Plateia Syntagmatos, Athens

In the center of Athens, Plateia Syntagmatos has been an important site of Greek politics and history. The square's name references a military uprising in 1843, which resulted in Greece's first King, Otto, being forced to sign a constitution. A trip to the capital will inevitably have you passing through the square, but it's worth taking the time to appreciate the history that has unfolded here. See the Greek Parliament, housed in the Old Royal Palace, and catch the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place just in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Stroll the massive National Gardens just behind the Parliament. Grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes lining the square and settle in for some people-watching. Use our Athens trip maker tool to add Plateia Syntagmatos and other attractions to your Athens vacation plans.