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

Body image in Greek Australian culture

The report highlighted that an estimated 4.1 million Australians aged 15 and over have experienced body dissatisfaction.

SoulChef Sundays: A taste of tradition with Katiki Cheese Pie

This week, SoulChef presents a lighter, contemporary take on a classic — without sacrificing authenticity or flavour.

Greek as always: Different languages, same ancient soul

We Greeks have always been adventurous people. The Minoans sailed the Mediterranean and traded exotic goods.

Greece secures world’s 2nd best beach for 2026

Greece has earned major international recognition with four of its beaches ranked among the world’s top 20.

First Orthodox cemetery opens in Japan

To support the spiritual needs of the faithful, the parish priest announced plans to relocate a traditional wooden church from Romania.

You May Also Like

Australia starts extradition process for Easey St murders suspect Perry Kouroumblis

Australian authorities have begun the extradition process for Perry Kouroumblis, the man accused of the Easey Street murders.

Zenta Kronitis details how she went from ICU nurse to liver transplant recipient

After being told she only had a few days left to live, Zenta Kronitis received the call that would give her a second chance at life.

Arabic group reportedly in ‘final stages’ to purchase Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens

The sale of the iconic Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square is reportedly in it's final stages, being passed on to an Arabic business group in Qatar.