Victoria Square
It was named “Victoria Square” in honour of the Queen of England, who in 1864 gave the Ionian Islands as a gift to King George.
Modern and Contemporary era (1821 - )
1901 The square was named “Victoria Square” in 1901, when Queen Victoria of England passed away. Previously, it was called “Lavrion or Vigie square” and “Kyriakou square”.
1910 The first formulations were applied during this decade.
1948 The final formulation was shaped around 1948, when the metro line to Kifissia started operating.
Ottoman era (1453- 1821)
Byzantine era (331 AC- 1453)
Roman era (30 BC- 330 AC)
Hellenistic era (322- 31 BC)
Classical era (478-323 BC)
Archaic era (800-479 BC)
Geometric era (-1100- 800 BC)
Prehistory (-1100 BC)
What I can see
Victoria Square is a transit point for students during the day, as well as a meeting point for migrants. In recent years, following violent and xenophobic attacks, the municipality gave permission to nearby stores to reposition their tables and chairs in an attempt to commercially revitalize the square.
What I can't see
This square has been very popular ever since its first days. It was frequented by people of all ages, its cafes that put tables and chairs outside were always packed and the main square attracted street vendors. It was a social meeting point in what was a thriving neighbourhood during the early 20th century. It was named “Victoria Square” in honour of the Queen of England, who in 1864 gave the Ionian Islands as a gift to King George, her nephew and Greece’s new monarch. After the square was completed, the statue of Theseus rescuing Hippodameia was placed here, previously located in Syntagma Square, until 1938. The statue was an inconvenience, because it limited free space for visitors and children, who could no longer play freely here.
Info
- Address: 3rd Septemvriou St.
Bibliography
Melampianaki E. (2006), Οι πλατείες της Αθήνας 1834-1945, διαδικασία διαμÏŒρφωσης, λειτουργία- πολεοδομική σημασία, [The squares of Athens 1834-1945, formation process- functionality- urban design importance], NTUA, Ph.D.
