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

VLASTARIS ANTIQUES
Established in 1975, Vlastaris Antiques is a member of the Hellenic Association of Antiquarians and Art Dealers. Its inventory consists... more
MASTIHASHOP
The official shop of the Union of Mastiha Producers of Chios – the only place on the earth where it... more
EMPORIO ARMANI
Fine Italian Mens wear.... more
BENAKI MUSEUM SHOP III
A beautiful space filled with unique souvenirs from the Benaki Museum – such as ceramics, silver vessels, reliefs and sculptures,... more
WINE GARAGE
The modern art deco and how their wine is displayed are worth seeing in themselves. The Wine Garage invites its... more
OLYMPICO
This jewelry store is known for offering a great selection of contemporary pieces made from precious metals, as well as... more
LESVOS SHOP
Authentic traditional products from Lesvos and Limnos from pasta and wines to cosmetics made by the hands of Island’s Association... more
APOSTOLART
Apostol’s bronze and glass sculptures have gained popularity for their extraordinary design and craftsmanship. He has had exhibits in many... more
ESTIA
Bookstore of the historic publishing house that produces the oldest literary magazine in the country. Besides the big range that... more
COMPENDIUM BOOKSHOP
The shop sells anything from new and used, fiction and nonfiction books in English, mainly to ex-patriots – who seem... more
SWEET ALCHEMY
Chocolates and other sweets that are difficult to resist, made by the famous pastry chef Stelios Parliaros.... more
LOUIS VUITTON
The world renowned luxury brand name speaks for itself. In this store you will find Leather Goods & Accessories, Women’s... more