Galery

1

Anastasia Balezdrova

Responsible state departments have decided to utilize the archaeological area around Plato’s Academy in Athens, but without major interventions. Activities that are life-saving for the "Garden of Wonders" in many ways have already been initiated and are promising a beautiful outcome.

The plan which was approved by the Central Archaeological Council was also created in this respect. It provides for the establishment of sectors, such as the new green area which will be located at the "triangle" formed between Kratilou Street and Monastiriou Street, where the archaeological warehouses are located today. Another major task will include the compilation, presentation and protection of scattered ancient ruins in the park, such as the  “Holy House” and the “House of Akadimos”.

These are the only remains of the inhabitants of the region before the creation of Plato’s Philosophy School. Thus, the  “Holy House” will be marked as an area with the appropriate information. The other structure that is representative of houses of the Bronze Age will be presented by a new construction. In particular, a new roof will be constructed with dimensions 12 x 8 m, which will be supported by metal poles and glass windows. They will not only provide a clear view of the interior, but will also serve as a means of protection. A platform will also be erected, from where visitors will be able to view the site and have a rest at the same time.

The abovementioned "triangle" formed by Kratilou Street and Monastiriou Street will represent a large green area of 4 acres. Typical Mediterranean plants will be planted there, such as olive trees, pomegranate trees, cypresses, Judas trees, and aromatic herbs. A small shed will be built next to it, where sarcophagi will be exposed.

Visitors of Plato’s Academy will also be able to visit the new museum warehouse of area 600 m². Various routes, some of which will be illuminated by low light even at night, will take them to the monuments that are scattered across the park, a window with stone items, small open-air exhibition and the renewed archaeological warehouse at 147 Monastiriou Street in the garden of which ancient sculptures will be kept.

In April, GRReporter talked to residents of the area around the archaeological site, who were seriously worried about the fact that it was abandoned and rumours that the construction of a large shopping centre was being planned there. Its position according to the already approved plan has not been made clear yet, but the plan definitely meets their request for non-intensive development of the region.

You can also have a look at GRReporter’s photo reportage of Plato’s Academy.