In Athens, both goats and cows are driven into town every morning and milked at the doors of their customers. This is not a new practice but a tradition that has continued for centuries. The herdsman, walking slowly through the streets with a milk measure in hand behind a small herd of goats, is a familiar sight. This method ensures that the milk is fresh and pure, and the herdsman is less tempted to be dishonest than if a pump were used.
When the herdsman reaches a customer’s house, he milks a goat directly into his measure and pours it into the container provided by the customer. Some milkmen use donkeys with cans strapped to their backs to carry the milk. This system, although ancient, works very well and benefits both the herdsmen and the people of Athens.
Selling Poultry and Other Food
Similar to practices in South America, turkeys and geese are sold “on the hoof.” Farmers drive their flocks through the streets so that customers can choose the animals themselves. This ensures quality and allows buyers to select the healthiest birds Tailor-Made Bulgaria Tours.
Other food items, such as fruits, vegetables, bread, cakes, meat, fish, butter, and cheese, are sold by peddlers. These sellers often carry their goods in trays suspended from their necks, on small carts, or most commonly on the backs of donkeys. Customers can find everything they need brought directly to their doorsteps, making shopping convenient in the bustling streets.
Dry Goods and Merchandise
In addition to food, many dry goods and household items are sold by street vendors. Shoes, stockings, hats, tinware, hardware, stationery, and other necessities are offered in a similar manner. Some vendors use show-cases with glass fronts, which are attached to the backs of donkeys and carried from house to house. The sellers loudly announce their goods, describe their quality, and call attention to special items. This lively street trade creates a vibrant atmosphere and brings the marketplace directly to the people.
The Tradition of Street Commerce
These practices reflect the long history of Greek street commerce. Delivering goods directly to homes ensures freshness for food products and convenience for customers. Using donkeys and other simple methods demonstrates the resourcefulness of the people. Despite modern technology, these traditions remain strong and are a vivid reminder of Greece’s cultural continuity and practical approach to daily life Farming Near Athens.
