Ireland's relationship with Greece
The relationship between Ireland and Greece is ancient. The Celtic people were known to ancient Greeks and the works of classical Greek civilisation have been known in Ireland for many centuries.
Cultural context
The giants of Irish literature: James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett, Seamus Heaney, among others, were deeply influenced by Greek culture.
W.B. Yeats (1865-1939), winner of the 1923 Nobel Prize in literature, repeatedly drew upon Greece for inspiration, whether presenting the 1916 Rising as Ireland’s Battle of Salamis, or overseeing the design of Ireland’s coinage, with two coins modelled on ancient Greek coins, namely using the hare of Messana and the bull of Thurii.
James Joyce (1882-1941), one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, was also a committed philhellene, and insisted that the cover of ‘Ulysses’ should match the blue of the Greek flag (which hung in his Paris apartment).
This special connection continues today, especially through literature, music, art and film e.g. through the award winning documentary An Buachaill Geal Gáireach/The Laughing Boy which tells the remarkable story of a song written by the Irish poet and author Brendan Behan being transformed into ‘To Gelasto Paidi’, the powerful Greek anthem of resistance.
Economic links
Investment between Ireland and Greece continues to grow, exceeding €3 billion in 2022. Growing exchanges have created opportunities for both countries, particularly in the food and drinks sector, and in renewable resources.
Around 200,000 Irish holiday goers flock to Greece every year to enjoy the history, food and culture of this Mediterranean country. With direct flight options increasing annually, connectivity between our countries has never been stronger.
People-to-people connections
The small but vibrant Irish community in Greece continues to ensure that the links between the two countries remain strong.
The Greek Irish Society in particular has been instrumental in bringing the Irish and Greek communities together. Gatherings such as the annual Irish Wings Festival on Paxos, the Celtic Music Festival, the new Athens Irish Festival, and the Irish Institute of Hellenic Studies at Athens foster this cultural exchange.