Monastiraki / Psirri
The most famous Athenian neighbourhood, Plaka is definitely a top attraction for visitors. Its picturesque streets, historic landmarks and lively shops make it a must-see. Just be prepared for the crowds.
Monastiraki, or ‘little Monastery’, is named after a monastic compound that once occupied the site. Today, all that’s left is the small 10th-century Pantanassa basilica on the square. It’s also a tourist hub where layers of history intersect around commerce and craftsmanship. The metro disgorges passengers next to the flea market lined with souvenirs, shoes and antiques, and alongside an important part of the ancient city including the Ancient Agora and Hadrian’s Library. The historical layers and diverse communities align here: look up from the square towards the Acropolis and your line of sight crosses both a mosque and a Byzantine church.
In the early 21st century, a wave of gentrification swept most of the old artisan workshops out of Psirri and replaced them with bars and eateries. Now contemporary craftspeople are moving back in, producing leather sandals and quirky souvenirs rather than wicker chairs and tinware. And derelict buildings have been revitalised with extraordinary displays of street art. But Psirri is still at its most enchanting, and liveliest, at night, when the second-hand shops close and the trendy night-spots set their stools out on the narrow streets.
Avissinia Square
Avissinia Square was formed around the middle of the 19th century and took its name from the Ethiopians who lived in the surrounding streets (Ethiopia was then called Abyssinia). It’s the home of the Yusurum, the second-hand bazaar that is named after the Jewish merchants Noah and Elias Yusurum who were the first antique dealers in the area.
Today, all you have to say is Monastiraki and people hear “the flea market” although not everything offered for sale is a bargain or an antique. You’ll see collectors browsing for ceramics, trinkets, and tools. On Sundays, this cute square is the heart of the market, while the ersatz open-air bazaar extends south of the square to Thissio.
Archdiocese Library
Iroon Square
