Statue of Athena: A Guardian of Athens
A tribute to the goddess of wisdom and courage, this statue stands as a reminder of Athens' rich history and cultural heritage.
The Statue of Athena, situated at the entrance of Pedion tou Areos park, stands as a proud symbol of Athens. Created by Greek sculptor Vassos Falireas and erected in 1952, the statue commemorates foreign soldiers who lost their lives in WWII. The statue portrays Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare, in a battle-ready stance, complete with a spear and shield. A roaring lion at the base adds to the monument's imposing presence. While this statue is a 20th-century creation, it echoes a long tradition of honoring Athena in Athens through monumental sculpture. The most famous example is the Athena Parthenos, a colossal chryselephantine (gold and ivory) statue that once resided in the Parthenon. This statue, created by Phidias in the 5th century BCE, was approximately 40 feet tall and was a major attraction in ancient Athens. Though the original Athena Parthenos is lost, several Roman-era replicas offer insight into its appearance. Athena Promachos, another colossal bronze statue sculpted by Pheidias, stood on the Acropolis of Athens. Today, the Statue of Athena on Leof. Alexandras serves as a reminder of the city's ancient heritage and the enduring significance of the goddess Athena. Visitors can appreciate the artistry of the sculpture, explore the surrounding park, and reflect on the historical context of this iconic figure.
Local tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting to photograph the statue.
- Explore Pedion tou Areos park, where the statue is located, to discover other memorials and green spaces.
- Look for informational plaques near the statue to learn more about Athena and her role in Greek mythology.
A brief summary to Statue of Athena
- Leof. Alexandras, Athens, GR
- +306946621889
Getting There
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Walking
From Syntagma Square, walk along Vasilissis Sofias Avenue. Continue until you reach the intersection with Leoforos Alexandras. Turn left onto Leoforos Alexandras and walk for about 15 minutes. The Statue of Athena will be on your right. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From Monastiraki Metro Station, take Line 1 (Green Line) towards Kifisia. Get off at Omonia Station and transfer to Line 2 (Red Line). Take the train towards Elliniko and get off at Panepistimio Station. From there, walk straight to Stadiou Street, and then turn onto Leoforos Alexandras. The Statue of Athena will be located at Leof. Alexandras, Athina 114 74. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.20.
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Bus
Locate the nearest bus stop and take Bus 18 or 25 towards Kifisia. Get off at the stop named 'Leof. Alexandras - Kifisia'. Walk back a few meters, and you will find the Statue of Athena at Leof. Alexandras, Athina 114 74 on your right. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.20.
