1 - 2 of 2 Posts

greggd12

Active member
The history of the gyro has actually been debated for years. Food historians believe that the gyro actually arrived in Greece in the early 1920’s as refugees from Asia Minor, mainly from Constantinople (now Istanbul) and Smyrna (now Izmir). Many of these people had Greek ancestry, and they brought the tradition of the gyro with them. Some legends indicate, however, that the first gyro handlers in Athens were actually of Armenian decent.

It was fairly common for these refugees to open small shops, mainly in Athens, and that helped increase the food’s popularity. As the people of Athens caught on, the dish started spreading to other areas of Greece. Eventually, Greeks who began leaving Greece for other countries, such s the United States, brought the food with them and the tradition continued in countries such as the United States and Canada.

gyro.jpg
 
  • Like
Reactions: francescool
I looove gyro!! So happy I can get it anywhere now a days, thanks for posting about the history
 

Kingdoms in Ancient Greece?

My niece has a school project about Ancient Greece, and she asked me an interesting question: were there kingdoms in Ancient Greece? I always associate Greece with city-states like Athens and Sparta, but I’m wondering if there were any actual kingdoms during that time.

Did Ancient Greece ever have kings ruling over larger territories, or was it mostly independent city-states? I’ve heard of Mycenae and the Minoans—were they considered kingdoms? And how do they compare to the more famous city-states of the Classical period?

If anyone has insights or resources that could help me explain this to her in a simple way, I’d really appreciate it. She's 11 years old and she chose this topic herself.

Where did the Oracle of Delphi Come From?

I’ve been reading about the Oracle of Delphi and had a question I can’t stop thinking about. We usually think of the Oracle—also known as the Pythia—as a figure from Greek mythology. But I wonder… was she actually a real person?

I came across a few sources that suggest the Oracle was a historical role held by actual women, not just a mythological character. If that’s true, wouldn’t that make her a real historical figure, or maybe even many women over time who acted as the Oracle?

I’m really curious about where the tradition started, and if there’s archaeological or historical evidence for her existence outside of myth.

Does anyone here know more about the origins of the Oracle of Delphi?

Was the Oracle of Delphi Real?

I’ve recently been reading about the Oracle of Delphi and how it played such a significant role in ancient Greek society, advising leaders and influencing major decisions. I’m fascinated by the idea of the Oracle, but I can’t help but wonder: was it actually real, or was it more of a cultural tradition wrapped in mythology? Did the Pythia (the priestess) really go into trances and communicate messages from Apollo, or were the prophecies more a product of interpretation and societal influence?

I know there are theories about gases in the area that might have caused the Pythia’s trance-like state, but I’d love to hear others’ perspectives or any interesting facts you might know. Do you think the Oracle was genuinely mystical, or was it more a well-constructed tradition that reflected the values and beliefs of ancient Greece? Looking forward to your thoughts!

Insights Into Greek Colonization

I am reading up on Ancient Greece because I'll be going to Greece soon and I like to visit Museums. I decided I want to learn a bit more about Greek Colonization in Ancient Greece.

I’ve been reading up on this subject a little it and it's fascinating. From what I understand, between the 8th and 6th centuries BCE, Greek city-states established colonies throughout the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. I’m curious about how these colonies influenced both the Greek homeland and the areas they settled in.

What were some of the most significant Greek colonies, and how did they impact trade, culture, and political relationships at the time? Also, what motivated the Greeks to set up these colonies—was it primarily for economic reasons, overpopulation, or something else? I’d love to hear more about how colonization helped spread Greek culture and what challenges these early settlers faced.

Ancient Greek Drama Information and Thoughts

I’ve recently developed a fascination with Ancient Greek drama and its timeless themes. Plays by Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes have captivated me, and I’d love to deepen my appreciation by experiencing a live performance in one of Greece’s historical theaters.

Has anyone attended a play in an ancient venue like the Theater of Epidaurus or the Odeon of Herodes Atticus? I’m curious about what the experience is like—are performances faithful to the original works or more modern adaptations? Also, are there specific times of year or festivals when it’s best to attend?

I’d appreciate any tips on how to book tickets, what to expect, or even recommendations on where to stay nearby. This would be a dream experience for me. :)
Share and discuss Greek history!

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