The Plaka District

In the shadow of the Acropolis lies the neighborhood known as the Plaka District, one of our destinations on the walking tour the day we arrive in Athens. It is the historic heart of the city and the oldest continuously inhabited area in the city.

It lies just to the east and at the base of the Acropolis. Most streets have been closed to automobile traffic.

The name probably came from pliaka (meaning old) used by Albanian soldiers in the service of the Turks who settled here in the 16th century.

Here you will find old-fashioned tavernas where you can have a bite to eat or you can browse in the many antique and icon shops. There are also lots of souvenir and jewelry shops here too.

You will also find a few galleries and there are several museums in the Plaka. Of special note are the Children's Museum, the Music Museum, the Greek Folk Art Museum, and the Jewish Museum.

The Lysikrates Monument, built to commemorate the victors at the annual choral and dramatic festival, is located in the Plaka District. It is the only choregic monument still intact in Athens. Its name comes from choregos (or sponsor) of the winning team.

A notable church in the Plaka is the Agios Nikolaos Ragavas which has ancient columns built into the walls.

The most impressive building located here is the Tower of the Winds in the far west of Plaka and part of the ancient Roman Agora. Built by the Syrian astronomer Andronikos Kyrrestes around 100 BC, it has a weather vane and waterclock. On each of its marble sides one of the eight mythological winds is depicted.

Enjoy a tour of the Roman Agora, the Plaka District, and a few other Athens sites on this short YouTube video.