Underneath the superhighway flows history. Right here in Moschato, we stand at a place where ancient farmlands meet modern urban life. Moschato is a suburb in the south of Athens. It has a rich story woven into its streets and squares.
Once upon a time, Moschato was mostly farmlands. Imagine fields of mixed farming with vegetables and grapes. In the 1920s and 1930s, things began to change. Urban development replaced much of the farmland. Today Moschato is largely urban.
Look around you. Notice the mix of residential areas and industrial zones. The industrial area is mainly to the north. Many businesses and shopping outlets are located along Poseidonos Avenue. This avenue and others connect the metro station with Posseidonos Avenue.
Moschato played a role in the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Several facilities here were used for the games. These facilities were even constructed in the middle of an interchange.
In 2002, Moschato faced a major challenge. Construction began on the final phase of the superhighway. Heavy rainfalls in September caused severe flooding. Roads were closed. Athens and Piraeus were cut off. Businesses and buildings suffered damage. Basements were flooded.
The flooding continued into October. After some months, a bridge was built covering the river. This finally put an end to the flooding problems in Moschato. In 2004, the superhighway opened. It formed the southernmost terminus in GR-1 and E75.
Moschato has important squares. There is the Old Square on Makrygianni Avenue. It sits by the cathedral of Aghia Sotira. Then there is the New Square in front of the City Hall on Korai Street.
Moschato is known for its Carnival celebrations. These celebrations occur about two weeks before Clean Monday. Festivities for everyone are held throughout the town. The celebrations take place at the Tent in Korai Str. square. Delegations come from cities across Greece and other countries. Teenagers can participate in a treasure hunt. This Treasure/Scavenger Hunt happens all over Moschato. It lasts for two weeks. It includes games and singing contests. There are also citywide treasure hunts and masquerade competitions. Participants can win prizes and trips.
Moschato also has a local fair on August 6th every year. Festivities start on August 5th. This is when the cathedral of Aghia Sotira has its religious holiday.
Transportation is convenient in Moschato. The Moschato metro station connects the suburb with Piraeus and central Athens. The Athens Tram network also serves Moschato. Several bus routes pass through Moschato.
Moschato has grown over the years. In 1941, the population was 12913. By 2021, it had grown to 25322.
Moschato blends history with modern life. It has overcome challenges like the 2002 floods. It continues to celebrate its culture with events like Carnival.