The Monastiraki Metro Station
Built between 1890-1895, the Monastiraki subway station became the first steam-train railway connecting Athens and Piraeus. Having operated locally since 1869, its main terminal was located in Thission, its extension to Monastiraki, built by businessman, Stephanos Psihas. During construction, extensive archaeological excavations were conducted, revealing a plethora of interesting relics, many which are still present today. Passengers travelling from Thission to the new station will see many ancient... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Zappeion
Located next to the National Gardens, the Zappeion Mansion, or simply, "Zappeion," as it is called by the locals, is one of the most impressive and important historical buildings in Athens. As early as 1859, the Greek Government had been contemplating renovation of the structure, using plans drawn up by Greek architect, Theophilas and his French counterpart, Boulanger. And though well-funded by Greek benefactor, Evangelos Zappas, the project never quite got off the ground. Eventually, however,... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Old City Hall
Designed by architect Panagiotis Kalkos, the old City Hall on Athenas Street was built between 1871 and 1874, during the mayoral reign of P. Kyrakos. Initially constructed as a two-story building with a tile roof and Doric order entrance, it was aesthetically and architecturally related to the adjacent Varvakeios School, a Neo-Classical building, also designed by Kalkos, which was destroyed in 1944. In the 20th Century, City Hall underwent multiple renovations under mayors Spyros Merkouris in 1901,... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Panathenaic Stadium
The impressive Panathenaic Stadium is also known as the Kallimarmaro ("the one made with beautiful marble"). Founded in the 4th century under the rule of Lycourgos, on the slopes of Ardittos hill, it was restored and expanded by Hadrian Atticus. Following the city's decline during the Christian era, and the Franc and Ottoman occupations, the stadium gradually fell into disrepair, eventually being buried under tons of dirt. But the site was excavated and the ancient stadium was fully restored in time... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Athens Cathedral
Dedicated to the Annunciation of the Mother of God, The Athens Metropolitan Cathedral was built between 1842 and 1862, its three-aisled, domed basilica overlooking a street with the same name. Located a short distance from Syntagma square, its design and construction was enhanced by the many famous architects who contributed their time and talents; Hanssen, Zezos, Boulanger, Kalkos and others. Additionally, numerous fine artists worked on both the exterior and interior decoration of the temple. Architectural... διαβάστε περισσότερα
National Archaeological Museum
Situated in the very heart of the city, the National Archaeological Museum on Patission Street, houses some of the most important artefacts of the ancient world, from the neo-lithic era until the late Roman period; the treasure from the Antikythera wreck, Agamemnon's death mask, the wall paintings of Thera, the Artemision Bronze, the Antikythera Ephebe, Nestor's Cup, and the Marathon Boy are but a few of the important findings to be admired in the museum. Located in the facility’s southern annex... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Catholic Church of Ag. Dionysius
After many intrigues and adventures, the Athens Catholic Church was finally erected, at the junction of Panepistimiou and Omirou streets. Although the lot had been purchased in 1847, and all necessary studies completed by the distinguished German architect Klenzef, construction on the majestic, three-clite basilica didn’t begin until 1853 and was frequently interrupted due to the lack of funds. Then, in 1858 Lyssandros Kaftantzoglou undertook to resume the work, suggesting that a smaller, simpler... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The National Library
The imposing building of the National Library is the easternmost of the three-building complex known as the Athenian Trilogy. Built in the 19th century to house the National Library, the University of Athens, and the Academy, the Library was designed by the famous architect, Theophil von Hansen, and financed by the Vallianos family, Greek businessmen of the diaspora. Constructed with white Pentelic marble, and enhanced by Doric columns, the building also boasts a stunning, renaissance-style, twin... διαβάστε περισσότερα