Pandrossou Street Market

The Pandrossou Street Market Event in the Plaka, the heart of Athens, was the farewell event for the TBEX participants, organized by the shop owners in cooperation with municipal and cultural institutions from the city of Athens.

When leaving the Metro station Monastiraki we experience rhythmic drum-sounds which set the place into vibration. The group African Heritage of Greece plays the enthusiastic audience almost into trance.

However, we came for the Pandrossou Street Market event which takes place in the adjacent Pandrossou Street, the main shopping area of Plaka. In the 110 small shops both traditional items and souvenirs and antiques are offered. Food and drinks are served as well.

We are captivated by the colors that radiate from the shops and the tempting aroma of the spices in the street. A young man offers free water to the people passing by. Shortly afterwards, a crowd of people gather around a friendly lady from a clothes shop who invites to a raki.

We couldn’t pass without tasting. The restaurant next door provides us with a taste of Greek cooking.

In front of a craft business, a pottery artist creates beautiful jugs with great dexterity from unsightly clay lumps, in a short time.

At the entrance of a shopping arcade, a dog feels a little disturbed by of the crowds of people and walks away on the street.

The reason for the rush of people is found quickly, red wine is served here.

On the first floor of the passage there is a restaurant from which windows one has a beautiful view of the Acropolis.

In the next cross street, traditional Pittas are made by Meliarto Shop in front of our eyes. Passers-by are invited to roll the thin dough.

Shortly before the cathedral we enjoy the excellent performance of the Greek Music Ensemble of the City of Athens.

We left the event overwhelmed by the many impressions, even if we still have not seen everything and are impressed by the optimistic atmosphere which Athens radiates again. Even more impressed us the warm hospitality extended to all of us by the city and we would like to express our special thanks to the people of Athens at this point.

The Pandrossou Street Market event will be remembered for a long time.

Disclosure: We were kindly invited by the City of Athens and as always, all opinions about our experiences are our own.

See also: TBEX 2014 Athens – Opening Night Party

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