Serafio swimming pool

What I can see

This complex is developed on a plot of approximately 18,000sqm and includes an indoor basketball court, 3 outdoor basketball courts, a relaxation area, 2 playgrounds, an indoor swimming pool (25x33m and 370 seats), a car park and a multipurpose centre of offices, cultural and innovation spaces. The Serafio complex is also adjacent to other sports facilities, such as the football pitch of the local team PAO Rouf, two smaller football pitches and a tennis court.

What I can't see

Alkiviadis Serafi’s bequest (1939) provided for the creation of public baths and sanitary facilities for the residents. Eventually, a swimming pool with his name was built in the 1960s. Champions and Olympic champions trained in this pool for decades. However, due to the 1999 Athens earthquake, it suffered serious damage and was demolished. Many years later, the city of Athens completed the complex, which caused the residents’ negative reaction, because the space where the multi-purpose building was erected could be greenery. Other buildings that remain unused could be used for these purposes. The demolition of the playground caused more reactions, but eventually another one that follows modern standards was created and a second one was recently constructed. Moreover, an ancient vineyard was discovered during the complex’s construction works.

Info

• Address: Pireos & P. Ralli St.

Bibliography