Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square, meaning 'Constitution Square', is the central square of Athens, Greece. It is located in front of the Old Royal Palace, which houses the Hellenic Parliament since 1844. The square is a focal point of Athenian life, both historically and contemporarily, serving as a site for celebrations, demonstrations, and public gatherings. At the upper end of the square, directly in front of the Parliament building, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This monument to fallen Greek soldiers is guarded by the Evzones, an elite light infantry unit of the Greek Army, who perform a ceremonial changing of the guard, a popular tourist attraction. The square is also a major transport hub, with the Syntagma metro station connecting lines 2 and 3 of the Athens Metro, and serving as a terminus for trams and buses. The square's history dates back to the early 19th century, following the establishment of Athens as the capital of Greece. It played a significant role in the country's political development, particularly during the 1843 uprising that led to the granting of a constitution. Today, it remains a vibrant public space, surrounded by luxury hotels, banks, and major commercial streets.