Here stands the U.S. Embassy in Athens a symbol of diplomacy. The U.S. Embassy plays a crucial role in Greece United States relations. It acts as the primary mission of the United States to Greece.
The U.S. Embassy’s history is rich. The U.S. Legation gained embassy status September 29, 1942. This elevated Minister Biddle to ambassador. President Roosevelt made the appointment. The Senate confirmed it quickly. Ambassador Biddle presented his credentials October 30, 1942.
The U.S. Embassy in Athens closed during the German occupation of Greece July 14, 1941. The U.S. maintained ties with Greece’s government in exile first in London from 1941 to 1943 then in Cairo from 1943 to 1944. Ambassador MacVeagh reopened the U.S. Embassy October 27, 1944.
The U.S. Embassy building itself is an architectural landmark. Bauhaus architect Walter Gropius designed it. Pericles A. Sakellarios was the consulting architect. Construction took place from 1959 to 1961. Gropius’ design reflects simple Bauhaus form. It draws inspiration from the Parthenon.
In 2003, the U.S. Embassy and Athens added Makedonon Street Park. This green space enhances the area. It provides a welcoming pedestrian walkway. Heightened security prompted this addition.
A 2007 expansion added new facilities. These included an office building and a parking garage. Compound entrances were added. A fuel station, Marine Corps quarters a swimming pool and a basketball court were built. The new office building matches the chancery. It also complements the nearby Megaron Mousikis. This expansion allowed the U.S. Embassy to consolidate staff. Over 150 employees moved from leased spaces. The office building offers 54100 square feet of space.
In September 2018, a major renovation began at the U.S. Embassy. This multi year project aims to upgrade systems and add office space. The renovation is expected to cost 342 million dollars. It addresses components dating back to 1961.
The U.S. Embassy houses many offices. These include the Ambassador’s office and the Deputy Chief of Mission. You’ll find the Political Section and the Economic Section. The Consular Section handles visas and citizen services. The Public Affairs Section manages press cultural affairs and information. The United States Commercial Service is present. The Foreign Agricultural Service operates here. The Office of Defense Cooperation works within the U.S. Embassy. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement also has a presence.
The U.S. Embassy has faced security challenges. In 2007, a minor terrorist attack occurred. A rocket propelled grenade hit the U.S. Embassy. The Revolutionary Struggle group claimed responsibility. In 1996, the Revolutionary Organization 17 November attacked the U.S. Embassy’s parking lot wall with an anti tank missile.
Today George James Tsunis serves as the United States Ambassador to Greece. The U.S. Embassy remains a vital hub. It promotes diplomacy and strengthens ties between Greece and the United States.