Athens: 3D Virtual Tour into City Hall’s 150-year History

Athens City Hall at Kotzia Square. Photo source: Athens Film Office

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Athens City Hall, a pioneering 3D virtual tour has been launched by the Athens Municipality, offering an immersive exploration of the iconic building’s rich history.

Located at Kotzia Square, Athens City Hall was designed by Greek architect Panagis Kalkos and completed in 1874. Construction began in 1872, following a neoclassical style inspired by other significant buildings of the era, including the Old Palace, now home to the Greek Parliament.

The 3D virtual tour offers the public an opportunity to explore the historic building, uncover its unique features, and admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Giorgos Gounaropoulos, Fotis Kontoglou, Takis Parlavantzas, and Vlasios Tsotsonis.

Visitors can select a category of interest and listen to municipality executives share captivating insights into the building’s rich history.

During the tour, Zetta Antonopoulou, Head of the Historical Archives of the Athens Municipality, highlights the stunning mosaics and stained-glass windows that adorn the city hall’s walls, bringing them to life for virtual visitors.

The Ceremonial Hall of the Athens’ City Hall. Photo source: Athens Municipality

The tour continues with Vaso Sfika, Head of the Municipal and Historical Archives, and Eftychia Vagelatou from the municipality’s Department of International Cooperation and Public Relations.

They provide detailed descriptions of the hall’s spaces and the collection of portraits of former mayors and notable figures, further enriching the historical and artistic significance of the city hall.