Colors of Heraklion - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Heraklion is known for its numerous tourist attractions and natural beauty. However, besides its rich historical heritage this picturesque old city is home to several national symbols. The culture of the local people is very original and it is reflected in all aspects of life. Many travelers associate Heraklion with excellent olive oil, which is actively used not only in cooking but also in cosmetics. The production of olive oil is one of the oldest crafts, and every year it becomes more and more perfect.

Oil is a required component of the majority of the national dishes. Many tourists also prefer to buy it as a souvenir. Travellers have an opportunity to visit one of the local plants that processes olives. The oil is traditionally most popular with the fair sex. The reason for this is the fact that oil is the basic element of numerous cosmetic treatments. Oil is also actively used in the fight against excess weight.

Wine is a no less important cultural heritage of the local residents. According to historians, wine was made here for the first time more than four thousand years ago. Since that time winemakers have shared their experience from generation to generation. Many of the local masters still use centuries old techniques in production. Wine making is one of the few crafts that cannot tolerate the intervention of modern technologies. Grown in accordance with all the rules and process, grapes are harvested by hand. Wine connoisseurs are recommended buying wine in specialized stores, which can be found next to each winery. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

We simply cannot fail to mention that excursions to major wineries are also very popular with visitors. Guests of the city will be interested in watching the process of making the beverage, and luxurious choice of vintage wines in the cellars of Heraklion will certainly draw the attention of collectors. Craftsmanship is one of the main cultural features of the local population. The city is home to a huge number of workshops that produce national clothes and jewelry, home decor items and gifts. The indigenous people value high their cultural heritage, and try to protect it from the influence of modern culture in every possible way.

Heraklion can always offer many interesting activities to its guests. Not only an acquaintance with the national culture, sightseeing, and active recreation can impress guests of the city but also amazing festivals. For example, the Summer Festival of Arts is one of the most popular events that travelers enjoy visiting. This festival starts at the beginning of June and lasts until the end of September. During the event, different landmarks of the city (Ἱερός Καθεδρικός Ναός Ἁγίου Τίτου (Agios Titos Church), Θεατρική Σκηνή Ηρακλείου (Theatrical Stage Heraklion), and the Theater of Nikos Kazantzakis) host interesting theatrical, dancing, and music performances. Visitors can also see gorgeous artworks at the exhibitions that are always open for the event.

At the beginning of August, four days are dedicated to music, dancing, art, and cuisine. This is the time when the nearby settlement of Houdetsi hosts a colorful festival. This event is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the local culture, cuisine, and the traditional lifestyle of indigenous people. Tourists are always charmed by the friendly and family-like atmosphere that reigns here. The fact that the festival is free to enter makes it even more appealing.

Numerous adventurous tourists are in love with a festival dedicated to alpine skiing. The event is called Pierra Creta and is usually held on Mount Ida (Psiloritis) that is located relatively not far from Heraklion. The event lasts the whole of March, and this is a perfect time to watch skiing competitions in the region. Tourists also like exploring local caves and villages in order to learn more about the local culture. It is a truly unique event for Greece, so it draws the attention of sportsmen and visitors from all parts of Greece and Crete.

Heraklion also shares similar holidays with Greece. For example, Independence Day celebrated in Greece on March 25 is also an important holiday in Heraklion. This is always the time for military parades and solemn religious ceremonies. Local people always bring flowers to memorials of the deceased, remembering that no sacrifice was futile. The holiday continues with outdoor festivals – locals are cheerful people and definitely know how to have fun. The holiday dedicated to Saint George (Agios Georgios) is also widely celebrated in Heraklion on April 23. For local people, this is one more opportunity to go to church (and they like doing that because Orthodox Christianity is very strong in the region) and pray.