Hi there!
I am Stelios!
A Greek licensed guide and archaeologist. Born and raised in Athens, with origin from Santorini island. Passionate about greek history and art, my wife and two daughters, and my little bees. . . not necessarily in that order ;)
As a child I grew up in the northwest outskirts of the center of the city of Athens. But the visits to the city where plenty, with my family, later on my own or with friends. For shopping, recreation, visits to sites and museums, libraries, work. . . Two important events in my life took place at the foot of the Acropolis, in Plaka, known as "the neighbourhood of the gods": I was baptized and got married there, in two of the oldest churches of the city. So, trust me, I know the area . . .
I studied archaeology in the University of Ioannina, in nortwestern Greece. Commenced as a classical archaeologist but finally specialized in the byzantine-medieval period, that attracted me more, because there are so many aspects of that period not very well known to the majority of the people, yet so close to the way of life that the Greeks have been following for centuries. After completing my mandatory military service in the Greek Navy, I started working as archaeologist in excavations and restorations in many areas of Greece. Until 2014, when I decided to combine that background with tourism, share my love and knowledge for greek culture with people from all over the world. And I have not regreted that decision at all!
A visit to Greece, and especially to Athens, is like going back to your roots! As a French author wrote "worlds' history starts with the awakening of the Greek spirit". Athens is one of the places where that awakening took place. So, the visit to Athens is a visit - some would say a "pilgrimage" - to the city where some of the foundations of the modern civilisation have been set. The Acropolis is definitely the highlight. But it is not the only one. There are so many different things to see and do in Athens, regarding history, art, architecture, food, amazing views and hidden gems, stories of courage and dignity. . . It is worth experiencing all those, becoming "a lover of this city", as an ancient Athenian statesman had said.
But in order to succeed in it, to get correct and reliable information and make the right correlations, you need a LICENSED TOUR GUIDE! This is very clear by the regulations of the country and we have to comply with them.
Well, you found him! And a really experienced one. I am here to help you create unforgetable memories. Give you responsible answers to any questions you may have about the past or the present of my country and its people. I would enjoy walking around with you, following one of my tours or one that we can customize according to your interests. Besides knowledge, sincerity and "philotimo" are some of my characteristics that you will surely appreciate. If necessary, I will walk the extra mile with you, in order to enjoy your visit in its entirety. My aim is to help you become "philhellenes", friends of Greece! Let us begin!
Licensed Tourist Guide since 2014 (Diploma from the Greek Ministry of Tourism and the University of Athens)
Archaeologist (University of Ioannina)
Proficiency in English Language (University of Cambridge)
First Aid Certificate (Greek Red Cross)
I don't drive while guiding, I don't guide while driving! Safety reasons! I want to be able to point out and explain every monument that we will be passing by, without worrying about traffic. If needed, I can provide transportation and professional driver.
