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 fauna.
Whether strolling leisurely along its paths, or simply meditating in one of the little coves, nestled amongst the remnants of ancient buildings, the experience is uniquely peaceful — even pleasantly ironic, considering that you are literally surrounded by a bustling metropolis. Augmenting the experience are the exquisite sculptures and busts of important Greeks, all accompanied by the songs of the thousands of birds who live here. In the past, the Gardens also included a small but interesting Zoo, with animals mostly native to Greece. Today it includes a small coffee shop (exit to Irodou Attikou street.), a children’s library and a playground.
Source: www.athensattica.gr