Greek Traditions Community

Are there any popular Greek board games?

1 - 13 of 13 Posts
E

efhernandez_

Active member
I would love to learn and play some Greek board games but I don't know of any!! Can any fellow Greeks help me out?
 
Tavli is the post popular .
 
  • Like
Reactions: knicks_fan87
Tpebop said:
Tavli is the post popular .
Click to expand...
Also known as backgammon, this is traditionally a game played, very fast with many different variations, by men in the cafes. However it’s been my favorite game for years and when you’re in Greece be sure to check out the tavli boards available for purchase….from inexpensive to beautifully hand-crafted in-laid boards.
 
  • Like
Reactions: xmelissaa
Deborah said:
Also known as backgammon, this is traditionally a game played, very fast with many different variations, by men in the cafes. However it’s been my favorite game for years and when you’re in Greece be sure to check out the tavli boards available for purchase….from inexpensive to beautifully hand-crafted in-laid boards.
Click to expand...
I would say this is the most traditional Greek game and the most popular as well
 
Tavli is the most popular game in Greece. Women und Men, chlildren und older play tavli,but at most the students.
Check the rules hier. Portes is the easier to learn. You can also online practice.

Portes

How to play Portes.
www.bkgm.com
 
  • Like
Reactions: auroracoor1 and paharo45
I think Tavli might have a few different rules from backgammon but it is pretty much the same game from what I understand. Interesting about the Greek version of monopoly, that is very cool!
 
  • Like
Reactions: auroracoor1
Eirini said:
Tavli is the most popular game in Greece. Women und Men, chlildren und older play tavli,but at most the students.
Check the rules hier. Portes is the easier to learn. You can also online practice.

Portes

How to play Portes.
www.bkgm.com
Click to expand...
I've never heard of Portes!! Thanks
 
lalajess said:
I think Tavli might have a few different rules from backgammon but it is pretty much the same game from what I understand. Interesting about the Greek version of monopoly, that is very cool!
Click to expand...
Does Greek tavli only have one set of rules? Or are there different versions?
 
There are some Greek versions of board games we recognize, like Monopoly, and there is also Tavli...
 
For me, such a game is Dune II: The Battle for Arrakis. Another revolution in the game market. Although Herzog Zwei is considered to be the first strategy game of its kind, and one could certainly agree with that, Dune II was in every respect a much more mature product. Dune II was the first game to offer the classic RTS motifs. Mouse control? Here you go. Collecting raw materials to produce units and buildings? Here you go. But if you're more realistic and don't want to get into it like I did, you can play games with online casinos. Especially since, thanks to https://1houseofpokies.com/no-deposit-bonuses, you can take advantage of no deposit bonuses.
 
Last edited:
Sometimes it strikes me how different the cultures of each of our countries are.
 
As a beginner diving into the world of Greek board games, I'm thrilled to stumble upon this thread! The discussion about popular Greek board games truly warms my heart. By the way, have you tried playing hearts? (Haha, pun intended).From classics like Tavli to modern gems like Santorini, there's a whole universe to explore. Each game seems to carry a piece of Greek culture and history, making the experience not just about winning but also about immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of Greek life. So, what's your take on these games? Any personal favorites or hidden gems you'd recommend? Let's keep the conversation rolling like the dice on a tavli board!
 
1 - 13 of 13 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

Where did plate smashing come from?

When Greeks feel happy and are dancing and have a good time, they've been known to smash plates. I've seen it! It's not just a tourist thing - but they don't do it much because I am sure they won't want to smash their expensive dish wear.

I was just at a wedding and they had purchased plates to smash - so basically they were cheap throwaway plates that actually smashed really well. I almost wonder if they were made for the purpose...

It got me thinking - where did this tradition come from? Does anyone know?

List of Cretan Dances?

I will be attending a Cretan wedding and am curious about the traditional Cretan dances! I know the dances are slightly different and I want to learn some. I don't know the names of the dances so that I can look them up. I did some research, though. Are any of these dances common at these weddings?
  • Pentozali
  • Sousta
  • Siganos
  • Chaniotis
There's a dance the wedding party typically does in Crete. Which dance is that?

Navigating Greek Lenten Fasting - Advice?

Lent is here and all my friends and family have been asking "what are you doing for lent this year?" They're all "giving something up" but I decided I wanted to fast. I would love your help and advice because this is the first time I am doing things in a stricter way. I resolve to see it through!

It's supposed to be a a time of reflection, purification, and preparation for the celebration of Easter, and the diet plays a significant part in this spiritual journey. I don't want to get so obsessed with the "rules" that I lose myself in them and forget why I am fasting int he first place.

Thanks in advance!

Greek Wedding Traditions Roundup

I am helping someone plan her Greek wedding. I wanted to make a list of all the traditions we need to keep in time for the big day. Did I miss anything?

The Stolisma

The wedding day begins with the ritual of 'Stolisma,' where the bride and groom are prepared separately by their families. It's a moment filled with emotion, songs, and blessings, setting the tone for the day. I had honestly never heard of this. Do people still do it?

The Krevati

An amusing tradition is the 'Krevati' (bed making), where family and friends gather to decorate the couple's future bed with baby items, symbolizing fertility and a happy family life. Money is also often thrown on the bed for good luck and prosperity.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most iconic rituals during the ceremony is the exchange of crowns or 'Stefana.' I believe they need to buy the crowns they want in advance?

Koufeta

No Greek wedding would be complete without 'Koufeta'—sugar-coated almonds given to guests as wedding favors. These bittersweet treats represent the ups and downs of married life and are shared in odd numbers to symbolize indivisibility and shared life.

Tips for Learning and Teaching Greek

I know how to speak Greek okay, but I am not great at it. I want to brush up on my skills, and I also want to teach some of my family members. I am good enough at it to the learn the basics. I am looking for advice, but I've also compiled some ideas:

1. Spend an extended period of time in Greece

There’s no better way to learn Greek than to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Greece. If you have the opportunity, consider spending an extended time in Greece, studying or working, taking a sabbatical, or just exploring the country. Living in Greece can help you understand the nuances of the language, such as the different accents, dialects, and slang that are used. You’ll also have the chance to practice your Greek with locals, watch Greek TV or films, and read Greek books or newspapers. I would imagine this is the best way to learn fast!

2. Use a language program

If you can’t travel to Greece or you prefer a more structured approach to learning Greek, consider using a language program. There are many language programs available online or in your local area, ranging from self-paced courses to interactive classes. Some popular language programs for Greek include Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Pimsleur. From what I understand these are all great options and I can learn at my own pace.

3. Take classes

Taking classes is another excellent way to learn Greek, especially if you prefer face-to-face interaction and feedback. You can find Greek language classes in community colleges, universities, language schools, or private tutors. Taking classes can help you improve your Greek skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You’ll have a teacher who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and give you homework or assignments that challenge you. You’ll also have classmates who share your passion for Greek and can practice with you.

4. Find ways to immerse yourself outside of Greece

Even if you can’t go to Greece or attend classes, you can still immerse yourself in Greek in your daily life. One way is to find Greek-speaking communities or events in your area, such as cultural centers, festivals, or meetups. You can also use online resources to connect with Greek speakers, such as language exchange websites, social media groups, or chat apps. Listening to Greek music, watching Greek videos or podcasts, or reading Greek literature can also help you familiarize yourself with the sounds and patterns of the language.

Honestly, I plan to try all 4 - whatever I can do. I think it will all help.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top