Victoria Square Project was originally created by artists in the framework of documenta 14. Although it was intended to last for only one year, Victoria Square Project quickly became an integral part of everyday life in the Victoria neighborhood for locals, artists, and visitors. It serves as an art gallery, a learning hub, and a melting pot for artistic initiatives and the local population. The history of the neighborhood is very telling. Victoria square was named after Queen Victoria after Greece started regaining its independence in the 19th century. The area surrounding the square used to be very expensive and chic; however, after the 1980s the neighborhood started declining and being less and less safe. Fortunately, the area has been positively changing with the help of public initiatives and younger people relocating there.
Victoria Square Project is a living example of locals reclaiming their place in the city. There are talks and guided tours discussing the neighborhood's history, exhibitions such as the one focused on traditional handmade textiles with a modern twist, public sculptures, and a variety of workshops offered. I have participated in the Looming Together project where we spend our afternoons sitting at the common table on the pedestrian street, looming pieces of tapestry with the guidance of yayades (grannies) while the local kids play around. The people of Victoria Square Project want to highlight that art and culture should not be separated from the community. This is the path to building an inclusive and open-minded place to live.
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A well-cooked pita, a juicy burger, tomato, and onion are a unique and tasty combination. It is the epitome of delicious simplicity.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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My two favorites are Sfakianopita with honey and the famous Dakos. Every plate is cooked in olive oil with lots of rosemary.
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In addition to ramen (my favourite is the Classic Shoyu), you can taste excellent sushi and try several other traditional dishes.
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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.
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"Prigkiponisia" is one of my favorite pastry shops in Palaio Faliro, Athens. They're well known for their tsoureki bread & ice cream
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"Koukaki", the neighborhood in the center of Athens, is my favorite neighborhood anywhere in the world! Just come explore -- you won't regret it...
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"The Clumsies" in Athens - my personal 'love at first sight'. This bar is different: let the world-class bartenders charm you with their cocktails...
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