The Old Royal Palace, known locally as Παλαιά Ανάκτορα, stands majestically at the heart of Athens, overlooking the bustling Syntagma Square. This neoclassical masterpiece, designed by the Bavarian architect Friedrich von Gärtner, has been a silent witness to Greece's tumultuous history and serves today as the seat of the Hellenic Parliament.
Constructed between 1836 and 1847, the Old Royal Palace was initially intended as the residence of King Otto of Greece. The decision to build the palace in Athens followed the city's designation as the capital of Greece in 1834, moving from Nafplio. King Ludwig I of Bavaria, Otto’s father, funded the construction as a personal loan to his son, emphasizing the importance of establishing a regal presence in the young Greek state.
The location was carefully chosen by Gärtner, who rejected other prominent sites such as Omonoia, Kerameikos, and the Acropolis. Instead, he selected a small hill at the intersection of Stadiou and Ermou streets, offering a healthy climate and a commanding view of the city. The foundation stone was laid on February 6, 1836, in a grand ceremony attended by Ludwig I and ambassadors from the Great Powers.
The Old Royal Palace is a testament to neoclassical architecture, characterized by its symmetry and grandeur. The building is a massive rectangular structure with three floors and a central axis aligned with Ermou Street, the longest street in Athens at the time. It features four wings and two internal courtyards, with the central wing extending slightly beyond the façades to create two pediments.
Construction materials included stone from Hymettus and Lycabettus, marble from Penteli and Tinos, and wood from Euboea. The palace's completion was a collaborative effort, with many islanders volunteering their labor. The interior was adorned with grand murals depicting scenes from Greek mythology and the War of Independence, executed by renowned painters Johann Schraudolph, Ulrich Halbreiter, and Joseph Kranzberger.
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The palace served as the royal residence until 1910, after which King George I moved to a new palace on Herodou Attikou Street, now the Presidential Mansion. The building then underwent several transformations, becoming a hospital during World War I and a refugee shelter after the Asia Minor Catastrophe.
In 1935, the Old Royal Palace found its current role as the home of the Hellenic Parliament. It houses the plenary chamber, committee rooms, and offices for the Speaker and Vice Presidents, along with the Parliament's television channel and administrative services. The building also hosts the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on its western side, a poignant tribute to Greece's fallen heroes.
Today, the Old Royal Palace is more than just a seat of government; it is a living monument to Greece's rich history. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard by the Evzones, the elite ceremonial unit, in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This solemn ritual, performed with precision, is a highlight for many tourists.
The surrounding National Garden, once the private royal garden, offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Designed by Queen Amalia, the garden is home to a diverse array of plants and trees, providing a lush backdrop to the palace's stately architecture.
While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior of the Old Royal Palace is a sight to behold. Its austere yet elegant façade is a striking contrast to the vibrant life of Syntagma Square. The square itself is a hub of activity, surrounded by important buildings such as the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne and various government ministries.
For those interested in Greek history and politics, the Old Royal Palace is a must-see. Its walls have borne witness to the evolution of modern Greece, from monarchy to democracy, and its presence continues to inspire awe and respect.
In conclusion, the Old Royal Palace is a symbol of Greece's enduring spirit and resilience. Its neoclassical beauty and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone visiting Athens, offering a glimpse into the nation's storied past and vibrant present.
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