Professional Documents
Culture Documents
MAR-MAY2009 / issue03
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Grand Resort
Lagonissi
BUSINESS The Elegant &
NEWS Exciting Escape
8 28
Semiramis Hotel
Greek Pascha Focus
A Resurrection on positive
of Souls energy
16 Athens
32 SPRING
with Kids CULTURAL
24
HIGHLIGHTS
ATHENS
INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
48
12
6 7
EDITORIAL
Panagiotis Arkoumaneas
CEO / Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company
We hope you enjoy your reading and look forward to seeing you in
Athens soon!
For more information on Athens, you can visit our brand-new web-
site www.breathtakingathens.com
Frontlines
Business News
Frontlines
The ancient Greek art of gold- and silver- Greece is also the carrier’s first destination framework of Flightglobal.com’s “Web-
smithing is presented in an exhibition of in a European Union country. In total, Air bies - Aviation Web Awards 2008”.
artfully made gold jewellery and silver Arabia now serves 45 destinations across Athens International Airport’s
utensils. There are about 600 objects, the Middle East, North Africa, Indian Sub- www.aia.gr was awarded with
notable for their originality, elegance and continent, Central Asia and the Southern • the bronze award in the “Best Airport
the fine detail of their craftsmanship. Europe. Website” category (gold for Amster-
The final gallery features rare glass ves- “We are extremely pleased to announce dam’s Schiphol website and silver for
sels from the Epirus and island regions the launch of service to Athens,” said AK San Francisco International Airport)
of Greece, from the Archaic period Nizar, Head of Commercial Department. • the silver award in the category “Best
through the Byzantine era (6th century “An international tourist destination, Online Innovation”, for offering airlines
BC-6th century AD). Greece is also an important economic personalized customer communica-
These are followed by approximately centre in the Mediterranean region. tion through the innovative e-tools In-
500 ceramic figurines, exhibited in sec- There is significant passenger traffic be- fogate and Autopilot, blending market
tions according to their association with tween the country and the Middle East, intelligence with e-communication
specific areas of ancient Greek society, particularly for tourism and business. We Focusing on the flow of up-to-date, ac-
such as religion, theatre, agricultural life, are confident that Air Arabia’s non-stop curate and useful information, AIA aims
women’s activities and childhood. flight to Greece will further enhance its at the continuous development of a com-
The Vlastou-Serpieri Collection is dis- popularity among the Middle East-based prehensive and dynamic airport website,
played as a distinct category and in- tourists.” in a friendly environment offering fast
cludes ancient items from Greece and Athens, the largest city in Greece, is one and easy navigation.
Taranta, Italy. The ancient Greek art of of the world’s oldest cities with recorded
gold- and silversmithing is presented in history spanning some 3,400 years. A
an exhibition of artfully made gold jewel- bustling and cosmopolitan metropolis, Cultural Park at the Faliron Athens’ Hotel Grande Bre- Reconstruction of In combination with the programme to
lery and silver utensils. There are about Athens is central to economic, financial, Delta tagne on List of World’s Monastiraki Square showcase archaeological findings in
600 objects, notable for their originality, industrial, political and cultural life in Best Hotels appropriately designed outdoor areas,
elegance and the fine detail of their Greece. It is rapidly becoming a leading The Stavros Niarchos Foundation has The reconstruction of Monastiraki the image of the capital is improved
craftsmanship. business centre in the European Union. gifted Athens a project on a grand scale The Hotel Grande Bretagne has once Square has been completed, with the along with the daily life of residents of
The final gallery features rare glass ves- Athens is widely referred to as the cradle that elegantly combines education, cul- again been included on the lists of the multi-coloured stone paving symbolis- and visitors to Athens.
sels from the Epirus and island regions of Western civilisation and the birthplace ture, public space and respect for the world’s best hotels in Conde Νast ing its the multicultural history. Visi-
of Greece, from the Archaic period of democracy. With over 16 million visi- environment. Τraveller (USA) και Τravel + Leisure tors can now see - as well as hear - the Etihad Airways adds
through the Byzantine era (6th century tors every year, tourism contributes 15 The project to be constructed in an ex- magazines. The Athens hotel was cho- waters of the River Iridanos flowing in Athens to its flight route
BC-6th century AD). per cent to the US$350 billion Greek panse of 166,000m2 will include the new sen among the best hotels in the coun- the bed found at a depth of 6 metres
economy. National Library of Greece, the Greek try and the world in Conde Nast Trav- during the reconstruction. The re- Etihad Airways, the national airline of
National Opera, the “Agora” (an imitation eller magazine’s 2008 Reader’s Choice newed square was embraced by visi- the United Arab Emirates, is set to
Air Arabia to introduce of the gathering place of Ancient Greeks) Survey, in which the magazine’s more tors the first weekend after work was boost its flying programme to Europe
service to Athens Athens International Air- and the Stavros Niarchos Park. than 32,000 subscribers responded to completed. The square seems to har- with the addition of a major new route
port’s website Web Award The internationally known Italian archi- select the best hotels, resorts and moniously co-exist with the surround- to Athens. The Greek capital will be
Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost winner tect, Renzo Piano, who was selected for cruise ships in the world. The survey ing historical area: the Temple of Pan- initially served by the airline three
carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North the design of the project, recently pre- results were published in the Novem- tanasas, restored after the 1999 times a week from early June, increas-
Africa, announced today that it will The Athens International Airport’s web- sented the preliminary plans. ber 2008 issue. At the same time, Trav- earthquake, the view of the Acropolis, ing to five flights a week from October
launch service to the city of Athens, be- site has won a pair of prestigious “Web- A 10,000m2 sloping roof covered with el + Leisure’s international team of the ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library 2009 and then daily from the start of
ginning April 21, 2009. bies” awards from Flightglobal.com. AIA photovoltaic cells will dominate the oth- journalists included the hotel on the and the Roman Agora. 2010. ‘We anticipate strong demand for
Roundtrip flights will operate three times won the Bronze award in the category erwise aesthetically low-key Faliron com- list of the World’s Best Hotels 500, Athens Mayor Nikitas Kaklamanis flights to and from Athens,’ said James
per week between Athens Eleftherios “Best Airport Website” and the Silver plex, to be built mainly in stone. which features hotels receiving the thanked the Ministry of Culture and the Hogan, chief executive at Etihad Air-
Venizelos International Airport in the award in the category “Best Online In- The roof will cover the National Library’s highest score in the World’s Best sur- Unification of the Archaeological Sites ways. The airline will also provide a
capital of Greece, and Air Arabia’s hub novation” for its Infogate and Autopilot expansive reading room, which is de- vey. The Hotel Grande Bretagne, which of Athens, SA, for the funding and ef- flight link between Athens and Mel-
in Sharjah. Air Arabia is the first LCC in tools. signed to serve as a meeting place. Cop- first opened in 1874, is owned by Lamp- fort they contributed, “so that we can bourne. ‘The new route also offers ex-
the Middle East to commence operations “Online innovation, fast, customised, ies of textbooks from the libraries of the sa Hellenic Hotels, SA. It is managed see a renewed Monastiraki,” he said. cellent connecting opportunities be-
to Athens. practical, accurate and up-to-date infor- most prestigious educational institu- by Starwood Hotels & Resorts World- “It is a part of our city.” tween Athens and the rest of our
The LCC will fly to Athens on Tuesdays, mation, intelligent use of Flash, well de- tions in the world, such as Harvard and wide Inc., one of the leading hotel and With projects such as these, the area network, helping to link this historic
Thursdays, and Saturdays, departing veloped section for business visitors, Yale universities, will be housed at the tourism companies in the world with around Monastiraki has undergone a European city with Greek communities
Sharjah at 18:55 and arriving at Athens comprehensive” were some of the ele- new library, which will also include con- about 900 hotels in more than 100 significant renewal. worldwide,’ added Hogan.
at 22:45. Return flights will depart Ath- ments that led to the excellent evaluation ference rooms. countries and employing a staff of
ens at 23:30 and arrive in Sharjah at of Athens International Airport’s website 155,000 at the hotels it either owns or
05:20. Air Arabia’s first destination in and a pair of “Webbies” awards, in the manages.
12 13
Top 10
to the city for the first time should put some
thought into planning their itinerary ahead of
time. Here is a list of 10 things you should not
miss.
Athens Top 10
of visitors every year.
Top 10
THEATER
Greek Pascha
Spring
The air is filled with the scent of honeysuckle
and lilac. Yes, Greek Pascha (Easter) carries
A Resurrection
within it a certain magical quality that is as-
sociated with the first signs of spring, the deep
religious feeling characteristic of the famous
of Souls
Greek writer Papadiamantis, and of course the
ever vibrant spirit of the Greek people.
Something peculiar always happens during Easter time. As soon as Holy week starts, everything falls into
place. Scents become even stronger and sweeter, the verses in church are sung louder, and the spirituality
of nature is reflected in the deep mystical feeling of our soul. Yes, Greek Easter is unlike any other. The fact
is that Easter in Greece is by far the most important celebration Orthodox Christianity, since it is associated
with the Resurrection of Christ. The Greek name pascha is derived from the Hebrew word Pesach, meaning
the festival of Passover. The question of when Easter should be observed was first settled by the First Coun-
cil of Vithynia in Nicaea in 325 AD, when it was decided that the celebration should take place on the Sunday
after the first full moon on or after the day of the vernal equinox. In Greece, Pascha is called Lambre (mean-
ing bright or lucent) because it is a day of joy and it signifies the passage from death to life. Many customs
and folk traditions are revived annually at this time. The week preceding Easter is called the Holy Week and
each day of that week relates directly to a particular event that took place during the last days of Christ
prior to his crucifixion. The procession of the Epitaphios takes place on Good Friday, while on Holy Saturday
(which is called the Great Sabbath in Greek) the faithful gather in churches for the Paschal Vigil holding white
Paschal candles as they wait for the proclamation of the resurrection of Christ. Just before midnight, all the
lights go out. At midnight, the priest chants, “Come receive the light,” and then exits the church’s sanctuary
with a lit Paschal candle to light the candles of the faithful. Then he reads passages from the Gospel of the
Resurrection and as soon as he finishes he chants “Christ has risen...” Then the fireworks begin - a custom
that has its origins in the era when Greece was part of the Ottoman Empire - while the congregation kiss
each other (what the Greeks call the kiss of Love) and say Christos anesti (“Christ is risen”).
For every Christian, Good Friday is the most solemn day of the year. In order to understand what the profound
solemnity that characterises Greek Easter is all about, you can wait at Syntagma Square, where at 9.30 pm
the various Epitaphios processions converge, each one decorated with fresh flowers. There you can see the
decorated biers upon which the Epitaphios is carried from many central churches, such as the Aghia Irini
Church (Saint Irene Church), the Aghia Aikaterini Church (Saint Catherine Church), the Ai Yiorgi Karytsi
Church (Church of Saint George of Karytsi) and of course the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens. If, however,
you want to experience a more solemn religious event, you may head towards Plaka, the most picturesque
precinct of the City of Athens, where in Kydathenaion Street you can see the procession of the Epitaphios of
the Church of the Metamorphosi tou Sotiros (Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour). Although you will
have to go up a lot of stairs and then come down while making your way through a dense crowd in the nar-
row streets holding a Paschal candle, the whole ambiance of the procession is richly rewarding.
18 19
Spring
Come receive the light
Easter in Athens
The Paschal Vigil starts at 11 pm and at midnight
the lights of the church go out. This small church Athens provides many opportunities for you to
is situated in one of the most spectacular sites have a good time and experience the unique
in Athens, but on the night of Holy Saturday, as atmosphere of the Paschal season. You can stroll
one listens to the people chanting in unison while around and visit various exhibitions, buy gifts
holding candles and hears the cannons firing in and Paschal candles, lose yourselves amidst the
the distance in honour of Jesus raised from the many shops specially decorated for these fes-
dead and all the congregation chants in unison, tive days or you can try some Lenten food (any
it is truly unique. Another idea is to participate food or sweets that do not contain meat, cheese,
in the Paschal Vigil at the Russian Church (in milk and eggs). All the formal religious events
Philellinon Street) where the congregation gath- which take place in the churches of Athens pro-
ers, each person carrying their festive baskets vide a first-hand experience of the solemnity
filled with buns, red-dyed eggs and chocolates that is typical of the Greek Holy Week while, af-
so that the priest will bless them before they ter the Paschal Vigil, almost every restaurant
carry them back home. Here you will not find offers mageiritsa (a soup made of the lamb’s
traditional chanters, but a women’s choir. At ex- internal organs: liver, heart, lungs and intestines
actly midnight the Christos Anesti is chanted with an egg-lemon sauce), red eggs and roast
100 times and the service continues until 4 in lamb.
the morning.
20 21
Celebrating its 13th year of success, Rockwave once again presents a four-day music festival experi-
Culture
ence this summer which promises to be more spectacular than ever, hosting some of the biggest names
on the international music scene on two stages. Rockwave Festival is noted for its great atmosphere
as well as being able to lure some of the world’s biggest acts, with the likes of the Offspring and
Rockwave Festival 2009 & Judas Priest mixing it up with Manu Chao and Marky Ramone last time round. Festival goers will have
plenty of shady spots to loosen up over a cold Margarita before the music stars at the amazing
Terra Vibe venue in Malakasa for the evening sheNANIGANS
Terra Vibe
Saturday 27 June Sunday 28 June Monday 29 June
TERRA STAGE TERRA STAGE CRUEFEST STAGE (TERRA STAGE)
PLACEBO (Alternative Rock) THE KILLERS (Alternative Rock - Post Motley Crue (Hard Rock)
MOBY (Electro Pop - Rock) Punk Revival) Monster Magnet (Hard Rock)
GOGOL BORDELLO (Gypsy Punk) DUFFY (Pop Soul) Arch Enemy (Melodic Death Metal)
Lauren Harris (Hard Rock - Power
PLACEBO Two bright stars at the peak of their Pop)
Brian Molko, a modern-day Ziggy Star- international success are coming to
dust with a voice that stands out on Greece for the first time to appear on The poster boys for ‘80s hair metal, Möt-
first hearing, is morally responsible for the Terra Stage on the second day of ley Crüe parleyed whip-lash hard-rock
the sophisticated lyrics that have made Rockwave Festival! songs, melodic power ballads and a wild
Placebo so unique. It is no coincidence The big name of Rockwave Festival this image into platinum-level heavy-metal
that they have played sold-out concerts year are the Killers, one of the hottest stardom and with hits like Dr. Feelgood
in 44 countries so far and have gone and most successful bands in recent and Girls, Girls, Girls will dominate the
gold and platinum in 30. years! They are coming to Athens at third day of the festival. Rockwave Fes-
the zenith of their career. Alongside tival 2009’s third day is the ultimate hard
Moby with will be appearing the pop soul rock-metal festival experience. Terra
Slightly earlier, Richard Melville Hall aka Welsh queen Duffy at Terra Stage for Stage will be transformed into CrueFest
Moby will appear for a dance session one of the most anticipated Rockwave Stage to welcome the pirates of hard
that few will be able to resist. Words are nights. Award winners, critically ac- rock, Motley Crue. Earlier, Monster Mag-
inadequate to describe Moby. He’s been claimed and at the top of their music net will take us far away on an ecstatic
playing music since he was nine, he was career with so many hits already to their and cerebral Powertrip. No performance
a member of a punk band at 13, he name are among those expected, as we would be complete without the female
launched New York’s decks after that still wait for the full line-up to be an- side of hard rock. The “Diva Satanica,”
nori.kapza and since then he has been experiment- nounced. Angela Gossow, with her manic voice and
ing, stimulating and enthralling audi- the death-metal dynamic of Arch Enemy,
ences while remaining our own Rock- THE KILLERS appears along with Lauren Harris, any
MONSTER MAGNET wave Hero! Are we Human or are we Dancers? That father’s idea of an ideal daughter and
is the question posed by the eccentric hard rock idol.
Gogol Bordello youths from Las Vegas who seem to
The party will have started long before have an answer. Brandon Flowers and VIBE STAGE
with the noisy and outrageous Gogol his group descend on the Terra Stage W.A.S.P. (Heavy Metal)
Bordello. An unusual mix of gypsy and as true headliners with their complex Voivod (Heavy Metal - Thrash Metal)
punk music with elements of cabaret, lyrics, outlandish appearance and
Gogol Bordello is Eastern Europe’s mu- above all, their tremendous attitude! Meanwhile back on the Vibe Stage:
sical answer via the heart of America. Blackie Lawless’ W.A.S.P. come to the
Since 1998, they have toured the big- Duffy Vibe Stage as he carries on the classic
ARCH ENEMY gest festivals in Europe and America The surprise of the year, this young W.A.S.P. tradition to headline this ulti-
and have shared the stage with Manu Welsh woman with the deep soulful metal date with well-known hits and a
Chao and Dub Trio, as well as with Ma- voice will take us through the streets strictly R-rated attitude. Slightly earlier,
W.A.S.P.
donna for a special version of L’Isla of Rockferry, the most successful album the legendary Voivod will be releasing
Bonita! The troubadours are coming; of the year by this year’s most success- their own musical Armageddon.
the troubadours are here; their words ful British singer. Rockwave welcomes Terra Stage and Vibe Stage will be in
are fire; their sound a spear. Duffy! use back to back while bands alternate-
ly take the stage.
GOGOL BORDELLO
22 23
THEATER
ICCA
Member
site
MOBY
24 25
Travelling with children is not like travelling with friends. Kids need to be entertained and
Kids
amused and Athens is a child-friendly city full of activities for that purpose. So if you are com-
ing to Athens with kids, you will find there are many things for them to see and do every day
that you will spend in the city. There are also many facilities in and around Athens that cater
to families travelling with children of all ages. Playgrounds, water parks, zoos, adventure
parks, fun parks and children’s museums are all here for you to enjoy. Listed below are some
suggestions of places to visit with your children.
Sunshine Express
Sunshine Express is a passenger city train
that offers regularly scheduled sightseeing
tours around the historical centre of Athens
and through the picturesque streets of the
The English Theatre Club old city and the Plaka area. It is a fun and
The English Theatre Club was launched in 1990 imaginative way to introduce the city of Ath-
as a theatrical workshop for teaching English ens to kids. They climb into the train and
through drama and has since performed over discover all the amazing places of Athens:
a hundred plays in theatres, parks and schools. Monastiraki, Thission, Plaka and of course
Since 2004, the English Theatre Club has also the area that surrounds the Acropolis.
had an acting ensemble of international actors Aboard the Sunshine Express, children and
and experienced teachers which produces The Museum of Greek Children’s adults will have the opportunity to tour the
plays and puppet shows for children of all ages. major ancient and contemporary sites and
Art
This year’s play is The Cambridge Art Gallery, monuments of the Athens city centre in one
The Museum of Greek Children’s Art, a non-
an original comedy about an art gallery where single trip. The train departs every hour and
profit cultural association, is the only one
the portraits come to life. the tour lasts about 40 minutes.
of its kind in Greece and one of the very few
For more information, For more information,
worldwide. It was founded in 1994. The paint-
call: +30 210 3631217. call +30 210 8819252.
ings and the three-dimensional art works
exhibited in the museum have all been cre-
ated by children up to 14 years of age from
Ice skating rink in Glyfada all over Greece and are renewed regularly.
Glyfada ice skating rink is definitely one of the The museum aims at presenting, preserving
venues where you can have a great time with and promoting children’s art, developing
your kids. Ice skating is one of the best sport- their aesthetics and creativity, and cultivat-
ing activities for children, providing them with ing children’s love for all forms of art. It is
an opportunity to exercise and lots of fun for definitely a museum worth visiting in Ath-
the whole family. If you are worried your chil- ens.
dren may be too young, worry no more – ice
For more information,
skating is a suitable activity for kids of all ages
call +30 210 3312621.
as long as they can walk.
Known for its plethora of youthful activities,
hotspots, bars and cafes, the cosmopolitan and
Africa Farm
international district of Glyfada has added a
certified ice skating rink to its offerings. Built Africa Farm on the Lambrou Park Estate was
on the basketball court located at the indoor opened in 2000 in Melissochori Thivas. It
swimming pool, Palais de Sport, and surround- houses a large number of exotic and rare
ed by green, the ice-skating rink, named “Gly- animals from around the world. It’s a haven
fada on Ice,” will be open daily through mid- for kids and it is also a learning studio for
May from 11 am until midnight. children and adults alike. Away from the noisy
urban rush, you will find a real oasis surround-
For more information,
ed by green, as though you were in magical
visit www.onice.gr.
Africa. It is located in Thiva, just one hour
outside Athens. African species like zebras
and monkeys, along with some Greek species,
are enough to make kids go wild.
For more information,
call +30 22620 98000.
28 29
Hotels
The Elegant & Exciting Escape
The famous Grand Resort Lagonissi is one of Athens’ top It is perfectly designed for leisure visitors seeking a The Grand Resort Lagonissi is the crown jewel of Helios
destination resorts. Over the years, it has set high stan- relaxing holiday but also for business travellers who Hotels & Resorts S.A., a company with decades of ex-
dards for premium services and exceptional facilities. It is appreciate comfort and luxury. The resort is only 40 perience in luxurious destinations in Greece. It was ac-
minutes drive from the heart of Athens, 20 minutes quired a few years ago and after significant renovation
located on the beautifully lush 72 acre peninsula of Lag-
away from Athens International Airport and just 15 min- and expansion, it opened its doors to welcome its guests
onissi, south of Athens, and it combines the magical Greek
utes away from the fashion-conscious suburb of Gly- with a high standard of service.
sandy beaches with the crystal clear blue waters of the
fada.
Aegean Sea. The hotel offers natural beauty with all the
advantages of modern living.
30 31
The Grand Resort Lagonissi welcomes its But if you want to feel like royalty, the best breathtaking view of the Aegean. A further The luxurious spa centre situated on the Med-
visitors all year round and is the perfect des- option is to choose among the eight villas 10 satellite meeting rooms, an open-air ex- iterraneo beach, has created luxurious treat-
tination for any time of the year for both busi- of the Platinum Club with their private heat- hibition area and two foyers surrounded by ments and earned its place among the Leading
ness and leisure travelers. ed pools, patios, gardens, private access to waterfront terraces and with capacities Spas of the World for the second year running.
For the comfort of guests, a choice of lavish the beach, butler service and many more ranging from 25 to 250 delegates provide It offers the quality, purity and integrity of nat-
hotel rooms or suites, bungalows on the wa- luxuries. The Dream Suite with its retract- facilities for conferences, meetings, exhibi- ural ingredients in all products, combined with
terfront, villas with private pools and suites able glass ceiling in the bedroom is the ide- tions, galas or social events. the progressive therapy techniques to ensure
with gardens or balconies are available as al romantic getaway for newlyweds. Forbes outstanding results. A team of highly skilled
outstanding options for accommodation or and Elite Traveler magazine have named the In order to tame your appetite, a gastro- and trained therapists will select a sequence
even for hosting private meetings or busi- Royal Villa, with its indoor heated pool, pri- nomic haven awaits with many different of therapies and programs to suit specific and
ness events. Organised in seven distinct cat- vate gym, vast garden graced by an outdoor types of restaurants offering a choice of tra- individual needs.
egories, each suiting specific requirements, heated pool and private sea-level deck, as ditional, fusion or gourmet cuisines from
a guest can find everything from basic to one of the most exclusive in the world. Greece, Italy, Polynesia, Japan and the Med- The unique combination of luxury, location,
the decadently luxurious without compro- iterranean region. The thrice awarded ex- service and facilities make the Grand Resort
mising on comfort. Visitors can enjoy the For the shrewd business traveller, state-of- otic “Kohylia,” with its oriental atmosphere Lagonissi a top destination for business or for
sunrise and sunset from the balconies of the-art services and facilities are to be found and mouth-watering sushi bar, “Captain’s pleasure, side by side with the cultural treas-
one of the rooms or suites of the Comfort in the brand new conference centre, the House,” with its maritime theme and popu- ures of Greece and the privileged Mediterra-
Club, while the bungalows and suites of the Grand Hall. With its pioneering architecture, lar Italian dishes, and “Ouzeri,” for those nean ambiance of its idyllic location where
Premium Club are ideal for families. If keep- the Grand Hall provides indoor and outdoor wanting to feel they really are in Greece, are every visitor can find true harmony and
ing fit is important to you, choose your ac- conference spaces with modern high-tech only few of the choices to send your taste peace.
commodation from the Grand Sports Club equipment. The Cosmos Ballroom, able to buds to heaven. A visit to “Veghera,” the
or Zen Club or raise the stakes on luxury accommodate up to 1,600 delegates, fea- brand new club-restaurant resembling a
with the suites of the Exclusive Club and tures a stage, outstanding acoustics and un- cruise ship, is the absolute must for the com-
Golden Club. hindered visuals and, last but not least, a ing summer.
32 33
Hotels
aware of its otherworldly atmosphere. It is a space that
wins you over, offering every convenience you can con-
ceive of. Exclusively designed by acclaimed designer Ka-
rim Rashid and located in the affluent and leafy suburb
of Kifissia, Semiramis is in the heart of evolving Athens,
surrounded by high-end boutiques, restaurants and
cafés, just 20 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes
from the city centre.
Semiramis Hotel
Focus on positive energy
Hotel Amenities
• Rooms designed and furnished by Karim Rashid
• Semiramis Bar – Restaurant
• Originally designed swimming pool with sun deck, umbrellas and lounge chairs
• High-speed wireless Internet connection throughout the hotel
• Art exhibitions
• Gym with personal trainers
• Beauty centre and hamam – face and body treatment
• Underground parking
• 24-hour room service
• 24-hour concierge service
• Free CD and DVD library
• Conference space – 180-person capacity
• Laundry and dry cleaning service
• Multi-lingual staff
• Secretarial service
• Baby-sitting
• Car rental service
• Turn-down service in all rooms
• Early-bird complimentary breakfast
• Unpacking service
• Non-smoking rooms
• Smoke detectors and sprinkler system throughout the hotel
34 35
Room Facilities
•4 standard rooms, 38 superior rooms
5 pool bungalows, 3 penthouse studios
1 penthouse suite
• Balcony with pool or park view
• Direct telephone line with voice mail in every room
• Electronic in-room safe
• Air Conditioning
• Plasma TV (satellite and local channel connection)
• Pay TV and movies on demand
• DVD and CD players with free lending library
• LED signage
• Art work by Karim Rashid in every room
• Variable lighting
• Completely sound-proof
• Electrically operated light-proof draperies
• Choice of king-size, queen-size or two double beds
• Maxi bar (snacks, beverages and accessories)
• Luxury natural bath products
• Choice of pillows
• Cordless phones
36 37
38 39
Interview
Sakis Rouvas
We met with Sakis Rouvas, one of
the most popular Greek singers,
who spoke to us about the Athens
he knows and loves.
Monastiraki, with pots of basil and all kinds of flowers. Twenty houses in
this area were demolished around 1970. Later, the whole area
was reclaimed by the state, though some people continue to
deed the oldest street of the city in continuous
use more or less for the same purposes from
Classical times to the present. The whole quar-
The Other Holy Sepulchre) (18 Erechtheos St.) belongs to the Brother-
hood of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It is a church char-
acteristic of the Ottoman period which was built at the be-
which offer a comprehensive survey of each pe-
riod. Since anyone who explores the cultural
treasures of Plaka needs some time to pause for
Side of Athens ginning of the 17th century and is dedicated to the Agioi
Anargyroi. The church plays a prominent role in the Easter
celebrations, as it is where the Holy Light first arrives from
a rest, it is always good to know that there are
many small taverns (many of them built below
street level) that offer a glimpse of what old
Jerusalem on the evening of Holy Saturday. You may also Athens was like, with the songs and the tradi-
want to visit Aghios Nikolaos Ragavas (Stravonos Street), an tional fried cod that are typical of a Greek Lent-
11th century church that is considered one of the most im- en meal.
portant Byzantine monuments of the city and which offers
a panoramic view of Athens and Lycabettus Hill.
42 43
Around walked 2,500 years ago. Pnyx. On the left side, the Pnyx spring
is visible inside the grey rock. From there
Acropolis
you can enjoy a spectacular view of the
Walking Side by Side with History Propylaea, the Parthenon, the Erech-
theion and the Temple of Apteros Niki
The route that starts from Dionysiou Ar- (Wingless Victory). The Parthenon was
eopagitou Street is by far the most beau- dedicated to the goddess Athena, the
tiful as it follows a path parallel to the patron of the ancient city of Athens. See-
sacred rock of the Acropolis. You could ing the Acropolis from this vantage point
start from the bust of Melina Merkouri, will certainly remind you of often-seen
the woman who contributed the most images of this great monument. The
to the new Acropolis Museum located road here runs parallel to an olive grove
opposite Hadrian’s Gate. This “grand in the foothills that protect the ancient
promenade,” as Athenians call the monument. If you walk further on, you
three-kilometre pedestrian walkway will reach the pedestrian walkway in the
from the Makriyianni district to Kera- Thissio district, which is full of coffee
meikos, was by far the greatest gift the houses affording a spectacular view of
people of Athens could offer their city. the ancient sites around them and where
You will see a great many people opting you will encounter the most multicul-
to stroll along this wide paved walkway. tural assembly of people in the whole of
As you are enjoying your walk, you have Athens. There you can also see a flat
the chance to gaze at the Acropolis, this area from which you can marvel at the
masterpiece of the 5th century BC, and Areios Pagos, the oldest courthouse in
marvel at the Parthenon, which seems the world. It was at this very place that
to be just a stone’s throw away. Right Saint Paul preached to the people of
across the Acropolis, at the opposite side Athens, a decisive event that was crucial
of the street, you can see the new Acrop- in the adoption of Christianity by the
olis Museum, glittering in the Attica Greek people.
sun.
46 47
Spring
Cultural Highlights
May 5 - 10
Culture
THEATER
AC/DC
May 28
Food
THEATER
in Greek, chocolates, sesame paste cakes, breads) and the Easter cookies are also The Greek Easter table also offers tiropita
and skaltsounia (Lenten cookies) filled with made during that day. Many women also (cheese pie), red eggs, a great variety of
walnuts, a sweet that you can find all over prepare gardoubakia, a gourmet appetiser regional cheeses, and christopsomo
Greece and one that is prepared by adding that is made with plaited lamb intestines (Christ’s bread - a kind of sweet Easter
a small quantity of ouzo, for that extra and egg-lemon sauce, but roasted in a pan bread). Whoever visits a Greek household
touch. The fast starts in earnest with the in the oven, along with kokoretsi (a tradi- during Easter Sunday has to knock his egg
coming of Holy Week and on Holy Wednes- tional and very popular dish, typical of against the eggs of the members of the
day there are two separate Communion Easter celebrations in Greece, that is made family for good luck (it is believed that who-
services, both of which begin at dawn. As of chopped intestines and organs marinat- ever is left with an uncracked egg will have
for Holy Friday, the day commemorating ed in lemon, olive oil and oregano or thyme, good luck throughout the year). Then
the burial of Jesus Christ, even water is seasoned with salt and pepper and roasted guests are treated to all kinds of hot ap-
proscribed due to the solemnity of the com- over an open fire). Right after the exchange petisers as everyone wishes Christos an-
memorated occasion. Most children are not of the wish Christos anesti (“Christ is ris- esti and gets the reply Alethos anesti (“In-
very keen on observing these customs and, en”) at the church, the whole family gath- deed, He has risen”).
as soon as the Paschal Vigil is over on Holy ers around the table and, with one candle If you want to sample these specialties for
Saturday evening, they rush to secretly still burning (this candle never goes out yourselves, then go to: Mamacas, 41
help themselves to the traditional tsoure- during the entire meal) all the family mem- Persephonis St., Gazi, 210-3464984 and
kia, (sweet Easter breads) and the red-dyed bers start filling their plates, while exchang- Vlassis, 8 Pasteur St., Mavili Sqaure, 210-
eggs adorning the serving platters laid out ing wishesr. Wine flows freely and the tra- 6463060).
in the dining room. ditional foods of the day are served with
If you want to sample some of these dish- all kinds of salads and fresh cheese.
es yourselves, then go to: Kallisti Gefsis, If you want to sample some of these dish- Easter Sweets
Easter in the
137 Asklipiou St., Athens, 210-6453179 and es yourselves then go to: Butcher Shop, 19
Miniature, 21 Romvis St., Syntagma, 210- Persephonis St., Gazi, 210-3413440 and There are certain sweets that are made
3233459. If you want to enjoy the tradi- Nea Diagonios, 14 Lycavittou St., Kolonaki, specifically for Easter Sunday (although all
Country and
tional Lenten sweets, the places to go to 210-3617821). sweets are welcome on the Easter table).
are: Fresh, 21B Loukianou St., Kolonaki, 210- Sweet Easter breads, or tsourekia, special
7293453, Ktistakis (famous for its loukou- biscuits and chocolate eggs are to be found
in the City
mades), 59 Sokratous St., Omonoia, 210- The Easter Table in every Greek household. In Greece, the
5240891 and Karavan, 11 Voukourestiou St., custom is for the godfather of every child
Athens, 210-3641540. It is virtually impossible to imagine the to offer them a sweet Easter Bread, a choc-
Greek Easter table without the spit-roasted olate egg and, of course, the Paschal can-
lamb and the kokoretsi. The lamb has been dle with which the child will receive the
The red eggs, the Easter bread, the every piece of food contains one or other The Night of Holy Saturday prepared from the day before (Holy Satur- Holy Light at midnight of Holy Saturday.
spit-roasted meat, the kokoretsi, of the forbidden ingredients, it is easy to day) – the intestines of the lamb from which You can try some of the Greek Easter
and of course, the traditional see that eating can be quite a challenge. The preparations for the festive meal that the various traditional Easter appetisers sweets in these places: Agapitos, 7 Voulis
Easter wishes Christos Anesti However, the truth is that these restric- takes place after the Midnight Mass of the are made must be cleaned thoroughly and St., Syntagma, 210-3258110 and Sarayli
(Christ is risen)... There is no doubt tions only provide a wonderful opportu- Greek Orthodox Easter beginon the morn- seasoned with salt. Then the lamb is skew- Saray, 105 Aiolou St., Athens, 210-
that Easter, as celebrated in nity to explore other Greek culinary cus- ing of Holy Saturday. Greek housewives put ered on an iron rod, or spit, (souvla) ready 3253463).
Greece, is something utterly toms, a bit on the vegetarian side to be their best efforts into preparing the to be roasted. The roasting starts very ear-
unique. sure, but equally mouth-watering as any mageiritsa, a traditional Easter soup made ly in the morning as it takes at least 10 to
of the traditional, well-known dishes fa- of the lamb’s finely chopped internal or- 12 hours for the lamb to cook. Early on The Easter Basket
mous the world over. These Lenten dish- gans in rice and egg-lemon sauce (in certain Easter Sunday, every home prepares the
Lenten Food es are mainly based on vegetables, pulses, areas they use tomato sauce instead) and fire for the roasting of the lamb and in Rou- This is by far the greatest pleasure for old
greens, potatoes, pasta, oil, and all kinds fresh seasonal herbs. This late-night meal meli (Central Greece) the custom is that and young alike during the Easter season.
In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, Lent of sea-food plentiful throughout Greece. is meant to prepare the stomach after the dozens of skewers are all lined up in a mas- They are sold in every sweet-shop and con-
lasts for 40 days (hence the name given For a culinary treat during that period, long Lenten period for the huge feast to sive celebration that lasts until the next tain tsoureki, Easter cookies and chocolate
to it by Greeks: Sarakosti, meaning 40), there are the Lenten sweets, loukou- follow on Easter Sunday. The meal starts day and where they offer free wine along eggs. These sweet treats, along with the
from Clean (Ash) Monday until Easter Sun- mades (pastry made of deep fried dough with the ritual knocking of the eggs, which with roasted lamb and mezedes (appetis- fine spring weather, make Greek Easter or
day. During Lent, normal food is not al- soaked in sugar syrup or honey and cin- have already been dyed red – a symbol of ers) to visitors. The kokoretsi, also prepared Pascha, as it is called in Greece, a unique
lowed for those who observe the Eastern namon), semolina halva, fruit preserves the death of Christ – on Holy Thursday. This from the day before, is roasted on a sepa- religious celebration.
Orthodox customs, and since virtually called glika tou koutaliou (spoon-sweets) day is also known in Greece as Red Thurs- rate spit.
day. The first tsourekia (sweet Easter
54 55
Yellow Pages
Info
THEATER
Banks Clothes and shoe sizes Cost of Living Electricity Internet Access Pharmacies
Major international banking institutions, For an easier shopping experience, you can Athens is a city that offers numerous temp- Tech Specs Voltage 220V There are numerous internet cafés in Athens Pharmacies can be found throughout Ath-
credit card companies and ATMs in and around check our list of the Greek equivalents for tations as far as consumer products are con- Frequency 50Hz which are usually open all day long and are ens. For overnight service, there are always
Athens are plentiful and easy to access. American and European sizes. cerned. Below is a list with indicative prices for very reasonably priced. You can also use the one or two pharmacies open in every district.
a number of everyday products and services: public internet WiFi connections in Syntag- For pharmacies on call, dial 1434.
Banks are open to the public Monday through • Museum tickets €4-12 ma Square, Kotzia Square and Theseion
Thursday 08:00 to 14:30 and Friday 08:00 • Theater tickets from €20 Holidays (WiFi public hotspots). Athens wifi is a wire-
Clothes
to 13:30, except on public holidays. The • Cinema tickets €7-10 Calendar of Traditional and National Holi- less hotspot based on 802.11b/g (WiFi). You
“Open24” Bank (Eurobank) is open mornings GR USA UK IT • Sandwich from €2 days in and around Athens can easily connect to the Internet while you Police
and afternoons, as well as on Saturdays. 36 extra small (XS) 6 32 • Souvlaki from €1.80 • October 28 - “OHI” Day commemorates the are sitting on a bench or enjoying your cof- • Emergency call: 100
38 small (S) 8 34 • Big bottle of water €1 day the Greek dictator Metaxas said OHI, or fee. The connection is free provided that • Tourist police: 171 (information
Foreign currency may be exchanged for eu- • Greek coffee “to go” from €1 “no,” to the Italian ultimatum which asked you chose the wireless network (SSID) ath- available in English, French and
40 medium (M) 10 36
ros at most Greek and foreign banks and at • Cappuccino coffee at a café €3,5-5 Greece to allow Italian forces to use Greek soil enswifi and type the number which appears German)
42 large (L) 12 38
exchange bureaus located in the city center. • A refreshment at a kiosk €0.70 for military operations or otherwise face war. on your screen. The connection speed is • Tourist Police Headquarters:
Bring your passport when exchanging mon- 44 extra large (XL) 14 40 • Drink at a bar from €6 • December 25 & 26 - Christmas quite fast and the capacity is 4Mbps. +30 210 69 77 386,
ey as you will need it for the transaction. 46 extra extra large 16 42 • Full meal (starter, main dish, dessert, not • January 1 - The feast of St. Vassilis +30 210 69 24 929
(XXL)
Traveler’s checks and credit cards issued by including drinks) between €20-40 1.5 (Greek Santa Claus), New Year’s Day • Airport Police: +30 210 35 30 000
major companies are also widely recognized hour ticket for all means of transport (met- • January 6 - The Epiphany
Shoes
and an accepted means of purchasing items ro, buses, trains) €1 • Clean Monday (Ash Monday) - Mobile Phones
in Athens. GR USA UK movable feast Usually mobile phones automatically con-
36 6 3.5 • March 25 - Greek Independence Day nect with the Greek network. You can also Time
37 6.5 4 • Orthodox Good Friday - movable feast do it by yourself by choosing the option “net- Athens is in the Eastern-European time-
38 7.5 5 Shopping • Orthodox Easter - movable feast work selection” on your mobile to get man- zone, which means two hours ahead of Green-
If you come from a country outside the Eu- • Orthodox Easter Monday - ually connected. wich Mean Time. Additionally, Athens has
39 7/W 8.5 6
ropean Union and spend a minimum of €120 movable feast daylight-savings time, meaning that during
40 7.5/W 9 6.5 on the same day in the same store, you can • May 1 - Labor day and the Feast Your mobile phone operator will inform you spring and summer (from March to October)
41 8.5/W 10 7.5 benefit from a tax refund. Ask for your in- of the Flowers about charges for calls received from your the clocks are put forward one hour.
42 9/W 10.5 8 voice or receipt and the tax-free receipt. Do • August 15 - Assumption own country or for the ones you make while
43 10 9 not forget to get your invoices or receipts of the Virgin Mary in Greece (local and international calls).
stamped at the airport.
44 10.5 9.5
Info
Weather and Climate Weights and Measures Temperature in Greece is expressed in
Greece uses the metric system, as do the degrees Centigrade. But if you come
Athens is an ideal year-round city destination with comfort- Listed below is a month-by-month breakdown of average majority of European countries. The UK from the United Kingdom or the United
able and favorable climate conditions for travel and sight- temperatures and precipitation in Athens. (Source: world- and the U.S.A. use the imperial system. States, you’ll find our conversion tables
seeing. Rainfall is minimal (estimated at just 40 cm or 16 weather.org and Hellenic National Meteorological Service) useful.
inches per year) and Helios, the sun god in Greek mythol- The conversion table below may be
ogy, smiles upon its streets over 300 days a year. The sum- • Jan: 5.2° - 12.5°C / 41° - 54.5°F useful. Degrees Centigrade
mers (June through August) are dry and hot with temper- 5.69 cm / 2.2 inches rainfall Fahrenheit
atures ranging from 78° to 94°F, or 20° to 34°C, and are METRIC SYSTEM UK / USA -10°C 14°F
recommended for diehard sun worshippers. Seasonal • Feb: 5.4° - 13.5 °C / 42° - 56.3°F (IMPERIAL) -5°C 23°F
winds, known as meltemi, may accompany some hot days - 1 gram (g) 0.0353 ounce 0°C 32°F
depending on the climatic conditions. September is often 4.67 cm / 1.8 inches rainfall - 1 kilo(gram) (kg) 2.204 pounds 5°C 41°F
considered the ideal month for both urban activities and - 1 centimeter (cm) 0.393 inch 10°C 50°F
nearby island day trips with temperatures ranging from • March: 6.7° - 15.7 °C / 44° - 60.26°F 4.07cm / 1.6 - 1 meter (m) 3.281 feet / 1.093 yard 15°C 59°F
70° to 83°F, or 20° to 28°C. The Mediterranean climate inches rainfall - 1 kilometer (km) 0.621 mile 20°C 68°F
makes for mild winters and even milder autumns in low- - 1 centiliter (cl.) 0.021 US pint / 25°C 77°F
lying areas (such as Athens) with the coldest temperatures • A
pril: 9.6° - 20.2° °C / 49° - 68°F 0.0176 UK pint 30°C 86°F
reported in January at a very temperate 41° to 55° F, or 5° 3.08 cm / 1.2 inches rainfall - 1 liter (l) 0.264 US gallon / 35°C 95°F
to 13°C. Christmas in Athens is a delight considering you 0.220 UK gallon 40°C 104°F
can take in the city’s lights and attractions at a relatively • May: 13.9° - 26.0 °C / 57° - 78°F - 1 liter (l) 2.1 US pints / 1.76 UK pint
comfortable 45° to 50°F, or 7° to 14°C. Snowy, icy days are 2.68 cm / 1.05 inches rainfall UK/USA (IMPERIAL) METRIC Fahrenheit Degrees
few but within reach atop the surrounding mountain peaks. SYSTEM Centigrade
In Athens, sunshine and outdoor living is almost always a • June: 18.2° - 31.1 °C / 65 - 88°F - 1 ounce (oz) 28.349 grams 10°F -12.2°C
given- no matter what time of the year. 1.06 cm / 0.4 inches rainfall - 1 pound (lb) 0.453 kilo (grams) 20°F -6.7°C
- 1 inch (in) 2.540 centimeters 30°F -1.1°C
• J
uly: 20.8 ° - 33.5 °C / 69 - 92°F - 1 foot (ft) 0.304 meters 40°F 4.4°C
0.58 cm / 0.2 inches rainfall - 1 yard (yd) 3 feet-0.914 meter 50°F 10°C
- 1 mile (mi) 1760 yards-1.609 60°F 15.6°C
• A
ug: 20.7° - 33.2 °C / 69 - 92°F kilometers 70°F 21.1°C
0.6 cm / 0.2 inches rainfall - 1 US pint (pt) 0.473 liter 80°F 26.7°C
- 1 UK pint (pt) 0.568 liter 90°F 32.2°C
• Sep: 17.3° - 29.2 °C / 63 - 85°F - 1 US gallon (gal) 3.785 liters 100°F 37.8°C
1.39 cm / 0.5 inches rainfall - 1 UK gallon (gal) 4.456 liters 110°F 43.3°C
• O
ct: 13.4° - 23.3 °C / 56 - 74°F
5.26 cm / 2 inches rainfall
• D
ec: 6.8° - 14.1 °C / 44 - 57°F
6.91cm / 2.7 inches rainfall
58 59
Info
Access:
Trolley: Line 21 (from Omonia Square),
OASA Busses: 035, 049, 811, 815, 838, 914, B18, ?18, 731, 031.
Train: Station “Thision”.
Metro: Station "Keramikos".
CITY OF ATHENS
Contact:
Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Piraeus Str., 11854 Gazi, Athens
CULTURE TO THE NEIGHBOURHOODS
Tel: 210-3461589 and 210-3467322, Fax: 210-3413228
http://www.cityofathens.gr/dimotikoi-foreis/texnopolis-dimoy-athinaion
Íikitaò Êaklamanis
Mail: info@athens-technopolis.gr
The City to Share Your Ideas
Some of humanity’s most exciting ideas were born in Athens, and from here they were shared with the world.
This could be due to the fine weather. Or the inspiring scenery. Or, if you prefer, the Athenian attitude towards life.
Whatever the reason, great ideas seem to have always reached the most distant places when coming from this unique
place of Europe. Enhanced by its state of the art venues and facilities, Athens today can meet the demands of any event
and always deliver an impeccable result.
Bring your meeting to Athens. Get inspired. Share your ideas.
Athens