New Cultural and Sports Center for Athens

Athens Mayor Dora Bakoyannis and Deputy Sports Minister George Orfanos last month signed an agreement for the construction of a new swimming pool, sports and cultural center for the Athens Rouf area.

The City of Athens Youth and Sport Organization will initiate the 8-million-euro Serafeio project immediately, ensuring it is built with respect for the environment.

The city aims to create a state-of-the-art sports and cultural park that will contribute to the upgrading of the entire area.

The center will include an indoor competition-level swimming pool with seating for spectators, a training pool for children, facilities for people with disabilities, a doctor’s clinic, a nutrition advice clinic and a press-room.

The cultural section will include exhibition halls, some of which will feature permanent displays commemorating the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

A playground will also be created along with a small soccer field, both of which will be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

The center, due to be completed by the end of 2006, will be open to City of Athens residents, local sports teams, individuals participating in the municipality’s sport and fitness promotion programs, as well as cultural and community associations.