Having exported chaos, drama, tragedy and democracy before most nations were staying up late enough to want souvlaki, Greece boasts an unrivalled legacy. But don't expect a visit there to be a sober study of the ancient world - the Greek propensity for partying dates back to Dionysus.

From smoggy Athens to blindingly bright islands, ancient fragments abound - the belly button of the cosmos at Delphi, fallen columns galore on the sacred island of Delos, frescoed Minoan palaces on Crete and even, quite possibly, the remnants of Atlantis at Santorini.

Greeks are fierce guardians of tradition, but that doesn't mean they don't know how to have fun. In addition, hot sun and limpid seas conspire to make Greece a perfect place to relax. Whether you're supping in a beachside taverna, sipping coffee in a shady plateia or disco-dancing till dawn, chances are the gods already have you ensnared.

Full country name: Hellenic Republic
Area: 131,940 sq km
Population: 10.66 million
Capital City: Athens
People: The government does not recognise any ethnicity other than Greek. However, a foreign population does exist.
Language: Greek
Religion: 98% Greek Orthodox, 1.3% Muslim, 0.7% other
Government: parliamentary republic
Head of State: President Karolos Papoulias
Head of Government: Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis

GDP: US$203.3 billion
GDP per capita: US$19,100
Inflation: 4%
Major Industries: Tourism, shipping, food and tobacco processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products, mining and petroleum products
Major Trading Partners: Germany, Italy, France, UK, USA
Member of EU: Yes