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

Greek Australian Writers’ Festival marks record-breaking success in its fifth year

The Greek Australian Writers’ Festival, presented as part of the Greek Festival of Sydney, has concluded its most successful edition to date.

Sydney Harbour cruise to bring Pontian community together during Synapantema

The Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia will host a Sydney Harbour cruise on Sunday, April 26 as part of Synapantema.

St George Saints deliver statement win in Youth League return

St George’s Youth League Men Red side made a return to the court on Saturday, producing a dominant 133–33 victory over the Orange Eagles.

Battle of Vevi commemoration in Sydney blends remembrance, reflection and education

The Pan-Macedonian Association of NSW marked the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Vevi with a detailed and moving commemorative event.

Bank of Sydney Grant for Good applications now open in Australia

Bank of Sydney has announced applications are now open for its $20,000 Grant for Good community grant. Find out how to apply here.

You May Also Like

Jury warned as George Alex’s $13 million tax fraud trial begins

Jurors in the George Alex trial have received a warning that any information found beyond the courts could have “disastrous” consequences.

Songs from Smyrne live at Brunswick Ballroom

On Thursday, April 11, new band Estudiantina of Melbourne will be performing the ‘Songs from Smyrne’ concert at Brunswick Ballroom from 6.30pm.

Erdogan and Biden send messages to mark Greek Independence Day

The leaders of Turkey and the United States have sent messages to Greece to mark Independence Day on March 25.