Greece boasts Europe's longest coastline and is the continent's southernmost country. The country is recognized for the thousands of islands that dot the blue Aegean Sea to the east, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Ionian Sea to the west. The mainland, the islands, and the Peloponnese, the peninsula south of the mainland, are the three geographical regions of Greece.
In Greece, family life is incredibly important. Even after they get marry, children frequently remain with their parents. Greeks have long lives, and their varied diet of olives, olive oil, lamb, fish, squid, chickpeas, and a variety of fruits and vegetables is seen to keep them healthy.
Large cities are home to nearly two-thirds of the population. Athens is the largest city, with a population of about 3.7 million people. Smog, or Nefos in Greek, is a major issue in Athens. Pollution and acid rain are causing the Parthenon, the goddess Athena's temple atop the Acropolis, to deteriorate. Greece has been cultivating olive trees for almost 6,000 years. Olive groves can be found in every village.
Greece has 10 national parks, and natural and historic treasures are being protected. The loggerhead turtle and the monk seal are two of Europe's most endangered sea species, and marine parks serve to protect their habitats. Greece's extensive coastline and clear water make it an excellent place to look for sea stars, anemones, sponges, and seahorses lurking in the seaweed.
Greece became a democratic country in 1975, after removing its monarchy. There is a president and a prime minister in the new constitution. The prime minister wields the most influence and is the leader of the parliament's largest political party. The president appoints cabinet members to lead government agencies.


