©Thomas Gravanis/This is Athens
Athens
The birthplace of the Olympic Games
Athens, as the birthplace of the Olympic Games, has an ancient tradition in sports. The city has already shown it can hold major sporting events by hosting the 2004 Olympic Games, the Final Four, the Champions League, the International Children’s Games and the XIII Special Olympics World Summer Games, providing a unique platform to showcase the courage, dedication and talents of all world-class athletes.
Athens is a pole of attraction for thousands of tourists, offering its visitors the opportunity to admire its modern Olympic facilities. The Olympic Stadium, with the remarkable structures designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, is situated a mere 10 km from the city center, while from the marble Panathenaic Stadium, located on the site of the ancient Greek stadium, one can gaze and marvel at the sight of the Acropolis.
A mix of modern and tradition
Athens is a city where the modern and traditional blend together harmoniously. A stunning mountain and coastal scenery, renowned archaeological sites, contemporary, modern and
classical art museums & galleries, concert halls, spas and resorts, fashion stores and trendy shops, restaurants and bars, street markets and bazaars, open air cinemas and 300 sun-drenched days, make Athens a welcoming destination, filled with treasures just waiting to be discovered!
Constant motion
Athens is a modern European city characterized by intense cultural and artistic activity. All year round, a multitude of celebrations and events take place throughout the city, including sporting events, kids’ activities, exhibitions, celebrations, theater and dance shows, music concerts, various festivals and artistic performances.
Moreover, each year, thousands of citizens of all ages rush into the streets to participate in the Athens Fun Run, the biggest sporting event organized by the city, while bicycle amateurs can take part in the Cycle Tour, Athen’s second biggest annual sporting event. Athens takes your breath away, 24 hours a day, any time of the year.
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Country: Greece
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Population: 664,046 inhab.
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Mayor: Mr. Haris Doukas
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Area: 38 km2
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Official language: Greek
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Official website: www.cityofathens.gr
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Olympic events: Summer Olympic Games 1896 – 2004