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
The Baths of the Aerides
The Turkish bath of the Aerides is located on Kyrristou street in Plaka. Built during the years of the Ottoman occupation, the "Ibn Efendi Turkish Bath" was open to the public. Extensively damaged during the siege of the Acropolis by Kioutahi Pasha in 1827, it was later repaired and modernized by King Otto. Following World War II, the bath continued operations until 1960, when it was abandoned. During the 1980’s and the 1990’s, the Ministry of Civilization performed several interventions and restructuring... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Kapnikarea
The byzantine church of Kapnikarea is one of the major landmarks of Athens' Byzantine past. Dating from the 11th century, it is dedicated to the "Presentation of the Virgin to the Temple," and lies in the middle of Ermou street. It is believed that the church was built over an older, Christian temple, commissioned in the 5th Century A.C. by the Athenian Empress of Byzantine, Eudokia, wife of Emperor Theodosius the Younger. Constructed atop the foundations of the ancient temple of Athena or, perhaps,... διαβάστε περισσότερα
Kleanthi Residence
Kleanthi-Schaubert, or the “Old University,” is on Tholou street in one of the higher sections of Plaka. Built around the 17th Century, the institution was purchased from its Ottoman owner by two close friends, architects Kleanthis and Schaubert, who, after arriving in the newly liberated Athens, went to work on the old building, repairing and restoring its huge walls and domed basements, adding other buildings, and uniting them all into a single complex. In 1834 the building housed the Girls... διαβάστε περισσότερα
The Metochion (embassy church) of the Holy Sepulchre
The 17th century Church of Agioi Anargyroi, also known as the Metochion of the Holy Sepulchre, is located at the Anafiotika, in Plaka. Originally opened as a convent, presumed to have been owned by the prominent Kolokinthi family. The church is a single-clite basilica, dedicated to the Ag. Anargyroi. Due to its function as an embassy church of the Holy Sepulchre since the 18th century, the Metochion is deeply involved with the holy ceremonies of Easter. Designated as the point of initial reception... διαβάστε περισσότερα