Alekos Fassianos believed in eternity—the eternal nature of humanity, cities, and myths. That nothing truly dies. Everything transforms. He once wrote: ‘Our whole life is a myth. But at least let it be a beautiful one.’ For him, myths weren’t ancient history, but living stories that speak to us now. His art is deeply symbolic: every element has meaning. Myths helped him connect those symbols to a form that people can relate to and recognize. PORTES EDITOR: Your father, Alekos

When we are young, we all have different plans and dreams — cowboy, princess, astronaut, and so on. Many of us also enjoy digging in the backyard, searching for arrowheads, dinosaur bones, or treasure. Most leave these childhood pleasures behind and lead productive lives. A few don’t, and they keep digging, eventually becoming archaeologists. I began digging in the Agora of Athens in my second year of college. I wasn’t supposed to be there, but in my letter I said I was in my

Battery operated car by Christos Papaevangelou, of Christos & Evangelos Papaevangelou OE, FINO, 1970s. The 1950s marked a significant turning point in the evolution of toys in Greece. Emerging from the hardships of war, occupation, and civil conflict, Greek society began reshaping its understanding of childhood and play.  In an era when the abundance of modern toys was unimaginable, parents prioritized education and the hope of a better life. Christmas and New Years gifts oft

Young woman using a Tamura Device (Red Telephone) at a Kiosk, 1972 Our daily life—as well as our future—as far as we can imagine it—is shaped by communication technology. Speed, virtual reality, networks, artificial intelligence—all contribute to connectivity. Communication and connection remain a timeless system rooted in imagination. The Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE) was founded in October 1949. Until then, the country’s telecommunications needs were served

Artist Annezina Dampolia blends architectural precision with ancient symbolism to explore femininity, identity, and cultural heritage. Her signature Logo Lady —inspired by figures from 8th-century skyphoi—embodies strength, motherhood, and liberation, reclaiming the reverence once given to the female form. Rooted in her background in architecture and monument restoration, Dampolia’s work bridges the geometric harmony of antiquity with the emotional depth of modern womanhood,

Ceramic artist Christina Morali merges a rich family legacy of artistry with a lifelong dedication to applied arts and design. Growing up surrounded by creative influences, including her uncle Yannis Moralis, she learned to embrace evolution in her work, moving seamlessly between ceramics, sculpture, and functional objects while experimenting with materials, textures, and forms. Morali is particularly known for her inventive recreations of vintage brands, porcelain exploratio

Editor Anthe Mitrakos was interviewed by journalist Pepi Nikolaou of elculture for a special feature on the story of Portes. Nikolaou writes: An annual journey into an authentic Greece, shaped by the voices of the diaspora and all who consider the country their muse. “Portes” Magazine stands out as a bold counter-proposal: a handcrafted, limited-edition cultural journal that connects readers across continents. Greek heritage lives far beyond the country’s borders, carried by

Music in Greece has developed since prehistoric times. Quickly moving beyond the bounds of religious ritual, it extended into all aspects of social life. Over time, Greek musical innovation shed its light across the known world of its era. With the establishment of the Greek state in 1830, music began to develop more consciously. The first urban popular song, the Athenian song, emerged after 1880, rooted in the Ionian musical idiom. With the arrival of the 20th century, urban

Eleni must be going to the market, for she carries a tiny hand-woven basket, and over one shoulder is slung a capacious homespun bag. Market day is aslo a day of courtship, so she is looking her best in her colorful peasant dress, and the glossy wings of her hair are accentuated by the shawl which she has twisted so becomingly around her head. Besides her is a handsome young guard, Demetrios. With his short, flaired uniform and bright cap, he makes an escourt of whom any girl

We present you with a unique collection designed to SHARE with your favorite friends and family members this holiday season, celebrating Christmas and the New Year! THE PERFECT ADDITION to the coffee tables and kitchens of the sophisticated individuals forever in love with Greece! Value $575+ While limited edition collection last! THE COLLECTION INCLUDES: 8 x Limited Edition Willow Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil (250ml November 2025 harvest) 8 x Limited Edition Portes Magazi

The Hellenic Initiative  (THI) hosted its  9th Annual London Gala  on October 9 at The Dorchester, one of London’s premier venues, raising a record $512,000 to support THI’s economic development and humanitarian aid programs in Greece and Cyprus. The once again sold-out gala, which has become the “it” event for Hellenes and Philhellenes in London, featured Greece’s number one recording artist of his generation,  Konstantinos Argiros . The much-anticipated gala was once again

The National Hellenic Museum (NHM) raised more than $1 million this past weekend at its 2025 Gala, in support of its mission to share Greek history, art, culture, and the Greek American story . NHM Chairman John P. Calamos, Sr. and this year’s Gala Co-Chairs, NHM Vice-Chairman Jim Logothetis and Marianthe Logothetis , were joined by more than 630 guests at the festive event on Saturday, September 27 at the Hilton Chicago.   Among the attendees were civic and cultural leade

Portes No. 11 Featured Cover Artist Theodora Miller began her creative journey during a profound period of healing and transformation after a traumatic brain injury. What started as a simple act of recovery—painting freely, without expectation or pressure—evolved into a deeply restorative practice that nurtured her physical, emotional, and spiritual renewal. Deeply rooted in her Hellenic heritage, Miller draws inspiration from the mythology, poetry, and landscapes of Greece,

A limited edition of 1000 copies – less than 100 pieces per design still available for collection! Welcome to the wonderful world of...

I am happy to partake in the beautiful efforts of Ariston Foundation for Hellenic Culture and Art, which with love, promotes and...

noun nos·​tal·​gia | /nä–ˈstal–jə/ or /nə–ˈstal–jə/ 1: a wistful or excessively sentimental yearning for return to a past period or...

Living our daily lives, we often get lost in the repetitive rhythm of reality. Then, suddenly, something unexpected awakens us—a song, a...

The Ariston Foundation for Hellenic Culture & Art proudly announces the publication of Portes  No. 11 , hot off the press, celebrating...

With a career spanning multiple artistic fields, including painting, set design, and theater production, this Robert U. Taylor's work...

The “Stargazer” was unearthed in 1900 by Frank Calvert (1828-1908) during his excavations at the site of Kilia, at the Gallipoli...

In the sun-drenched landscapes of Crete, where the Mediterranean light meets traditions, Polish artist Agapi has found a canvas rich with...

In a modern world where fashion often fades with the seasons, a luxury brand emerged with a vision to create something enduring and rich...

A Night of Philanthropy and Celebration On December 7, 2024, an exceptional gathering of Greeks from across the globe came together at...