Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Tuesday visited the recently completed redevelopment works at Vasilissis Olgas Avenue in central Athens. The works form part of a broader urban development plan aiming to create a four-kilometer-long archaeological and cultural zone covering a total area of 1,500 hectares in the center of the Greek capital.

“A decades-long vision, which essentially concerned a significant part of the unification of the capital’s archaeological sites, has today become a reality,” the prime minister said at the conclusion of his visit. “I am impressed by the quality of the works and the very significant cultural importance this project holds for the promotion of Athens, for its residents, as well as for its millions of visitors,” he added.

The prime minister was briefed by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and the CEO of Anaplasis S.A. – Public Spaces Development Company, Chronis Akriditis, on the works carried out over an area of 28,360 square meters, as well as on the plans for showcasing the archaeological finds that were uncovered.

According to sources, the redesigned Vasilissis Olgas Avenue will constitute a tranquil public space connecting the National Garden and the Zappeion Garden with the Temple of Olympian Zeus, with one side extending to within a few metres of the Dionysiou Areopagitou-Apostolou Pavlou pedestrian walkway leading to the Acropolis, while the other side lies close to the Panathenaic Stadium and the Ardittos hill.

The redevelopment also enhances urban greenery in central Athens, with the planting of 160 trees and 8,500 ornamental plants, improves safety through the installation of nearly 270 light fixtures and poles, and ensures full accessibility for persons with disabilities throughout the pedestrian zone.

During the works, significant archaeological finds were revealed, dating from the 4th century BC to Byzantine times. These will be made accessible to residents and visitors of the capital by early 2027, in a manner that highlights their historical significance.