 Monastiraki
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Monastiraki is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Old Athens.
It is a historic area characterized by its narrow streets and small buildings, reflecting mostly the Ottoman-era architecture of the city.
The area is famous for its traditional bazaar, once known as the "Yusurum," which took place every Sunday at Avissinias Square. From early morning, vendors would set up their goods on outdoor stalls, while the shops along nearby streets—Hephaestus, Pandrosou, Adrianou, Agiou Filippou, Astinggos, Thiseio, and Ermou—remained open.
Visitors could find almost anything at bargain prices: old clothes, shoes, household items, furniture, books, brass and silver objects, traditional musical instruments, and antiques. Although the traditional bazaar has been discontinued as part of efforts to modernize the area, the neighborhood¢s vibrant atmosphere remains unchanged.
Monastiraki hosts most of Athens¢ antique shops, second-hand stores, and eclectic shops where it can be difficult to categorize the items for sale. Many of these shops are housed in restored old buildings, offering hidden treasures: priceless antiques, family heirlooms sold at bargain prices, and seemingly useless objects with unknown futures. According to local antique dealers, every item has its buyer.
Walking through the narrow streets, visitors are struck by the contrast: the neighborhood exudes a sense of decay and abandonment, yet it remains one of the city¢s busiest commercial areas.
Monastiraki also features one of Athens¢ busiest metro stations.
The renovated neoclassical metro station is one of the oldest on Line 1 (Piraeus–Kifisia) and serves as the starting point of Line 3 (Monastiraki–Doukissis Plakentias).
Its entrance is located in the historic Monastiraki Square, surrounded by some of the most picturesque and commercial streets of old Athens. Streets like Adrianou, Pandrosou, and Hephaestus are bustling thoroughfares where visitors can find and buy virtually anything.
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