Kolokotronis Square
The Kolokotronis Square was associated with Greek parliamentary history for almost a century.
Parliamentary life of Greece as an independent state begins in 1843 with the prevalence of the Revolution of September 3rd, which terminates the period of absolute monarchy and establishes constitutional rule. The need for a suitable seat for the national delegation in Athens, capital city since 1834, is urgent.
The former Kontostavlos’ mansion was initially selected. Built in 1833 in a large garden between Stadiou, Kolokotronis, Anthimou Gazi and Christou Lada streets (in the area of today’s Kolokotronis square),The big octagonal banquet hall of the mansion was used for over a decade (1843-1854) as a meeting hall for Parliament and Senate. In 1854 this first House of Parliament was destroyed by fire.During the construction works for the new building of the Parliament, the assembly convened in a temporary construction, in an adjacent space on the west side of the current square (ie. near Anthimou Gazi street), which became known as the “Paranga” (“Shack”).