Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SYNTAGMA AND KOLONAKI
Plateia syntagma is the centre of modern Athens, crowned by the large, Neo-
Classical Parliament building. Standing sentry outside are the
evzones
- sol-
diers marching solemnly back and forth in traditional short skirts and pom-
pommed shoes. By Parliament, on the wide, tree-lined avenue of Vasilissis
Sofias is Museum Row: many of Athens' finest museums are here. Behind
Syntagma is posh Kolonaki, home to ambassadors, models, movie stars and
the fabulous designer boutiques that cater to them. This is the prime spot
for shopping, people-watching and glamorous but pricey café-sitting. Rising
above it all is Lykavittos Hill, topped by a famous outdoor theatre, and gor-
geous cafés and restaurants with a view to die for.
1. KALLIMARMARO STADIUM
The formal name of this stadium is the Panathenaic, but it's more commonly known
as Kallimarmaro, meaning “beautiful marble”. Built in 330 BC for the Panathenaic
games, it later fell into disuse. In 1895, George Averoff had it restored with fine Pen-
telic marble, and it hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896. In 2004, it provided
the final circuit for the Olympic Marathon and also hosted the archery competition.
Vas Konstantinou • 8:30am-1pm, 3:30pm-7pm Mon-Fri
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2. NATIONAL GARDENS
The huge, shady
National Gardens
are an unexpected green refuge in parched central
Athens. They were originally planted in 1839 as the Royal Garden of Queen Amalia,
who had her horticulturalists bring in 15,000 domestic and exotic plants, many of
which remain. The garden was opened to the public in 1923. Many statues dot the
garden. It also has a small zoo, a duck pond and a playground.
Amalias
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