Athens Municipality Revamps Playground Under the Acropolis

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

The playground in Ragava Olive Grove or Ragava Park, at the foot of the Acropolis, has recently opened its gates to Athenians and visitors, offering a new recreational area for children.

The park’s upgrade is part of the “Adopt Your City” program of the Municipality of Athens. Funded by the Onassis Foundation, the program aims to make Athens more sustainable and welcoming to children and adults.

“With the valuable assistance of the Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage (ELLET) and the Onassis Foundation, a model playground was created in an olive grove, using natural materials that respect both the environment and the historical significance of the area,” said the Athens Mayor Haris Doukas.

Two-level playground meets international safety standards

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

According to Doukas, the playground meets international safety standards and holds a certificate of suitability for operation issued by the Ministry of Interior.

Spanning 2,440 square meters under the eastern side of the Acropolis, the playground is designed on two levels, making it ideal for both toddlers and teenagers. On the lower level, preschool and school-age children can enjoy playing with a wooden house and a wooden horse with a carriage for role-playing.

Additionally, part of the playground features a “nest” type swing and sensory sound and communication play areas, along with a stone seating area constructed for parents and caregivers. The first level is also wheelchair accessible.

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

The upper level, designed for preschool, school-age, and teenage children, features equipment with a circular route for climbing, balancing, and sliding activities.

Furthermore, in the clearing of the olive grove, a form of stage elevated 40 cm above the pavement with bleachers was created, ideal for group traditional games (such as hopscotch, jump rope, hide and seek, and blindfolded games) and other activities.

More playgrounds expected in the city

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

The opening of the playground under the Acropolis “is just the beginning”, said the mayor, announcing the launch of more recreation areas in the near future.

The project is part of a broader municipal renovation program aimed at creating modern, safe, and free play areas for children in Athens’ neighborhoods, essential for their psychomotor development. 

“More playgrounds are expected to be delivered to the public soon,” Doukas said, adding that authorities are implementing an intensive renovation program at the city’s playgrounds in collaboration with City of Athens Cultural, Sport & Youth Organization (OPANDA) and the Green and Cleaning Services.

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

Photo source: Municipality of Athens

Two revamped playgrounds will open to the public this summer on Vafeiochoreiou Street in Gyzi and Vallianon Street in Ano Patisia, while 11 more are undergoing renovations and will be available in the autumn.

Supervised by OPANDA, the areas will be constructed according to all safety standards and regulations, providing modern and clean play areas for children. The renovations are funded by the Public Investment Program.

The official opening of revamped Acropolis playground in the Ragava Olive Grove is expected soon.