Zorba the Greek project - Giorgis (Zorba the Greek)!

Autumn landscape view from a high vantage point, overlooking a town with vibrant fall foliage and distant mountains under a cloudy sky.

Zorba the Greek, the hero of author Kazantzakis “lives” in Eastern Halkidiki!

Giorgis (Zorba the Greek)!

For a whole year, Giorgis has been wandering around Palaiochori. Just like in the beginning of the 20th century, back then, when old man Giorgis Zorba the Greek met Kazantzakis in the Monastic community of Mount Athos, and, since then, he became the main character of his work. Zorba the Greek never visited Crete. He spent 22 whole years living in Palaiochori– in a house with a woman (his wife) and 8 children. He walked exceptionally much. He walked or rode his mule to Mantem Lakko and he returned home at night. Afterwards, it was time for traditional appetisers in the tavern. When he did not work in the mine, he chopped wood in the forest near the village. He hunted. He collected mushrooms. And herbs. Zorba the Greek related to nature. On Sunday he wore his best outfit and went to church. On celebrations he was dancing. At festivals he was having fun. His life was simple and happy. Rather carefree. That’s how he liked it, that’s what he chose.

Modern-day Giorgis also explores nature on the surrounding hills. Walking. Passing through streams. And makeshift bridges. He chops and cuts wood. He collects wild herbs, fruits, and flowers. He brews them to make beverages. He carves chopped tree trunks. He creates art. He hangs bells on his balcony– a masterpiece integrated into nature. He roasts pork chops and makes strong tsipouro. He bakes yeasted sourdough bread.

Person walking on a forest trail using crutches.

On celebrations he dances in the village square. His moves during the dance of Zeibekiko are manly. His steps firm. His life carefree. Modern-day Giorgis is very similar to Zorba the Greek who lived and flourished in Palaiochori 100 years ago.

In the past year modern-day Giorgis “walked into history” and taught us how life in Palaiochori actually is – life in the village of Zorba the Greek. Thanks to his walk we all learnt how life in Palaiochori was back then – a century ago.

In a few months the reference point for Zorba the Greek in Palaiochori will welcome and give us a digital guided tour around the humble dwelling, where the hero of Kazantzakis “came and went” for 22 whole years!

We eagerly expect you and invite you over!