Discover History & Art at the Museum of the City of Athens
The ``Old`` Palace
Despite its elegant aesthetic, the building also gained historical significance due to fortunate circumstances. When King Otto arrived in Athens in 1834, he initially stayed at the residence of Chian banker Alexandros Kontostavlos, located between Stadiou and Kolokotroni streets. However, as this primarily wooden structure was deemed unsuitable for the royal couple, Otto rented the Dekozis-Vouros mansion in 1836, following his marriage to Duchess Amalia of Oldenburg (1818-1875).
To accommodate the royal household, Otto also rented the neighboring Afthonidis and Mastronikolas residences (which no longer exist today). The buildings were connected by a bridge designed by Bavarian architect Hoch, while Amalia transformed the area in front of the residences into a garden, which later became today’s Klafthmonos Square. That same year, the royal mint and seal office were established in the northeastern part of the block, further elevating the significance of the Dekozis-Vouros mansion.
meeting point
⏳ Duration: 3 hours 10.00 a.m.
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