PARKS AND GREEN ZONES

Since the 5th century BC it was evident that few were the parks and the green zones in general, inside the city, which explains the droughts that always tormented Athens.

Of course, there is a big difference between a drought and the inexcusable absence of green belts. What was the reason that caused Athens to be built so cooped up, with adjoined buildings?

Was it its speedy development done in haste because the waves of immigrants needed to be housed? Why is the analogy of square areas of green belts per inhabitant (according to a 1994 survey) 9 for the Eternal City of Rome, 27 for Amsterdam, 50 for Washington, but just 2,55 for Athens?

Setting aside the rhetorical questions and looking on the map, the large green areas could be counted on two hands. The National Garden, Pedion tou Areos and other large green zones are far off what is internationally called "park". Practically, Athens has no green belt corresponding to its size and we regard as "lungs of the city" the planted with cypress trees cemeteries, for example the First Cemetery of Athens.

The Ministry of Environment Physical Planning and Public Works announced some years ago the plans to unify the green belts, similar to the unification of the archaeological sites. For the time being, residents and visitors must be content with the continuous remodeling of the existing green zones.

Shopping

OLYMPICO
This jewelry store is known for offering a great selection of contemporary pieces made from precious metals, as well as... more
CYCLADIC ART MUSEUM SHOP
This Museum’s shop sells quality souvenirs based upon the Ancient Cycladic style of art. Among the items you may find... more
EMPORIO ARMANI
Fine Italian Mens wear.... more
APOSTOLART
Apostol’s bronze and glass sculptures have gained popularity for their extraordinary design and craftsmanship. He has had exhibits in many... more
MOHNBLUMCHEN
Imports and trades fine Italian and French Men\\\'s & Women\\\'s wear, Shoes and Garment Accessories. This store is highly exclusive... more
SHOPPING CENTER PLAKA
A terrific one-stop shop for all your souvenir needs.... more
BEST BOOK HUNTERS
They boast to having old and new publications on a variety of subjects in all foreign languages. It also has... more
TO KOMBOLOI TOU PSIRI
Worry beads of every kind and size with value of 5 Euro to 5,000 Euros in an exceptional store.... more
Ι ARETI
Antique shop with preserved traditional Greek furniture and folk objects for the lovers of the \\... more
BENAKI MUSEUM SHOP
The Benaki Museum is noted for the plethora of tasteful items it has for sale such as, ceramics, reliefs &... more
MOFU
Vintage and Contemporary Design for the 70s nostalgic in a very interesting environment.... more
ARGALIOS
Take home folk art like Byzantine icons as lovely and spiritual keepsakes of Greece.... more