The national religion of Greece is the Greek Orthodox Church. It dates back to 105 ad when the Christian Church divided into Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches (Orthodox meaning "right belief").

By 1850 the Greek Orthodox Church withdrew from control of the pope, and today it accounts for 98% of religious belief in Greece, and is the only official Orthodox country in the world.

The Orthodox state religion became a symbol of nationalism during the Turkish occupation, and the church served then and now as a powerful focus for Greek interests. Faith is an integral part of daily life for most Greeks.

Greek Orthodox priests are closely associated with their parishes and can marry, as most do, although higher clergy remain unmarried. The congregation remains silent during mass while a psaltis and a choir sings the liturgy, and icons are used as symbols in worship. The icons and interiors of the churches are beautifully crafted and are well worth a visit, even if you hold no belief yourself.