotira (Malotira). You can buy it in any store, it is not necessary to go to tourist shops. Like this gift dear grandmother or yourself - mountain tea from Greece Great for managing stress and improving sleep.

If it seems that one tea is not enough, Can complement the gift with sweets. Greek delight (from 5 €) sold in any grocery store. It is made from starch and sugar and comes in many different flavors such as nuts and various syrups. This you can bring a gift and sweet tooth friends. In addition to Turkish delight, there are also Turkish delights (from 2.5€ ) - yeast dough balls sprinkled with honey - buy them better immediately before the return flight, otherwise they will harden.

Greece occupies a leading position on the world stage in terms of the number of hives per square meter. Spruce, pine and the most expensive - thyme - buy honey better just beekeepers. So you'll be sure What it has not been chemically treated. Such honey is sold in specialized stores and shops, for example, in Athens at the address: 39 Athinas Street and 1, Sofokleous. The perfect gift for sweet tooth, friends and colleagues.

Shoes

If there was a chief fashionist on Olympus, he would constantly walk in Greek leather sandals. Be sure of their quality: in Greece, shoes have been produced from generation to generation, paying attention to every detail.

Traditional Greek handmade sandals in a trading shop. Photo: Kartinkin77/Shutterstock

Of course, you won’t fly like Hermes, but you’ll be able to run along the Greek cobbled paths. Pay attention to the brand Ancient Greek Sandals (you can recognize it by the wings on the logo) - it is not yet available in Russia, and ordering on the Internet will cost much more. IN Greece can be bought shoes of this brand. Of course, such a better gift loved ones: the price for a pair at Ancient Greek Sandals starts from 100€ . If the budget is limited, Can go to any local shop and buy sandals are much cheaper. Among the popular Greek brands - Voi & Noi, Migato.

Leather necklaces with natural stones

Greece is sensitive to the creation of jewelry and if it offers tourists to buy necklaces, then certainly from precious metals, soft leather and natural stones. As for the latter, agates, turquoise of greenish and blue hues, bright red corals, which are mined in the mountains, are especially popular.

You can buy jewelry made of gold and silver in any Greek city, but if you want, say, necklaces with stones, you should look into Athens Protasis . Many products are presented here in one copy: the chances of feeling like the goddess of Olympus increase hundreds of times.

Greek handmade jewelry with natural stones. Photo: berni0004/Shutterstock

Prices are also very democratic: for example, a small pendant or bracelet made of natural stones will cost 5 € (~ 375 rubles), a necklace- 10-20 € (~ 750-1500 rubles), and large beads or pearl jewelry- 20-50 € (~ 1500-3800 rubles).

Ceramics

Ceramics from Greece known even to inexperienced travelers, at least from the cartoon "Hercules". Perhaps this is the most popular souvenir which tourists bring from Greece . Ceramic products can be found everywhere: for example, among the forms of vases, the most popular are amphora (a vessel with two handles, the volume of which can reach up to 50 liters),alabastron (pear-shaped elongated vessel with a rounded bottom), skyphos, aka- cup of Hercules (drinking bowl on a low leg with two horizontal handles) and others.

Traditional handmade pottery. Photo: Tomas Hudolin/Shutterstock

There are many drawings and patterns on Greek ceramics, all of them, as a rule, belong to one or another period: basically, the dishes depict heroes of Greek mythology, geometric figures, scenes from different eras, ornaments and symbols (meander, spiral). Prices start from 7-10€ , and end in tens or even hundreds (some products can be made to order).

Greek ceramics will definitely appeal to those who bring home something from their travels. So that such a gift can be given friends who love to nest and create coziness.

Board games and komboloi

What gift to bring a friend who loves games? Ancient Greek board game Tavli! It is somewhat reminiscent of our checkers, so the rules are quite simple. Sit down with any Greek in a cafe (this is where you can often find locals playing Tavli), learn the rules, and then buy a game in any souvenir shop.

Komboloi in the souvenir shop. Photo: Anastasios71/Shutterstock

Another option is combos. This is a special kind of rosary that helps fight stress. Unlike ordinary rosaries, komboloi are not used for prayers, but for playing. Be sure: handmade komboloi will be a great gift.

There are several ways to throw komboloi in your hands: you can grab the thread in the middle with two fingers, you can twist half of the beads around its axis while the other half of the rosary is in the palm of your hand. You can divide the beads in half, skip the thread between the middle and index fingers, and quickly throw the halves of the rosary, swapping.

I want to return to Greece again and again, even if I trampled all the centuries-old ruins and traveled all the serpentines. Perhaps there are not enough expensive shops with bags of famous brands and they are not fed with snails in sauce, but this is a sincere and hospitable country where everyone will become their own in half an hour. Well, now you know what gift to give yourself and your loved ones to add a little Greece to your home.

Greece is a fabulous sunny country that has a rich history and is a unique center of all cultures. Ancient excavations, warm beaches and olive groves attract tourists from all over the world. Greece is saturated with a unique culture, a piece of which everyone who managed to visit here will want to take with them. What is interesting to bring from Greece?

Alcohol

Guilt

Wine is produced in almost every region of Greece. The oldest wine in the country is Retsina, which has a bitter taste of resin and a strong smell. One of the best wines is Kechri or Pine Tear, which is made in Thessaloniki. Cahors from Mount Athos is a traditional drink.

Metaxa

Metaxa is a mixture of grape wine and grape brandy. In the assortment of local shops there are drinks with different aging periods and, as a result, prices. It is worth considering that the Greeks themselves use the three-star drink exclusively for culinary purposes, and drink with an exposure of at least 5 years.

crayfish

Raki is a Greek grape vodka. It tastes tart and strong, so it is usually served in small glasses. It is recommended to try and rakomelo - this is the same crayfish, but infused with honey with the addition of cloves and cinnamon. It is produced and sold mainly in Crete. In winter, rakomelo is drunk warm as a cure for colds, and in summer as a regular alcoholic drink.

Ouzo

Greece has long been famous for the production of ouzo aniseed vodka. The inhabitants of Hellas consider the drink national and drink it in its pure form or in combination with orange or tomato juice. In addition to excellent taste, ouzo also has beneficial properties, such as improving sleep and digestion. The drink is produced in all regions of the country.

Kumquat

Greece is famous for its Kumquat liqueur. It is prepared on the basis of the citrus fruit of the same name, which looks like an orange, and tastes like a tangerine. Therefore, in bottles of liquor, as a rule, you can find these small fruits. On the island of Corfu, this liquor is sold in beautiful bottles in the form of a map of the island or in the form of statues of Greek gods.

antique souvenirs

Ceramics

It is impossible to return from Greece and not bring with you a ceramic souvenir depicting the heroes of Hellas or the sights of Greece, because the ceramics here are of incredible beauty and excellent quality. Sets, vases, jugs and amphorae are made with a special ornament - golden Greek patterns on a black background. The most popular are ceramics from Crete and earthenware from Santorini and Chalkidiki. The largest market for ceramic products is in Athens.

figurines

In any souvenir shop you can buy figurines of ancient Greek gods, figurines of Olympians and ancient buildings, as well as busts of Socrates, Plato, Pythagoras. The best selection of figurines is on the Plaka.

Seafood

Shells and their decorations are a cute and inexpensive souvenir that can be found in every souvenir shop. Sea sponges are very popular with tourists. This is a small and useful gift. They are soft and hard, big and small. The widest selection of sponges can be found in Rhodes and Kalymnos.

Icons

In souvenir shops and monasteries in Greece, you can buy all kinds of icons - carved, in the form of a small book and inlaid with semiprecious stones. The most valuable gift will be an icon brought from the holy Mount Athos.

Paintings

Very often, tourists bring back paintings depicting Greek sights, painted in watercolor and oil by local artists. Here you can buy ordinary paintings, and you can order exclusive canvases. The price for them depends on the size, technique of execution and the presence of a frame.

Fur

Greece presents a huge range of fur products. From such a variety, you can choose a model to your liking, but also affordable. That is why tour operators often organize special three-day “fur coat” tours to Greece. It is better to go for such a purchase to Kastoria, where the most popular salons of the leading fur factories are located: Elegant Furs, Avanti, Afrodita Furs, Estelle.

Blankets, blankets, carpets

A practical and pleasant souvenir from Greece will be blankets, rugs and carpets. It is better to buy them in Crete, Rhodes, Athens and Delphi. Preference should be given to products made of wool and silk. Handmade carpets are valued more and the older it is, the higher its price. Prices for such products depend on the complexity of the pattern and the materials used.

Olives and olive oil

Greek olives are very tasty, large and contain many useful substances. They are sold here everywhere in cans and by weight. Another pride of Greece is olive oil. In supermarkets and family shops, it is presented in a wide range.

Olive soap

Olive soap is a good and useful souvenir from Greece. Almost all Greek soaps are handmade using olive oil, lavender, honey, rose oil or orange oil. Most often, such soap is sold in pieces by weight. It lathers well, has a pleasant aroma and makes the skin soft and velvety.

Sweets

Honey

Each region of Greece produces its own original honey, which beekeepers are rightfully proud of. Halkidiki is considered the birthplace of the most delicious honey in Greece. Here it is sold in its pure form or with hazelnuts, pine nuts and walnuts.

Jams and jams

In Greece, oranges, quince, figs, cherries, peaches, kumquats, and sometimes pistachios are often used to make jams and jams.

Kozinaki

The traditional sweetness of kozinaki is pistachio, sesame, peanut or almond slabs in sugar or honey syrup. They resemble kozinaki, but differ in the recipe. This is a very tasty and healthy treat - a vitamin and energy bomb.

Baklava

This is a traditional Greek puff pastry pie with crushed nuts and cinnamon, soaked in honey. A distinctive feature of Greek baklava is 33 layers of dough, symbolizing the age of Christ.

Chees Feta"

A real Greek salad can be prepared only using Greek Feta cheese. As a rule, this cheese is made from sheep's and goat's milk, it is snow-white in appearance, has a high fat content (30-60%) and a salty taste. Feta is sold in brine in plastic, metal and vacuum packaging.

Jewelry and bijouterie

The country is famous for jewelry made of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls. The largest assortment is presented in the stores of jewelry houses Kessaris and Ilias Lalaounis in Athens, Santorini, Delphi, Mykonos and Ioannina. Byzantine-style jewelry is very popular.

An inexpensive and original present will be jewelry, which in Greece is best bought in souvenir shops. Very beautiful necklaces, brooches and bracelets are made of olive wood, shells, marble, ceramics, gems and metals.

Cannot be exported

• antiquities, including stones from archaeological excavations and objects found on the seabed;
• drugs, narcotic preparations and medicines;
• weapons, explosives and poisonous substances;
• plants, flowers, wild animals and birds and endangered species of flora and fauna.

Receipts must be kept for all items purchased.

Greece will always attract us. At least for the reason that it is considered the cradle of Western civilization. Remembering the myths of Ancient Greece, one would like to say: “How well it all started!”. But let's not joke so sadly, in fact, everything is not so bad. As you can see, the Balkan Peninsula survived, and all the islands are in place - for now, at least. And the seas are still beautiful - the Ionian, the Cretan, the Aegean, and the common Mediterranean. And the climate here is rare, and the vegetation, as it should be, is lush and magnificent.

During your stay in Greece, you will certainly appreciate all these features. But there is another aspect that is clearly visible in all shades of modern life in Greece. This is a kind of imprint of the former greatness, which, from the current point of view, is gone forever, has sunk into oblivion. So why is it always in the air, and its invisible presence is felt in everything: in the lively crowd on the streets of cities, in the bushes on the islands, in the silence of pine forests and olive plantations, in the serene blue of the sea and its imperceptible merging with the distant sky , there, on the horizon line? It’s hard to answer, maybe it’s our memory that works, reminds us of what we have read and not forgotten, or maybe it’s the whole pantheon of Greek gods, without leaving their native places, that makes itself felt in this way?

Be that as it may, but when leaving Greece, I want to take something with me as a memory of it. Everywhere on the streets you can see unpresentable shops with souvenirs, which, however, are able to surprise an arrogant tourist with objects of their trade. Did he end up in a museum? - a tourist might think, surveying the decomposed figurines, busts and other objects made of porcelain, ceramics, bronze and other materials. So, what can be seen in souvenir shops, suitable for the price and quite interesting:

— copies most notable archaeological finds made of ceramics; various crafts, also ceramic, depicting some object of antiquity or a museum exhibit, certainly recognizable;

- there is a large selection of various ceramic dishes painted in the style of ancient Greek motifs, and also - many goblets of different types and sizes with the image of the god Dionysus, the patron saint of winemakers;

- Greeks, mostly Orthodox, put on the counter icons depicting Orthodox saints decorated in the Byzantine style;

- for collectors, lovers of such things, in store retro car models, vintage drawings with traditional landscapes and photographs;

— busts of ancient Greek philosophers, of which we remember only Aristotle and Plato, and also, perhaps, Socrates and Epicurus. They can be made of anything: marble, alabaster, bronze and other materials. The cost may vary depending on the material and size. For example, a bust of 15 cm made of bronze will cost no less than 50 euros. You probably have friends, or at least one friend with a claim to the title of an intellectual, so give him such a Socrates. Or you can choose a marble lamp in the form of a Greek column, decorated with a sculpture of an ancient god. This, however, will cost you already 70 euros, and the heaviness of marble or bronze is a burdensome thing;

- gifts for women you know are the most unreliable thing. After all, it's hard to please! And it is extremely difficult to guess the reaction of a woman to a gift. But folk craft rescues - woven bags and sandals. More risky to buy bijouterie, for example, cultured pearls, although they cost quite acceptable, about 7 euros, and they look quite good. If you buy something from which Greece is famous, then here - either pan or gone. Such a gift can be delighted, or it can be rejected. The same applies to tissues, and even more so to knitted things, of which there is a fairly large selection. And here napkins, embroideries, all kinds of pillows, blankets, rugs, bed linen- you can buy more boldly, only a very capricious woman will reject such a gift. Napkins with national embroidery can be bought for 10 euros, but for linen or a blanket you will have to pay from 20 to 50 euros;

— for buddies and friends, you can buy anything, in any case, they will say “thank you” and will not sort out grubs, — it’s easier with men. Fit here key rings, caps, cups, magnets, ashtrays, t-shirts- but always with labels in local traditions. Available for those who love this stuff. discs with historical films or musical recordings;

- children also need to bring souvenirs from Greece. Here in many places they sell cute porcelain bells at prices from 10 euros per piece, or you can buy papyrus notebooks, or various boxes and boxes, which are sold in all souvenir shops.

Approximate prices for souvenirs from Greece

It is also worth estimating how much it will cost, how much money will be spent on gifts and souvenirs. It turns out that a keychain or a magnet with local symbols can be bought for only 1-2 euros; ceramic crafts and olive oil - for 15 euros; fabric products - for 20-50 euros, and bronze figurines are the most expensive - 50-70 euros.

Where is the best place to buy souvenirs in Greece?

Now, knowing the approximate cost, it remains to determine the places where you can get by with the lower limit when buying and not exceed the estimate. The most expensive place is the center of a large city, a place where shopping streets are concentrated, where there are many expensive boutiques. You can not overpay if you make a purchase in the resort area, even near your hotel, especially since you can always bargain with the owner of the shop. Anyway, you walk around the neighborhood, look for curious little things in a relaxed atmosphere, and then buy. Just do not accept offers from hotel employees, so-called guides, who have a desire to accompany you on a shopping trip. They get their percentage of the amount of your purchases, so, of course, they will accompany you to the most expensive places.

In ancient Greece, each city was a separate state, if you remember. Now it's all in the past, Greece is a parliamentary republic. But the difference between the cities, of course, remained, not to the same extent, of course. We, in this case, are interested in how this difference is interpreted in the souvenir business. So, consider the features of souvenirs from different cities and places in Greece:

— peninsula of Halkidiki, Garden of Eden, Aegean Sea, Petralona Cave. Here are magnificent landscapes that are captured in the works of local artists. This canvas is a wonderful souvenir or gift. You can buy mountain honey, which is typical for these places, either on its own or in combination with walnuts;

a group of islands in the Aegean Sea Santorini offers bedspreads, napkins, bed linen decorated with embroidery in national motifs as gifts. Also - olive oil, the fruits of this tree, cosmetic products based on olive oil, crafts made from olive wood;

— Rhodes, "the pearl of the Mediterranean", a favorite scene of ancient Greek mythology. Here they offer ceramics - Greek amphorae, elegant vases, dishes, painted with all sorts of skill by real artists. There are many supposed images of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the world, both in the form of a painting and in the form of sculpture. More - images of the Rhodes deer, at least it exists, at least one;

— Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, with its architectural monuments. Everything is here, it does not need a “zest”, but represents a complete set of folk crafts, examples of painting, numerous and various knick-knacks;

— Crete, its palaces, archaeological and historical monuments. Here, in the performance of souvenirs, a great historical and cultural past is felt: there are many busts of ancient Greek thinkers and philosophers; ceramics illustrating certain historical events or a mythological plot. There are also simpler and more modern things - woven sandals, bags, textiles, decorated with ornaments in the ancient Greek style;

— island of Kos the birthplace of Hippocrates. Nothing reminiscent of the father of medicine, only weaving, wool products such as embroideries, handmade carpets, tablecloths, as well as various trinkets decorated with the symbols of the island;

— Athens, the capital of Greece, the Acropolis, the richest history. It offers, in addition to the usual set of souvenirs, a large number of antiques. Here you can find old coins, jewelry, tapestries, engravings, old book editions, funny dolls from old times.

The purchase of souvenirs should not be postponed until the last days. Much will be forgotten, there may not be enough money, and it will be uncomfortable in front of friends. And from the point of view of savings, it is also better to buy gifts gradually, when a suitable little thing comes across at a reasonable price. This is not at all the hype of the last days and the grabbing of anything at any cost. Yes, and the process of buying gifts is creative, and allows you to express yourself in a gift. At least to some extent.

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