Athens is shaking things up. The upcoming Aenaon Metropolitan Park in Faliro has officially entered its development phase, unveiled during a formal event featuring Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Defense Minister Nikos Dendias, Attica Governor Nikos Hardalias, and other municipal representatives. A once-overlooked area near the coast is on track to transform into a city landmark.
Project Highlights
- Start Date for Construction: January 2025
- Expected Completion: 2028
- Size: 570 acres
- Green Coverage: 75%
Governor Nikos Hardalias, clearly proud, labelled the initiative as a “model attraction and recreation hub.” He didn’t shy away from reminding everyone of the project’s challenges before this turning point, crediting team efforts for reinstating progress.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis celebrated the park as a “window to the sea” for Athens, emphasizing its role in redefining urban life. “Imagine a coastal city turning its back on its unique advantage, the coast—this is what we’re changing,” he remarked. He promised collaboration with regional authorities to keep everything on schedule for 2028.
Phase Breakdown
The transformation covers two distinct steps:
Phase One:
- Budget: €109 million
- Completed Tasks: Relocation of Poseidonos Avenue, funded by the 2014–2022 EU program.
Phase Two:
- Budget: €370 million
- Tasks: Park construction, supported by the “Environment and Climate Change” EU program. Other funded projects include electrical upgrades between Crete and Athens and flood defence infrastructure for the broader region.
What Will Aenaon Include?
- 4,000 trees and 185,000 shrubs.
- Walkways, bike paths, and pedestrian bridges.
- Metal pavilions and renovated structures.
- Five main pedestrian axes connect the park to urban zones.
Photovoltaic panels will reduce energy needs for sustainability, while a new water reclamation centre will support irrigation.
Entertainment and Sports Additions
Aenaon gets serious with its amenities:
- Outdoor spaces for cultural events.
- Summer cinema and performance areas.
- A marina and aquatic pools doubling as open canals.
- Tennis courts, mini soccer fields, and even a beach volleyball venue ready to host concerts.
Expect places to grab a coffee or indulge: think snack bars, casual eateries, and more.
Aenaon’s Lofty Goals, Explained
One of the collaborators, architect Ivy Nanopoulou, described it as reconnecting Athens with the sea. Her vision involves lush green spaces, open water features, and an inviting seaside destination.
Nanopoulou elaborated further: “Four main interventions bring this vision alive—broad bridges, entry pathways, water channels, and a linear urban park connecting to the coastal area.”
What’s Next?
Aenaon marks a significant turn for Athens, and residents can now anticipate a space dedicated to relaxation, sports, and cultural engagement. It promises free entry, accessibility for all, and round-the-clock access.
Stay tuned; Faliro won’t look—or feel—the same.
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