Athens is the capital of Greece. It was named after the goddess Athena, who was the patron of the city. It is considered to be the most historical city of Europe, in common with Rome, and is known worldwide for its historic monuments that continue to exist, even if partially, over the centuries.
This city is a mixture of many things. Carrying the burden of history and at the same time being a modern city, it offers tranquility and leisure and gives you the impression that time has stopped.
Life in the city of Athens is always interesting. Even though Greece has been overwhelmed by the severe economic crisis in the recent years, the capital is in continuous development. High minded cultural restorations of previously abandoned buildings are in constant progress and an eagerness to evolve, so as to not have anything to envy from other European capitals. The authenticity of the tradition of the city is combined with innovation and, therefore, the capital itself, with its enormous variety of restaurants, museums and galleries offer contemporary proposals for residents and visitors. All of the above, in combination with the wonderful weather, the safety provided overall and the hospitable population, make Athens the perfect city to live in.
The distinguished Greek hospitality can be found throughout the city and its various regions. This city is amongst the major capitals of the world, generating numerous new and ideal locations of inhabitance for a long period of time now, due to the current high interest and demand in this capital, worldwide and especially in Europe. To get a glimpse of modern Athens, it is merely enough to visit the Metro stations. You will see outstanding achievements of modern technology with several archaeological sites which were unearthed during the construction of the stations.
Culture/entertainment: The Parthenon, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Pinka, the Roman Market, Plato’s Academy and the Panathinaiko Stadium, which was built in ancient times and was restored to host the very first modern Olympic Games in 1896. The three major neoclassical buildings on Panepistimiou Street, the Parliament with its Evzones and the Zappeion are representative samples of the architecture of recent years.
It is worthwhile to visit the several museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum, the ancient Agora, the Naval Museum, the War Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Art, the Museum of Folklore Art, the Monetary Museum, the Benaki Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Goulandris Natural History Foundation, and also the National Gallery.
Transportation: Easy access to the city through the multiple Metro stations, 130 bus lines, 12 trolley tram lines, 3 tram lines and taxis.
Market: The city’s shopping center has become a destination point for all visitors, especially Ermou Street, the district of Kolonaki, Voukourestiou Street, the big Department Stores on Panepistimiou Avenue, Patision Avenue and many smaller local areas.
Population: The Municipality of Athens counts 745,514 residents.