The Australian Embassy in Athens welcomed last week a group of 36 students of Classics and Ancient History from the Australian National University in Canberra, and their professors, who are currently on a study trip to Greece.

In collaboration with the Australian Archaeological Institute at Athens, the students will undertake a three-week study program and visit ancient sites throughout Greece. A second group of 25 students and professors from the School of Classics and Ancient History of the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, will visit Greece for a three-week study tour over January/February 2012.

“Greece’s contribution to human civilisation continues to be incalculable,” said Australian Ambassador to Greece, Mrs Jenny Bloomfield.

“These visits underscore the close ties between our two countries, as well as the great respect and admiration of all Australians for Greek history and culture. I commend the students and their teachers for this important initiative and wish them well in their studies,” said Mrs Bloomfield.

While in Greece, the Australian university representatives will also meet Greek counterparts to explore opportunities for further strengthening cultural and educational cooperation.