Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square is a vibrant hub right at the heart of Athens. No wonder thousands of tourists flock here daily. This square is a living timeline of Athens’ history, home to monuments dating from the Byzantine, Ottoman and Neoclassical periods. Right in the center, you’ll see the Church of Panagia Pantanassa. No one can quite agree on when it was built – some historians speak of the 10th century, and others argue it’s much older, going back to the 7th or 8th century. But one thing’s for sure: it dates from the Byzantine period, an era that undoubtedly left its mark on Athens, a city then plagued by economic and social problems. Yet this era also saw the construction of numerous Byzantine-style churches, which can be found throughout the city. For the record, this period spanned from the 4th century AD, after the end of the Roman Empire, to 1453, when the Ottomans took over. We’re talking 11 whole centuries that left a lasting imprint here; the church in question is but one example. The latter was once known as the Great Monastery, but ultimately went down in history as Monastiraki, meaning “little monastery” – hence the name of the square and district. Just across the square, you’ll see the Tzistarakis Mosque, a monument dating back to the Ottoman period that followed the fall of the Byzantine Empire. Built in the 18th century, this mosque is a fine example of Ottoman architecture and takes us back to what was a dark time for Greece. It lasted nearly four centuries, during which the country was tested by wars and poverty, and saw many of its children flee to Romania and Russia. After the Greek War of Independence, the mosque was used as a ballroom, military barracks and even a prison. Since 1973, however, it has served as an annex to the Museum of Greek Folk Art, housing a rich collection of ceramics that recount a whole other chapter of the region’s history! For a peek into the neoclassical era, head down to the metro station. Inaugurated in 1895, it’s home to a number of archaeological finds that attest to the city’s rich history from Antiquity all the way to the present day! It is one of the oldest stations in Athens, built as part of one of the greatest construction projects of the neoclassical period. Monastiraki Square is thus a must-see for any visitor to the city. It’s got everything – stunning architecture, fascinating history, and a fun, lively vibe!