Omonoia Square 5.36

Omonoia Square is a central square in Athens. It marks the northern corner of the downtown area defined by the city plans of the 19th century, and is one of the city's principal traffic hubs. It is served by Omonoia train station.Omonoia Square is one of the oldest squares in the city of Athens and an important shopping centre. It is located at the center of the city at the intersection of six main streets: Panepistimiou, Stadiou, Athinas, Peiraios, Agiou Konstantinou and 3rd Septemvriou.NameThe Square was constructed in 1846 and its original name was “Plateia Anaktoron” because, according to the initial urban plan of Athens in 1834 proposed by the architects Stamatios Kleanthis and Eduard Schaubert, the area was intended to be used for the construction of the palace . Later, the square was renamed “Othonos Square” in honor of King Otto. After Otto was deposed, in 1862 it took its final name, “Omonoia Square”, because it was here that the leaders of the opposing political factions gave the oath of peace to stop hostilities.History of design changesAt the end of the 19th century the Square underwent several formative changes. Trees were placed throughout the Square, a polygonal platform was placed at the center of the square and lighting systems were installed. Omonoia Square was a center where people met and social life thrived as it was the railway’s starting point,and was also surrounded by numerous hotels.