“καλως ηρθες στην ΕΛΛΑΔΑ! Welcome to Greece!” That was the motto from May 9 to 17 2024 for eleven students of year 9 of the CEG. After our Greek exchange students had explored Erlangen and the surrounding area together with us last December, the long-awaited return visit finally took place. We were given numerous opportunities to get a taste of Greek culture, both modern and ancient, e.g. during trips to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Mycene, and many other historical sites and museums, not to forget about Greek food and drinks. Some of us really fell in love with Greek frappé. 🥤The main focus of our exchange project that was co-financed by the Erasmus+ programme of the EU was to explore “Democracy Then And Now”. In Greece, we obviously took a closer look at ancient Athenian democracy. Thus, we were able to get an idea of political organizations or election procedures during a workshop on the Pnyx, where citizens gathered and voted in antiquity. We even re-enacted the famous ostracism.

Interesting as this was, immersion into the everyday lives of our exchange families was not neglected, either. We especially liked the workshop on traditional Greek dances in the Lyceum of Greek Women in Chalkida, as well as the long evenings at the beach with beautiful sunsets.

Before we joined our exchange partners and their host families on Sunday, we visited the ancient sites of Olympia, Delphi and Mycenae on a three-day road trip. We were able to see ourselves what impressive cultural and architectural feats the ancient Greeks were capable of. The historical sites really took our breath away, being veiled in mythical beauty. We even visited the Castalian Spring, which is said to give those who drink from it the blessing of the Muses. As students of the CEG we could not miss this chance… ⛲😉

After eight days full of great experiences and lots of fun, saying goodbye was hard for us. Nobody wanted to leave this beautiful place with its welcoming, heart-warming people. After many tears, looking back, we can say that our time in Greece was an enriching experience, and everyone boarded the plane back to Germany with wonderful memories in our mental suitcases. 

We will always remember our time in Greece fondly. Some of us have already booked a flight to Greece in summer holidays! ☀️😊

Thank you also to our accompanying teachers, Dr. Kellner, Mr. Hohenberger, and Ms. Dikhoff!

Liv Asse, 9b