GRCo25 - EC - ENGAGE - Zappeion and National Garden

After visiting the Panathenaic Stadium, the group of teachers enjoyed a pleasant short walk that led them to the Zappeion Hall, one of the most important and impressive neoclassical landmarks in the heart of Athens. It was built between 1874 and 1888, funded by Evangelos Zappas, a Greek philanthropist dedicated to reviving the Olympic Games. It was designed by Danish architect Theophil Hansen. The building is famous for its grand façade and circular atrium surrounded by columns. It has hosted exhibitions, political events, and even served as the press center during the 2004 Olympic Games. The signing of Greece’s entry into the European Community in 1979 also took place here.

Behind the Zappeion lies the National Garden, a 15.5-hectare green oasis in the middle of Athens. It was commissioned by Queen Amalia in the 1830s as the royal garden of the new Greek palace. It features over 500 plant species, including exotic trees from all over the world, along with native Mediterranean flora. There are ancient ruins and mosaics scattered inside the park, a small zoo with peacocks, turtles, and ducks, as well as a children’s library and playgrounds. This former royal garden was created in the mid-1800s and has been a focal point of Athenian life since it was declared a public space in 1927. Within its 158,000 square meters, one can encounter an impressive variety of plant and bird species, along with wrought-iron gazebos, turtle ponds, and shady, secluded corners.

The teachers took a relaxing walk along the garden’s shaded paths, using an interactive map to discover key points of interest throughout the park. This experience offered them a refreshing escape from the busy rhythm and noise of the city, allowing them to enjoy nature, history, and calm in the very center of Athens.