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April 18th, 1821: Samos Joins the Revolution – A Calculated Act of Defiance

“On April 18th, 1821, the island of Samos officially declared its participation in the burgeoning Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire. This act, fueled by a long-standing desire for liberation and inspired by the uprisings on the mainland, marked a significant moment in the island’s history and contributed decisively to the wider struggle for Greek independence.”

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Olympiacos Secures Champions League League Phase Spot for 2025-26

Olympiacos, Greece’s reigning champions, are set to join Europe’s football elite in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League League Phase. After Bodø/Glimt’s failure to defeat Lazio in their Europa League quarter-final, Olympiacos are virtually assured a spot among the 36 teams, with only improbable scenarios involving Rangers or an unexpected Champions League winner standing in their way.

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Easter Exodus from Attica Sees Over 92,000 Vehicles Depart

On Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, over 92,000 vehicles streamed out of Attica as Greeks began their Easter holiday travels. With minor delays on key routes like Athens and Kifisou Avenues, the exodus surpassed last year’s figures, signaling a bustling start to the festive season. Authorities expect the final wave of travelers to depart Friday morning.

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Easter Holiday Schedule Announced for Public Transport in Athens

Athens public transportation services will operate on modified schedules from Holy Friday, April 18, through Wednesday, April 23, due to the Easter holiday. Changes include earlier last train and tram departures on Holy Saturday, adjusted bus and trolley timetables, and potential additional routes to major travel hubs. Passengers are advised to plan ahead.

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Accor’s Handwritten Collection Debuts in Greece with Rocca a Mare Heraklion

Accor’s Handwritten Collection welcomes its first Greek hotel, Rocca a Mare Heraklion, a 36-room Cretan gem blending modern luxury with local charm. As part of Accor’s expanding European portfolio, this milestone highlights the potential for Greece’s boutique hotels to gain global recognition while preserving their unique identity.

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Good Friday: A Day of Mourning and Reflection for Christians Worldwide

Good Friday, a solemn day for Christians, marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ with mourning, fasting, and reflection. Across Greece, children sing laments, while churches hold the Service of the Unnailing and the Epitaphios procession, chanting the Encomia hymns. The day culminates in spiritual contemplation of Christ’s sacrifice and the hope of resurrection.

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Mykonos: Easter Cheer and High Hopes for Record 2025 Tourism

Mykonos anticipates a record-breaking 2025 tourism season, with the Mykonos Hoteliers Association forecasting higher arrivals than last year. President Maria Kousathana highlights strong international interest and a vibrant Easter period, with increased Greek and foreign visitors. The island’s hotels are open, recovering from recent weather challenges, and ready to showcase Mykonos’ unique charm and cultural traditions.

This is an image of Christ as Pantocrator in the Byzantine mosaic style, characteristic of Eastern Orthodox Religious art iconography. The IC and the XC are abbreviations for the Greek word meaning “Jesus Christ”. In his left hand, Jesus holds the New Testament and the gesture of his right hand indicates a blessing.
Great and Holy Friday

On Great and Holy Friday the Orthodox Church commemorates the death of Christ on the Cross. “Today He who hung the earth upon the waters is hung upon the Cross.” (From the Fifteenth Antiphon of the Matins of Holy Friday)

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USA: Shooting at Florida University – Reports of One Dead and Six Injured

One person is dead and six others are injured after a shooting at Florida State University in Tallahassee. Police apprehended the suspected gunman and are investigating. A student described the attacker as a young white male firing a rifle and pistol, with over 15 shots heard in seconds. President Trump called the incident “horrific.”

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Ambulance Crash in Athens Injures Four, Disrupts Traffic

A private ambulance crashed into a lighting pole in Athens’ Pangrati district on Holy Thursday, injuring four, including two pedestrians. The collision at Vasileos Konstantinou Avenue caused the pole to collapse, with three victims taken to Evangelismos Hospital and one to NIMTS. Traffic was disrupted as EKAB responded swiftly to the scene.

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Easter Shopping Hours in Greece: What You Need to Know

As Greece observes Holy Week, store hours adjust for Easter traditions. On Holy Thursday, shops stay open until 9:00 PM, while Good Friday sees a half-day schedule starting at 1:00 PM. Holy Saturday limits retail to 3:00 PM, with supermarkets like Lidl open until 9:00 PM. Plan your shopping to celebrate a joyous Kali Anastasi!

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Greek-American Actor John Stamos’ Former Mansion Hits Market for $13M

A Mediterranean-style mansion in Calabasas, originally built by Greek-American actor John Stamos, is now on the market for $13 million. Perched on a hill with breathtaking Malibu Canyon views, the 750-square-meter estate was transformed by owners Justin and Candace Aguilera through extensive renovations, featuring Panda marble floors, a grand chandelier, and a revamped pool area. Designed for entertainment and luxury, this Greek-inspired gem awaits its next chapter.

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Dutch Government Issues Urgent Warning: Stop Eating Homegrown

The Dutch government has issued an urgent warning to stop consuming eggs from backyard chickens due to contamination with PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” linked to serious health risks like cancer. Research by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) found high PFAS levels in non-commercial eggs across 60 locations, likely due to earthworms in the chickens’ diet. The European Chemicals Agency is reviewing a proposal to phase out PFAS in various products.

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Remembering Dimitris Mitropanos: Greek Music Icon Passes Away on April 17, 2012

On April 17, 2012, Greek music legend Dimitris Mitropanos passed away at 64, leaving a lasting void. From his 1967 debut with “Thessaloniki” to iconic works like Agios Fevrouarios, his collaborations with Greece’s finest composers defined Laïko and rebetika. His soulful voice and timeless songs, like “Ρόζα” and “Αλίμονο,” ensure his legacy endures.

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Maria Menounos Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Late Mother in Instagram Post

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Maria Menounos reflected on her mother’s 2021 passing from a brain tumor, calling the diagnosis a life-changing moment. “I became obsessed with health and wellness… unknowingly building a foundation to help myself in the future,” she wrote.

Nia Vardalos
Nia Vardalos Brings Tiny Beautiful Things to Athens, Merging Heritage with Art

Nia Vardalos has arrived in Athens for the Greek premiere of Tiny Beautiful Things at the Pallas Theatre, set to open May 16. Performing in Greek for the first time, the Greek-Canadian star of My Big Fat Greek Wedding aims to share universal stories of resilience, blending her heritage with her art.

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The 7 Famous Greeks Who Tragically Died in Road Accidents

Seven beloved Greek celebrities, icons in music, film, and television, met untimely ends in tragic road accidents. From Mad Clip’s fatal crash in 2021 to Nikos Garoufalis’ death in 2009, their stories highlight the fragility of life and the enduring impact of their talents.

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Remembering Dimitris Mitropanos: Greek Music Icon Passes Away on April 17, 2012

On April 17, 2012, Greek music legend Dimitris Mitropanos passed away at 64, leaving a lasting void. From his 1967 debut with “Thessaloniki” to iconic works like Agios Fevrouarios, his collaborations with Greece’s finest composers defined Laïko and rebetika. His soulful voice and timeless songs, like “Ρόζα” and “Αλίμονο,” ensure his legacy endures.

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Koulourakia (Greek Easter Biscuits)

Easter is my favourite time of year—a season full of Greek traditions, family, and, of course, Tsoureki! This sweet, spiced bread is a beloved part of our Easter table. I’m sharing tips and my special recipe from Sweet Greek, and you can also order one fresh from our kitchen.

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Acropolis Museum Director Highlights Greece’s Cultural Legacy at Yale University

Acropolis Museum, Nikolaos Stampolidis, Yale University, Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Public Archaeology, Cultural Repatriation, Parthenon Marbles, Greek Heritage, Cultural Heritage, Eleutherna, Greek Archaeology, Hellenic Studies, MacMillan Center, Museum Studies, Art Repatriation

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Dutch Government Issues Urgent Warning: Stop Eating Homegrown

The Dutch government has issued an urgent warning to stop consuming eggs from backyard chickens due to contamination with PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” linked to serious health risks like cancer. Research by the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) found high PFAS levels in non-commercial eggs across 60 locations, likely due to earthworms in the chickens’ diet. The European Chemicals Agency is reviewing a proposal to phase out PFAS in various products.

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Koulourakia (Greek Easter Biscuits)

Easter is my favourite time of year—a season full of Greek traditions, family, and, of course, Tsoureki! This sweet, spiced bread is a beloved part of our Easter table. I’m sharing tips and my special recipe from Sweet Greek, and you can also order one fresh from our kitchen.

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Olympiacos Secures Champions League League Phase Spot for 2025-26

Olympiacos, Greece’s reigning champions, are set to join Europe’s football elite in the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League League Phase. After Bodø/Glimt’s failure to defeat Lazio in their Europa League quarter-final, Olympiacos are virtually assured a spot among the 36 teams, with only improbable scenarios involving Rangers or an unexpected Champions League winner standing in their way.

Sakkari sends Greece to the quarterfinals of the United Cup
Maria Sakkari Reunites with Former Coach Tom Hill to Revive Career

Maria Sakkari has reunited with former coach Tom Hill, 14 months after their split, to revive her career. Hill, who previously guided her to a top-10 ranking and two Grand Slam semifinals, rejoins the world No.82 as she struggles with form and a shoulder injury. The duo will start their second stint at the Madrid Open.

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Barcelona Open: Tsitsipas Outlasts Korda to Reach Quarter-Finals

Stefanos Tsitsipas, the No. 3 seed, battled past Sebastian Korda 7-6 (4), 6-4 to reach the Barcelona Open quarter-finals for the fifth consecutive year. In a serve-dominated clay-court clash, Tsitsipas capitalized on a first-set tiebreak and an early second-set break to secure victory, avenging a prior loss to Korda. He now faces No. 7 seed Arthur Fils at Real Club de Tenis Barcelona.

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Giannis Antetokounmpo Makes NBA History, Surpasses Legends

Greek basketball icon Giannis Antetokounmpo has made NBA history, surpassing legends Oscar Robertson and Wilt Chamberlain. The “Greek Freak” completed his third consecutive season averaging over 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, cementing his legacy as a global sports titan and a source of pride for Greece.

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Greek-American Actor John Stamos’ Former Mansion Hits Market for $13M

A Mediterranean-style mansion in Calabasas, originally built by Greek-American actor John Stamos, is now on the market for $13 million. Perched on a hill with breathtaking Malibu Canyon views, the 750-square-meter estate was transformed by owners Justin and Candace Aguilera through extensive renovations, featuring Panda marble floors, a grand chandelier, and a revamped pool area. Designed for entertainment and luxury, this Greek-inspired gem awaits its next chapter.

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Remembering Dimitris Mitropanos: Greek Music Icon Passes Away on April 17, 2012

On April 17, 2012, Greek music legend Dimitris Mitropanos passed away at 64, leaving a lasting void. From his 1967 debut with “Thessaloniki” to iconic works like Agios Fevrouarios, his collaborations with Greece’s finest composers defined Laïko and rebetika. His soulful voice and timeless songs, like “Ρόζα” and “Αλίμονο,” ensure his legacy endures.

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Callas, Onassis, and a Royal Farewell: The Rare Photo of the Couple at a Monaco Funeral

A rare 1964 photograph, shared on *Elena’s Diary* Instagram, captures Maria Callas and Aristotle Onassis at the funeral of Prince Pierre de Polignac in Monaco. The image reveals their close bond with Prince Rainier and Princess Grace, blending Greek heritage, high art, and Monte Carlo’s elite society in a poignant moment of history.

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Hellenic Film Society to Screen Acclaimed Thriller The Last Taxi Driver in Astoria

The Hellenic Film Society presents The Last Taxi Driver, a gripping psychological thriller starring Klelia Andriolatou (Maestro in Blue) and award-winning actor Kostas Koronaios. Catch the screening on Sunday, April 27 at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. Presented in Greek with English subtitles.

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Easter Exodus from Attica Sees Over 92,000 Vehicles Depart

On Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, over 92,000 vehicles streamed out of Attica as Greeks began their Easter holiday travels. With minor delays on key routes like Athens and Kifisou Avenues, the exodus surpassed last year’s figures, signaling a bustling start to the festive season. Authorities expect the final wave of travelers to depart Friday morning.

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Easter Holiday Schedule Announced for Public Transport in Athens

Athens public transportation services will operate on modified schedules from Holy Friday, April 18, through Wednesday, April 23, due to the Easter holiday. Changes include earlier last train and tram departures on Holy Saturday, adjusted bus and trolley timetables, and potential additional routes to major travel hubs. Passengers are advised to plan ahead.

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Accor’s Handwritten Collection Debuts in Greece with Rocca a Mare Heraklion

Accor’s Handwritten Collection welcomes its first Greek hotel, Rocca a Mare Heraklion, a 36-room Cretan gem blending modern luxury with local charm. As part of Accor’s expanding European portfolio, this milestone highlights the potential for Greece’s boutique hotels to gain global recognition while preserving their unique identity.

Windmills Mykonos
Mykonos: Easter Cheer and High Hopes for Record 2025 Tourism

Mykonos anticipates a record-breaking 2025 tourism season, with the Mykonos Hoteliers Association forecasting higher arrivals than last year. President Maria Kousathana highlights strong international interest and a vibrant Easter period, with increased Greek and foreign visitors. The island’s hotels are open, recovering from recent weather challenges, and ready to showcase Mykonos’ unique charm and cultural traditions.

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Greek Easter 2025 Brings Tourism Boom Across Greece as Orthodox and Catholic Holidays Align

Greece’s tourism sector is seeing a strong start to 2025 as Orthodox and Catholic Easter coincide. Major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki are welcoming more visitors than ever, while islands like Corfu and Crete experience early-season surges. With record hotel occupancies and high flight demand, Greece’s Easter celebrations are expected to set the stage for a booming summer tourism season.

Secrets to Ageless Beauty: Mary Ajaka, Celebrity Makeup Artist

Secrets to Ageless Beauty: Mary Ajaka, Celebrity Makeup Artist

Read our exclusive interview with Mary Ajaka, celebrity makeup artist behind some of TV’s most iconic faces. From the dazzling sets of The Voice, Love Island Australia and Married at First Sight, over the past 17 years Mary has made a name for herself as one of Australia’s most sought-after beauty experts.

Sabo Brings Its Signature Style to Sydney with First Bondi Store
Sabo Brings Its Signature Style to Sydney with First Bondi Store

After more than a decade of dominating the online fashion world with its breezy, sun-kissed aesthetic, Australian label Sabo is finally putting down roots in Sydney. Watch their exclusive message to Greek City Times readers here.

Mary Vitinaros: The Supermodel Next Door
Mary Vitinaros: The Supermodel Next Door

She’s walked for Paris Couture Week, graced the pages of Harper’s Bazaar, and mentored on Greece’s Next Top Model. But behind the glamour, Mary Vitinaros is every bit as grounded as the place she calls home.

Sabo Brings Its Signature Style to Sydney with First Bondi Store

Sabo Brings Its Signature Style to Sydney with First Bondi Store

After more than a decade of dominating the online fashion world with its breezy, sun-kissed aesthetic, Australian label Sabo is finally putting down roots in Sydney. Watch their exclusive message to Greek City Times readers here.

Proposed Athens airport expansion (March 2025) as designed by Grimshaw, Haptic, K-Studio and Leslie Jones – north oculus
UK-Greek Consortium Wins £540M Project to Expand Athens International Airport

: A UK-Greek consortium, led by Grimshaw and Haptic with K-Studio, has won a £540 million project to expand Athens International Airport, aiming to increase its capacity from 26 million to 40 million passengers by 2032. The first phase, set for completion by 2028, will boost capacity to 33 million, featuring a revamped main terminal with iconic north and south oculi, a reconfigured Extra Schengen satellite terminal, and sustainable design targeting LEED Gold certification.

A Greek Odyssey to Moroccan Elegance with Miss Polyplexi
A Greek Odyssey to Moroccan Elegance with Miss Polyplexi

Miss Polyplexi has redefined the art of handcrafted fashion once again with the launch of its latest resortwear crochet collection, “I Am A Luxurious Nomad”, drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture and timeless beauty of Morocco.

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Mary and Michael Jaharis: A $50 Million Legacy to The Met and St. Nicholas Church at Ground Zero

Mary and Michael Jaharis are celebrated figures within the Greek-American community, known for their profound contributions to both the pharmaceutical industry and philanthropic endeavors. Their legacy includes a significant $50 million donation to The Met and support for the reconstruction of St. Nicholas Church at Ground Zero, epitomizing their dedication to cultural heritage and humanitarian efforts. Mary Jaharis continues to uphold this legacy, reflecting her passion for art, education, and her Greek roots.

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Young Photographer Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas Wins Prestigious Wildlife Award

Alexis Tinker-Tsavalas, a young photographer of Greek descent, has been awarded the Young Grand Title 2024 in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. His captivating image of a springtail, captured with the intricate focus stacking technique, will be exhibited at the Natural History Museum in London.

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