Anafiotika
Τhe Anafiotika, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens, was built on the northern slope of the Acropolis by workers and craftsmen from the Cyclades, mostly Anafi. They had flocked to the capital of the new, independent state of Greece, to work at the myriad construction projects underway at the time and, ideally, the massive project at King Otto's Palace. Local traditions mention Damigos and Sigalas from Anafi as being this neighbourhood’s first inhabitants, followed soon by many more. Tolerated... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Old Palace, the Hellenic Parliament
This imposing, minimalist building once served as the Royal Palace until 1909, when it was damaged by a fire. Now home to the Hellenic Parliament, the building was erected between 1836 and 1843 for King Otto. Built by Bavarian architect Gurtner, on the outskirts of the city, among the hills of the Acropolis and Lycabettus near the Mesogitiki Gate (Boubounistra). During the years prior to its final completion, the building frequently served as a luxurious, but temporary residence to wealthy and influential... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is the central city square of Athens, located directly opposite the Parliament Building, formerly known as the old Royal Palace. The original name given to it during the planning of Athens was the “Square of the Muses.” However, after the Palace was erected, it was renamed, the Palace Square. But on September 3rd, 1843, following a boisterous public rally demanding that a constitution be established, it was again renamed, this time, Syntagma (Constitution) Square. The square is bordered... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The National Gardens
The National Garden is a luscious parkland located in the heart of Athens, next to the Parliament Building, and very close to Syntagma square, with entrances from Amalias avenue, the Zappeion, Irodou Attikou street, and Vasilissis Sofias street. Founded by Queen Amalia in 1836, the ”Royal Palace Gardens” were initially planted by Bavarian horticultural specialists. Known today as the National Gardens, this spacious park is a thriving botanical paradise, containing an impressive array of local... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The University of Athens
Founded in 1839, The University of Athens was built from the designs of Christian Hanssen, the brilliant architect, who desired to construct buildings that would not only adhere to the principles of Neo-classicism, but would also complement the contemporary architecture of the city. Completed in 1864, the building had been blessed by the participation of many other fine architects, including Kaftantzoglou and Theophilas. And the funding required for such a massive project was supplied by multitudes... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Museum of the City of Athens
Comprised of the Dekozi-Vouros Residence and the Ephtaxias Residence, this twin building complex on Paparrigopoulou street, in Klafthmonos square, houses the Museum of the City of Athens. Built in 1834 from designs by German architects Lunder and Hoffer, its construction had been commissioned by Dekozi-Vouros, a banker from Chios. Being one of the first new buildings constructed in the city, it remains a superb example of the architectural style known as early classicism. When completed, the building... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Tzistarakis Mosque
Known as the "Tzistarakis Mosque," this is one of the few Muslim monuments remaining in Athens. Built in 1759 by the Governor, Tzistarakis, during the second period (1689-1821) of the Ottoman occupation, it has been rumoured that the lime used for its construction was procured by melting down a column from the Olympieion. But research has proved that a column from Hadrian's Library was actually used. In the 20th Century, the mosque housed the Museum of Hellenic Folk Art. Today it serves as an annex... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Hydra Traditional Residential Area
The picturesque town of Hydra, the capital and port of the island, has been declared a “preserved historical site.” Located in the center of the island, its magnificent mansions and simple, stone-built houses overlook the entrance of the famous port. During the War of Independence in 1821, Ibrahim Pasha called the island "Little England," due to the huge fleet of 186 ships moored in the harbour, their well-trained crews ready for battle. And the island produced its own share of heroic sailors... διαβάστε περισσότερα