Discover Marathon: History, Customs, and Festivals Guide

Discover Marathon: History, Customs, and Festivals Guide

History of Marathon

Marathon is a town in Greece famously known for the Battle of Marathon, which took place in 490 BC. The Greeks defeated the Persians here, marking a significant event in Western history. The legend says that after the battle, a Greek soldier named Pheidippides ran from Marathon to Athens, approximately 42 kilometers, to bring the news of victory. This event inspired the modern marathon race.

Historic Sites to Visit

• The Marathon Tomb: This is a burial mound of the 192 Athenian soldiers who died in the battle. It's a solemn yet fascinating site.
• The Marathon Run Museum: Offering a historical overview of the Marathon run, it also hosts various artifacts from the Battle of Marathon.
• Marathon Archaeological Museum: Here you'll find artifacts and exhibits dating back to ancient Greek times.

Cultural Practices

Marathon maintains many traditional Greek customs, deeply rooted in its history and religious practices. Greek Orthodox Christianity is predominant, and many customs revolve around religious festivities.

Key Cultural Practices

• Greek Orthodox Easter: Easter is the most important religious and cultural event, celebrated with fasting, church services, and family gatherings.
• Greek Dance: Traditional Greek dances are a staple at almost every celebration.
• Greek Cuisine: Food is a significant part of the culture. Local dishes include moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad.

Everyday Customs

• It is common to greet people with a kiss on both cheeks.
• People typically say "Yia mas" (to our health) before drinking.
• The concept of "Philoxenia," or hospitality, is central to Greek culture.

Festivals in Marathon

Marathon hosts a range of vibrant festivals that draw both locals and tourists. These festivals celebrate everything from religious occasions to historical events and local produce.

Annual Festivals

• Marathon Race: Held every November, this event draws athletes from around the world to run the historic route.
• Marathon Wine Festival: Celebrating the local vineyards, this festival includes wine tasting, live music, and traditional dances.
• Agios Dimitrios Feast Day: Taking place on October 26th, this religious event features a procession, a church service, and communal feasting.
• Summer Music Festival: Held during the summer months, this festival includes concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions showcasing Greek culture.

Local Anecdotes and Stories

One popular local story is about the ancient olive tree of Marathon, believed to be over 2,000 years old. It is said that this tree provided shade to the ancient warriors during the Battle of Marathon. The tree still stands today, and locals regard it as a symbol of endurance and strength.

Interesting Facts

• Marathon is one of the few places where you can see the convergence of the historically significant and the naturally beautiful.
• The city's name, Marathon, comes from the fennel plant (called "marathos" in Greek), which was abundant in that region.
• The concept of running a marathon was not introduced into the modern Olympics until the inaugural Games in 1896, held in Athens.

Travel Tips

• If you visit during the Marathon race, make sure to book accommodation well in advance.
• Learning a few basic Greek phrases will go a long way in enhancing your experience.
• Respect local customs, particularly religious practices, when exploring the cultural aspects of Marathon.

How to Get There

Marathon is located about 42 kilometers northeast of Athens. You can get there by car, bus, or even by bike for an adventurous route along the historic marathon course. The nearest airport is Athens International Airport, making Marathon easily accessible for international travelers.

We hope this guide helps you discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting festivals that Marathon has to offer. Enjoy your journey through this fascinating town!