Explore More - 2018

Mediterranean CULTURE

Mediterranean CULTURE From Greece and Italy to France and Spain, the countries of the Mediterranean have produced a rich and diverse culture 56 EXPLORE MORE 2018

MEDITERRANEAN CULTURE Clockwise: The Apollo Municipal Theater of Syros, Greece; appreciation of wine is part of the lifestyle; a Venetian mask; getting friends together for tapas; the region has a history for producing great artists and composers Facing page: Flamenco dancers in Cádiz in the Andalusian region of Spain While each country of the Mediterranean has its own distinctive traditions, certain traits are common across the region. For example, the balmy climate and long, hot summers means that the people of the Mediterranean tend to rise early in the morning, and eat and socialize late into the evening. And of course, eating together and sharing meals is an important part of the Mediterranean lifestyle, as is an appreciation of local wines. The countries of the Mediterranean have produced some of the finest art in the world, from the sculptures and mosaics of ancient Greece and Rome, to the paintings of the Renaissance and the impressionists, to the flamenco of southern Spain, and of course theater, opera and cinema. For example, France boasts Voltaire, Monet, Rodin and Chopin; Italy, Michelangelo, da Vinci, Puccini and Fellini; and Spain has produced Gaudí, Dali and Picasso. The Mediterranean contribution to culture and fine arts is immense and diverse, making the region a veritable treasure chest. EXPLORE MORE 2018 57