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.

Nightlife

POP
Small bar with the best indie sounds in the city, clean drinks and fanatic regulars.... more
AIR LOUNGE BAR (Fresh Hotel)
The swimming pool area on the 9th Floor of the Fresh Hotel is where you will find the “Air Lounge”... more
JAZZ IN JAZZ
The proprietor of Jazz In Jazz has traveled the world, collecting mementos from some of the greatest jazz personalities and... more
CIRCUS
This funky hangout is located on the borders of upper-class, Kolonaki, and the rocker area of Exarchia. The name, Circus,... more
BLACK DUCK MULTIPLARTE
This multi-space located in the heart of Athens has provided the stage for numerous mature Greek acts over the years.... more
LE GRAND BALCON & LA SUITE LOUNGE
With an unforgettable view of the Acropolis as well as the Athens’ skyline, the restaurant lounge is located on the... more
SIX D.O.G.S
Cosy multiplace with live and DJ shows as well a gallery exhibitions and festivals.... more
ROCK N ROLL
The most classic bar / restaurant / club in Athens has not lost its magic touch after all of these... more
USE BAR
Small bar playing mainly black music. Absolute hip hangout, open from nine in the morning for coffee and cold sandwiches,... more
JAMES JOYCE
James Joyce is considered, “a different type of Irish pub.” There, they blend the best of the old with the... more
XILIES KAI DUO NICHTES
Performing for Spring season 2010 at this ethnic establishment is Mariastella Tzanoudaki, Fotis Theodoridis & friends. Entrance: 10 Euros. Menu:... more
GALAXY BAR (Athens Hilton)
High atop the majestic Athens Hilton is a favorite of many of the clubbing elite of the city. It is... more