The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, one of the most innovative, modern places in Athens, donated to the people by the foundation set up by the tycoon of the same name.
Built on a design by the Italian architect Renzo Piano and inaugurated in 2016, the Center is located 4 kilometers from the center of Athens, in a large green area measuring 170,000 square meters and comprising the National Library and the National Opera.
I suggest you make your way in through the entrance at the intersection of Evripidou Street and Diranis Street, so you can immediately enjoy a striking view of the building, which is at the end of a long, narrow waterway on your right.
Along this canal, you can see small sailboats used for giving children sailing lessons.
The impressive structure of this building features walls that are almost completely transparent to make the most of the natural light. In the center, there is a large square linking two pavilions: the Library to the right and the Opera House to the left.
The enormous library is well worth a look: as soon as you go in, the arrangement of the shelves gives you an idea of the millions of books inside. The reading room, on the top floor, is transparent, offering 360-degree views of Athens and the sea. It is located directly below the roof, where a system of solar panels has been installed that produces enough energy to supply the entire Center during opening hours.
The Opera House has two stages, one seating 450 and one seating 1400; there is an elevator at the entrance to bring you up to a panoramic terrace where you can admire the vastness of this marvelous city.
The park, divided into a number of themed areas, is also definitely worth a visit. Children in particular will especially enjoy the maze and the area dedicated to sounds.
Let me leave you with an interesting fact: before redevelopment, there was a racecourse and later, a parking area on the site. It has now become a favorite haunt of families and children in Athens and, at Christmas, you might even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus on water skis!
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