Syntagma & Surrounding Area

Syntagma & Surrounding Area

Syntagma (also known as Constitution Square) and its surrounding area is located directly across from the Hellenic Parliament, between the Avenue of Vassilis Amalias, King George Street and Othonos Street.

The Parliament Building was first utilized as the Royal Palace and the square below it was also known as the Palace Square. This all changed when, in 1843, King Otto was compelled to give a constitution to the people of Greece after a grand uprising during and the square was renamed Syntagma Square (Constitution Square).

Almost all of major events in modern Greek history have brought citizens together here. When the country's Military Junta government was overthrown in 1974, it was at the square that the new leader of Greece, Constantinos Karamanlis, gave his first speech.

In 2010-2012 Syntagma was the epicenter of demonstrations against austerity measures that were implemented as a result of the country's debt crisis.

The regular main attraction for visitors are the Evzones. They are members of the presidential guard dressed in traditional uniforms stand vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament. The hourly 'Changing of the Guard' ceremony is a must-see for tourists all year round.

Presently, Syntagma continues to be home to political rallies and other demonstrations but it's also a central gathering place for young and old in Athens. Notably, the square was given a face-lift, care-of the architectural Grand Bretagne and the King George hotels - with newly polished marble, finely trimmed gardens and colorful water fountains!


▶︎ Syntagma & Surrounding Area
▶︎ The Syntagma Square
▶︎ The Hellenic Parliament
▶︎ Syntagma Metro Station
▶︎ Sightseeing on Syntagma Square
▶︎ Shopping on Syntagma Square
▶︎ Eating & drinking on Syntagma Square
▶︎ Nightlife on Syntagma Square