Syntagma Square is the central social and political square of Athens, Greece located between Amalia Avenue, Otto Street and King George I Street. Across from Syntagma Square is the Old Royal Palace which houses the Greek Parliament. The square has long been a historical gathering place for the people of Athens and hotspot of commercial and legislative activity.
The House of Parliament is the key attraction of Syntagma Square, surrounded by the beautiful National Gardens. Viewing the hourly changing of the Presidential Guard is the most notable tourist activity, performed in front of the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, an important cultural symbol itself. Additionally, Ermou Street begins at Syntagma Square and offers some of the best shopping in the area.
Syntagma Square is an epicentre of public transportation with all forms of Athens transit stopping there. The Syntagma Station services the Athens Metro, as well as the Athens tram, and a multitude of buses and trolleys. The nearest Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is easily accessed by public transportation routing from the square.
Syntagma Square represents King Otto’s enactment of the Constitution to the people of Greece in the mid-1800s. To this day it remains an active place of public demonstration, celebration, and mourning.