The Neighborhood of the Gods
Post-Acropolis, we decided to go for a stroll in nearby Plaka (Πλάκα). This is the old historical neighborhood of Athens, built on top of the residential areas of the ancient city. It is also known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods” due to its proximity to the Acropolis. Its name before the Greek War of Independence was, variously, Alikokou, Kontito, or Kandili, with areas known by the names of the local churches.
During the Ottoman rule, it was known as the Turkish Quarter, where the Voevode (governor) kept his seat. Abandoned during the war, it was repopulated during the first few years of the reign of King Otto of Greece, and today it’s one of the most popular neighborhoods in Athens.
Melina Mercouri Café
Maria Amalia “Melina” Mercouri was a Greek actress, singer, activist, and politician. She was the first female Minister of Culture and Sports, and the longest-lived of all the governments led by her party. She strongly advocated for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece, which are currently held at the British Museum in London. She also worked to make all ancient monuments and museums more accessible to native Greeks.
According to the café website, this spot was created by a friend of hers as a tribute to her life and work, and opened in 1999 (she passed in 1994). She is buried at the First Cemetery of Athens.
Μνημείο Λυσικράτους / Choragic Monument of Lysicrates
This monument was erected by the choregos (a wealthy Athenian citizen who funded dramatic productions that were not paid for by the State) Lysicrates, who often financed musical performances in the Theater of Dionysus. The monument is the first instance of the Corinthian order being used on the exterior of a building, and it has served as the inspiration for modern monuments and building elements, including the Dugald Stewart Monument in Edinburgh.
Gold Colored Fox 