Greece is reputed to have over 250 days of sunshine with warm temperatures in the summer and lovely mild temperatures throughout the rest of the year. But have you ever wondered exactly why temperatures can reach even 20 degrees Celsius during the peak of winter in Greece? It’s because of what the Greeks call ‘Alkyonides Meres’ or the Alkyonides Days! Today, the phrase ‘halcyon days’ has a literal meaning of calm, peaceful days, and here’s why…
The Alkyonides Days take place from December 15 to February 15 each year, and most often between January 16-31. During this time, the days typically have intense sunshine, with no clouds or wind and heightened temperatures for the season.
Alkyonides Days From A Scientific Point Of View
The Myth Behind The Alkyonides Days
Zeus punished the arrogant couple who dared to compare themselves to gods by plunging Ceyx’s ship and drowning him. Alcyone lamented her loss so much that she threw herself into the sea and drowned, determined to join her husband in the land of the dead. The gods of Olympus were so profoundly affected by the tragic fate of the couple and their wonderful love for one another that Zeus transformed the couple into halcyon birds (kingfisher), yet condemned to give birth in the winter. The waves of the sea rushed into the rocks and destroyed Alcyone’s nest and eggs, and Zeus once again felt regret and ordered the winds to stop and the sun to shine for fifteen days in the heart of the winter so that Alcyone could safely lay her eggs.
Enjoy the sunshine!
Source – xpatathens
Wow, thanks so much for sharing this – not just great to understand the science of this weather phenomenon but also for me a huge pleasure to hear the myth & understand the language, animal & astrological connection….Brilliant post