Greece is a country in southern Europe with a population of approximately 132,000 people, situated on the southern end of the Balkan peninsula. It is bordered by Bulgaria, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Albania, and Turkey. Known as the start of western civilization, and being the birthplace of democracy, philosophy, the Olympic Games and the arts and drama (tragedy and comedy), the country has a wonderful history. While Greece was evolving, so were its influences in Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Today, Greece is a developed nation, a member of the European Union, and one of the countries that has accepted the Euro as currency. Most all history of civilization, arts, law enforcement, and philosophic idealism originated, in some way, in Greece. The history is extensive, and very interesting, to say the least. Of interest to history enthusiasts would be the massacre at Kalavrita, where the entire male population of the city was executed on a single day. The Jewish community was among the worst affected, although the Greek churches and parishioners tried to help by sheltering their Jewish neighbors. Thessaloniki suffered the heaviest losses. The 2004 Olympic Games were hosted in Athens, and the Greek capital was completely transformed for the event. Several countries were afraid that Greece could not handle a terrorist attack, but Greece proved them wrong; they were considered an unprecedented success in the face of potential danger. Greece has a variety of climates, so one should be sure to research the exact area they are preparing to visit. Rare marine species live in the seas around mainland Greece, and its forests are home to endangered animals. Besides Athens, other tourist destinations include the islands, and the northern Halkidiki peninsula. Greece is separated into Peripheries, which are further subdivided into 54 prefectures.

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