Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul

Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul is a captivating and informational course offered by The Great Courses in 2011. This comprehensive tour offers an immersive journey through the historical and cultural grandeur of Greece and Turkey, two nations that are intrinsically linked to the pillars of Western civilization. From classical Athens and the Parthenon, through the Olympian ruins and the Byzantine churches of Thessaloniki, all the way to the Golden Horn of Istanbul, this tour presents episodes that form a mosaic of understanding about the deep ties between these two rich and vibrant countries.

Professor John R. Hale, possessing an extensive background in archaeology, Classical history and the intricate cultural interplay of these two regions, enhances the vividness of the journey with his storytelling prowess and scholarly insights. Through the 24 comprehensive lectures, Hale guides you through historical, cultural and geographical landscapes, enriching the viewer’s understanding of these nations' past and the imprints they've left on our modern world.

Among the key draws of the series is the focus on the ancient world. The course lets you embark on a journey to ancient Greece, the birthplace of Western philosophy, science, drama, democracy, and the Olympic Games. You will explore the historic marvels of Athens; the ancient theater in Epidaurus, renowned for its remarkable acoustics; and Olympia, the original site of the Olympics. It will give you a closer look at the mysteries of Delphi, the religious center of the ancient Greek world, as well as the Pergamon, a powerful kingdom in the Hellenistic period.

Carrying forward the journey, the series dives into the Byzantine era and the Middle Ages, leading you through turbulent periods of upheaval, religious schisms, and magnificent artistic and architectural accomplishments. The course shares details about Thessaloniki, a city known as the 'co-reigning' city during the Byzantine era due to its religious significance, and its architecturally stunning Byzantine walls, Rotunda, and churches.

The final leg of the journey immerses you in Istanbul, the city that straddles both Europe and Asia and marks the end of the Silk Road. Throughout several lectures, Hale discusses topics ranging from the history and significance of the Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel of the Byzantine Empire, to the rise of the Ottomans and transformation of Istanbul during the era, discussing the stunning Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

But it's not just about the historic sites. Each site is put in context alongside the broader cultural, religious, and political history of the region, painting a comprehensive picture of the evolution of these societies. The course delves into various thought-provoking subjects like the Persian Wars, the rise of democracy in Athens, the philosophical musings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and the inspirations and evolution of Greek art and architecture.

The course also goes beyond the physical and the historical—embracing the nuance and richness of the region's socio-cultural elements. Hale's engaging explanations provide insight into Greek and Turkish customs, traditions, their ways of life, their scintillating cuisine, music, dance and their spiritual beliefs and practices, allowing for a deeper, more contextual understanding of these countries' identities.

Equipped with professional knowledge, vivid imagery, and storytelling abilities, Professor Hale invites you into the heart of Greek and Turkish history. He offers a chance for learners to become time tourists, journeying back to some of the most vital moments in Western civilization, thereby enabling them to appreciate these vestiges of magnificent civilizations in a new, more profound light.

Great Tours: Greece and Turkey, from Athens to Istanbul thus unfolds as a journey not just to foreign lands, but also to the deep sedimentary layers of Western civilization's history, art, culture, philosophy, and human evolution. The course's rich narrative and scholarly insights make this an indispensable guide for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, students, travelers or anyone eager to explore and understand the world more deeply. The course provides the experience of being on an actual tour, but with the added richness of our past weaved into each step. From renowned monuments to the intangible richness of cultural practices, this immersive experience is a treat for the curious mind.