On Sunday 6 April, I joined 22 sleepy – eyed students from KEHS and KES on a whirlwind tour of mainland Ancient Greece, visiting numerous archaeological sites as well as a few more modern locations. From the very first day to the last, we found ourselves entirely submerged in both modern and ancient Greek culture, from participating in a couple of chaotic dances to being taught (and quizzed) on different objects we hunted for in the museums.
Helios granted us warmth and light each day, from the early morning (very scenic) climb up Delphi, (where Greeks would have journeyed to visit the oracle), to basking in the evening sun on the Acropolis in Athens. We even managed to race on the famous running track in Olympia, the birthplace of the Ancient Olympic Games! However, while everybody adored the rich and educational aspects of each outing, it was the cats we encountered along the way, especially a certain cat named “Toast” that captured the hearts of staff and students alike, (although they were suspiciously mistaken for a football a few times!).
For me, the highlight of the experience, (which I feel reflects both the classical and modern aspects of the people on this trip) was when a group of us collaborated to carve the first line of Homer’s Iliad, in Ancient Greek, (and yes, we did check we used the correct breathings!) into the sand of the beach at Methone, a tribute perhaps, to the ancients we still learn about today.
Tayesha (Lower Fifth)
