Athens
About Athens
Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities with a history spanning 3,000 years. It is known as the birthplace of democracy, arts, science and philosophy of western civilization. It is home to some of the most well-known Greek philosophers including Socrates, Plato and Aristotle whose ideas still impact society today.
History of Athens
Athens was the leading city of Ancient Greece in the first millennium BC. Its cultural achievements laid the foundations of western civilization during the 5th century BC. During the Middle Ages, the city experienced decline and then recovery under the Byzantine Empire. It was relatively prosperous during the Crusades. After a long period of decline under the Ottoman era, Athens re-emerged in the 19th century as the capital of the independent Greek state.
Syntagma Square
The Parliament was once the Royal Palace until 1924 when the monarchy was abolished. It was used as a hospital and a museum, and it then became the headquarter of the Greek Parliament in 1929. The Monument of the Unknown Soldier stands in front of the Parliament and is dedicated to the Greek soldiers who died for the country.
Shopping Neighourhoods
Plaka is famed for its picturesque streets, historic landmarks and lively shops. Monastiraki Square is another bustling spot in Athens. Nearby is Psyrri, a trendy little neighbourhood filled with great restaurants, small boutique shops and a vibrant nightlife.
Interesting Facts
- Syntagma Square translates to “Constitution Square”, reference to the historical event in 1843 when the Greek people rose up in protest and requested King Otto to release a new constitution.
- The Changing of the Guard Ceremony usually takes place on Sunday at 10am. A shorter version is staged every day on the hour from 10am to 4pm. The guards wear traditional costumes comprising a red hat with a long black tassel, shirt with wide sleeves, skirt and black shoes with big pom poms.
- Socrates is remembered for his teaching methods and asking thought-provoking questions. His student Plato studied ethics, virtue, justice and other ideas relating to human behaviour. Aristotle (Plato’s student) studied most of the sciences and many of the arts and he was the founder of formal logic.
