Where six major streets converge lies Analipseos Square. It is a bustling hub in the heart of Athens. The square is at the northern edge of the Historic Center. This area is also known as the Commercial Triangle. Let’s uncover the history of Analipseos Square.
Analipseos Square sits at the intersection of Panepistimiou, Stadiou, Athinas, Pireos, Agiou Konstantinou and 3is Septemvriou streets. Imagine this uneven ground transformed. Originally, it was vineyards and fig trees. Fields and streams marked its humble beginnings.
The visionary urban plan of 1833 included Analipseos Square. Stamatis Kleanthis and Eduard Schaubert designed this plan. In 1846, the square was laid out. It was first known as Palace Square. King Otto’s royal palace was planned for this site. Syntagma Square was chosen as more suitable. Thus, the name changed to Othonos Square to honor King Otto.
After King Otto’s deposition in 1862, opposition leaders gathered here. They took an oath of peace. This oath gave Analipseos Square its current name. The Greek word “omonoia” means peace.
The square evolved dramatically. In the late 19th century, trees were planted. A central platform and lighting systems were added. Several hotels surrounded it. It became a popular meeting place.
Redesign transformed Analipseos Square from 1925 to 1930. The square shifted from a square to a circle. This change coincided with the construction of the railway between Piraeus and Athens. In 1958, a fountain was added. It was later demolished in 1992 for the Metro Line 2 construction.
A major renovation occurred from mid-2019 to February 2020. A modern fountain was erected. The new and improved Analipseos Square opened on May 14, 2020.
Though not as prestigious as in the past, Analipseos Square remains a gathering place. Athenians still use it. Greece’s Euro 2004 and EuroBasket 2005 victories were celebrated here.
In 2001, the Pentakiklon sculpture was erected. It was designed to spring into motion when water flowed through it. Neglect caused it to fall into disrepair after 2008. It was repaired in 2020.
Two 19th-century Neoclassical hotels once stood on Analipseos Square. Ernst Ziller designed both. The former Megas Alexandros Hotel was on the west side. It was built in 1889. The Bagkeion was on the east side. It operated as a hotel until 1969. Greek Prime Minister Charilaos Trikoupis lived here until 1883.
Loumidis Coffee Roasters has had a presence near Analipseos Square since 1928. The family-owned business has operated since 1920. Entering the store fills one with the aroma of freshly roasted coffee.
The area around Analipseos Square has a reputation for crime. Drugs and prostitution are a concern. It is safe during the day. Lingering late at night is not advised.
Analipseos Square is more than a junction. It’s a testament to Athens’ evolving story. It connects its past with the present. It remains a vibrant, if complex, part of the city.