Greece

At the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea, Greece has been a center of civilization for thousands of years.  From the Mycenaean civilization of the Bronze Age 3500 years ago to its current form as a modern nation, Greece bears the marks still visible to visitors today of many different cultures.  Along with its many archaeological sites and museums, Greece offers the opportunity to visit rugged mountains or lakes and to experience the beauty of its many islands.  The temperate climate, delicious cuisine, and cosmopolitan cities of Athens and Thessaloniki welcome visitors year round.  Furthermore, its long history as a tourist destination and its inclusion in the European Union allow Greece to provide all of the modern comforts of travel.

Those traveling to Greece also will gain a better understanding of the world of the New Testament and of the early Church.  While ancient Greece’s influence on the politics, philosophy, and arts of modern Western civilization is widely-known, its influence can be seen in the writings of the New Testament.  The New Testament, written in Greek, contains literary imagery of the New Testament that reflects ancient Greek cultural themes, such as athletics.  Each of the five major cities mentioned in the New Testament (Athens, Thessaloniki, Corinth, Philippi, and Berea) has archaeological remains reflecting life during the period of the early Church.  By seeing the buildings and inscriptions from these early centuries of Christianity, visitors will better understand the environment in which both the New Testament and the Church were formed.  Thus, Greece is a perfect location, not only because the visitor will enjoy its natural beauty and vibrant modern culture, but also because Greece provides an educational experience through unique access to biblical archaeological sites.