Almost the first shop in Pandrossou street market going from Monastiraki square is the cork wooden staff shop. There is no tradition of cork wooden things in Athens. However, cork wood is a material that is often used in various crafts and products, such as coasters, bulletin boards, ornaments, and even jewellery. It is a natural, sustainable, and renewable material, making it a popular choice for eco-friendly products. In Athens, there may be shops or artisan markets where you can find wooden cork products, but I do not have information on a specific tradition of cork wooden things in the city.
On the other hand, there is a tradition of crafting various objects out of olive wood, which is prized for its beauty and durability. Olive wood is known for its unique and intricate grain patterns, ranging from light to dark, and its resistance to rot and decay. This makes it an ideal material for various objects, from kitchen utensils like cutting boards and spoons to decorative items like bowls, vases, and jewellery boxes.
Olive wood has been used in Greece for thousands of years and was even used in ancient times to make weapons, tools, and furniture. Recently, the tradition of olive wood crafting has been passed down from generation to generation. The skilled artisans in Athens are renowned for their intricate and beautiful work.
Many shops in Athens offer a wide range of olive wood products, from hand-carved utensils to intricate jewellery pieces. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or a functional household item, you're sure to find something that catches your eye in the olive wood shops of Athens.
A walking trip through the streets of Athens can be a fantastic way to dive into the rich history of this ancient city. Here is a trial that explores some of the most exciting sites in Athens:
Start at Athina Avenue and head towards Monastiraki Street. This lively street is lined with shops and street vendors selling various goods, including souvenirs, clothing, and jewellery.
Take a stroll down the lane and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace. From Monastiraki Street, continue to the Plaka neighbourhood, one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Athens. The Plaka is known for its narrow, winding streets, picturesque houses, and traditional Greek tavernas. Visit the old house of the Venizelos family, a historic building once the home of the famous Greek politician Eleftherios Venizelos.
From the Plaka, head up to the Anafiotika district, a charming neighbourhood built on the slopes of the Acropolis. Here you can visit some of the most delicious restaurants in Athens, offering traditional Greek cuisine and breathtaking views of the city.
After exploring the Anafiotika district, make your way to the southern slope of the Acropolis, where you can see the ruins of the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and the Theatre of Dionysus.
End your walking trip by visiting the Areopagus and Pnyx Hills, two historic sites located just outside the city centre. The Areopagus Hill was once a seat of the judicial court in ancient Athens and is also associated with the spread of Christianity into Greece. Pnyx Hill was the location of the assembly of the people, where citizens gathered to discuss and vote on important political matters. From these two hills, you will see breathtaking views of the city in the sunset and gain a deeper understanding of its rich history and cultural heritage.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
