Syntagma (Constitution) Square in Athens is arguably the most famous plaza in Greece. Loved by the Athenians and popular among travelers, it features luxury hotels and shops, a memorial, and the Hellenic Parliament. Moreover, Syntagma Square is a focal point for celebrations, cultural performances, and festivals.
Since the plaza is in the city core, you are bound to get there sooner or later during your stay. And good for you since some nearby tourist points of interest are Acropolis, ancient Agora, and Panathenaic Stadium. Plaka and Monastiraki, two popular shopping areas, are a short walk away, as well.
But, before you move on, spend some time in Syntagma Square. And make the most of it with the information by Top Travel and Tours you can find below.
What Are Syntagma Square Top Attractions and Things to Do?
There are four main tourist points of interest in Athens' Constitution Square you should pay attention to. And these are:
- The Hellenic Parliament
- The Monument (Tomb) of the Unknown Soldier
- Grande Bretagne Hotel
- And Syntagma metro station (that's right, even if you don't seek transport)
The Hellenic—Greek—Parliament (Former Royal Palace)
Also known as Old Palace, the Hellenic Parliament dominates Syntagma Square from its eastern side. It features the neoclassical style with Doric columns supporting its portico. Furthermore, the governmental building used to be the royal palace for the first king of Greece, Otto I.
Besides being one of the plaza's chief landmarks, the parliament of Greece is a historic place. It's where Greek soldiers forced Otto I, who acted as a dictator, to grant people the constitution in 1843.
Would You Like to Join a Guided Tour of the Assembly Hall?
If so, join a free guided tour (1:30 hours) of the Hellenic Parliament in English, which is available for:
- Individual visitors on Mondays and Fridays at 15:00 in June, July, and September
- And groups from 9:00 to 20:00 from Monday to Friday year-round except in August
In short, the tour covers the Assembly Hall's and Greek history, and more.
Monument to the Unknown Soldier—Changing of the Guards
Of course, a story about the Parliament of Greece and Syntagma Square can't be complete without mentioning the Monument (Tomb) to the Unknown Soldier. And if for no other reason, then because of the changing of the Evzones—elite Presidential guards—which takes place there.
The monument itself is a frieze depicting a dying hoplite (heavily armed ancient Greek infantryman) wearing armor. To its sides, copper plates' inscriptions (in the local language) mention significant battles the Greeks fought. You'll find the memorial carved into the wall just below the Parliament building.
The Change of Guard Ceremony at the Unknown Soldier’s Tomb
Two guardhouses stand in front of the Unknown Soldier's Tomb. There, the Evzones, also known as Evzoni, stand guard day and night. Every 15 minutes, they switch positions while following a specific choreography.
But, this isn't everything there is to it.
Make sure to arrive at a full hour to watch the changing of the guard ceremony. The ritual takes several minutes, and you'll see how synchronized the troops are. After the replacement, guards stand perfectly still until the time comes for them to switch positions.
And if you happen to be in Athens city center on Sunday morning, even better.
At 11:00, a small host of Evzoni gathers at the monument for the change of guards. Plus, bands playing ceremonial music accompany them.
Grande Bretagne Hotel—Luxury, Views, History, and Style
Now, we come to the Grande Bretagne Hotel, another highlight of Syntagma Square. In short, the building is as historic as it is elegant. Also, its rooftop restaurant boasts some of the finest views of Athens' top attractions and landmarks.
Today, it is a favorite holiday base to celebrities and discerning travelers, as it used to be in the past. And small wonder since many refined guests agree that it is one of the world's leading hotels.
So, consider drinking a coffee in the lobby or having a meal at the rooftop restaurant if you don't stay in one of its rooms or suites. You can see Parthenon, Olympic Stadium, and Mount Lycabettus, among other hotspots from the top level. However, some perks, such as swimming in an outdoor pool, are available for hotel guests only.
What Are Key Events in Grande Bretagne Hotel’s History?
And while its story is long, we'll summarize it in the following points:
- Built as a mansion for a wealthy businessman in 1842, Grande Bretagne became a hotel in 1872.
- When Greece became a republic in 1924, influential people gathered at the hotel to make social, economic, and political decisions.
- Following the Italian and, afterward, German aggression in the Second World War (1939–45), Grande Bretagne became the headquarters of the Greek army. But when the capital of Greece fell to Wehrmacht (German Army), the property became the German command post.
- Furthermore, Adolf Hitler, Hermann Göring, and Erwin Rommel were some of its occupants during the German occupation.
- In addition, the British forces established the headquarters in the hotel in 1944. During the Civil War that followed shortly (1946–49), Winston Churchill, the UK prime minister, narrowly escaped the assassination attempt while being here.
- Moreover, Constantine Karamanlis, a Greek statesman, spent a few months at a hotel suite forming the government in 1974.
- Finally, statesmen, actors, singers, and other famous people stayed at Grande Bretagne Hotel. Sophia Loren, Lyndon Johnson, Maria Callas, Brigitte Bardot, Sean Connery, Elizabeth Tailor, and Umberto Eco were some.
Syntagma Square Metro Station—A First Class Art Display
Last but not least, take some time to visit the Syntagma metro station, whether you need transport or not. For now, suffice to say that it boasts an art collection many archeology museums and galleries wouldn't mind having.
So, if you don't have enough time to visit the National Archaeological Museum or Acropolis Museum in Athens, this metro station can fill the gap.
During the construction of the transport hub, workers uncovered tens of thousands of objects. And those ranged from prehistoric and ancient Greek to Roman and Byzantine times.
So, take a look at clay lamps, wine amphorae, terracotta pipes, marble loutrophoroi (plural, water containers), vases, and other items. Funerary utensils and ancient Greek and early Christian graves are also among the exhibits.
Tourist Points of Interest Near Syntagma Square in Athens
Being in the downtown area, Constitution Square is near many top Athens tourist attractions and shopping areas. Thus, you can enjoy attractive sightseeing and shopping a short walk away once you complete your tour of the plaza.
And some top tourist attractions and points of interest nearby are:
- National Garden is next to the Greek Parliament. In the verdant oasis, you can relax in the shade of trees, watch birds, and admire flowers. Also, offer snacks to ducks and examine plants brought from different parts of the world.
- If shopping is your middle name, go to the pedestrianized Ermou Street, connecting Syntagma Square and Monastiraki. It is the main shopping street in Athens where you can find popular brands, such as Marks & Spencer and Benneton. Moreover, prepare a lot of cash since Ermou Street was among the top 15 most expensive commercial strips in the late 2010s.
- Panathenaic Stadium hosted the first modern Summer Olympic Games in 1896. Its capacity is around 45,000 visitors, and the flame handover takes place right there. Moreover, marble from Mount Pendeli is the only material used in its construction.
- Next is Plaka, an old and picturesque neighborhood located next to Acropolis, the top Athens attraction. While there, wander its quaint, cobbled streets and go on a souvenir hunt.
- Monastiraki boasts the famous Flea Market on Sundays, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, and narrow streets.
- Finally, the iconic Acropolis of Athens offers a glimpse into the layered history of Ancient Greece. In addition, you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Greek capital from there.
Syntagma Square Quick Facts and Useful Information
- Syntagma Square is where protesters gather in times of crisis. And protests sometimes become violent. So, remain vigilant if you happen to be around.
- While resting by the fountain or waiting for the change of guards, sociable pigeons may accompany you. If you offer them a snack, they may land on your arms and shoulders, even your head.
- Evzones wear the type of uniform Greek freedom fighters wore during the War of Independence from 1821 to 1832. Back then, they were liberating themselves from the rule of the Ottoman Turks, which was a few centuries long.
- Furthermore, find free WiFi on Syntagma Square in case you could use the internet.
- Lastly, the plaza is safe both day and night.
Athens’ Constitution Square Wrap Up
Let's sum it up now. In this Syntagma (Constitution) Square article, we pointed out:
- How and when you can join a guided tour of the Hellenic Parliament
- Why you should watch the change of guards at the Unknown Soldier's Monument and when
- Pros of reserving a table at the rooftop restaurant of the historic Grande Bretagne Hotel
- And where to find a surprising and free art collection of ancient artifacts
Of course, you are welcome to leave us a comment if you have any suggestions or recommendations. Also, you might wish to check out our selection of the top tourist destinations in Greece. Finally, read our Top Things to Do guide if you plan to explore this diverse and friendly country.
