‘Agora Athens’ Project to Kick Off with Design Contest

Monastiraki Square. Photo source: Municipality of Athens

The Athens city council approved this week the launch of an open competition for the redesign of the city’s commercial and tourist center around the popular Monastiraki and Plaka districts.

The project dubbed “Agora Athens” is being carried out in collaboration with the Athens Chamber of Tradesmen (EEA) and the Athens Development & Destination Management Agency and follows the launch of renovation activities at Athens’ central Varvakeios market.

“The project is part of an organized effort to support and upgrade the city’s commercial center. We’ve joined forces to highlight the dynamics of these two historic Athens neighborhoods, which attract millions of visitors all year round,” said Athens Mayor Kostas Bakoyannis.

The aim, he added, is to “stimulate the commercial market, enhance employment, but also revitalize the area with innovative interventions which for many years were a request by professionals”.

“Agora Athens” aims to convert two of the Greek capital’s iconic districts into an open commercial center boosting shopping and tourist activity which will in turn contribute to employment.

According to a study on the rebranding of Athens submitted by the EEA, the project includes shop upgrades, architectural and road works. Submitted plans should focus on preserving and showcasing the historical and architectural character of the two districts, and on efficiently serving the needs of residents and visitors.

Plaka. Photo source: Municipality of Athens

EEA President Ioannis Hadjitheodosiou underlined the importance of the Agora Athens project for the businesses operating in both Monastiraki and Plaka, adding that it will also strengthen city’s tourism product.

“It is certain that small and medium entrepreneurship will be supported, the historic commercial center will be upgraded and it will contribute to the increase in city tourism,” he said, adding that the initiative could pave the way for similar actions in other cities.