Greece is located in Southern Europe. It gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1821 and became a republic in 1975. Greece has a population of around 12 million people and its capital and largest city is Athens. Some of Greece's most important islands that attract many tourists are Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Kos. Greek culture is expressed through traditions like Easter celebrations, baptisms, weddings, and famous Greek foods, drinks, and dances.