Syntagma Square

The most important square in Athens, Syntagma Square located in the heart of the city in front of the Greek Parliament.

The historical importance of Syntagma Square is huge for Athens and Greece in general. Until 1843 it was called the Palace Square, and in the place of today’s parliament building was the palace of King Othonas. In 1843 an uprising began here in order Greeks to have Constitution and when the King Othonas gave the permission for Greeks to have constitution, the Palace Square changed name into Syntagma Square (Syntagma in Greek language means constitution).

In the center of Syntagma Square is located just below the Parliament building, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, a monument representing a war grave for unidentified soldiers who gave their lives in the many wars of our history.

The attraction of the square is the changing of the guard in front of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier by the Presidential Guard every hour, with synchronized movements of the guards, called evzones. Early Sunday morning, around 11 o’ clock , is the ideal time to enjoy the parade of 200 evzones (guards) of the presidential guard in perfect synchronization, in front of the Greek Parliament.

The square is located very close to many important places of central Athens. You can walk from here, to the neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki and Psiri . The Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Library and the Gate of Hadrian’s are also very close. In the southern part of the square is Ermou street which is the most commercial street in Athens and one of the most expensive streets in the world based on real estate value. You can also walk from Syntagma Square to the area known as the “Athens Trilogy “. “Athens Trilogy” are three buildings of great importance, both for the impressive and unique architectural composition and for their great historical value: The Academy of Athens, the Athens University and the National Library. They were built in 19th century and are signs of growth in Greece, after the liberation of the city from the Turks.  Very near to Syntagma Square, just under Lycabettus Hill,  is Kolonaki area. You can also walk from Syntagma to Kolonaki.  Kolonaki in Greek means small column and is named after a small ancient column in the middle of the square. This is the most expensive area in Athens center. You’ll find expensive boutiques, fancy restaurants, and private art galleries. Every major luxury label is here. You can enjoy your coffe, or your lunch in Kolonaki Square in one of the many beautiful and luxurious coffe shops and restaurants.