A Journey Home: Exploring Hellenic Identity Through Heritage Greece® at Anatolia American University
A Journey to Discover Hellenic Roots at Anatolia American University
Two Weeks of Cultural Discovery, Learning, and Connection
In July 2026, Anatolia American University welcomed students from across North America for the Heritage Greece® Program, a two-week educational and cultural immersion experience that gave Greek American and Greek Canadian college and university students the opportunity to connect with their Hellenic heritage and experience Greece from a unique, personal perspective.
Held from July 6–20, 2026, the program brought together students eager to explore their roots, learn more about Greek history and culture, and create meaningful connections with Greece. Through a combination of educational activities, cultural experiences, excursions, and opportunities to engage with the local community, students experienced Greece both inside and beyond the classroom.
Exploring Thessaloniki and Northern Greece
Based in Thessaloniki, students had the opportunity to discover one of Greece’s most historic and multicultural cities through a guided city tour of Thessaloniki. Exploring the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods offered an introduction to its rich history and its unique role at the crossroads of different cultures and civilizations.
The students also enjoyed a sailing trip in the Thermaic Gulf, experiencing Thessaloniki from the sea and taking in the city and its surroundings from a different perspective.
Their cultural journey continued at the Museum of Byzantine Culture in Thessaloniki, where they participated in an iconography workshop. The hands-on experience introduced students to Byzantine artistic traditions and gave them the opportunity to engage directly with an important part of Greece’s cultural and religious heritage.
Beyond Thessaloniki, the program took students to some of Northern Greece’s most significant historical and cultural destinations. At Vergina, they explored the archaeological site of Aigai and the Royal Tombs of the Macedonian kings, gaining a deeper understanding of the history of ancient Macedonia. They also visited Panagia Soumela, an important center of Pontic Greek heritage and tradition.
The group travelled to Mount Olympus, exploring the natural landscape associated with the home of the ancient Greek gods, and visited Stageira and Chalkidiki, experiencing the region’s historical significance, natural beauty, and local character.
The program also offered students an opportunity to discover contemporary Greek traditions and local production through a visit to Anel Honey Farm and Farmers Market, where they learned more about beekeeping, honey production, and locally produced agricultural products.
Experiencing Greece Through Learning and Connection
Together, these experiences allowed students to explore Greece through its history, art, mythology, traditions, landscapes, and communities. From the streets of Thessaloniki and the waters of the Thermaic Gulf to Mount Olympus and the archaeological treasures of Northern Greece, every destination offered a new opportunity to learn and connect with their heritage.
Hosted by Anatolia American University, the Heritage Greece® Program went beyond a traditional study visit. It created an environment where students could engage with Greece in meaningful and experiential ways, meet new people, build friendships, and develop a deeper understanding of the country and their own Hellenic heritage.
A Journey Made Possible Through the National Hellenic Society
The Heritage Greece® Program is a free educational opportunity for North American students of Hellenic heritage. Program fees and accommodation are generously covered by the National Hellenic Society, allowing participants to focus on their educational and cultural experience in Greece. Students are responsible only for their travel to Greece and personal expenses during their stay.
Through programs such as Heritage Greece®, Anatolia American University continues to foster international engagement, cultural exchange, and meaningful connections between Greece and the global Hellenic community.
For the students who participated in Heritage Greece® 2026, the two-week journey offered much more than an introduction to Greece. It was an opportunity to explore their roots, experience the country through new eyes, and create memories and connections that will remain with them long after their journey home.
