One of the things I love most in Athens are music barrel organs (laternes). I always stopped to listen to their music ever since I was a child. There is something fascinating about them. The sweet sound they produce, their captivating appearance with lots of decorations and ornaments, the dominating picture in the middle surrounded by flowers.. and definitely its player standing next to it and giving it life.
The story of these organs goes back in the 1st century B.C. with Alexandrian engineer Herona manufacturing the first automatic musical instrument. The first Greek barrel organ was created around 1880 and travelled in the neighborhoods and squares throughout Greece. It is an instrument that has created many feelings inside Greeks and helped greatly in spreading sounds that are loved even today.
One of the remaining barrel organs of Athens can be found at the beginning of Ermou street with tireless Mr. Spyros standing next to it, turning the crank and filling the streets with its tunes. Kind and smiling as usual, every time I talk to him I tell him how happy I am that he brings it to the pedestrian street so that all of us can hear its music and he responds that he is only doing his duty and that she (referring to the barrel organ) chose him.
On your next stroll in the city center, stop and listen to Mr. Spyro’s music and travel back to the old Athens.
Ερμού 11
€
free
Explore Athens like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Athens guide.
MOMO is a cafe/bar/restaurant in Athens with an exquisite backyard that will give you back the time that's been stolen from you...
By
A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
By
Matchpoint's interior is tastefully decorated, and the music is lovely but my favorite is sitting outside enjoying my drink and watching the world go by.
By
Ode to socks has made good use of the local greek heroes such as the priest (pappa), the priest's wife, the sailor, and the fisherman, who are characteristic figures in every Greek's childhood.
By
There are always dishes of the day in addition to the set menu, so no two visits to Mandragoras are ever the same. And kontosouvli is always available.
By
Every time I cross Evripidou Street, I am overwhelmed by the aroma of cinnamon, pepper, and oregano, and images of Eastern bazaars come to mind.
By
My two favorites are Sfakianopita with honey and the famous Dakos. Every plate is cooked in olive oil with lots of rosemary.
By
In addition to ramen (my favourite is the Classic Shoyu), you can taste excellent sushi and try several other traditional dishes.
By
Mauricio the cat likes to carry the latest publications, bringing attention to quality and design, and often hosts events such as reading time meetings with popular authors for his little friends.
By
"Prigkiponisia" is one of my favorite pastry shops in Palaio Faliro, Athens. They're well known for their tsoureki bread & ice cream
By
"Koukaki", the neighborhood in the center of Athens, is my favorite neighborhood anywhere in the world! Just come explore -- you won't regret it...
By
262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 262 Insider Tips from our local Spotters