Athens - Syntagma Square

Athens, the southernmost capital on the European mainland, is one of the world's oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. According to Greek mythology the city was named after Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom. Classical Athens was one of the most powerful city-states in ancient Greece. It was a centre for democracy, the arts, education and philosophy, and was highly influential throughout the European continent, particularly in Ancient Rome. For this reason it is often regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation and the birthplace of democracy.

The square was designed in 1837 by the Bavarian architect Leo von Klenze and was the center of the new city center. In 1843 an uprising took place. King Otto was then obliged to grant the first Constitution of Greece. In memory of the event, the palace square was named to . Syntagma Square (= Constitution Square).

In the background is the former royal palace, which now serves as the parliament building.