Happening Now
Live News & Updates
Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series: Brazilian Film and Its Place on the World Stage
U.S. court bars OpenAI from using Cameo name
Tesla avoids 30-day California suspension after removing Autopilot branding
Jack Altman Joins Benchmark as General Partner
Ford recruits Formula One engineers and offers incentives to develop electric truck priced at $30,000
An internal Meta research project called “Project MYST” has emerged as key evidence in a landmark social media addiction trial currently underway in Los Angeles County Superior Court. According to testimony, the study found that parental supervision and controls had minimal impact on preventing compulsive social media use among teenagers.…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s largest waste disposal facility continues to expand as the country struggles with persistent waste management challenges. The Fyli landfill, located northwest of Athens, recently received approval from the Environment Ministry for another expansion that will add 2 million cubic meters of capacity and extend operations for at least another year, according to official announcements last week. The latest expansion represents the fourth vertical extension of Phase 1 of the Fyli landfill, which has been operational since 2004. This ongoing enlargement highlights the ongoing difficulties Greece faces in developing effective recycling programs and reducing overall waste production. Fyli Landfill Handles Majority of Athens Waste The facility currently processes approximately 80% of Greater Athens’ garbage, making it the only operational landfill serving the entire Attica region. A planned second disposal site at Grammatiko, situated east of Athens, was never opened due to strong opposition from local communities. The original Phase 1…
Jerian Grant delivered a dramatic buzzer-beating basket to secure Panathinaikos an 82-81 Euroleague victory over Real Madrid at the Telekom Center Athens on Tuesday. The last-second heroics came just two seconds before the final buzzer, capping a thrilling comeback for the Greek powerhouse and completing a season double over the Spanish giants. Meanwhile, Olympiakos suffered a disappointing 108-98 overtime defeat to Dubai despite a remarkable second-half rally. The win marks Panathinaikos’ 16th victory in 26 Euroleague games this season and came on the club’s 118th birthday. Grant’s game-winning shot sealed what many consider a potential season-changing result for the seven-time European champions, according to Greek basketball analysts. Panathinaikos Overcomes Early Deficit in Euroleague Clash Panathinaikos entered the contest attempting to bounce back from an overtime loss to Aris in Greek Basket League play just two days earlier. The Greens struggled in the opening quarter, falling behind 16-26 as Real Madrid…
A Greek soccer team chairman and two other individuals were arrested on Sunday following a violent incident at a football stadium in the Greater Athens area, according to local authorities. The arrests came after the group allegedly assaulted both rival fans and police officers who intervened to stop the altercation during a match. The police statement released Monday did not disclose the names of the suspects or identify the soccer team involved in the incident. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the three arrested individuals were part of a larger group of approximately 20 people who wore the colors of a…
A controversial injury-time penalty decision rescued Olympiakos from defeat against AEK Athens in the Greek Super League derby on Sunday, as the match at Nea Filadelfia ended 1-1. The late equalizer allowed PAOK to climb into second place in the league standings, with AEK maintaining their position at the top of the table. The dramatic conclusion came in the 106th minute after 14 minutes of stoppage time were added to the contest. According to match reports, AEK took the lead just before the hour mark when Razvan Marin delivered a corner kick from the right side. Substitute Varga rose in…
Greek alpine skier AJ Ginnis made his Olympic debut at the Games on Monday in what became an emotional farewell to competitive skiing. The 31-year-old athlete competed in the Olympic slalom race knowing it would mark both his first and last appearance at the Games, as ongoing injuries have forced him to retire from professional skiing. Ginnis, who captured a silver medal in slalom at the 2023 World Championships in Courchevel, France, has been unable to return to peak form following his latest setback. The day before his Olympic slalom race, Ginnis realized during training that his body could no…
Olympiakos strengthened its position in the Euroleague standings after defeating Red Star Belgrade 92-86 on Thursday, moving into second place with their 18th victory of the season. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos suffered a heartbreaking home defeat to league leader Fenerbahce, losing 85-83 on a last-second shot at the Telekom Center Athens on Friday. The Euroleague results highlight the competitive nature of this season’s campaign, with Olympiakos now trailing only Fenerbahce in the overall standings. The Greek champions improved their record to 18 wins in 27 matches, continuing their impressive form with seven victories in their last eight games. Olympiakos Dominates Red Star…
Greece’s governing New Democracy party faces growing criticism over its proposed constitutional amendments, with prominent legal scholar and former socialist leader Evangelos Venizelos emerging as a key opponent. The constitutional revision controversy has escalated tensions between the government and PASOK, the main center-left opposition party, potentially jeopardizing future political cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections. Venizelos, a distinguished constitutional law expert, sharply criticized the government’s approach in an opinion piece titled “Constitutional Populism” published in Kathimerini. According to his statement, “respecting the Constitution comes before revision,” signaling fundamental disagreement with the proposed changes and their underlying rationale. Constitutional Amendments Face Political Obstacles The veteran politician’s opposition presents significant challenges to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s political strategy. Government officials had reportedly hoped to secure cooperation from what they internally refer to as “the good PASOK” faction—moderate socialists willing to work across party lines on major issues. Such collaboration could potentially extend…
Greek authorities have initiated proceedings to revoke the asylum status of Javed Aslam, a prominent Pakistani community leader in Athens, as part of an expanded government review of international protection cases. The move against Aslam, who has headed the Pakistani Unity Organization since the mid-2000s and lived in Greece for approximately 30 years, was reported Monday as part of a broader crackdown on asylum revocations. According to the Migration Ministry, 33 third-country nationals from Syria, Pakistan, Egypt, and Iraq have had asylum revocation procedures initiated against them in the past two weeks alone. The review follows a directive by Migration…
Walking through Athens offers a unique perspective on the Greek capital that cannot be replicated by any other mode of transport, according to architect and urban planner Alexandros Papageorgiou-Venetas. His recently published book “Vimatismoi: Walks in the City” celebrates more than eight decades of exploring Athens on foot, presenting the practice of urban walking as both a physical activity and a contemplative dialogue with the cityscape. The book, published in Greek by Agra, combines personal recollections with passages from Greek and international literature. Papageorgiou-Venetas draws on writers including Walter Benjamin, Goethe, Edgar Allan Poe, and Andreas Embirikos to create what…
Panathinaikos Basketball Club officially signed American forward Nigel Hayes-Davis on Thursday in a deal worth approximately €10 million over two and a half years, the team announced. The Panathinaikos signing comes after a dramatic last-minute reversal in the 31-year-old player’s transfer plans, with Hayes-Davis initially appearing set to join Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv instead of the Greek powerhouse. According to sports website SDNA.gr, the former NBA player had rejected Panathinaikos before changing course. Club owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos revealed the acquisition early Thursday morning via Instagram before the official announcement confirmed the deal. Hayes-Davis Transfer Details and Contract Value The…
Photographs believed to document the execution of 200 Greek resistance fighters by Nazi forces in 1944 have appeared for sale on eBay, marking their first public emergence 82 years after the mass shooting at Kaisariani. The images surfaced through a Belgian seller before being removed from the online auction platform on Monday morning, according to reports. The photographs allegedly show scenes from the May 1, 1944 execution at the Kaisariani Shooting Range in Athens, one of the most notorious Nazi atrocities during the German occupation of Greece. According to the auction listing, the material was discovered in an album attributed…
Greece’s governing New Democracy party faces growing criticism over its proposed constitutional amendments, with prominent legal scholar and former socialist leader Evangelos Venizelos emerging as a key opponent. The constitutional revision controversy has escalated tensions between the government and PASOK, the main center-left opposition party, potentially jeopardizing future political cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections. Venizelos, a distinguished constitutional law expert, sharply criticized the government’s approach in an opinion piece titled “Constitutional Populism” published in Kathimerini. According to his statement, “respecting the Constitution comes before revision,” signaling fundamental disagreement with the proposed changes and their underlying rationale. Constitutional Amendments Face…
Cyprus has reported strong economic performance for the final quarter of 2025, with GDP growth reaching 4.5%, the second highest rate in the European Union. President Nikos Christodoulides praised the Cyprus economic growth figures, attributing the success to responsible government policies that have created conditions for improved public services and citizen welfare. According to the Statistical Service of Cyprus, the fourth quarter GDP growth rate significantly exceeded the European average. President Christodoulides commented on the announcement through social media, emphasizing that the results represent a vote of confidence in the island nation’s economic management. Government Response to Cyprus Economic Growth…
A fatal motorcycle accident on Paros has claimed the life of a 17-year-old, according to Greek authorities. The tragic incident occurred on the popular Cycladic island, leaving another person seriously injured and sparking an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The teenager was riding a motorcycle when the vehicle veered off course and crashed, initial reports indicate. A 31-year-old man was also involved in the collision and sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Medical Response and Fatal Outcome Following the motorcycle accident on Paros, emergency services transferred the critically injured 17-year-old to the nearby island of Syros for advanced medical…
Travelers seeking authentic winter escapes in Greece are turning their attention to Epirus, the mountainous northwestern region where traditional stone guesthouses offer a compelling alternative to coastal destinations. According to a recent travel feature, five boutique hotels and guesthouses in Epirus provide visitors with the perfect blend of comfort, natural beauty and cultural heritage during the winter months. These accommodations showcase the region’s distinctive architecture and hospitality while offering modern amenities suited to cold-weather retreats. The selected properties span across Epirus, from the villages of Zagori to the Tzoumerka mountains, each emphasizing local materials, traditional design and connections to their…
Greece’s primary budget surplus significantly exceeded its January target, according to preliminary data released Monday by the country’s finance ministry. The primary budget surplus reached €3.51 billion on a modified cash basis, nearly doubling the €1.75 billion target set for the month. This strong fiscal performance demonstrates continued improvement in Greece’s public finances as the country maintains its economic recovery trajectory. The January 2026 figure represents a substantial increase compared to the €1.98 billion primary surplus recorded during the same period last year. The primary surplus measure excludes debt servicing costs and provides a clear indication of the government’s ability…
Greece’s Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis has filed a defamation lawsuit against Course of Freedom party leader Zoe Konstantopoulou following accusations related to a deadly factory explosion. The legal action, filed on Monday, stems from statements Konstantopoulou made regarding the health minister’s alleged response to the Violanta biscuit factory tragedy that claimed five workers’ lives in late January. Georgiadis announced the lawsuit specifically addresses what he described as “extremely defamatory” statements Konstantopoulou made concerning the Violanta case. The health minister maintains that the opposition leader’s accusations are unfounded and damaging to his reputation. Factory Explosion Sparks Political Controversy The dispute centers…
Greek artist Akylas will represent Greece at Eurovision 2026 with his song “Ferto” after winning the national selection competition Sing For Greece. The 27-year-old musician, born Akylas Mytilinaios, triumphed in the final held on Sunday, securing top points from all three voting categories to earn his place at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. The national selection process began with 28 competing songs and narrowed down through two semi-finals earlier in the week. Fourteen finalists competed on Sunday evening for the opportunity to represent Greece on the Eurovision stage. According to the voting system, points were allocated through a…
A 71-year-old convict serving house arrest in Greece was returned to prison this week after allegedly firing a shotgun into the air outside his residence in eastern Attica. Christos Mavrikis, who had been under house arrest since last year for attempting to bribe a Supreme Court judge, now faces additional charges following the Monday night incident in Spata, according to police. Authorities said Mavrikis fired two shots from his balcony before barricading himself inside the property. Neighbors reported hearing the gunfire, which prompted a significant police response to the scene. House Arrest Revoked After Shooting Incident Police arrived at the…
Greek tennis star Maria Sakkari has advanced to the Qatar Open semifinals following a stunning comeback victory against world number two Iga Swiatek. The match, held in Doha, marks a significant milestone for the 30-year-old athlete, who overcame a challenging recent record against the Polish champion to secure her spot in the final four of the prestigious WTA tournament. Currently ranked 52nd in the world, Sakkari claimed her first win over Swiatek since 2021. The Greek player had endured a difficult streak against the Polish star, losing their previous four encounters without managing to win a single set. Breaking the…
The Greek National Opera has experienced a dramatic transformation since relocating to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in 2017, evolving from a traditional institution into one of Europe’s most dynamic opera houses. Sold-out performances have become standard, international visitors are flocking to Athens specifically for productions, and high-profile collaborations with artists like filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos and performance artist Marina Abramović have elevated the company’s global profile. In November, the company marked another milestone by hosting the International Opera Awards for the first time in Greece, with the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to acclaimed Greek mezzo-soprano Agnes Baltsa. This recognition…
Greece’s largest waste disposal facility continues to expand as the country struggles with persistent waste management challenges. The Fyli landfill, located northwest of Athens, recently received approval from the Environment Ministry for another expansion that will add 2 million cubic meters of capacity and extend operations for at least another year, according to official announcements last week. The latest expansion represents the fourth vertical extension of Phase 1 of the Fyli landfill, which has been operational since 2004. This ongoing enlargement highlights the ongoing difficulties Greece faces in developing effective recycling programs and reducing overall waste production. Fyli Landfill Handles…
Greece is experiencing a slowdown in public administration decision-making as the country approaches national elections expected in 12 to 14 months. The phenomenon, described as entering a “preelection management orbit,” is primarily affecting the willingness of government officials at various levels to make difficult decisions, according to recent reports. Market observers have begun to factor this administrative hesitation into their expectations for policy implementation and project advancement. A government minister recently acknowledged the situation privately, stating that certain initiatives can proceed before elections while others face inevitable delays due to the upcoming electoral calendar. The admission highlights the growing tension…
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan have agreed to hold a bilateral meeting in the near future, according to officials in Athens. The announcement came following a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Monday, during which they discussed strengthening Greece-UAE relations and addressing pressing regional challenges. The prime minister’s office confirmed that the phone call covered bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors and regional affairs. According to the statement, diplomatic efforts to secure peace in the Middle East featured prominently in their discussions, reflecting both nations’ interest in regional stability.…
A Belgian collector has suspended the controversial online auction of historic photographs that allegedly depict the execution of 200 Greek resistance fighters by Nazi forces at the Kaisariani Shooting Range during World War II. Tim de Craene, owner of the Crain’s Militaria website, announced the decision on Monday morning, citing the sensitive historical nature of the material and recent events surrounding the Kaisariani execution photos. De Craene told Greek newspaper Kathimerini that he personally halted the eBay auctions after intense media coverage began on Sunday. The collector expressed shock over vandalism targeting a memorial in the Athens suburb of Kaisariani,…
Greece has been drawn into a challenging group alongside Germany, the Netherlands and Serbia for the 2026-2027 UEFA Nations League, according to the draw results announced in Brussels. The Greek national team will compete in League A for the first time in its history after securing two consecutive promotions in the competition’s previous editions. The UEFA Nations League draw places Greece in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups as they make their debut in the top tier. This marks a significant achievement for Greek football, which has steadily climbed through the league system to reach the elite level of…
A new documentary explores how the filming of a 1956 Hollywood production transformed the Greek island of Hydra from an economically struggling community into an internationally recognized cultural destination. The film “Hydra & Sophia: Echoes of a Dolphin” chronicles the arrival of Sophia Loren and the crew of “Boy on a Dolphin,” capturing the memories of local residents who witnessed this pivotal moment in the island’s history. In late September 1956, news spread through Hydra’s narrow streets that 20th Century Fox would be filming on the island. According to 87-year-old Giannis Gavalas, a lifelong resident, the announcement promised that “shops…
Greek authorities have ordered divers to raise a migrant boat from the seabed following a deadly Chios shipwreck that claimed 15 lives earlier this month. The decision to recover the vessel comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the fatal collision between the migrant boat and a coast guard patrol vessel off the eastern Aegean Sea island on February 3. The Chios prosecutor heading the investigation approved the request from lawyers representing a Moroccan man charged with steering the migrant boat. The defendant faces allegations of causing the collision that resulted in the deaths of 15 migrants, charges which…
Greece’s main opposition PASOK party has expelled a lawmaker over controversial remarks, reducing its parliamentary representation to 32 seats out of 300 total. The Socialist party announced Monday that it had ejected Lesvos representative Panayiotis Paraskevaidis following what it described as his “constant unacceptable statements.” The PASOK expulsion came after Paraskevaidis was quoted suggesting the party should be willing to cooperate “even with a dictatorial regime” if the alternative meant Greece would be left without a functioning government. The statement sparked immediate backlash within the party and led to swift disciplinary action from PASOK leadership. Political Context Behind the PASOK…
The small mountain town of Metsovo in northwestern Greece has achieved a remarkable feat in cross-country skiing, continuously sending athletes to the Winter Olympic Games for approximately three decades. With a population of just 2,000 permanent residents between Metsovo and neighboring Anilio, this unique tradition has made the region a cornerstone of winter sports in Greece. The legacy continues at the current Olympics in Cortina, Italy, where local athlete Apostolos Angelis is competing in his fourth Winter Games. According to Kathimerini, which visited Metsovo shortly before the Olympics began, the community’s connection to skiing runs deep. Coach Afroditi Katsora was…
Athens taxi drivers initiated a three-day strike on Tuesday, while Greece’s nationwide taxi federation announced an additional 48-hour work stoppage for Wednesday and Thursday. The coordinated labor actions aim to protest pending legislation that would fundamentally transform the taxi industry in Greece’s largest cities through mandated vehicle electrification and market liberalization measures. The controversial bill, currently under public consultation and having received more than 800 comments, would require all new taxi registrations in Athens and Thessaloniki to be zero-emission vehicles starting in January 2026. Additionally, the legislation would allow private hire vehicles with drivers to operate, a provision that taxi…
A collection of 12 black and white photographs believed to document a major World War II atrocity in occupied Athens has emerged, prompting Greek officials to consider acquiring the historical materials. The images, which surfaced recently on the internet for sale, appear to show the Kaisariani execution of 200 political prisoners and hostages by German occupation forces on May 1, 1944. Greece’s Culture Ministry announced Monday that experts will travel to Ghent, Belgium, in the coming days to authenticate the Kaisariani execution photographs and assess their historical significance. According to the ministry’s statement, officials are currently in contact with the…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s largest waste disposal facility continues to expand as the country struggles with persistent waste management challenges. The Fyli landfill, located northwest of Athens, recently received approval from the Environment Ministry for another expansion that will add 2 million cubic meters of capacity and extend operations for at least another year, according to official announcements last week. The latest expansion represents the fourth vertical extension of Phase 1 of the Fyli landfill, which has been operational since 2004. This ongoing enlargement highlights the ongoing difficulties Greece faces in developing effective recycling programs and reducing overall waste production. Fyli Landfill Handles Majority of Athens Waste The facility currently processes approximately 80% of Greater Athens’ garbage, making it the only operational landfill serving the entire Attica region. A planned second disposal site at Grammatiko, situated east of Athens, was never opened due to strong opposition from local communities. The original Phase 1…
Jerian Grant delivered a dramatic buzzer-beating basket to secure Panathinaikos an 82-81 Euroleague victory over Real Madrid at the Telekom Center Athens on Tuesday. The last-second heroics came just two seconds before the final buzzer, capping a thrilling comeback for the Greek powerhouse and completing a season double over the Spanish giants. Meanwhile, Olympiakos suffered a disappointing 108-98 overtime defeat to Dubai despite a remarkable second-half rally. The win marks Panathinaikos’ 16th victory in 26 Euroleague games this season and came on the club’s 118th birthday. Grant’s game-winning shot sealed what many consider a potential season-changing result for the seven-time European champions, according to Greek basketball analysts. Panathinaikos Overcomes Early Deficit in Euroleague Clash Panathinaikos entered the contest attempting to bounce back from an overtime loss to Aris in Greek Basket League play just two days earlier. The Greens struggled in the opening quarter, falling behind 16-26 as Real Madrid…
Greece is moving forward with plans to revitalize its historic Xenia hotel properties through long-term lease agreements, transforming abandoned state-owned assets into operational venues. The Public Properties Company (ETAD) has completed the concession agreement for Xenia Ouranoupoli and is now preparing tenders for additional properties, including the next target of…
Greece’s governing New Democracy party faces growing criticism over its proposed constitutional amendments, with prominent legal scholar and former socialist leader Evangelos Venizelos emerging as a key opponent. The constitutional revision controversy has escalated tensions between the government and PASOK, the main center-left opposition party, potentially jeopardizing future political cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections. Venizelos, a distinguished constitutional law expert, sharply criticized the government’s approach in an opinion piece titled “Constitutional Populism” published in Kathimerini. According to his statement, “respecting the Constitution comes before revision,” signaling fundamental disagreement with the proposed changes and their underlying rationale. Constitutional Amendments Face Political Obstacles The veteran politician’s opposition presents significant challenges to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s political strategy. Government officials had reportedly hoped to secure cooperation from what they internally refer to as “the good PASOK” faction—moderate socialists willing to work across party lines on major issues. Such collaboration could potentially extend…
Greece’s ski season has officially begun as two of the country’s most prominent mountain resorts open their slopes to winter sports enthusiasts. The Hellenic Public Properties Company (ETAD) announced the launch of operations at the Parnassos and Voras-Kaimaktsalan ski resorts, marking the start of the 2025-2026 Greece ski season with enhanced facilities and improved accessibility for visitors seeking alpine adventures. Voras-Kaimaktsalan Ski Resort in northern Greece became the first ski center in the country to welcome skiers this season, opening on Sunday, December 21. The Parnassos Ski Resort, located within easy driving distance of Athens, followed two days later on…
The Milan Cortina Olympics opening ceremony takes place Friday night at Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium, marking the start of the 2026 Winter Games with a nearly three-hour spectacle expected to draw millions of viewers worldwide. The ceremony begins at 9 p.m. CET and will feature performances by international stars including Mariah Carey and Andrea Bocelli, with approximately 60,000 spectators attending in person. In a departure from tradition, the opening ceremony will incorporate multiple locations across Italy. According to organizers, the Parade of Athletes and other ceremony elements will be conducted simultaneously in Cortina in the Dolomite mountains, Livigno in…
As the year draws to a close in Greece, shop windows fill with brightly colored charms, ornamental pomegranates, and blue glass evil eyes. These Greek New Year charms, known as gouria, represent a centuries-old tradition of exchanging symbolic objects intended to bring luck, health, and prosperity for the year ahead. The gouri has become an essential part of Greek New Year celebrations, blending ancient beliefs with modern design. At first glance, a gouri may appear as a simple pendant, bracelet, keyring, or small ornament stamped with the coming year’s number. However, this humble object carries a much deeper story rooted…
Young audiences in Greece are rediscovering the films of Theodoros Angelopoulos, the celebrated Greek auteur, following the release of his complete filmography on the streaming platform Cinobo in late January. A recent Sunday afternoon screening of his seminal 1970 film “Reconstitution” at Cinobo Patision cinema drew crowds of students and young cinephiles, demonstrating renewed interest in Angelopoulos cinema among Generation Z viewers. The scene outside the theater resembled the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Greece in the mid-1970s following the restoration of democracy, according to reporting by Kathimerini. Rainy weather provided an atmospheric backdrop as young people lined up for tickets…
Olympiakos has climbed to second place in the Euroleague standings following a dominant 109-77 victory over Virtus Bologna at home, while rival Panathinaikos dropped to eighth position after suffering a disappointing 78-62 defeat at Partizan Belgrade. The contrasting Euroleague results this week highlight the diverging fortunes of Greece’s two basketball powerhouses as the season progresses toward the playoffs. The double-week conclusion confirmed Olympiakos is on track for a top-four finish with 17 wins in 26 games, while Panathinaikos faces mounting challenges if it hopes to compete in the Final Four it will host in May. The Athens-based Greens now hold…
Greece is moving forward with plans to revitalize its historic Xenia hotel properties through long-term lease agreements, transforming abandoned state-owned assets into operational venues. The Public Properties Company (ETAD) has completed the concession agreement for Xenia Ouranoupoli and is now preparing tenders for additional properties, including the next target of Xenia Vytina. These iconic hotels, built during the mid-20th century in prime locations across Greece, represent a significant opportunity for state asset utilization and private investment. According to sources familiar with the initiative, ETAD is currently preparing the tender for Xenia Vytina, a currently abandoned building situated in an excellent…
Greece and Turkey have reaffirmed their commitment to direct bilateral dialogue following last week’s Greek-Turkish summit in Ankara, with both nations rejecting the possibility of United States mediation in their longstanding disputes. The meeting between Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan underscored the continuing diplomatic detente between the two neighboring countries that has been maintained since February 2023. According to officials from both nations, the summit did not produce resolutions to contentious bilateral issues. However, the calm and respectful tone of the discussions was viewed as a diplomatic success in itself, reinforcing the relative stability that…
The owner of a cookie factory in Trikala, central Greece, where a deadly explosion claimed five workers’ lives last month, has requested a one-day postponement of his testimony before an investigative magistrate. The defendant is scheduled to return to court at 1 p.m. on Wednesday for his second appearance regarding the Trikala factory explosion, following the upgrading of charges against him from a misdemeanor to a felony. The factory owner initially faced charges of negligent homicide, explosion, negligent arson, and bodily harm following his arrest on January 27. However, prosecutors upgraded the primary charge to homicide with possible intent last…
A criminal court in Thessaloniki has convicted two former municipal officials of breach of trust for failing to protect public land in Halkidiki, northern Greece. The breach of trust conviction on Tuesday targeted an ex-mayor and a former legal adviser of the Municipality of Sithonia, who were found guilty of neglecting their duty to defend municipal property against adverse possession claims, according to court officials. The case centers on a 10-hectare municipally owned property located in Sykia, a prominent village and tourist destination in Halkidiki. According to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, neighboring landowners attempted to claim portions of the municipal…
Central Greece has emerged as a premier destination for winter getaways in Greece, with several guesthouses and boutique hotels offering distinctive mountain hospitality. From the cosmopolitan village of Arachova near Mount Parnassus Ski Centre to the quieter alpine retreat of Karpenisi, the region’s winter accommodation combines traditional architecture with modern comforts, according to a recent roundup highlighting six standout properties. The featured guesthouses span locations across Karditsa, Evrytania and Boeotia, each providing unique approaches to mountain stays. They range from handcrafted stone villages to eco-conscious Finnish chalets and contemporary suite hotels, catering to visitors seeking both outdoor activities and cozy…
The Greek stock market experienced moderate losses on Monday as the Athens Exchange general index declined 0.43%, closing at 2,279.10 points down from Friday’s 2,288.83 points. The session followed a significant 10-month-record drop the previous Friday, with investors showing a muted response to the earlier sharp decline. Despite holidays in the United States and several major Asian markets, trading volume remained notably strong. The large-cap FTSE-25 index contracted 0.51% to end at 5,800.32 points, according to market data. However, mid-cap stocks showed resilience, expanding 0.65% during the session. A slight majority of individual stocks posted gains, with 54 stocks advancing…
Greek authorities have initiated proceedings to revoke the asylum status of Javed Aslam, a prominent Pakistani community leader in Athens, as part of an expanded government review of international protection cases. The move against Aslam, who has headed the Pakistani Unity Organization since the mid-2000s and lived in Greece for approximately 30 years, was reported Monday as part of a broader crackdown on asylum revocations. According to the Migration Ministry, 33 third-country nationals from Syria, Pakistan, Egypt, and Iraq have had asylum revocation procedures initiated against them in the past two weeks alone. The review follows a directive by Migration…
Renowned Greek-French filmmaker Costa-Gavras marked his 93rd birthday in Thessaloniki, Greece, where the city paid tribute to the legendary director at a historic location tied to one of his most celebrated works. The commemoration took place at the site where politician Grigoris Lambrakis was assassinated in 1963, an event that served as the inspiration for Costa-Gavras’ iconic political thriller “Z,” which brought international attention to political oppression in Greece. During the celebration, the acclaimed director reflected on his remarkable career and the personal influences that shaped his artistic vision. According to reports from the event, Costa-Gavras credited both his illiterate…
AEK Athens has reclaimed the top position in the Greek Super League standings following a dramatic weekend of results that saw Panathinaikos upset Olympiakos in the Derby of Eternal Rivals while PAOK dropped crucial points. The unexpected outcome at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium on Sunday has reshuffled the league table with just weeks remaining in the championship race. Panathinaikos secured a stunning 1-0 victory over Olympiakos at Piraeus, with Argentine midfielder Vicente Taborda scoring the decisive goal in the seventh minute. The Greens’ triumph came against the run of recent form and handed their rivals a significant setback in the…
PAOK and OFI Crete have secured their spots in the Greek Cup final after emerging victorious from their respective semifinal ties this week. The two clubs will compete for the trophy on April 25 at the Panthessaliko Stadium in Volos, with PAOK seeking silverware after eliminating Panathinaikos and OFI returning to the final for the second consecutive year. PAOK advanced to the Greek Cup final with a commanding aggregate victory over Panathinaikos across two legs. The Thessaloniki side won 1-0 in Athens last Wednesday through a penalty converted by Giorgos Giakoumakis, according to match reports. They followed up with a…
Walking through Athens offers a unique perspective on the Greek capital that cannot be replicated by any other mode of transport, according to architect and urban planner Alexandros Papageorgiou-Venetas. His recently published book “Vimatismoi: Walks in the City” celebrates more than eight decades of exploring Athens on foot, presenting the practice of urban walking as both a physical activity and a contemplative dialogue with the cityscape. The book, published in Greek by Agra, combines personal recollections with passages from Greek and international literature. Papageorgiou-Venetas draws on writers including Walter Benjamin, Goethe, Edgar Allan Poe, and Andreas Embirikos to create what…
Panathinaikos Basketball Club officially signed American forward Nigel Hayes-Davis on Thursday in a deal worth approximately €10 million over two and a half years, the team announced. The Panathinaikos signing comes after a dramatic last-minute reversal in the 31-year-old player’s transfer plans, with Hayes-Davis initially appearing set to join Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv instead of the Greek powerhouse. According to sports website SDNA.gr, the former NBA player had rejected Panathinaikos before changing course. Club owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos revealed the acquisition early Thursday morning via Instagram before the official announcement confirmed the deal. Hayes-Davis Transfer Details and Contract Value The…
Photographs believed to document the execution of 200 Greek resistance fighters by Nazi forces in 1944 have appeared for sale on eBay, marking their first public emergence 82 years after the mass shooting at Kaisariani. The images surfaced through a Belgian seller before being removed from the online auction platform on Monday morning, according to reports. The photographs allegedly show scenes from the May 1, 1944 execution at the Kaisariani Shooting Range in Athens, one of the most notorious Nazi atrocities during the German occupation of Greece. According to the auction listing, the material was discovered in an album attributed…
Greece’s governing New Democracy party faces growing criticism over its proposed constitutional amendments, with prominent legal scholar and former socialist leader Evangelos Venizelos emerging as a key opponent. The constitutional revision controversy has escalated tensions between the government and PASOK, the main center-left opposition party, potentially jeopardizing future political cooperation ahead of the 2027 elections. Venizelos, a distinguished constitutional law expert, sharply criticized the government’s approach in an opinion piece titled “Constitutional Populism” published in Kathimerini. According to his statement, “respecting the Constitution comes before revision,” signaling fundamental disagreement with the proposed changes and their underlying rationale. Constitutional Amendments Face…
Cyprus has reported strong economic performance for the final quarter of 2025, with GDP growth reaching 4.5%, the second highest rate in the European Union. President Nikos Christodoulides praised the Cyprus economic growth figures, attributing the success to responsible government policies that have created conditions for improved public services and citizen welfare. According to the Statistical Service of Cyprus, the fourth quarter GDP growth rate significantly exceeded the European average. President Christodoulides commented on the announcement through social media, emphasizing that the results represent a vote of confidence in the island nation’s economic management. Government Response to Cyprus Economic Growth…
A fatal motorcycle accident on Paros has claimed the life of a 17-year-old, according to Greek authorities. The tragic incident occurred on the popular Cycladic island, leaving another person seriously injured and sparking an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The teenager was riding a motorcycle when the vehicle veered off course and crashed, initial reports indicate. A 31-year-old man was also involved in the collision and sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization. Medical Response and Fatal Outcome Following the motorcycle accident on Paros, emergency services transferred the critically injured 17-year-old to the nearby island of Syros for advanced medical…
Travelers seeking authentic winter escapes in Greece are turning their attention to Epirus, the mountainous northwestern region where traditional stone guesthouses offer a compelling alternative to coastal destinations. According to a recent travel feature, five boutique hotels and guesthouses in Epirus provide visitors with the perfect blend of comfort, natural beauty and cultural heritage during the winter months. These accommodations showcase the region’s distinctive architecture and hospitality while offering modern amenities suited to cold-weather retreats. The selected properties span across Epirus, from the villages of Zagori to the Tzoumerka mountains, each emphasizing local materials, traditional design and connections to their…
Greece’s primary budget surplus significantly exceeded its January target, according to preliminary data released Monday by the country’s finance ministry. The primary budget surplus reached €3.51 billion on a modified cash basis, nearly doubling the €1.75 billion target set for the month. This strong fiscal performance demonstrates continued improvement in Greece’s public finances as the country maintains its economic recovery trajectory. The January 2026 figure represents a substantial increase compared to the €1.98 billion primary surplus recorded during the same period last year. The primary surplus measure excludes debt servicing costs and provides a clear indication of the government’s ability…
Greece’s Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis has filed a defamation lawsuit against Course of Freedom party leader Zoe Konstantopoulou following accusations related to a deadly factory explosion. The legal action, filed on Monday, stems from statements Konstantopoulou made regarding the health minister’s alleged response to the Violanta biscuit factory tragedy that claimed five workers’ lives in late January. Georgiadis announced the lawsuit specifically addresses what he described as “extremely defamatory” statements Konstantopoulou made concerning the Violanta case. The health minister maintains that the opposition leader’s accusations are unfounded and damaging to his reputation. Factory Explosion Sparks Political Controversy The dispute centers…