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Monument to the Unknown Soldier: A Symbol of National Pride
A solemn war memorial in Athens' Syntagma Square, honoring the Greek soldiers who died for their country. Witness the iconic changing of the guard.
The Monument to the Unknown Soldier in Athens is a war memorial dedicated to Greek soldiers killed in war. Located in front of the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square, it features a sculpture of a fallen warrior and inscriptions of famous battle sites. The monument is guarded 24/7 by the Evzones of the Presidential Guard, an elite unit of the Greek Army.
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A brief summary to Monument to the Unknown Soldier
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 133, Athens, 105 57, GR
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The Monument to the Unknown Soldier stands as a solemn tribute to the Greek soldiers who sacrificed their lives in service to their country. Located in the heart of Athens in Syntagma Square, in front of the Old Royal Palace (now the Hellenic Parliament), this monument serves as a constant reminder of the nation's gratitude and respect for those who fought for its freedom.The monument's history dates back to the late 19th century, with the idea of creating a memorial taking shape after World War I. The final design, approved in 1926, was created by architect Emmanuel Lazaridis. Sculptor Fokion Rok sculpted the monument between 1930 and 1932. The monument was inaugurated on March 25, 1932.The monument features a large bas-relief sculpture of a dying Greek warrior, based on the dying nude hoplite in the east pediment of the early 5th-century BC temple of Aphaia. The sculpture is flanked by inscriptions from Pericles' Funeral Oration. The names of battles where Greek forces fought are inscribed on the surrounding walls.The monument is guarded around the clock by the Evzones, members of the Presidential Guard. These soldiers are an elite unit of the Greek Army, and their uniforms are based on traditional 19th-century Greek military attire. The changing of the guard ceremony, which occurs hourly, is a major attraction for visitors. On Sundays at 11 am, a more elaborate ceremony takes place with a military band.
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Getting There
Walking
If you are in Syntagma Square, the Monument to the Unknown Soldier is directly in front of the Hellenic Parliament building. From other central areas like Plaka or Monastiraki, follow signs towards Syntagma Square. The monument is located on Leof. Vasilisis Amalias.
Public Transport
Take the Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) to Syntagma station. Upon exiting the station, use the escalators to reach Syntagma Square. The Monument to the Unknown Soldier will be directly in front of you, across from the Greek Parliament. A standard metro ticket costs around €1.20. Alternatively, take any bus that stops at Syntagma Square. Bus lines such as 040, 550, and X95 (from the airport) frequently service this area. The bus fare is approximately €1.40.
Taxi/Ride-share
Ask your taxi or ride-share driver to take you to Syntagma Square or Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 133. This is a well-known location, and most drivers will be familiar with it. A short trip from the Acropolis to the Monument to the Unknown Soldier by taxi will cost approximately €4-€5.
Driving
If driving, use the address 'Leof. Vasilisis Amalias 133, Athina 105 57' in your GPS. Note that parking in this central area can be challenging. Consider using nearby parking garages such as 'Syntagma Parking' located at 7-9 Vasileos Georgiou A' Street. From the parking garage, it's a short 5-minute walk to the monument. Metropark is another option and is located near Syntagma Square. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €15-€25 for a few hours.
A brief summary to Monument to the Unknown Soldier
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