Syntagma Square
It is Athens’ central square. It took its name from the event of the 3rd of September 1843, when in the area in front of the Palace (today's Parliament), the people and the garrison of Athens rebelled asking King Othonas to establish a Constitution. Syntagma Square and Omonia Square are the two reference points of the city. So do not be surprised when hearing the word Syntagma every time you ask for directions. Plaka, Acropolis, the Metropolitan Church, the National Garden, Ermou Str. and Kolonaki are all close to Syntagma Square. Some of the most modern coffee houses and small restaurants are located in this area. This square never sleeps. In square's kiosks you can find everything you need, from aspirins to souvenirs as well as newspapers and foreign magazines.
Sightseeing:
The Parliament. It dominates in Syntagma Square. It was built as the Palace of Othonas, the first king of Greece. Its construction lasted from 1836 until 1842. The second king, Georgios the 1st also stayed in this Palace. During his reign, two massive fires destroyed the building in such extent that it was inappropriate for royal use. The government of 1924 was the one that decided the Greek Parliament should be housed there. The reconstruction works were finished in 1934 and its interior was designed by the architect A. Kriezi. The Parliament houses national treasures such as the first Constitution of Greece and many valuable paintings. It is also worth to visit its great library.
Monument to the Unknown Soldier. It was built during the period from 1929 to 1932 in front of the Greek Parliament. It is a bas-relief depicting a dead soldier (by the sculptor K. Dimitriadi) and has an inscription with an extract from Pericles Epitaph written on it. The greatest fights of the Greek army since 1821 are depicted on the marble wall surrounding it. The monument is guarded 24 hours by two selected guards, called Evzones, who wear traditional Greek costumes. It is also the place where Greek officials and visitors place garlands in big celebrations. The ritual, during which the guards change positions, happens every hour and is a unique event which attracts many people especially on Sunday mornings, when the guards are escorted by a military band and a large Evzones force.
“Great Britannia” Hotel. A luxurious hotel, constructed in 1842 as a private residence. It was designed by Th. Hansen and in 1874 it was reconstructed as a hotel. In 1958, due to the high touristic needs, it was reconstructed again and new floors were added to it. In 2003 it was fully restored. This hotel has been connected with the greatest moments of Modern Greek History, while many famous personalities have stayed here when visiting Athens. Visit its interior areas where you can find coffee houses, bars and a luxurious restaurant with unique atmosphere.
Ancient Water Reservoir. In the NE side of the square (a covered open-air space) was found and is exhibited part of the ancient cemetery and the Peisistrateios water reservoir.
Filellinon Street. A remarkable street extending from Stadiou Str. In the intersection of Xenofontos and Souri Streets you can see the neoclassic houses, Sotiras Lycodimus Church and Aghios Pavlos Anglican Church (1843), designed by Ch. Hansen with Gothic elements and in a shape of cross.
Amalias Avenue. It is a wide avenue that leads from Andrianos Gate to Syntagma Square. The fact that it is next to the National Garden as well as its impressive neoclassic houses give it unique atmosphere. As you walk up the street towards Syntagma Square, pay attention to the view with the Parliament and Lycabetus Hill in the background.
