In an effort to safeguard the cultural and architectural heritage of central Athens, Mayor Haris Doukas has established a dedicated Task Force for the Historic Center, with initial focus on the Plaka district — one of the city's oldest and most iconic neighborhoods.
“It is our duty to preserve the identity and character of our unique historic center,” said Mayor Doukas. “We are beginning with Plaka, the 'neighborhood of the gods,' which serves as a living archive of Athens’ cultural heritage. Combating illegality and unchecked commercialization of these areas is a top priority, so we can pass on a meaningful legacy to future generations.”
Recent inspections by the Municipal Police revealed numerous violations, particularly the illegal commercial use of rooftops, which is explicitly prohibited for food and beverage operations.
In response, the city will intensify inspections to ensure compliance with zoning laws, noise regulations, and proper usage of buildings in the district.
The task force will also monitor the impact of short-term rentals on the historic center, acknowledging growing concerns about their effect on neighborhood character and housing availability.
To support this initiative, the city is launching a Historic Center Office, located at the Municipal Police station in Varvakeios Square.
Citizens will be able to submit complaints or report issues related to the preservation and use of the historic core, facilitating faster and more targeted responses.
The task force will be chaired by the Deputy General Director of Technical Services and will include directors from multiple city departments, including Municipal Police, Sanitation and Recycling, Urban Planning, Roads and Drainage, Public Spaces, Electrical Services, Urban Design, and Municipal Revenue.
The initiative represents a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach to protecting one of Athens’ most treasured areas amid ongoing urban and tourism pressures.