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Duchess of Plakentia Mansion: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Athenian Society

Discover the unfinished legacy of the Duchess of Plakentia at her historic mansion in Penteli, a cultural landmark with a fascinating past.

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Explore the ruins of the Duchess of Plakentia's mansion in Penteli, a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the life of a prominent 19th-century American-Greek socialite and her unfinished architectural ambitions.

A brief summary to Duchess of Plakentia Mansion - Castle of the Duchess of Placentia

  • Lordou Vironos 3, Penteli, 152 36, GR

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours of the Municipal Cultural Center before visiting, as they may vary depending on events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Combine your visit with a hike on Mount Penteli for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Athens, take the Metro Line 3 to Doukissis Plakentias station. From there, transfer to a local bus (e.g., line 405) heading towards Penteli. Alight at a stop near the Duchess of Plakentia Mansion. The local bus fare is approximately €1.20. Consider that the journey including transfers, takes approximately 49 min.

  • Taxi

    From Athens city center, a taxi ride to the Duchess of Plakentia Mansion typically takes around 18 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €17 and €21 for the trip. Ride-sharing services are also available and may offer similar pricing.

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Discover more about Duchess of Plakentia Mansion - Castle of the Duchess of Placentia

The Duchess of Plakentia Mansion, also known as Castello of Rododafni, is an intriguing historical site located in Penteli, Greece. The mansion's story is intertwined with the life of Sophie de Marbois-Lebrun, an American-born woman who became a prominent figure in Athenian society during the 19th century. Born in Philadelphia in 1785, she later married the Duke of Plaisance, a French aide-de-camp, and upon his death, she used her vast financial resources to settle in Athens. The Duchess purchased extensive lands around Athens, particularly near Mount Penteli, and commissioned the construction of six buildings, including two mansions. This mansion, constructed from Pentelic marble, began in 1840 and was designed in a Gothic style. Legend says that the buildings were intentionally left unfinished due to the Duchess's superstition that completion would lead to her death. After the Duchess's death in 1854, the mansion remained uninhabited and fell into disrepair for over a century. Restoration efforts began in 1959, funded by the Greek government, and were completed in 1961. For a time, it served as a holiday residence for Crown Prince Constantine II. Today, the mansion belongs to the Municipality of Penteli and houses the Municipal Cultural Center, hosting a library with rare books and events for up to 1,000 people. Exploring the grounds offers a unique perspective on 19th-century Athenian life and the eccentric Duchess who left her mark on the region.

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