Siesta: A sacred aspect of Greek life

·

For centuries, the short nap between 3:00 to 5:30 pm has been recognised by the Greeks as a sacred tradition.

The practice focused mainly on small towns and villages, sees the late afternoon siesta as a time to re-energise the batteries to help with late night parties and events.

Photo: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Libraries

Taken some time in the mid-20th century, a photo of an Athenian man sleeping on the stairs of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, shows how a late afternoon siesta provided a period of calm away from distractions.

According to health experts a brief period of rest can enhance functioning and rejuvenate the mind and body.

Source: Delicious

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Echoes from the past: Owl skyphos from Athens

The owl is one of the most famous symbols of ancient Greece. Particularly associated with the goddess Athena.

Love, language and belonging: A Valentine’s Day story about choosing to be Greek

I must have been five, maybe six, watching my neighbour flip lamb on the barbecue while Greek music drifted from inside.

More than roses: How Greek Australian couples celebrate Valentine’s Day their way

The Greek Herald spoke with Greek Australian couples to hear their love stories and learn how their bonds have strengthened over time.

Bank of Sydney shares banking tips to help households and businesses in 2026

The latest inflation data confirms that price pressures are proving more stubborn than policymakers had anticipated.

Discover Athens food culture in a new cookbook‑memoir‑guide

This book is a collection of 150 recipes, but it is also much more than that. Kochilas calls it “part memoir, part reporting, and part guide” (9).

You May Also Like

Derrimut 24:7 founder Nikolaos Solomos places key company into administration

Derrimut 24:7 Gym founder Nikolaos Solomos has placed the largest company in his struggling fitness empire into administration.

Special Ks secure first round doubles win at US Open

Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis have defeated France's Hugo Gaston and Italy's Lorenzo Musetti at the US Open

Cyprus Community of NSW and Inner West Hawks FC partner with Brydens Lawyers

The Cyprus Community of NSW in Stanmore and the Inner West Hawks FC have announced the roll out of new member services.