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

Memorial service held in Sydney for 113th anniversary of Ioannina’s liberation

On Sunday, February 15, the Panipirotiki Enosis of NSW held a memorial service marking the 113th anniversary of the Liberation of Ioannina.

Modern Greek and more: Discover Kingsgrove North High School at Open Night 2026

Families across Sydney’s south-west are invited to discover Kingsgrove North High School at its Open Night 2026 on Tuesday, February 24.

Sydney to host official Greek Language Certificate exams at Macquarie University

The examinations for the Certificate of Attainment in the Greek language in Sydney will take place at Macquarie University.

Democracy and fascism: Yanis Varoufakis in conversation at Greek Festival of Sydney

The Greek Festival of Sydney has announced it will be hosting economist, politician and bestselling author Yanis Varoufakis.

Council responds after parking fines spark backlash at St Charalambos Greek Festival

Dozens of parking fines issued during the St Charalambos Greek Festival in Templestowe have sparked anger among attendees and organisers.

You May Also Like

Australia’s Prime Minister sends message to mark Battle of Crete anniversary

In memory of the Battle of Crete, Prime Minister of Australia, Ánthony Albanese remembers those who fought and died in May 1941.

Three arrested over Patras wildfires as Greek authorities warn of ongoing danger

Firefighters in Greece have contained a large blaze outside the southern port city of Patras, but the threat of further fires remains high.

Thessaloniki marks dual celebration of Saint Demetrios and 113 years since liberation

Thessaloniki celebrated the feast day of patron saint, Saint Demetrios, alongside the 113th anniversary of liberation from Ottoman rule.