The current
Vouli, formerly the Palace du Roi or Royal Palace, is a large building built in the years 1834-38 and faced with Pendelic marble and limestone and was designed by Gartner of Munich.
They ran out of money so it looks half finished and like barracks.
Just behind the Vouli or Parliament Building (photo) are the barracks of the Presidential guard and you'll see
an occasional commando, all done up in camouflage but casually smoking, peeping at you through the bushes and iron bars along Vasilissis Sofia's Avenue as you pass by. (Incidentally 50% of all
Greeks, women included, smoke cigarettes.)
Syntagma Sq's main arteries are primarily named for function and after Bavarian
royalty dating from the city planning stages during the 1830's by the Bavarians hired architects - many of which city plans and schemata, unfortunately did not come to fruition.
This particular plan right looks like its more for a walled castle see more Athens plans. I have to admit the topography is difficult centered as Athens is around the Acropolis or 'Holy Rock' (as some patriots still call it).
Why not enjoy Harry's Free Musical Compositions while you read this site? (opens seperately)
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