Why visit / Interesting facts:
- The heart of Athens
- Archaelogical finds inside the metro station
Time required: 30 minutes
Public transport:
- Blue Metro Line: Syntagma station
- Red Metro Line: Syntagma station
Address: Syntagma Square, Athens
Photos: (see more photos)
Photo: Tilemahos Efthimiadis
Things you need to know:
- Syntagma Square is Athens' main square. It lies in the historic center in front of Parliament
- The square is named after the Greek Constitution (Syntagma). King Otto was forced to issue the document in 1843 after public demonstrations taking place at the square
- Highlights include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, top of the Ermou Street and the Syntagma subway station
- Syntagma subway station is both a transport hub and an archaelogical museum. Finds excavated while building the station are displayed as if in a museum
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument to Greek soldiers died in battles. Traditionally dressed soldiers guard the memorial 24/7 and engage in ceremonial exercises on the hour
- Athens' main shopping street, Ermou Street, leads off from the square. Designer boutiques and major department stores are both present there
What to do there:
- This is a good place to stop for a rest or for a coffee near the central fountain
Tips & Insights:
- If you use the subway system do not miss the glass wall overlooking the archaeological site
