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Syntagma Square: The Heart of Athens

Experience the vibrant heart of Athens at Syntagma Square, a historic hub for politics, culture, and transportation, crowned by the Hellenic Parliament.

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Syntagma Square, or Constitution Square, is the central and largest square in Athens, Greece, serving as a major transportation hub and the site of the Hellenic Parliament. It's a place of historical significance, political demonstrations, and cultural events, making it a vibrant focal point for both locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Syntagma Square

  • Pl. Sintagmatos, Athens, 105 63, GR

Local tips

  • Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for a taste of Greek tradition.
  • Explore the archaeological exhibits within the Syntagma Metro Station.
  • Enjoy a stroll down Ermou Street, one of Athens' most popular shopping destinations.
  • Visit the nearby This is Athens Info Point for insider tips and local recommendations.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Syntagma Square is easily accessible via the Athens Metro. Take Line 2 (Red Line) or Line 3 (Blue Line) to the 'Syntagma' station, which is located directly beneath the square. A single metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes. If arriving from Athens International Airport, you can take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) directly to Syntagma Square. A one-way ticket from the airport costs €9.

  • Bus

    Many bus lines serve Syntagma Square. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route. The X95 express bus connects Athens International Airport directly to Syntagma Square. The bus fare is €5.50 from the airport , and €1.20 for regular routes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens and can take you directly to Syntagma Square. A taxi from most areas in central Athens should cost between €5 and €15, depending on distance and traffic. From the Athens Airport, a taxi to Syntagma Square will cost approximately €40 during the day.

  • Walking

    Syntagma Square is centrally located and within walking distance of many major attractions in Athens. From Omonoia Square, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. From Monastiraki Square, it's about a 10-15 minute walk. Follow signs towards the Hellenic Parliament.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to 'Pl. Sintagmatos, Athina 105 63'. Parking in the immediate area is limited. Several parking garages are available nearby, including Syntagma Square Underground Parking and Metropark Athens. Expect to pay around €1.80 per hour for street parking or €2-€3 per hour in a parking garage. Some garages offer overnight rates.

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Discover more about Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square, the heart of modern Athens, has been the stage for nearly every major event in Greek history. Designed in the early 19th century, it was initially named Palace Square, as it was one of two central squares planned for the new capital after King Otto moved it from Nafplio to Athens in 1834. The square's name was changed to Syntagma, meaning "Constitution," to commemorate the popular uprising of September 3, 1843, which compelled King Otto to grant the first Greek Constitution. Located in front of the Old Royal Palace, which has housed the Hellenic Parliament since 1934, Syntagma Square is more than just a landmark; it's a symbol of Greek democracy. The square is a gathering place for political activity, public demonstrations, and celebrations. One of the square's main attractions is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a monument dedicated to Greek soldiers who died in battle. The Presidential Guard, known as the Evzones, stand watch around the clock, dressed in traditional uniforms. The changing of the guard ceremony occurs every hour, drawing many visitors, with a more elaborate ceremony taking place every Sunday at 11 am. Syntagma Square is also a major transportation hub, with a metro station that connects to various parts of the city and exhibits archaeological finds discovered during its construction. The square is surrounded by shops, cafes, and hotels, including the historic Grande Bretagne Hotel. Ermou Street, one of Athens' main shopping streets, begins at Syntagma Square, offering a mix of designer boutiques and department stores.

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