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Sunday, 20 June 2021 07:13
The History Of Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is the central square of Athens and the second largest in Greece, after Spianada Square in Corfu, and is included in the list of the 100 largest squares in the world. It has always been the promenade square of the city and it was the gathering point for the cream of Athenian society for many years.
Its history begins in the early 1830s when Athens' population was about 7,000, and the area where the square stands was called Perivolakia. When the palace of King Otto was set to be built there, it was named Palace Square.
The specific location was chosen because the site was the highest point in central Athens, offering splendid views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, and the Saronic Gulf. Construction work started in 1836 and was completed in 1843. That year though, the name of Palace Square changed once again. On September 3, 1843, the square was renamed Constitution Square, as Otto was forced to cede to the Greek people gathered in front of the palace demanding a constitution.
Syntagma Square began to assume its modern form after 1846 from the Bavarian Michael Hoch, who worked with the architect Leo von Klenze. The square was divided into two parts. The upper square (the eastern part), which until the end of the 19th century was still called “Palace Square”, today is known as “Parliament Square” or “the Monument of the Unknown Soldier.” The lower square (western part), is known as Bacchus Square or the Garden of the Muses. The two sections were on two different levels and were joined by a marble staircase.
When the area of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier was created, the upper part was cut off from the rest of the square. The Monument was built in 1929-1930 by the architect Emmanuel Lazaridis. Its central point is a representation of a fallen Ancient Greek soldier, created by sculptor Fokion Rok. On both sides, to the left and right of the monument, there are bronze plaques with the names of battles the Greeks fought from 1821 until today. The Monument is guarded on a 24-hour basis by the soldiers of the Presidential Guard, the well-known Evzones, with the changing of the guard taking place every hour; one of the living attractions of Athens.
The square is inextricably linked to the historical events taking place in Greece over the centuries. It has been a place of demonstrations and social upheavals starting from September 3, 1843, until today.
An event that was a black mark on the history of Syntagma Square in Athens was the killing of several demonstrators on December 3, 1944. Less than two months after the country’s liberation from the Nazis, police shot at Greek People’s Liberation Army (EAM) demonstrators, thus starting almost two months of fighting in Athens, the so-called Dekemvriana, the precursor of the Greek Civil War (1946-1949).
Syntagma Square has always played an important role in the daily life of Athenians. It was a meeting place, a favorite spot for a Sunday walk, as well as a place to gather together for musical presentations. It has also been the bonafide place for big party election rallies.
In the 19th century, impressive mansions, luxury hotels, and cafes used to surround the square, giving it a true cosmopolitan flavor. In the 20th century, however, the face of Syntagma Square changed drastically and the mansions were replaced by concrete-and-glass modern office buildings housing state agencies and businesses. Other than the Greek Parliament, the Pallis Mansion is the only old building that survived the modernization of the capital.
To read this article in full, please visit: greekreporter.com
To read this article in full, please visit: greekreporter.com
Photo Credit: Dario Sušanj
Published in
City Discovery
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Tuesday, 01 June 2021 07:04
Tourism On The Rise & Greece's Top Destinations
Home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks and countless beautiful islands, Greece has always appealed to travelers as an ideal holiday destination. Renowned for its natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine, it's not surprising that tourism continues to be one of the most important sectors contributing to the Greek economy today.
In 2020, the Greek tourism industry was devastated by the pandemic, but this year the country has been topping the lists of ‘safe destinations for travelers’. As the world begins to slowly begin traveling again, the below destinations are still among the most popular among Greece's visitors.
Are you living in Greece right now? What destinations would you recommend for visitors to explore in Greece?
1. Athens
Considered the historical capital of Europe, Athens brims with historical monuments, from the Ancient Agora to the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The most visited site, however, is the Acropolis, a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by the Parthenon, the most famous ancient Greek temple. A symbol of Athens, Greece, and the Western Civilization, in general, Acropolis justifiably is Greece's most famous tourist attraction.
2. Santorini
Greece’s number one island destination for tourists, Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades, mostly famous for its cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia hanging above a sea-filled caldera. Traditional whitewashed cubic houses, black volcanic sand beaches, picturesque villages, and magical sunsets, it's no wonder Santorini is the most romantic of all the Greek islands.
Greece’s number one island destination for tourists, Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades, mostly famous for its cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia hanging above a sea-filled caldera. Traditional whitewashed cubic houses, black volcanic sand beaches, picturesque villages, and magical sunsets, it's no wonder Santorini is the most romantic of all the Greek islands.
3. Nafplio
Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, is considered by many the most beautiful city in the whole country. Indeed, its uniquely distinctive character and romantic aura are sure to take your breath away. Neo-classical mansions, hidden churches, the Palamidi Fortress, a true architectural masterpiece offering mesmerizing views of the Argolic Gulf, and the water castle of Bourtzi, Kolokotronis' first prison, are only some of the town's major attractions.
Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, is considered by many the most beautiful city in the whole country. Indeed, its uniquely distinctive character and romantic aura are sure to take your breath away. Neo-classical mansions, hidden churches, the Palamidi Fortress, a true architectural masterpiece offering mesmerizing views of the Argolic Gulf, and the water castle of Bourtzi, Kolokotronis' first prison, are only some of the town's major attractions.
4. Meteora
Located in Thessaly, Meteora is an awe-inspiring sight that has been attracting visitors from all over the world. A vast terrain of rocky formations, Meteora is known for its dozens of Eastern Orthodox monasteries situated on top of massive boulders. In addition to visiting the Monasteries, one can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, hiking, and kayaking.
5. Mykonos
Also known as the "Greek Ibiza", Mykonos is undoubtedly the most glamorous island in Greece, the epitome of cosmopolitanism. With its plethora of beach bars and super clubs, Michelin-starred restaurants, and high-end boutiques, "the Island of the Winds" is the ultimate Greek destination for international celebrities, party animals, and sun worshippers.
6. Delphi
A UNESCO world heritage site, Delphi used to be considered as the center of the world by Ancient Greeks. Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, the sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to Apollo, was for many centuries home to Pythia, the major oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The site consists of the ruins of many temples, a theater, and a stadium, built between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD.
A UNESCO world heritage site, Delphi used to be considered as the center of the world by Ancient Greeks. Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, the sanctuary of Delphi, dedicated to Apollo, was for many centuries home to Pythia, the major oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The site consists of the ruins of many temples, a theater, and a stadium, built between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD.
Published in
Travel Greece
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Tuesday, 01 June 2021 07:33
Athens Among UNICEF's Child Friendly Cities
The Municipality of Athens and UNICEF have joined forces to transform Athens into a city where every child would love to live!
A Memorandum of Cooperation between the Municipality of Athens and UNICEF has been signed which states that the Greek capital is officially participating in the Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI); this is a UNICEF-led initiative that supports municipal governments in realizing the rights of children at the local level.
A Memorandum of Cooperation between the Municipality of Athens and UNICEF has been signed which states that the Greek capital is officially participating in the Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI); this is a UNICEF-led initiative that supports municipal governments in realizing the rights of children at the local level.
Athens is participating for the first time in this global program, which aims to put children's needs at the forefront, adjusting its services, facilities, programs, and public spaces to serve this purpose. With the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as their guiding principles, the Municipality of Athens and the newly-established UNICEF office in Greece will work together to ensure the well-being of children and young people living in Greece's capital.
Through joint awareness initiatives and meticulously planned actions, this program aims to:
- Reduce child poverty through targeted interventions.
- Promote access and enhance educational opportunities.
- Prevent violence against children, including children who are victims of domestic or community violence.
- Promote education through continuous skills development.
- Promote youth employment.
- Promote the participation of children and young people in decision-making processes.
- Encourage healthy eating habits.
- Promote gender equality.
- Enhance environmental awareness.
The Child-Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) was launched in 1996. It includes a network of 47 countries that brings together government and other stakeholders such as civil society organizations, the private sector, academia, media, and, importantly, children themselves who wish to make their cities and communities more child-friendly.
The candidacy of the Municipality of Athens marks the beginning of the program in the country with five more municipalities being added to it in the coming months.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
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Local News
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Thursday, 23 June 2022 12:16
Pool Your Cinema At The Hotel Grande Bretagne
For a second year in a row, the GB Pool of Hotel Grande Bretagne dresses up its absolute summer attire and bows to the magic of the seventh art while it turns into a summer cinema.
The Pool Your Cinema, on the 7th floor of the legendary hotel, opens its doors and welcomes its honorable guests to a distinct summer cinema experience in the heart of the captivating center of Athens. All-time classic favorites and Hollywood blockbusters show up on the big screen to entertain us on the nostalgic summer evenings in a romantic setting by the pool overlooking Lycabettus Hill and the city lights at nightfall.
Since taste plays a leading role in this scenario, Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis has curated the absolute fingerfood set menu to pair with your drink while you unwind at the relaxing lounge chairs. Handmade nachos, slow fermented pizza, Black Angus cheeseburger and caramelized popcorn with Madagascar vanilla and fleur de sel will transform every minute into a delectable and luxurious experience. Discover the menu->
THURSDAY – FRIDAY – SATURDAY – SUNDAY
Arrival Time: 21.15 | Start Time: 21.30
Published in
Food & Drink
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Tuesday, 20 July 2021 00:01
Athens Epidaurus Festival 2021: Live!
In the past, adding the word 'live' next to the title of the Athens Epidaurus Festival would have been considered an overstatement, maybe even a mistype. Of course the biggest cultural festival in Greece, and one of the oldest in Europe, would be live! What else could it possibly be? Well, we all know what happened in 2020.
Rolling forward to the announcement of this year’s program for the Athens Epidaurus Festival, the people behind AEF have now learned all the tricks on how to carefully balance the obstacles of social distancing with the requirements of a real life event - and with the anticipation and bottled creativity of a culturally-barren year, the Athens Epidaurus Festival has announced its 5-month-long, 80-show-strong live program!
The 2021 summer season will be focused mainly on works by Greek artists, leaving the autumn season to shoot for the safer actualization of international events. Due to the ongoing pandemic, all performance dates are subject to change so do make sure to regularly check with the festival’s schedule.
The 2021 summer season will be focused mainly on works by Greek artists, leaving the autumn season to shoot for the safer actualization of international events. Due to the ongoing pandemic, all performance dates are subject to change so do make sure to regularly check with the festival’s schedule.
Please Click Here To View The Athens & Epidaurus Festival Program
This content was originally published on: thisisathens.org
It has been shared with XpatAthens as part of a content collaboration.
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Published in
Performing Arts
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Monday, 31 May 2021 07:38
"Greek Freak" Among High-Budget Movies Lined Up In Greece
Attracting major film producers to Greece has always been a goal that, until recently, remained only a dream. Although many film studios showed a keen interest in shooting in the Greek capital, they stumbled upon bureaucratic obstacles.
As a result, Athens wasn't able to take advantage of its incomparable traits, such as global recognition of its monuments, its building stock, and even its climate and host big productions. Thus, the city lost significant revenues as well as the opportunity to be promoted all around the world.
Today, through perseverance, planning, and consistency, and thanks to the decisive contribution of the Athens Film Office, Athens has dynamically entered the film industry, and there has been a flurry of interest from high-budget international audiovisual productions to film in the country.
This is the case with Disney+’s biopic of the teenage years of Greek NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo. Sepolia, Antetokounmpo's neighborhood, will be featured in the film, and recently, the Mayor of Athens, Costas Bakogiannis, visited the Triton Stadium which has been turned into a film set.
"Greek Freak" commenced shooting in May and is one of the biggest productions that have been shot in Greece so far. The production employs 200 Greek crew members and hundreds of supporting actors with the total cost exceeding 20 million euros.
This is just the first of a series of high-budget productions that will be shot in Athens. Other productions include the second season of "Tehran", David Cronenberg's new film, and two episodes of the "Jack Ryan" television series.
About The Athens Film Office
The Athens Film Office was founded in March 2020 by the Municipality of Athens, under the "umbrella" of the Athens Development & Destination Management Agency (EATA) with the aim of transforming Athens into a “Film Friendly City”. During its first year of operation, it has assisted in the shooting of more than 40 international and Greek audiovisual productions in the Greek capital.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
The Athens Film Office was founded in March 2020 by the Municipality of Athens, under the "umbrella" of the Athens Development & Destination Management Agency (EATA) with the aim of transforming Athens into a “Film Friendly City”. During its first year of operation, it has assisted in the shooting of more than 40 international and Greek audiovisual productions in the Greek capital.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 31 May 2021 07:22
The Gift Of Self-Time Is A Treasure For Life
It’s been a few weeks since children started school again. By now most of them have re-adjusted and are back to “normal”, even though they continue taking the necessary measures for the pandemic.
A working mum myself, I was looking forward to this long-awaited day. When it finally came I started thinking, planning, making scenarios about how to use all this “free” time that I now had in my hands. How to make the best of it for me and me alone. Of course, I had lots of ideas: “I’ll devote more time to my business; I’ll take a bit longer enjoying my coffee in the morning; perhaps I’ll even read this book I’ve started a while back; maybe I can do coffee with my friends; I could even go shopping; I could visit my parents more often; I could look into all the pending jobs, all the “shoulds”, waiting to be finished”. The list was endless.
There’s one thing I didn’t take into consideration though. And that was how tired I’ve been throughout this quarantine – both physically and mentally. I realized how much my “self-time” had been squeezed in order to keep the balance, to “keep calm and going” and how much in need of personal time I was.
I’m sure you do understand. I’m also sure that somewhere in your mind you’re thinking thoughts like: “But I have so many things to do and now that kids are at school I can use this time to…work more on my business; to organize the house; to do all the things I keep on postponing….” Feel free to fill in the blank as you see fit.
I can relate to your thoughts. But feeling that you now have all the time in the world to do what you couldn’t do before while being so tired wouldn’t take you anywhere. Unless we pay attention to our needs, unless we pamper ourselves first, we’ll keep on being tired, even exhausted at times. And this is a one-way ticket. The one that leads to frustration, miscommunication, and more stress. It’s like a vicious cycle. You cannot take care of others unless you take care of yourself first. It’s exactly what the flight attendant tells you about putting on your safety belt first before you put on your child’s.
So, let’s take an honest look at ourselves, at our own personal needs. Let’s evaluate our current situation. Let’s give ourselves the gift of self-time. You may go for a walk, read a book, take a nap, paint, cross-stitch, listen to your favorite music, dance, work out, meditate, take a bath…whatever works for you. Self-time is a treasure for life.
Originally Published on: itsmylife.gr
Written by Nadia Georgiou
If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!
Published in
Mind
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Thursday, 27 May 2021 07:08
The Klonaridis - Fix Park Regains Its Former Glory
After months of renovations, the Klonaridis - Fix park, located in the heart of Athens, has been transformed into a green oasis. Now, it is a fully sustainable urban park, designed according to international trends in landscape architecture and environmental design.
Through the "Adopt Your City" program, Olympic Brewery and FIX Hellas have actively supported the Municipality's effort to turn the historic park into an aesthetically pleasing breath of fresh air that will significantly improve the capital's urban landscape.
The Municipality's specialized crews carried out multiple renovation works, including the replacement of the park's pathways with permeable ones, the installation of new urban equipment (benches, garbage bins, etc.), the replacement of all street lamps with energy-efficient LED lights, and the restoration of the fountain.
Based on a study by Ecoscapes, a landscape design company, in collaboration with the Animal Welfare Department of Athens, more than 4,500 pollution-tolerant Mediterranean plants were planted in the park. Also, a perennial meadow was created, something that hasn't happened before.
On the southern part of the park, one will find a stunning biodiverse garden consisting of evergreen Mediterranean shrubs and aquatic plants surrounding the fountain. The lawn on the eastern part was replaced, making the area perfect for outdoor activities. Last but not least, watering cans and feeders were installed for all the birds living in the park.
The park's benches were designed by students from the AKTO educational group in the context of a wider collaboration with the Olympic Brewery, giving an artistic touch to the spaces.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
Published in
Local News
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Wednesday, 26 May 2021 21:21
Santorini Walking Tours
Santorini Walking Tours offer a fun, educative and active way to experience the island with all your senses. We have designed small group and private tours, allowing you to enjoy Santorini in an authentic, meaningful, safe and pleasurable way.
Our philosophy is to support ecological and economic sustainability by using environmentally and socially responsible practices, working together with local businesses and communities. Our desire is to share with you the beauties of the island, with outmost respect and care for its fragile ecosystem, engaging your body, soul and mind. In an effort to minimize our impact, we only accommodate a maximum amount of 6 guests on each tour.
All of our tours are designed by Nikos Boutsinis, an established hospitality and travel professional, with international education and work experience. He is a keen traveler and outdoor enthusiast, who fell in love with this unique and multifaceted island. Santorini Walking Tours was sparked by his passion to offer a sustainable touring experience, immersing visitors in the true Santorini.
Explore Santorini, walking, breathing and tasting it just like a local. Join us, and take a walk on the wild side!
Published in
Travel & Experiences
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Tuesday, 25 May 2021 10:27
Reconstruction Of The Acropolis' Western Hills
During a meeting of the Central Archaeological Council, works related to the restoration and promotion of the Western Hills of Acropolis (the Pnyx, the Hill of the Nymphs, and the Philopappos Hill) were unanimously approved.
The protection and promotion of the above-mentioned archeological sites is a top priority, combined with the safety of visitors and the cleanliness of the sites due to high traffic, as the entrance to these areas is free and they operate on a 24-hour basis.
The Mayor of Athens, Costas Bakogiannis, stated “Athens is taking another step towards the rebirth of its most emblematic areas. It is time to restore, protect, and upgrade all those elements of Philopappos hill that connect it to the history, culture, and modern life of the city of Athens. In this effort, our smooth cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Sports is required to achieve the best result."
The goals of this Cultural Development Program are the following:
The protection and promotion of the above-mentioned archeological sites is a top priority, combined with the safety of visitors and the cleanliness of the sites due to high traffic, as the entrance to these areas is free and they operate on a 24-hour basis.
The Mayor of Athens, Costas Bakogiannis, stated “Athens is taking another step towards the rebirth of its most emblematic areas. It is time to restore, protect, and upgrade all those elements of Philopappos hill that connect it to the history, culture, and modern life of the city of Athens. In this effort, our smooth cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Sports is required to achieve the best result."
The goals of this Cultural Development Program are the following:
- The preservation and promotion of the monuments located in these archaeological sites.
- The safety of visitors.
- The improvement of the existing infrastructure.
- The protection of the natural environment (flora and fauna) and its harmonious inclusion in the archaeological landscape.
- The elimination of risk factors (fires, landslides, delinquency).
The hills used to be an important and densely inhabited section of ancient Athens. Today, they form an archaeological site including monuments of great historical value, such as the Assembly of the Demos, the Diateichisma, residential remains of the ancient districts of Melite and Koile, the ancient street of Koile, the monument of Philopappos, the remains of the temple of Musaeus, Socrates' Prison and the Kimoneia Monuments, cemeteries, post-Byzantine temples (Agios Dimitrios Lombardiaris, Agia Marina, Agios Konstantinos), unique works by famous architect Dimitris Pikionis, and the National Observatory of Athens.
The hills cover a total area of about 680 acres and are part of the buffer zone surrounding the Acropolis as a UNESCO world heritage site. They are also included in the List of Monuments around the Acropolis that have received the European Heritage Label.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in
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Local News
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