Syntagma Square
· Landmarks · 5 min
The centre of modern Athens: the Parliament, the guard and the shade of the National Gardens.
Syntagma Square is the centre of modern Athens. Watch the changing of the guard at the Parliament building, then walk into the shade of the National Gardens.
Syntagma Square is Athens' political and geographical centre. The Parliament building, formerly King Otto's palace, is the focal point. Every hour, the ceremonial changing of the Evzones — the presidential guards in their distinctive pleated skirts and pom-pom shoes — draws crowds from around the world.
Behind the Parliament, the National Gardens offer a quiet escape from the traffic. Wander through shaded pathways past duck ponds, ancient ruins, and a small zoo. Ermou Street, the city's main shopping street, leads west from Syntagma towards Monastiraki.