I have always found the National Garden to be an enchanting oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Nestled between Syntagma Square and Kallimarmaro (Panathinaiko Stadium), this verdant sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat from the noise and commotion of urban life. It’s hard to believe that such a serene garden exists amidst some of the busiest avenues in Athens.
Spanning an impressive 16 acres, the National Garden has three entrances and is conveniently located just north of Syntagma Square, adjacent to the Greek Parliament. This captivating garden was created between 1838 and 1840 by Queen Amalia, the first queen of Greece. German agronomist Frederick Schmidt was responsible for the garden’s lush plantings, importing over 500 plant species from Greece and beyond. Though some of these plants didn’t survive in the Mediterranean climate, those that did create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Originally known as the Royal Garden, this space was reserved solely for the royal family. However, following the restoration of democracy in Greece in 1975, the park was renamed the National Garden and opened to the public. Today, the garden welcomes visitors from sunrise to sunset.
The National Garden’s charm lies in its winding paths, wooden benches, and quaint ponds. Within its bounds, you’ll find a small zoo, a Botanical Museum, a children’s library, a playground, and an open café. The duck pond is a particular favorite among visitors, who enjoy feeding the ducks with bread and leftover food.
Henry Miller beautifully captured the essence of the Athens National Garden in his 1939 work, “The Colossus of Maroussi.” He wrote:
“It remains in my memory as no other park I have ever known. It is the quintessence of a park, what one sometimes feels when one looks at a canvas or dreams of a place one would like to be in and never finds it.”
I couldn’t agree more with Miller’s sentiments. The National Garden offers a sense of tranquility, nourishment, and magic that is unmatched by any other park in the city. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, the National Garden is an enchanting destination that provides a unique and restorative experience.
