Overview of Greece

Profile

Inheriting the legacy of ancient Greece, considered the birthplace of European civilization, Greece is known for its blue seas, white-walled houses, and sunny climate. A member of the EU, Eurozone, and NATO, tourism and shipping are economic pillars. With 17 World Heritage sites, including Athens'' Acropolis, landscapes harmonizing history and nature attract nearly 30 million visitors annually.

Official name

Hellenic Republic

Common name

Greece

Numeric code

300

Alpha-3 code

GRC

Alpha-2 code

GR

Population

Approximately 10.4 million (2021)

Population density

Approximately 79 per km2

Primary languages

Greek

Major religions

Greek Orthodox

National anthem

Hymn to Liberty

Calling code

+30

Internet TLD

.gr / .ελ

History

The War of Independence erupted in 1821, achieving independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1830. Following monarchy, civil war, and military rule, a republic was established in 1974.

Ancient Greece flourished with polis culture, leaving democracy, philosophy, theater, and the Olympics to the world. Subsequently under Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule, Greece rebuilt as a nation in the 19th century. The 20th century saw Balkan Wars, two World Wars, civil war, and military dictatorship, but after democratization in 1974, Greece joined European integration, adopting the euro in 2001. While the 2009 financial crisis dealt a blow, reconstruction continues through tourism and renewable energy.

Geography & climate

Mountainous terrain with the Pindus range as its backbone, and over 3,000 islands scattered in the Aegean and Ionian seas forming a complex coastline.

Mild Mediterranean climate (northern highlands are humid subtropical)

Area

Europe / 131957 km²

Capital

Athens

Largest city

Athens

Coastal status

Yes

Major lakes

Lake Trichonida, Lake Prespa, Lake Kerkini

Bordering countries

Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Turkey

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 244 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 446 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Greek

Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Greeks, Albanians, Turks, Roma, Aromanians, Pomaks, Romaniote Jews, Bulgarian Slavs, Armenians

Life expectancy

Approximately 81.4 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 97%

National sports

Soccer, Basketball, Water polo, Weightlifting, Athletics, Wrestling

Flag

Emblem