Greek street names and their connection to national identity

·

Found all over cities, towns and villages, many streets in Greece have been named after revolutionary heroes, poets, gods, architects, and queens.

For many the Greek street name is a map of the country’s spiritual identity, allowing people to engage in stories and shaping the overall Greek experience.

With this, we look at three of Greece’s most prominent street names and the connection they have with our national identity.

Iera Odos

Known as the ‘sacred way’, this road begins from the archaeological site of Kerameikos in Athens and eventually connects to the National Road.

During Ancient Greek times many sacred roads were used for religious processions to sanctuaries and to other sacred destinations.

Iera Odos. Photo: Water and Waste

Dionysos Areopagitou

Running along the base of the Acropolis is the broad pedestrian street, named after Dionysius the Aeropagite who was a judge of the Areos Pagos. He was fortunate to have converted to Christianity by Paul the Apostle.

Situated in the perfect location with the landmarks of Athens surrounding it. The street feels as though it has been there for a long period of time and was designed by the architect Dimitris Pikionis in the 1950’s.

Dionysos Areopagitou. Photo: Athens24

Palaion Patron Germanou

A central street in Athens, near Syntagma, this street is named after Germanos the Metropolitan of Patra. He is recognised as being a member of the Filikis Etaireias who blessed the revolutionary flag that was raised at the monastery of Agia Lavra in Kalavryta.

Source: Ekathimerini

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Historic UNESCO recognition of Greek language to be marked with landmark Melbourne event

The Plenary Session of UNESCO, unanimously voted to recognise and encourage all to commemorate World Greek Language Day.

The fearless yiayia: Skydiving and 80 years of life

While most grandmothers are content with tea, yiayia Vassiliki Xidias celebrated her birthday by jumping out of a plane.

Young Greek talent Odysseas Geladaris embarks on Traralgon and Australian Open challenge

Odysseas Geladaris, 17-year-old Greek tennis player, has arrived in Australia where he will take part in the junior tournament in Traralgon.

South Melbourne set to depart for Auckland ahead of landmark OFC Pro League debut

The inaugural season of the OFC Pro League is just days away, marking the beginning of a new era for football in Oceania.

Greek Community Home for the Aged to host vibrant paniyiri in Earlwood

Earlwood will come alive with Greek food, music and dancing when GOCHA host a free Greek Paniyiri on Sunday, 18 January.

You May Also Like

Lara Barazi is appointed the first female President of European Aquaculture group

The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers has elected Lara Barazi-Yeroulanou as its President for the next three years.

Bidding wars and Tsifteteli: It was a very merry Hellenic RSL Christmas in Melbourne

Come Christmas time, there are parties-a-plenty. From friendsmas to out-of-office celebrations to family gatherings and more.

Sakkari continues to shine in Australian Open as she advances to fourth round

Maria Sakkari has proceeded into the fourth round of the Australian Open, defeating No.10 seed Madison Keys, 6-4, 6-4.