Zappeion Park is a recreation area in the heart of Athens, Greece. It is squeezed between the southern side of the National Garden of Athens and the northern side of the ancient Temple of Olympian Zeus. Its southeast end faces the Panathenaic Stadium and the Hill of Ardittos. It encompasses the Zappeion Megaron (palace), an impressive and picturesque edifice after which the park is named. Even if unwittingly so, most visitors to Athens will end up strolling through it while checking out the important surrounding sights.
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Zappeion Park
Zappeion Park covers an area of approx. 0.120 km2. The palace occupies a prominent position at the central-northern part of the park and is enveloped by sleek gardens. The facade of the palace is adjoined by a broad paved plaza and faced by a 100-meter-long aisle with a marble fountain that bisects the park. The park’s periphery is mostly covered by tall trees and interspersed with a multitude of walking paths and benches. The park also features a gym, a playground, an archeological site of a Roman Bath, several monuments, a cafe, and a restaurant.
Zappeion Megaron (Zappeion Palace)
Zappeion Megaron, also known as Zappeion Palace, is a large mansion that bedecks the park. Megaron is an ancient Greek word that originally described the central, rectangular great halls of Mycenean palace complexes, but later came to be applied to mansions and other large edifices in the whole.
The Megaron is of a norman-window shape. It covers an area of 984 m2 and comprises 25 rooms. It is built under neoclassical architectural standards, featuring a propylaeum of the Corinthian order. It consists of one floor only and includes three atria. The central atrium has a marble floor and is enclosed by a circular peristyle.
The building is in use as an exhibition and conference center. Unfortunately, its interior is not currently accessible to the general public. One, however, may take a virtual tour throughout its premises on the Megaron’s official site.
History
Zappeion Megaron was commissioned in 1869 by the Greek State to be constructed within an 80.000 m2 area allocated for projects related to the upcoming, first modern Olympic Games of 1896. The construction of the building was funded by businessman and Greek-Revolution hero Evangelos Zappas, to whom the building and park owe their name.
The design of the Megaron was originally assigned to French architect Francois Boulanger, followed by Greek architect Anastasios Theophilas. Both their plans were abandoned in the end and the project was given to Danish architect Theophil Hansen who concurrently constructed the Austrian Parliament Building following the same exterior theme.
With all the delay, the construction of the Megaron finally began on 20 January 1874 and was inaugurated on 20 October 1888. Zappas the building’s benefactor, did not, unfortunately, live to see its completion. He passed away in 1865 and nominated his cousin, Konstantinos Zappas to oversee the development of the project. His remains are buried under a statue of him erected beside the entrance of the Megaron.
Zappeion Megaron was first put in use during the 1896 Olympic Games when it functioned as the main fencing hall. It was then used as the Olympic Village for the 1906 Intercalated Games. Since 1938 it housed Greece’s first national broadcaster, Athens Radio Station, and continued housing the National Radio Foundation until 1970. Between 1998 and 1999 it served as the headquarters of the Organizing Committee for the 2004 Olympic Games. During the Games, it hosted the press center. Throughout the years, numerous events of high historical significance have taken place in the building, like the signing of Greece’s accession to the European Community by prime minister Konstantinos Karamanlis on 1st January 1981. Since 1974, the building has functioned as the press center for the country’s national elections, where political leaders give the typical press conferences after the conclusion of the elections.
Ancient Roman Baths
By the western edge of the Park, along Amalias Avenue, lie the remnants of an ancient Roman Baths site. The baths were constructed in the 3rd century AD, following the city’s expansion under the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian. The site was discovered recently, during the construction of Athens Metro. It was covered with a protective roof and given to public display in 2004. The structure is exceptionally well-preserved and contains several important archeological artifacts.
Entrance Fee
No entrance fee applies to enter Zappeion Park at any time. The interior of the Megaron is inaccessible to the general public. Only holders of event tickets or invitations will be allowed on its premises.
Opening Hours
Zappeion Park is open to the public 24/7, all-year-round. The Megaron opens only during events, and only participants and attendants are granted entry.
Exhibition Hall and Conference Center
The Zappeion Megaron hall is commonly leased for exhibitions, conferences, and events of diverse sorts. Reservations can be made via this page of the venue’s website.
- Zappeion Megaron address: Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, 10557, Athens
- Zappeion Megaron official website: zappeion.gr
- Zappeion Megaron contact email: [email protected]
- Zappeion Megaron telephone numbers: 210 32.23.509, 210 32.37.830, 210 32.37.182, 210 32.55.541
- Zappeion Megaron Fax: 210 32.20.048
Events
Numerous and diverse events are regularly held in Zappeion Megaron. Here you can check out and book all upcoming events. Here you can see a list of all historic events.
Zappion Hotel
Near Zappeion Park and a 300-meter walk away from the Panathenaic Stadium, you find Zappion Hotel, named after the Megaron. It is an excellent, low-budget accommodation option in central Athens, located in great vicinity to many of Athens’ must-visit historical sights. It features comfortable rooms with heating and TV, a snack bar, and a 24/7 desk.
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Aigli Restaurant
Within Zappeion Park, right beside the Megaron building, you find Aigli Zappeiou Restaurant. It is a great place to enjoy an exquisite meal amid serene and elegant environs.
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Photo Gallery
View (and if you want use) all my photographs from Zappeion Park.
