Spring the Acb Mag Is a Quarterly Publication of the Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company

SPRING THE ACB MAG IS A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE ATHENS TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

ACB MAG ATHENS TOURISM AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

PRODUCTION Editorial Director PRESIDENT Giorgos Salamas Aikaterini Katsabe LIVANIS PUBLISHING ORGANIZATION 98, Solonos Street, 106 80 Athens. CEO DESIGN DIRECTORS T. 210 36 61 200, F. 210 36 17 791 Panagiotis Arkoumaneas Charalambos Andreanidis www.livanis.gr Angie Paragoulia DIRECTOR, ATHENS CONVENTION BUREAU

EDITORIAL TEAM George N. Angelis Nikolas Dervenoulas DIRECTOR, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT Sakis Dimitrakopoulos Manolis Psarros ©ACB mag. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or trans- PHOTOGRAPHY PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR mitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, pho- Aggeliki Panagiotou Katerina Papadopoulou tocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company. Dimitris Koilalous

TRANSLATION PROOFREADING Where opinion is expressed it is that of the authors and does not necessarily coincide with the editorial views of the publisher of Danae Seemann CONTACT the ACB mag. All information in this magazine is verified to the 7 Xenofontos Street, Syntagma, best of the authors’ and the publisher’s ability. However, the ACB 105 57 Athens, Greece mag does not accept responsibility for any loss arising from reli- T. +30 210 32 53 123, F. +30 210 32 16 653 ance on it. E. [email protected] www.athensconventionbureau.gr

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editorial5FrontlinesATEDCo News 6events calendarUPCOMING CONFERENCES march - may9 case studiesopen access14upcoming conferencesairport cities16interviewgeorgios tsakiris 20 venuesathinais cultural centre24case studiespreparing for the upturn 28 museumsnational archaeological museum 32hotelsdivani caravel36locationsthe byzantine estate40 upcoming conferencesthe athens summit 200944airportatedcO INFOKIOSK48

TRANSPORTATIONORGANISED BUS TOUR SERVICES50DAYTRIPMARATHON54CULTURESPRING CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS58

FOODESSENCE OF GREECE62

3 4

p/32 national archaeological museum

p/6 ATEDCo News EDITORIAL Panagiotis Arkoumaneas CEO / Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company

Dear readers, p/36 divani caravel hotel Spring is considered by many to be the best time in Athens. The weather is remarkably pleasant and the ambience of the city is filled with joy. It is the p/09 upcoming ideal time to combine a conference or a meeting with some inspiring city conferences exploration.

In this issue, you will read about the latest developments concerning meetings and conventions in Athens; you will learn about recent and future congresses being held in Athens; and we will present some appealing options in accommodation and conference locations. The issue also features a very informative interview about the current situation in Athenian tourism with Mr. Georgios Tsakiris, president of the Athens-Attica Hotel Association.

spring Cultural p/58 Furthermore, you will learn about the cultural highlights scheduled to take Highlights place in Athens during the spring.

p/16 airport cities Enjoy your reading and we look forward to seeing you in Athens.

p/62 essence of greece

p/24 athinais 5 cultural centre 6 FRONTLINES

ATEDCo News

ATEDCo Highlights Activities at 9th Airline Marketing Workshop 2009, February 19 Because of the difficult conditions ATEDCo CEO Panagiotis Arkou- being created in the world tour- maneas outlined the company's ism sector by the economic crisis, programme and plan of activities Athens Featured in Associa- ATEDCo is intensifying its efforts, to promote Athens as a city break tion of British Travel Agents enhancing already planned ac- and convention destination at the (ΑΒΤΑ) Annual Catalogue tivities to promote Athens in the 9th Airline Marketing Workshop. 2009, February 11 American, Italian, French and Ger- The 9th Airline Marketing Work- ATEDCo made a thorough presen- man markets, as well as in the do- shop was staged by the Athens In- tation of the tourism product and mestic and Cypriot market, so that ternational Airport at the Athens the competitive advantages of a strong position for Athens in the Little Palace Theatre. Extensive Athens in the Association of British international tourism market can reference was made to ATEDCo's Travel Agents (ABTA) Annual Mem- be ensured. efforts to promote Athens through bers' Catalogue for 2009. WEB2.0 and social networking ap- The goal of this effort, combined ATEDCo CEO Panagiotis plications, as well as the particular with extensive promotion of Ath- Arkoumaneas addresses importance of marketing destina- ens in ATEDCo publications during 5th IMIC in Athens tions through the Internet. the World Travel Market tourism 2009, February 4 trade show in London and the ATEDCo CEO Panagiotis Arkouma- Dionyssia 2009, with the mailing of ATEDCo's specialised neas was among the speakers to Support of ATEDCo magazine, Breathtaking mag, to address the 5th International Meet- 2009, February 18 85,000 travel agents in Great Brit- ings and Incentives Conference at With the support of ATEDCO, Dio- ain and the United States through the Athinais Conference Centre in nyssia were hosted this year at the ABTA, is to enhance the image of Votanikos. Zappeion Exhibition Centre in Ath- Athens in these markets. The topic of the 5th International ens, 20-22 February. Dionyssia is Given that the British market Conference was "Selling Destina- Greece's top consumer wine show; makes up 20% of incoming tour- tions, Venues and Services: Supplier it hosted 150 national wine-mak- ism to Greece and is one of the Perspectives - Customer Demands." ers, numerous Greek importers of five largest markets for Athens, The conference was supported by wine, and featured 1,500 wines to ATEDCo is developing specific and the City of Athens and the Athens the public. targeted strategies with multiple Convention Bureau. benefits for tourism in Athens through ABTA. It is worth noting MAD TV Gets Award for Video that following its merger with Clip Supported by ATEDCo the Federation of Tour Operators 2009, February 2 in 2008, ABTA now represents MAD TV was recognised at the the majority of tourism and travel New York Festivals 2009 Interna- agencies in Great Britain and is tional Television Programming emerging as the most significant & Promotion Awards, earning a player in that country's outgoing Silver Award for its "MAD Live in tourism. Athens" show that featured Good 7 8 FRONTLINES EVENTS CALENDAR

Charlotte during a live performance with the Acropolis in the background. As part of its efforts to bolster Successful Participation of activities that promote Athens the Athens Convention Bu- abroad, ATEDCo supported a reau (ACB) at EIBTM 2008 series of musical events under 2008, December 8 the title "MAD Live in Athens," The Athens Convention Bureau's whose goal it was to stage major (ACB) first ever participation in concerts with the Acropolis as a The Khakassian delegation in- the Global Meetings and Incen- backdrop. cluded the Mayor of Abakan, the tives Exhibition EIBTM 2008 was It is worth noting that the Silver republic's capital, as well as com- a resounding success. EIBTM Award in this category was given petent officials from the Minis- took place in Barcelona from 2 to atedco CEO Panagiotis Arkoumaneas to CNN last year for its show titled tries of Tourism and Culture and 4 December. ACB's managers had "Larry King: 50 Years of Pop Culture," important figures from the coun- more than 60 planned and un- which showcased Larry King's 50- try's academic community. The planned meetings with hosted year broadcasting career. tourism product of Athens was buyers and trade visitors, repre- presented in detail during the sentatives of international asso- Aikaterini Katsabe Named meeting, as was ATEDCo's func- ciations, conference organisers New President of ATEDCo tion as the city's official tourism (PCOs), multinational compa- 2009, January 26 agency. An extensive discussion nies, destination management Following a decision by Ath- took place at the conclusion of companies (DMCs) from more ens Mayor Nikitas Kaklamanis, the meeting on issues related to than 30 countries from Europe, Athens City Council Member tourism development and desti- the Americas, Asia and Australia. Aikaterini Katsabe was named nation management, in addition president of ATEDCo. She is also to the particular characteristics Welcome Speech of ATEDCo's president of Elpis General Prefec- of the two destinations. CEO at the opening of the tural Hospital. It should be noted that ATEDCo, Exporama Show City Council Secretary Dionysis through its networking and ex- 2008, December 6 Papadogonas was named AT- change of expertise programme, Panagiotis Arkoumaneas, ATEDCo UPCOMING CONFERENCES EDCo vice-president and Panagi- presents plans and activities that CEO, made a welcome speech otis Arkoumaneas remains as showcase Athens as a leading at the opening of the Exporama March-May ATEDCo CEO. tourism designation to interna- Show, which took place on Satur- tional delegations and represen- day, 6 December, at the Helexpo ATEDCo Meets with Repre- tatives of tourism organisations Palace in Maroussi. The Expora- 1st Green IT Conference 9th European Congress on Clinical and Economic sentatives of the Republic of from all over the world (the Mid- ma Show is the only show which 17 March, Dais Cultural and Conference Centre Aspects of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis Khakassia dle East, China, South Korea and focuses exclusively on the Con- The Directorate of Information Technology is facing 18 - 21 March, Megaron Athens International 2009, January 20 Russia, among others). ference and Exhibition market challenges on two fronts: the dropping economic indi- Conference Centre As part of its programme for in South-eastern Europe and the cators and the steadily rising cost of energy. Added to The objective of ECCEO 9, being held under the auspices international networking and Kostas Markopoulos Named Eastern Mediterranean region. these is the continuing internal struggle on a business of the European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects exchange of expertise, ATEDCo New Minister of Tourism The objective of the show is to level striving to achieve a more efficient and economical of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis, the International Os- held a special presentation for 2009, January 8 distinguish the whole region in operation. The goal of the Green IT Conference is to help teoporosis Foundation and the Group for the Respect of representatives of the Republic Greek MP Kostas Markopoulos general as the ideal destination Information Technology Directorates develop an inte- Ethics and Excellence in Science, is to provide practitio- of Khakassia at the organisa- assumed his ministerial duties for conferences and exhibitions, grated "green" strategy consisting of technological solu- ners with the latest clinical and economic information, tion's offices on 20 January. Thursday, 8 January, during a promoting its infrastructure, tions to issues of infrastructure as well as management allowing them to organise their daily practice in an evi- handover ceremony marking companies and organisations. practices to ensure the maximum benefits to business. dence-based medicine perspective with a cost-conscious the changing of the guard at the perception. Ministry of Tourism. 9 10 EVENTS CALENDAR

WebSci'09: Society On-Line 18 - 20 March, Cultural Centre of the Foundation of the Hellenic World 6th International Web Science focuses on understanding, FT Global Events - Conference of the Hellenic designing and developing the technolo- Planning for the Upturn Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry gies and applications that make up the 2 April, Athens Chamber of Commerce 3 - 5 April, Hotel Grande The workshop constitutes an opportunity World Wide Web. But the WWW does not and Industry Headquarters, Athens Bretagne, Athens to bring together theoretical conceptu- 14th International Conference of exist without the participation of people FT Global Events, in association with the The topics of the 6th International Confer- alisations and practical applications of the A.P.P.A.C. "Neuropsychiatric, and organisations. Now that a significant Athens Chamber of Commerce and Indus- ence, as at past conferences, will be drawn Images of Virtuality manifest in human Psychological and Social Develop- proportion of everyday life is spent on-line 3rd Sales Executives Conference try and C&C International Group of com- from clinical issues faced by professionals interaction with information, social, pro- ments in a Globalised World" in many countries, it makes sense for the 3 April, Hotel Pentelikon, Kifissia panies, is pleased to present a unique con- on a daily basis. Renowned foreign guests, fessional and technological systems, art, 5 - 8 May, Hilton Hotel, Athens firstW eb Science conference organised by The 3rd Sales Executives Conference will ference focused on the steps that need to as well as Greek speakers, will objectively culture and nature. The 14th International Conference will be the Web Science Research Initiative (WSRI) take place on April 3 at Hotel Pentelikon, be taken to drive the upturn in Greece. and responsibly present the knowledge both European and global, both with re- and the Foundation of the Hellenic World urging sales executives to "Think alterna- This 1½-day event will be held on the eve- and clinical experience gained in their own Airport Cities - World gard to the theme of the Conference and (FHW) to be dedicated to the presentation tively and give energy to your sales." Over ning of Wednesday 1st April and through- field of specialisation to the participants. Conference & Exhibition the participation from all over the world. It of research into society on the Web. 250 sales directors, managers and ex- out the whole day on Thursday 2 April at The programme for the 6th International 27 - 29 April, Hilton Hotel, Athens will bring together international and local ecutives, as well as general managers are the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Conference is characterised by a markedly The Airport Cities World Conference & Ex- experts with diverse backgrounds to ad- 12th Conference of the European expected to attend the event. Presenta- Industry Headquarters in Athens. clinical approach and will focus on aes- hibition's primary aim is to provide a forum dress a wide variety of topics of significant Chapter of the Association for tions and workshops will focus on crucial thetic dentistry and dental implants. for airport-related management issues, a interest in mental health. In addition, an Computational Linguistics sales issues, including the current global 5th Thought Leaders International vehicle for airports to promote and market important aspect of the conference will be 30 March - 3 April, Megaron Athens financial recession and possible ways to Conference on Brand Management 2nd International Conference themselves and a direct route for suppliers linking science with profession, providing International Conference Centre overcome it. This year’s keynote speaker 6 -7 April, St George Lycabettus Hotel, on Mediterranean Studies of products and services to airports. plenty of opportunities for academic inter- The 12th Conference of the European will be Dan Clark, CEO of Clark Success Athens 9 -12 April, Athens change and experience sharing, especially Chapter of the Association for Computa- Systems, a consulting, publishing and en- This international conference seeks to en- The aim of the conference is to bring to- 3rd International Congress of since Psychology is a profession that has tional Linguistics (EACL-09) covers a broad tertainment corporation, and New York gender the advancement of knowledge gether scholars, researchers and students Rhinology - Otology and Skull grown out of science. spectrum of disciplines working towards Times best selling author. about brand management amongst schol- from all areas of Mediterranean studies, Base Surgery Current Concepts enabling intelligent systems to interact ars by disseminating new research and by such as history, arts, archaeology, philoso- 7 - 10 May, Divani Apollon Palace & SPA International Conference on New with humans using natural language, Cardio Athena 2009 - International encouraging the evolution of new research phy, culture, sociology, politics, interna- Vouliagmeni, Athens Media and Information: and towards enhancing human-human Meeting on Cardiovascular Medicine themes. It also aims to narrow the gap tional relations, economics, business and This is the third in a series of international Convergences and Divergences communication through services such as 3 - 4 April, Divani Caravel Hotel, between academia and commerce by hav- sports. Special sessions will be devoted meetings related to Rhinology-Otology 6 - 9 May, Megaron Athens Interna- speech recognition, automatic transla- Athens ing presentations from internationally re- to Middle Eastern and the eastern Medi- and Skull Base Surgery - Current Concepts tional Conference Centre, Athens tion, information retrieval, text summari- The CARDIO ATHENA 2009 is an effort to nowned practitioners whose significant se- terranean countries. Panel organisers are that is offered through the Department of The conference objective is to address sation and information extraction. enhance the interchange of emerging new nior experience is regarded as being at the encouraged to submit their proposals by Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery questions related to digital communica- information on the diagnosis, prevention cutting edge of application. Parallel tracks inviting other scholars that do research in of the University of Athens. tion and its significance in the public do- ECOWEEK 2009 Empowering Youth: and treatment of cardiovascular disease. of double blind refereed papers will enable the area. This meeting is designed to provide in- main, as they are both being shaped by Ecology + Leadership + Architec- During these two days. participants will authors to gain constructive comments depth understanding of the pathophysi- states and politics, technologies, business ture International Conference have the opportunity to attend sessions about their papers and extend their knowl- The IFIP WG9.5 "Virtuality and ology and treatment options for patients activity, publishing initiatives and com- 31 March – 6 April, Athinais with the participation of world experts edge horizon from other researchers. Society" International suffering from pathologies of the respec- munities of citizens who utilise the Inter- conference centre who are pioneers in the field of Cardiovas- Workshop on Images of tive anatomic areas. A world class faculty, net and mobile means of communication. The conference is open to young architects, cular Research. Through lectures, round Virtuality: Conceptualisations and international leaders in their field and It will explore the relationships among designers and landscape architects and table discussions and satellite symposia, Applications in Everyday Life decision-makers will exchange scientific new media and modes of information, the professionals of other disciplines, and grad- the meeting offers an outstanding sci- 23 - 24 April, Athens University of information on the most up-to-date ad- conflict and convergence with traditional uate students from Greece and abroad. The entific programme featuring both state- Economics and Business, Athens vances in these fields of specialty. forms of information and the socio-eco- conference will include public lectures and of-the-art knowledge and innovative ap- The main objective of this workshop is to nomic consequences of these processes. screening of documentaries and will be proaches in cardiovascular medicine. This encourage the continuation and enrich- open and free to the general public. meeting is expected to be valuable, both ment of the discussion on virtuality and in terms of everyday clinical practice and society by focusing more on the technolo- advanced research. gies, arts, and practices of virtuality as they emerge in areas and contexts of everyday life. 11 12 EVENTS CALENDAR

6th International Conference on High Temperature Capillarity 4th International 6 - 9 May, Metropolitan Hotel, Symposium on Environment Athens 21 -24 May, Athens International Conference on Computer HTC Conferences aim at issues linked to The aim of the conference is to bring together Graphics and Artificial Intelligence surfaces and interfaces, wetting and cap- scholars and students of environment from 29 - 30 May, Technological Educational illarity phenomena, specifically related to 1st International Conference on all disciplines, such as Education, Biology, Institute of Athens (TEI), Athens materials as well as to materials process- Mobile Lightweight Wireless Systems Chemistry, Geology, Economics, Geography, The aim of the 3IA Conference is to present ing at elevated temperatures. 18– 20 May, Vouliagmeni, Athens History, Political Science, Communications, the actual state of research of computer The HTC-2009 conference will host a spe- 5th International Greek Wireless communications are becoming Environmental Health, Environmental Law graphics researchers who use artificial in- cial session dedicated to the role of "Capil- Biotechnology Forum increasingly pervasive, as the number and and Justice and Government Policy. Areas telligence techniques. larity on Crystal Growth," chaired by Prof. 8 - 9 May, Zappeion Megaron, Athens diffusion of portable wireless-equipped of interest include (but are not confined Topics include: T. Duffar, and will include invited, oral and The 5th International Greek Biotechnol- devices is exponentially increasing (rang- to): Energy, Waste and Recycling, Water Re- NESA Days in Athens: Congress of the • Artificial intelligence techniques in con- poster presentations. ogy Forum, organised by the Society for ing from cellular phones to handheld search Engineering, Biological Treatment of New European Surgical Academy struction of geometric figures Biotechnology, Biosciences and Culture, game console, from personal digital as- Water, Water Quality Engineering, Manage- 28 - 30 May, Aegli Zappeion, Athens • Artificial intelligence techniques in scene Approach to Pleural will once again bring together the crème sistants and personal navigation devices ment, Water Quality Modelling, Treatment NESA has already reached its academic modelling Cancer: State-of-the-Art de la crème of the bio-scientific and bio- to still and video cameras). This has re- Management Strategies Relevant to Water, targets by bringing together doctors from • Computer graphics and machine learning 7 - 8 May, New Amphitheatre, Athens business world. The two-day event will sulted in an unprecedented request for Surface Quality Control, Quality Control of different surgical specialties. The main • Declarative techniques in scene modelling University - Main Building, Athens host some of the most important research lightweight, wireless communication de- Water, Development of Tools for Controlling benefit from the interdisciplinary exchange • Scene properties description techniques The audience will be informed with up- and scientific developments concerning vices with high usability and performance Water Quality, Atmospheric Pollution, Soil of experience, especially in technical inno- • Intelligent visualisation to-date understanding of concepts of bio-medicine (Red biotech), agro-biotech- able to support added-value services in a Pollution, the Economy of Nature, Politics vations, is the development of new ideas • Intelligent methods for exploring virtual pathogenesis as well as practical guides nology, biofuels, environmental biotech- highly mobile environment, able to fol- and Science, Petroleum Waste Manage- that can be used by each of us in our own worlds to management of pleural malignancies, nology (Green & White biotech) and their low the user everywhere he goes (work, ment and Natural Methods of Controlling specialty. We have planned a very stimulat- • Intelligent collaborative design allowing participants to gain insight and commercial applications. home, while travelling, in the classroom), Pollution. ing program, covering the latest innovative • Design of intelligent graphic interfaces confidence in the care of patients with but also in opening exciting research, de- surgical methods, such as the natural ori- • Behavioural animation pleural cancers. A European School of On- 3rd International velopment and business opportunities. 11th International fice surgical approach, and the up-to-date • Animation and artificial intelligence cology course on malignant mesothelio- Conference on Sociology Conference on Education pharmaceutical advances. Moreover, the • Scene understanding ma was first held in Brussels in 2007 and 11 - 14 May, Athens 7th International Conference on 25 -28 May, Athens junior doctors will have the chance to pres- • Semantics-based approaches in design was considered successful. By expanding The aim of the conference is to bring to- Communication and Mass Media The aim of the conference is to bring to- ent their scientific papers, videos and post- • Decision support systems in design the programme to other pleural malig- gether scholars and students from all 18 -21 May, Athens gether scholars and students of Educa- ers and participate in a special workshop • Knowledge-based design and rendering nancies, awareness and management areas of Sociology, Criminal Justice and The aim of the conference is to bring to- tion and other related disciplines. A special on the optimal approach to scientific writ- • Intelligent Computational aesthetics standard for patients with malignant Social Work. gether scholars and students of Commu- track will be devoted to Modern Chinese ing. This year, the NESA Congress will join • Application of AI techniques in CAD and pleural diseases will be raised. nications, Mass Media and other related Educational Studies. the 5th Breast Symposium, which will be GIS Athens Summit on Energy disciplines. Past conferences drew partici- a wonderful opportunity to promote the • Intelligent CG applications in bioinformat- 9th International Conference on Security & Climate Change pants from five continents and more than 24th Annual Meeting of the European multidisciplinary approach to science and ics & medical informatics Sports: Economic, Management, 12 - 13 May, Hilton Hotel, Athens 50 countries, presenting papers on diverse Association of the Cardio-Thoracic clinical practice. Marketing and Social Aspects Hosted by FT Global Events in association topics such as political communication, EU Anaesthesiologists (EACTA) 5th Congress of the International 8– 11 May, Athens with the Institute for Climate and Energy enlargement, website design, cross-media 27 - 30 May, Divani Carvel Hotel, Federation of Neuroendoscopy The aim of the conference is to bring to- Security and C&C International, the sum- ownership, war correspondence, cultural Athens 31 May - 3 June, Hotel Grande Bretagne, gether scholars and students of econom- mit will bring together senior governmen- studies, film, public relations, telecom- The programme will feature the latest ad- Athens ics, management, marketing, tourism, tal officials, corporate leaders, financiers munication policy, advertising, agenda vances in Cardio-Thoracic and Vascular An- The congress will consist of informative recreation, leisure and other service in- and experts to debate and discuss how the setting, juvenile audience preferences, and aesthesia and Intensive Care, incorporat- sessions, state-of-the-art lectures, interac- dustries to identify areas of common re- twin goals of energy security and manag- cross-national communication, among ing lectures, oral and poster presentations, tive discussions and events, which will be search issues as well as methodological ing climate change can be achieved to the others. round table discussions and industry-spon- conducted by distinguished invited speak- and analytical differences. benefit of all. sored symposia. ers. In the context of this congress, we This is the second event of its kind with shall discuss most aspects of indications, last year's conference attracting more procedures and outcomes of Neuroendos- than 800 attendees. copy. Our scientific programme will cover the hottest topics of our specialty, including recent developments and therapeutic methods. 13 14 case studies

New principles for organizing and disseminating scientific knowledge: EKT's International Conference on Open Access

Advisor to the Secretary for Digital Plan- ning Yannis Larios presented the initiatives of the Greek Ministry of Economy and Fi- Repositories and Open Access Journals nance on open access. The representative were in the spotlight at the International • The international research community of the European Commission, Dr Kyriakos Conference "Open Access Infrastructures: called for open access to scientific re- Baxevanidis, referred to the development the Future of Scientific Communication" search as a way of intensifying research of ICT infrastructures that enable Euro- that was successfully hosted by the Greek for public benefit; pean researchers to produce high-level National Documentation Centre (EKT) • Open access to scientific research is be- results, deposit and disseminate them on December 15-16, 2008, in Athens. The coming a requirement for research con- through open access tools. Chris Bird, rep- Conference (www.openaccess.gr/conducted with public funds, and gradually resenting The Wellcome Trust, the largest ference2008) attracted more than 300 a precondition for private funding of re- private funding organization on biomedi- stakeholders that lead the development search; cal research in the UK, presented the or- of these new open-access principles for ganisation's open access policy. Director organising and disseminating scientific • Developments towards open access are of SPARC Europe (Scholarly Publishing knowledge worldwide. positive in all countries and research organisations, especially as its financial and Academic Resources Coalition) David In recent years, there has been an increas- implications and general benefits are be- Prosser elaborated on the international ing interest from the scientific community coming better understood with time; developments of Repositories and Open in the development of alternative tools to Access Journals. ensure the dissemination and the most • Numerous intellectual property issues Dr Evi Sachini, Head of EKT's Strategic efficient exploitation of scientific results. have yet to be tackled in the effort to put Planning & Development Department, Open Access is an initiative of the aca- past and current research in the public presented the Repositories and Open Ac- demic and research community for free, domain; cess Journals that EKT is developing as immediate, permanent, online access to • Greece has made important advances part of the project "National Information digital scientific material. Following in- towards open access; however, an in- System for Research and Technology - ternational trends, ΕΚΤ has developed na- tegrated web portal is needed, as well Open Access Electronic Repositories and tional open access infrastructures aiming as coordination of efforts of all parties Journals." The infrastructures operate in at providing open access to scientific and involved. an interactive digital environment for dis- cultural material: the Repository Helios of The keynote speaker, Prof. Jean-Claude seminating knowledge, thus overcom- the National Hellenic Research Founda- Guédon (Department of Comparative ing any geographical or technical barrier. tion, Repositories for the Humanities and Literature, University of Montreal, Vice- They run on open-source software and are Health Sciences, the National Archive of President of the Canadian Society for the managed in collaboration with scientific PhD Theses, as well as international Open Humanities and Social Sciences) stressed and research organisations. Access Scientific Journals. that open access "returns" the knowledge Information on open access, relevant na- During the conference, academics, reproduced to a broader audience and to tional and international policies, activities searchers, publishers from Europe and the scientists themselves. Open Access of the National Documentation Centre, North America, as well as representatives gives control of knowledge dissemina- as well as events and news from Greece from the European Commission presented tion to the scientific community, instead and the world are now available at www. views and experiences, and raised impor- of the few existing companies that now openaccess.gr. The presentations of the tant questions on open access infrastruc- profit through high-cost subscriptions to speakers, video and photos from the con- tures and the related emerging prospects journals. ference are available on the website of scholarly communication. The follow- www.openaccess.gr/conference2008. ing are the highlights of presentations and 15 discussions at the conference: 16 upcoming conferences

AIRPORT CITIES WORLD CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION

Airport CEO Speakers confirmed • Yiannis Paraschis, CEO, Athens International Airport SA • Desmond Shum, Vice Chairman & CEO, Airport City Development Company Ltd, Beijing • Wilhelm Bender, Chairman of the Executive Board, Fraport AG April 27 – 29 2009 • Herbert Kaufmann, CEO, Vienna International Airport The Hilton Hotel, Athens, Greece • Rudy Vercelli, CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) Dear Industry Colleague, • Michael Eggenschwiler, CEO, Hamburg Airport Following my letter of invitation, I am pleased to inform • Kim Day, Manager of Aviation, Denver International Airport you that preparations for the 2009 Airport Cities World • Robert Ficano, CEO of the Charter County of Wayne, Conference and Exhibition in Athens are now well under Michigan - The Detroit Aerotropolis way. As your host, Athens International Airport is offering About Airport Cities • Larry Cox, President and CEO, Memphis-Shelby County a wide range of social and networking events for you Airport Authority to enjoy and take part in. Whether you are attending as “Airports have become powerful engines of local economic • Randall Curtis, Executive Director, Panama development, attracting aviation-linked businesses of all a delegate, speaker, sponsor or exhibitor, I encourage City-Bay County International Airport you to take part in the Airport City tour showcasing our types to their environs. Along with incorporating a wide • Luiz Antonio Athayde, Undersecretary for International variety of retail and consumer services into passenger creative land-use and innovative Airport City complex, Affairs, Governo de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte the Welcome Reception at the Athens Hilton Hotel, terminals, many airports are developing their landslide And many others and last but by no means least, a delightful evening at a areas with hotels, conference and exhibition centres, relaxing, unique venue with an idyllic sea view. office and shopping complexes, recreation facilities and logistics and free-trade zones. Such commercial My team at Athens International Airport is looking development is substantially and positively impact- forward to welcoming you and all our guests from across ing the financial bottom line of airports. It is also the globe to Athens in order to explore and develop transforming them into airport cities as they become airport city concepts. The conference programme is significant employment, shopping, business and leisure at an advanced stage of development and features destinations in their own right.” many airport CEOs, directors and managers, as well as architects, planners, real-estate developers, retailers, Professor John D. Kasarda cargo and logistic companies and investment bankers. Director, Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise, University Conference Programme: I know that these distinguished presenters join me in of North Carolina. • CEO Vision wishing to meet and welcome all our conference guests • Around the World of Airport Cities - The Very Latest Developments to the event and to share their experiences regarding all • Developing Airport Cities (adopting the Aerotropolis model) the new developments in the global airport cities model. • New Airport Cities On that note, I look forward to welcoming you as our • Airport City Developments - An Airport Investor’s Perspective guests to this exciting and informative conference and • Key Partnerships in Airport City Development event. • Sustainable Airports – Greener Airport Cities Sincerely yours, • Governance of the Airport City / Aerotropolis Dr Yiannis N. Paraschis • Non-aeronautical Revenue Streams Chief Executive Officer, Athens International Airport S.A. • Leveraging Value From the Airport Location • Cargo and Logistics as the Drivers of Growth 17 • The Development of Airport Cities In China KTX AFEA 21X28 19-03-04 17:18 ™ÂÏ›‰·1

18 upcoming conferences

Networking Opportunities Monday 27 April Airport City Tour TRAVEL AND CONGRESS SERVICES Join us for the Airport City tour of Athens International Airport. This is a unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at a busy hub. All conference guests are welcome to take part in this tour.

Welcome Reception All participants are invited to attend the Welcome Reception at the Hilton Hotel in Athens – our official conference hotel – and to take advantage of this networking evening to meet fellow delegates, sponsors and speakers in a relaxed atmosphere. The Welcome Reception will provide a platform for the official opening of the Airport Cities event, and will include an exhibition for delegates to browse.

Tuesday 28 April Gala Evening Join us at the exclusive Balux/Babae club on the waterfront and watch thousands of lights twinkle across the sea. Listen to the sounds, enjoy the flavours, follow the rhythm and experience Greek hospitality at its best!

Wednesday 29 April Farewell Reception Join fellow delegates in welcoming next year’s Airport Cities host, the Airport City Development Company, for the handover ceremony, as well as congratulating Athens International Airport on hosting Airport Cities 2009. The Chinese-style reception will be held in the foyer on the ground floor of the Hilton Hotel, outside the exhibition room.

Contact Us: For registration and general information, please contact: Emma Dean, Events Manager Insight Media Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 208 831 7505 Fax: +44 (0) 208 891 0123 Email: [email protected]

For sponsorship and exhibition information, please contact: Andrew Hazell, Event Director Insight Media Ltd 39-41 Lykavittou Street, Athens 106 72, Greece, Direct Tel.: ++30 210 366 8800, Fax: ++30 210 364 6415 Tel: +44 (0) 208 831 7505 email: [email protected] ñ www.afea.gr Fax: +44 (0) 208 891 0123 19 Email: [email protected]

ICCA Member site 20 INTERVIEW

GEORGIOS TSAKIRIS PRESIDENT OF ATHENS - ATTICA HOTELS ASSOCIATION

Mr Tsakiris talks about changes in Athens, the services offered by Athens Hotels and the future of Athenian tourism.

What changes were evident in Athens following the staging of the 2004 What is the status of the conference Olympic Games? infrastructure in Athens? The new infrastructure and the new hotel product and their subsequent extensive Without a doubt, the development and establishment promotion through the Games gave the tourism product of Attica a significant of Athens as a conference and trade exhibition destina- boost. However, its establishment in the world tourism market demands signifi- tion constitute an important goal and market for tour- cant organisation on a production level, while at the same time it requires enrich- ism in Attica. As for conference tourism, an increase ment with other specialised forms of tourism, such as convention, cultural, trade in conventions taking place in Athens has been noted exhibition and sports tourism, among others. The evolution of contemporary in recent years, particularly since the 2004 Olympics. tourism trends has led most metropolitan destinations to build on their potential Of course, this increase is far below the optimal levels as city break destinations as part of a new direction in development. The entry of that would render Athens a "mature" conference desti- many destinations into the market has created intense competition among the nation. One of the drawbacks we could identify is the city breaks destinations, especially in Europe. Most of the capitals and major cit- absence of a metropolitan conference centre of inter- ies of Europe are pursuing a share of this particular market, and many of them are national scope and standards, which would definitely seeing impressive results. put Greece on the large conference destination map. At the same time, the lack of a national policy to at- tract conference events is also an issue. The significant How would you assess tourist flow in Athens? delay in transforming the Tae Kwon Do Olympic venue Until the beginning of December, the flow of tourists in Athens, despite the global into a conference centre has been particularly costly crisis, was good. The December events and the extensive negative publicity of this for the tourism economy of the city as well as for in- destination, which resulted from exaggerated reports of the events by the inter- dividual businesses. Other than that, as far as confer- national news media, caused a marked interruption in tourist flow in Attica, and ence infrastructure is concerned, Attica is served by its thereby in the rest of the country as well. area hotels and the Athens Concert Hall.

What is the standard of service offered by Athens hotels? We believe that since the Olympic Games, Attica has been providing its visitors the best hotel product in Eu- rope. I refer to the entire range of hotels from 2* to 5*. The services provided are on a part with the physical facilities, as evidenced by the continual recognition of the organisational integrity of Athenian hotels.

The Mayor of Athens, Nikitas Kaklamanis with Georgios Tsakiris 22 INTERVIEW

Why do you believe that Athens is an exceptionally safe destination for its visitors? Athens is undoubtedly a very safe destination. Naturally, as inhab- itants of this city, we have a different point of view and conception as compared to visitors. This is an area that we have to work on as a country so that we can convince our visitors of the safety that we objectively do provide.

How does the economic crisis affect tourism worldwide and how is Athens responding to these conditions? Times are definitely hard. The current economic crisis is unprecedented in our generation. As for its impact, we can only assess it and certainly not predict it. This uncertainty does not only affect Athens and Greece in general, but the entire global tourism market. The question is what magnitude of damage will each destination actually experience? We are already seeing our major competitor destinations recording losses – some greater and others smaller – in both occupancy and in prices. The hoteliers in Athens and Attica have already markedly reduced their prices to make their productive more attractive. This, along with immediate efforts to promote Athens announced by the government and the combined and targeted activities of the City of Athens, will help us limit the impact of the crisis.

What do you see for the future of Athenian tourism? I personally believe a great deal in the potential of and outlook for tourism in Athens. All destinations have their good and mediocre periods. The potential of Attica on a cultural level, as well as a city breaks and lifestyle level, is unique. Dining and shopping in Athens have increased the recreational options for visitors to the city. Our tourism and hotel product is exceptional and in general I believe that if we improve our organisation and the image we project, things will A View of the Ancients. be better. The hoteliers in Athens and With breathtaking views of the famed Attica have already markedly Acropolis and Parthenon, regal Constitution In your opinion, why would a company choose Athens as a reduced their prices to make Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus conference location? their productive more Hill, or the original Olympic Stadium, As I mentioned earlier, Athens provides a broad range of interests for the Hotel Grande Bretagne o ers unrivaled visitors, and in combination with the many options for recreation of- attractive. This, along with perspectives of Athens’ mythical history. fered conference-goers during their stay in the city, it makes an ideal immediate efforts to promote conference destination. Athens has many advantages: besides being a major metropolitan destination, it is also a coastal city that can Athens announced by the combine and offer its visitors that kind of holiday as well. government and the combined and targeted activities of the City of Athens, will help us limit the impact of the crisis. Life is a collection of experiences. Let us be your guide. The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts Hotel Grande Bretagne Explore the collection at luxurycollection.com or contact your travel professional.

23 24 VENUES

In the 1920s, it was a natural silk factory. But in the 1950s, it discontinued production Athinais and was reduced to a storage facility. As the 21st century begins, after a long period of idleness, Athinais is bursting with new life, converted into a modern "multi-purpose" Cultural Centre venue fostering creative human interaction.

The old silk factory has been gracefully revamped and transformed into a state- of-the-art, 6,500m2 conference complex hosting a wide range of business initiatives, cultural activities and quality entertainment. The inspired renovation project preserved the building's industrial character and accentuated its distinctive architectural features, merging traditional values with advanced technology and progressive design. Heralding the revitalisation of a historic district rich in age-old memories, Athinais is a contemporary landmark in the trend-setting part of Athens, offering a novel approach to creative endeavour and reflecting the changing face of Greece that became the centre of the world during the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Conferencing

The conference halls extend over a total area of 1,100m2, hosting business forums, presentations, trade shows, scientific conventions and social functions. The natural lighting and unobstructed layout guarantee ideal viewing conditions and perfect acoustics. Exceptionally designed and offering the latest in audio-visual, communication and exhibition facilities, the Athinais halls com- prise an outstanding conference centre with advanced features and sophisti- cated style.

Athinais Catering

25 26 VENUES HOTELS

Athinais is bursting with new life, converted into a modern "multi-purpose" venue fostering creative human interaction. The old silk factory has been gracefully revamped and transformed into a state-of-the-art, 6,500m2 conference complex hosting a wide range of business initiatives, cultural activities and quality entertainment. The inspired renovation project preserved the building's industrial character and accentuated its distinctive architectural features, merging traditional values with advanced technology and progressive design. Heralding the revitalisation of a historic district rich in age-old memories, Athinais is a contemporary landmark in the trend-setting part of Athens, offering a novel approach to creative endeavour and reflecting the changing face of Greece that became the centre of the world during the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Conferencing The conference halls extend over a total area of 1,100m2, hosting business forums, presentations, trade shows, scientific conventions and social functions. The natural lighting and unobstructed layout guarantee ideal viewing conditions and perfect acoustics. Exceptionally designed and offering the latest in audio-visual, communication and exhibition facilities, the Athinais halls com- prise an outstanding conference centre with advanced features and sophisti- cated style. Silk Room The main conference hall was named after the precious natural fibre that marked the building's initial "life cycle." Artium An impressive space offers a unique setting of enchanting natural beauty. Auditoriums I & II Two state-of-the-art auditoriums for conferences and lectures that comple- ment Athinais' multifunctional capabilities. 01. ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT Banqueting 02. PROFESSIONAL CONGRESS ORGANISER Accommodating groups as small as 100 people and as large as 1,500, the Athi- nais halls are the right choice for banquets of the highest standard. Original 03. EVENTS & DESTINATION MANAGEMENT ideas and distinctive elegance make social events at Athinais a memorable expe- 04. STRATEGY & COMMUNICATION rience. Impeccably appointed and imaginatively decorated with fine examples of modern and contemporary Greek art, the Silk Room and Artium are stylish banqueting venues that make a lasting impression with their graceful and inspiring ambiance. The everlasting value of good taste, the irresistible appeal of modern design, the captivating beauty of art and the romantic aura of the old 50SCIENTIFIC AND PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS 255INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS silk factory create an ideal atmosphere for a genuine feast of the senses. 760 UNIQUE SOCIAL EVENTS77.256PARTICIPANTS37.200ABSTRACT PAGES Art and Culture 17.800INVITED SPEAKERS210.000SQ. M EXHIBITION SPACE520MEDIA ACTIVITIES Precious antiquities and unique objects of extraordinary ancient and contemporary art are exhibited in an impressive indoor area specially designed to host 4.000ACCREDITED JOURNALISTS100SKILLED PROFESSIONALS visual art exhibitions of high calibre. Two of the most important exhibitions that have been hosted by the Museum of Ancient and Contemporary Art are "9000 Years of Cypriot Culture" and "3,200 Years of Cyprus Hellenism - From Astarte to Aphrodite," both staged by the Pierides Foundation in close co-operation with Athinais. Adjacent to the Museum of Ancient and Contemporary Art, the Art Shop offers a wide assortment of decorative objects, high-quality reproductions, sculpture, museum copies and jewellery. Suitable for both personal and business gifts, the Art Shop's exclusive selections reach a broader public, promoting art in everyday life. 27

02_21X28_ADV_print.indd 1 2/2/09 11:08:02 AM 28 CASE STUDies

ORGANISED IN ASSOCIATION WITH

• Assessing the steps that need to be taken to restore confidence in and maintain This one-and-a-half-day event was held the positive reputation of Greek tourism on the evening of Wednesday 1 April and to guarantee its large contribution to the throughout the day on Thursday 2 April at country’s GDP FT Global Events: the Athens Chamber of Commerce and In- The conference brought together leading Attendees included senior industry figures dustry Headquarters in Athens, Greece. speakers from government and the pri- and experts from key sectors like govern- vate sector, both locally and internation- ment, finance, retail industry, shipping Preparing for the Upturn The event was tailored to bring together ally, and was a successful forum for debate infrastructure and tourism. political and business leaders to discuss and dialogue on key issues including: FT Global Events, in association with the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry how Greece can best manage the eco- • In-depth evaluation of the government’s ABOUT THE ORGANISERS and C&C International, staged a unique conference focused on the steps that need to be nomic upturn. economic stimulus plans to drive growth The Athens Chamber of Commerce and • Analysing the key role that foreign and Industry taken to drive the upturn in Greece. As the Governor of the Bank of Greece, direct investment can play in revitalising George Provopoulos, said: "After many the economy The Athens Chamber of Commerce and years of strong and uninterrupted growth, • Examining the steps the retail, industrial Industry plays a leading role in supporting Greece’s economy is today at a critical and service sectors need to take to miti- the interests of Greece’s business com- crossroads." The global downturn means gate the implications of the downturn and munity. The ACCI was founded in 1841 that the government and Greek business- plan for future growth and today it has approximately 100,000 es must mitigate the impact of the eco- • How Greek ship owners are limiting the members. nomic challenges and actively turn crisis impact of the downturn on their business into opportunity to stimulate and sustain by capitalising on the opportunities of the medium and long-term growth and devel- downturn opment across all sectors. The conference • Exploring the opportunities for invest- focused on the steps that need to be taken ment in infrastructure projects and the to drive the upturn in Greece. impact that revised regulation on PPP is having on the sector

29 30 CASE STUDies THE NEW FACE OF ATHENS

Financial Times Global Events FT Global Events is at the cutting edge of business practice ON THE WEB and since launching in 2002, has attracted over 24,000 The activities of ACCI are focused on four core high-level professionals from throughout the banking and areas: financial services sector. • Consultancy: ACCI serves as advisor and consultant to the government on matters concerning commerce, indus- Organised by an experienced and dedicated in-house try and economic development policy. team, our events portfolio includes conferences, summits, • Supporting business activities through the provision of country briefings, roundtables and awards which are held authoritative data, advice and information and an exten- throughout the UK, Mainland and Eastern Europe, North Enjoy the best sive programme of meetings and conventions, trade mis- America, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. sions and collaborations with international organisations of Athens with us and agencies. The conference was organised by • Education, through the organisation of seminars, support C&C International (www.CandC-group.com) of continuing education and its participation in the activi- www.breathtakingathens.com ties of the Athens Laboratory of Business Administration. • Awards and prizes for companies, business people and students.

All you need to know about your business trip in Athens

www.athensconventionbureau.gr 32 MUSEUMS

National Archaeological Museum

The history of Greek civilisation from the beginings of Prehistory to Late Antiquity

The National Archaeological Mu- The most important exhibits are treasury of large-scale sculpture oc- seum is the largest museum in the treasures from the royal tombs cupies 30 rooms on the ground floor, Greece and one of the world's great at Mycenae, the famous Cycladic arranged in a broad circle around the museums. Although its original marble figurines, and the superbly periphery of the old building. The vis- purpose was to secure all the finds preserved wall-paintings from Thera it begins in Room 7, with the works from the 19th century excavations in with their large-scale composi- of Late Antiquity. and around Athens, it gradually be- tions. These objects are on display in came the central National Archaeo- Rooms 3-6 on the ground floor and The Collection of Vases and logical Museum and was enriched Room 48 on the first floor. Minor Objects is to be found in with finds from all over Greece. Its Rooms 49-56 on the first floor. A few abundant collections, with more The Sculpture Collection pres- outstanding pieces, like the monu- than 20,000 exhibits, provide a ents the development of ancient mental Geometric amphora from panorama of Greek civilisation from Greek sculpture from the 8th cen- Dipylon or the Analatos hydria, are the beginnings of Prehistory to Late tury BC to the end of the 4th cen- displayed for comparative purposes Antiquity. The museum is housed in tury AD. The sculptures comprising in rooms of the Sculpture Collec- an imposing neoclassical building it, many of which are masterpieces tion. The great quantity and quality built at the end of the 19th century, and landmarks in the history of art, of the Geometric pottery, the early which was designed by L. Lange come from Athens and other parts black-figure vases from Vari, and the and remodelled by Ernst Ziller. The of Greece – Thessaly, central Greece, white-ground lekythoi and red-fig- vast exhibition space, consisting of the Peloponnese, Crete and the Ae- ure vases of the 4th century BC make numerous galleries on each floor ac- gean islands – and enable visitors to this collection one of the richest in counting for a total of 8,000 square get an overall impression of both of the world. The exhibits are displayed metres, houses five large permanent the development of sculpture and in chronological order and illustrate collections: of the particular features of the vari- the evolution of Greek pottery from ous local workshops. The collection the 11th to the 4th century BC. The Prehistoric Collection con- contains some of the largest groups sists of unique works of art repre- of original sculptures in the world. senting the major civilisations that Amongst these are the groups from flourished in the Aegean from the the Archaic period, the most impor- 7th millennium to about 1050 BC. It tant of which are the series of Kouroi, includes objects from the Neolithic and those of Classical grave reliefs, period and the Bronze Age, from the unparalleled famous gravestone mainland Greece, the Aegean is- of Hegeso and those from Salamis lands and Troy. and the River Ilissos. This veritable 33 34 MUSEUMS

The Bronze Collection is one stone and organic materials, a of the largest in the world. It is cast workshop, a photographic famous mainly for its unique, laboratory and a chemistry large-scale original statues, laboratory. The museum has such as the Poseidon or Zeus temporary exhibition spaces, a from Artemision, the Marathon lecture hall for archaeological boy, the Antikythera youth and lectures and one of the largest the jockey from Artemision and shops of the Archaeological Re- also smaller pieces, such as the ceipts Fund. mechanism from Antikythera, figurines and vases. The majority The National Archaeological of the bronzes were dedications Museum welcomes thousands in the major Greek sanctuaries. of visitors each year. Besides These small artefacts, displayed displaying its own treasures, it in Rooms 36-39 on the ground organises temporary exhibitions floor, illustrate the development and lends artefacts to exhibi- of Greek art from the Geometric tions both in Greece and abroad. to the Roman times. It also functions as a research centre for scientists and schol- The Egyptian Collection is re- ars from around the world and nowned throughout the world participates in special educa- for the importance of its objects. tional and other programs. An Representative items are on important feature is the avail- display in Rooms 40-41 on the ability of guided visits for people ground floor. These are arranged with impaired hearing. The Mu- in chronological order and cover seum functions as a Special Re- the full spectrum of Egyptian gional Service of the Ministry of civilisation from the early Predy- Culture and its five permanent nastic period (5000 BC) to the collections are administered au- time of the Roman empire (30 tonomously. BC – AD 395). Examples of every art form are included: statues, The new wing reliefs, stelai, pottery, sarcoph- Five new permanent exhibitions agi, mummies, Fayum portraits, were inaugurated February 26 miniature art and jewellery. The 2009 in the new wing of the Na- Stathatos Collection is exhibited tional Archaeological Museum, in Room 42 of the ground floor. covering a total of 550 square The 970 objects comprising it, meters. It is situated on the up- mainly works of the Minor Arts per storey of the building, where in a variety of materials, cover the former Numismatic Muse- the period from the Middle um operated from 1946 to 1998. Bronze Age to the Post-Byzan- The exhibition units are part of tine period. the Vases and Minor Arts Collec- tion, most of them presented for The museum possesses a rich the first time. The units are Hel- photographic archive and a lenistic Pottery, Terracotta Figu- library with many rare publi- rines, the Vlastos-Serpieris Col- cations, the latter of which is lection, Glass Vessels and Gold constantly enriched to meet the Jewellery and Silver Vessels. needs of the research staff. There are also modern conservation laboratories for metal, pottery, 35 36 HOTELS

Divani Caravel Hotel Fully serviced conference facilities, rooms with outstanding view, a perfect location in the heart of Athens.

37 38 HOTELS

Divani Caravel has 16 fully equipped function rooms, Restaurant and Bar Facilities most with natural daylight, with a spacious banqueting foyer at the hub of the main conference room, providing “Amalia Restaurant”: Delicious full American break- an impressive setting for delegate registration, exhibi- fast buffet with Greek and low-calorie section. tions and refreshment breaks. “Constantinople Café”: One of the most popular and The 600 m2 Olympia Ballroom with its spacious foyer, busy meeting places in the city offering all-day dining one of the largest hotel ballrooms in the city, accommo- and an à la carte menu. dates up to 1,500 persons and lends an extra dimension to congresses, exhibitions, product launches and major “Brown’s Bar-Restaurant”: Elegant settings, warm banquet events. The room can also be divided into two colours, a lounge feeling and light music are just some of completely self-contained soundproof areas. State-of- the reasons for dining at this unique restaurant. the-art lighting and audio-visual facilities are discreetly positioned throughout. “Cigar Lounge”: For those who enjoy a good cigar, this is the place for you while in the city. Warm colours, The hotel offers three more spacious conference halls: comfortable seating and a unique selection of premium the Macedonia, which has the ability to break out to cigars that can be complemented with select whiskeys eight separate banqueting areas, and the Ilissos and and cognacs. Vergina, which can be used for meetings or dining. Al- ternatively, the meeting rooms Lobby Suite, Florina and “Pool Bar”: Take a dive in our rooftop indoor/outdoor Aristotelis I, II, III, are perfect for high-level meetings on swimming pool and enjoy your drink with the best pan- Just minutes away from the business centre, fashion- room service, complete a superb package of pleasure a smaller scale. oramic view of Athens. able Kolonaki with its exclusive shopping, trendy cafes and relaxation. During your stay, you may sample the and restaurants, as well as notable museums like the full American buffet breakfast at the Amalia Restau- Finally, the banqueting halls Horizon and Athens View, Museum of Cycladic Arts and the National Gallery, the rant or have a cocktail at the Roof Garden Pool Bar. The both located on the Roof Garden level, offer a magnifi- Divani Caravel Divani Caravel makes the perfect base from which to indoor/outdoor swimming pool operates all year round cent backdrop of Lycabettus Hill and the Acropolis for 2, Vas. Alexandrou Ave. enjoy all Athens has to offer.Upon entering the hotel, and invites you to swim with a breathtaking view of your event. 161 21 Athens you find yourself in an impressive lobby combining Acropolis and the city of Athens. At the Café Constan- Greece light, marble and wood. Stay in one of the 471 fully refur- tinople, you can partake of the lunch buffet featuring Peak Health Club & Spa Tel: 0030 210 7207000 bished luxury, executive-floor rooms and suites, which a variety of local and international dishes and, as night Fax: 0030 210 7236683 combine comfort and elegance. Unique designer fab- falls, have a drink, accompanied by a cigar, in the Cigar The Peak Health Club & SPA is located on the 9th floor of E-mail : [email protected] rics, tasteful artistic paintings, stately and functional Lounge before continuing with an unforgettable din- the Divani Caravel, a member of the Leading Hotels of the Website: www.divanis.com oak furniture together create an atmosphere of luxury ner at Brown’s Restaurant. World, in the centre of Athens. Open seven days a week, and warmth. the spa offers a treatment menu with more than 30 dif- Meetings & Events ferent selections, including signature services that allow All rooms are soundproof, equipped with individually clients to experience Anne Semonin’s one-of-a-kind face A combination of beautiful settings, adjustable climate control, satellite and cable TV, mini- Host your next business meeting, training conference, and body therapies. The SPA welcomes guests as well as specialised staff and a convenient bar, safe deposit box, radio, digital phone system with corporate event or formal affair in the luxurious el- residents of Athens who would like to enjoy this oasis of location make the Divani Caravel Hotel voice mail, ADSL & ISDN lines and data port, electronic egance of the Divani Caravel Hotel. The hotel’s helpful serenity in the centre of the city. The Peak Health Club an ideal choice for inspiring meetings key-card-lock system, fireproof doors and hairdryer. staff is eager to ensure all the details are taken care of, & SPA features three private treatment rooms, including and events. and that your event will be truly memorable. one room for two, all decorated in relaxing colours with The two executive floors and the suites have a full ste- peaceful music and scented candles. reo music system, a second telephone line, coffee/tea The Conference Halls are the ideal venue for all types of facilities and luxurious bathroom amenities. Executive meetings. Furthermore, the Peak Health Club & SPA offers a state- services include daily VIP turndown service, mineral of-the-art fitness centre with the latest Technogym water upon arrival, private executive hospitality desk Divani Caravel offers 4,000 m2 of meeting space and cardiovascular equipment. But that's not all! The fitness and private executive lounge with free breakfast, drinks can accommodate from 10 to 2,000 persons. All areas centre at the Peak Health Club & SPA boasts fantastic and snacks. are fully equipped, multifunctional and soundproof, views of Athens to make one’s workout more enjoyable with individual lighting and the latest audio-visual and to take their mind of the task at hand. A fully equipped business centre, daily laundry, dry technology upon request. Our staff will attend to every cleaning and valet service, as well as round the clock detail to ensure your meeting is a success. 39 40 LOCATIONS

The Byzantine Estate-nasioutzik museum

An estate with a unique atmposhere for both social and corporate events.

On the outskirts of Athens in the Spata area lies a 18.5 acre estate, rich in history and culture, belonging to George Nas- sioutzik, originally from Serres in northern Greece. He acquired the estate in the early 1970s upon returning to Greece after living in various countries all over the world. Through his travels, his appreciation of Greek culture grew and he began the transfor- mation of his estate following the traditional architecture and aesthetics which characterise both Northern Greece and the Byzantine era. Stones collected from old traditional homes de- stroyed by earthquakes, wood from tobacco factories and old railroad tracks, hand-crafted wooden doors and floor tiles from the ancient monasteries of Mound Athos were all brought together to build this home.

Additional wings were built onto the mansion through the years and today the home includes a museum which displays some of the most remarkable items reflective of Byzantine history and Orthodox Christian art. In addition, George Nassioutzik’s personal art and artifacts collection consists of 18th century Tsanak Kale pottery, antique kilim carpets from all over the world, traditional handmade wooden chests, old books (some of which belonged to Prime Minister Theotokis), and various folkloric art pieces. These collections are among the largest and most impressive private collections of their kind.

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42 LOCATIONS

With time, George Nassioutzik’s fam- Nassioutzik Museum Hall Capacity ily and friends, as well as multinational corporation representatives, began to Estate Venue request the use of the estate, where the unique atmosphere overwhelms all visi- Mystra – Museum of Orthodox Art tors, for both social and corporate events. Cocktail: 300 (hall) – 70 (museum) Thus, beginning in the early 1990s, he Theater: 250 decided to make the estate available for Dinner/Dance: 160 (hall) – 40 (museum) the staging of grand-scale events upon Schoolroom: 150 request. Banquet: 100

Today, the estate consists of numerous Monemvasia I, II, III fully equipped interior halls filled with Cocktail: 600 – 350 - 200 character, as well as an exquisite exte- Theater: 500 – 200 – 100 (150) rior garden facility which features a lovely Dinner/Dance: 380 – 180 - 132 swimming pool, large verandas always Schoolroom: 320 – 150 – 60 (100) surrounded by beautiful seasonal flow- Banquet: 320 – 100 – 35 (70) ers and cobble-stone terraces. The most recent addition to the estate is the Nas- Marmaras sioutzik Museum “Meteora.” It has been Cocktail: 120

constructed to resemble a monastery- Theater: - C

castle and is located at the top of the hill, Dinner/Dance: 50 M offering a phenomenal view of the entire Schoolroom: - Y Mesogia region. There is an Orthodox Banquet: - Church dedicated to Saint Constantine CM

within the estate, as well as a heliport and Meghisti MY

extensive parking facilities. Cocktail: 2,000 CY Theater: 300 CMY Throughout the years, the Byzantine Dinner/Dance: 1,000 Estate has hosted some of the most re- Schoolroom: 840 K nowned social, cultural, corporate and Banquet: 600 political events. Socialite weddings, exclusive art exhibits, music concerts, car Meteora Venue shows, haut-couture fashion shows and Cocktail: 1,000 global company conferences are examples Theater: Upon request of the variety of events that take place at Dinner/Dance: 350-400 the estate. Recently the Byzantine Estate Schoolroom: Upon request had the honour of hosting the two-day Banquet: Upon request forum for the European People's Party in which numerous prime ministers of Eu- rope participated. Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, former Spanish Prime Minister José Maria Aznar and Greece’s Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis were some of the honored guests.

In addition, the Byzantine Estate hosted the gourmet lunch for all the European Ministers of Economy and a gala for all Olympic Committee participants where over 200 countries were represented.

43 44 UPCOMING CONFERENCES

The Athens Summit 2009

It is generally accepted that climate change is one of today’s greatest challenges and threats. If the issue of climate change is not dealt with appropriately, economies, soci- eties and the environment all around the For the countries of Southeast Europe world will be critically harmed, especially and the Mediterranean, the challenge is in developing countries. Climate change to put in place energy strategies which is not restricted by national boundaries; it meet global sustainability objectives while affects the entire planet. Its sensible man- also reflecting unique local conditions and agement, therefore, requires determined priorities. The UN Copenhagen Climate and combined action on a global level. To Change Conference presents a unique op- this end, the Athens Summit 2009 will ad- portunity for this region to review and re- dress issues concerning the management focus its activities in key areas, including of climate change and energy security in increasing intergovernmental cooperation Southeast Europe and beyond. in guaranteeing energy supplies, as well as in improving energy efficiency, driving in- The Athens Summit 2009, hosted by FT vestment and facilitating the speedy tran- Global Events, is an unrivalled forum, sition to a regional low-carbon economy. bringing together senior governmental officials, corporate leaders, financiers and The Athens Summit 2009 is being staged energy experts from Southeast Europe and under the auspices of the President of the beyond to proactively prepare for and get Hellenic Republic, Dr. Karolos Papoulias. the most from the upcoming Copenhagen This is the second event of its kind, with Conference on Climate Change. last year’s conference attracting more than 800 attendees. Sourcing and securing energy supplies and meeting climate change targets continue to The conference is aimed at those who wish be top priorities for policy makers around the to update themselves with news and views world, despite the economic challenges. of recent developments, understand how efficient energy strategies are a neces- sity for the region and exchange ideas with leading international experts in the field. The Athens Summit will be a meeting point for international knowledge concerning climate change and energy security.

SUMMIT ktx_16.5X25_1.indd 1 3/23/09 10:41:43 AM 21x28 english.pdf 9/4/08 4:24:55 PM

46 UPCOMING CONFERENCES

Senior industry professionals, such as the following, will benefit from attending the summit: • Energy and environmental ministers • Renewable energy companies • Practicalities of identifying and secur- • Alternative fuel producers ing the investment required to fully • New energy technology players maximise the potential of indigenous • New entrants into clean energy, e.g. energy resources, including wind and agribusiness and agribio technology solar; • Financiers - investment and project • Fostering the development of low- finance banks, private equity and ven- carbon technologies to improve long- ture capital, carbon trading compa- term efficiencies; Venue nies, clean energy and climate change • Clarifying the responsibility of busi- The Hilton Athens has been chosen as the fund managers ness to reduce carbon dependency and Athens Summit venue. C • Energy equipment manufacturers/ achieve climate change targets. suppliers M The Hilton Athens, located on one of the Y • Oil, gas, coal and utility companies, Organisers capital city's most fashionable avenues, including generating and distributing has a spectacular view of the Acropolis. CM companies It is just a few minutes walk from the city Institute for Climate and Energy MY Security centre, opposite the National Art Gal- lery and close to many major companies, CY Through keynote addresses, expert panel The Institute for Climate and Energy Se- shopping areas and historical sights. The CMY discussions and case studies, the summit curity is an enabler of effective initiatives will cover several topics concerning cli- hotel's conference centre provides state- and capacity-building for climate and K of-the-art infrastructure combined with mate change and energy security and will energy security. It identifies, enables and ultimate comfort and promises an unfor- offer unique insights into numerous top- strengthens initiatives for global climate gettable meeting experience. It features 14 ics, such as: and energy security. Relying on broad meeting rooms for two to 2,000 people, a scientific consensus, it aims to bring the 24-hour business centre and an Executive many diverse communities (NGOs, gov- • Keeping the focus on energy and cli- Lounge. mate change issues in the face of eco- ernments and decision-makers, business nomic downturn; leaders and academia) into effective de- liberation and to act as a catalyst of joint • What Southeast Europe can offer and The conference is organised by actions. The primary geographic focus of gain from the Copenhagen Confer- C&C International its activity is Southeast Europe and the ence; (www.CandC-group.com) Mediterranean. • How Mediterranean countries can play a central role in managing the economic and political challenges of Financial Times Global Events securing Europe’s energy supplies; FT Global Events is at the cutting edge of • How to build a regional approach to business practice and since launching in developing energy policies which bal- 2002, has attracted over 24,000 high- ance local priorities while working level professionals from throughout the towards meeting climate change tar- banking and financial services sectors. gets;

47 48 AIRPORT

ATEDCo Info Kiosk at Athens International Airport

What time does the Museum of Cycladic Art open? Which res- This new generation of interactive digital stations and inter- taurant is still serving at this time? What time is the next bus active digital signs are the newest sources of digital informa- to Syntagma? At Athens International Airport – Eleftherios tion and modern message-transmission centres. The interac- Venizelos, the new ATEDCo info kiosk will tell you everything tive digital stations (info kiosks) are specially built and serve you need to know about the city of Athens. as integrated communication and promotional systems. The ATEDCo has introduced a tourist info-point in the Arrivals area info kiosks are distinguished by the high quality of their con- of Athens International Airport to better inform and welcome struction, their exceptional design and their immense flex- incoming visitors to Athens. ibility in adapting to any use in either an indoor or outdoor Through this hospitable and efficient kiosk, visitors may get environment. information from specially trained staff and receive brochures providing extensive details on all that Athens as a tourism The info kiosk may help visitors obtain information about the destination has to offer. These brochures include recommen- city more readily during their stay in Athens, discover what dations for sightseeing, dining, nightlife, day trips and shop- Athens has to offer, navigate the city more easily through the ping; included in the brochures are a map and a "What's Hot" integration of city maps, and increase cultural awareness. insert listing all current events. A plasma TV screen at this The goal of the info kiosk is to capture the attention of tour- Info-Point shows various video spots around Athens. There is ists and dispense information concerning the activities within also a special informational touch-screen connecting users to Athens. In this way, it is hoped that tourists will choose to stay the Athens web site www.breathtakingathens.com, which in the city longer. also provides a variety of tourist information. The Info Point at Athens International Airport is the first of a broader informa- The use of kiosks can be very advantageous as they have the tion network serving visitors which will gradually be extended ability to enhance the amount of information being dispensed to all points of entry to the city, as well as to other locations without increasing man hours. With the kiosk technology, us- of interest to tourists, with the aim of providing the best pos- ers can obtain information 24 hours per day. sible service for visitors to Athens. The info kiosk features the latest technology, with a 19" TFT- Tourists now arrive in the city of Athens and before they leave LCD high definition touch screen, and is equipped with state- the Athens International Airport, they already know where to of-the-art computing systems as well as an anti-vandal key- go and what to see. board with trackball.

49 50 TRANSPORTATION

Organised BUS TOUR services

An easy and efficient way to discover the city and its surroundings.

These tours run all year round Rock” of Acropolis with a stop with modern, air-conditioned at the Panathenaic Stadium, coaches and professional mul- where the first modern Olym- tilingual guides. The prices vary pic Games took place in 1896. depending on the route and the Along the way to the Acropolis, An organised bus tour service services selected (eg. first class passengers will have the chance takes visitors sightseeing, with ticket, meal included and other to see the Arch of Hadrian and routes around the major tour- special services each company the Temple of Olympian Zeus. ist attractions of Athens and its offers), but they range between At the Acropolis, you will enjoy surroundings. €30 and €100. Organised bus works of art from the Golden tours also offer passenger pull Age of Athens: the Erechtheum, There are many key points of service from major hotels and the theatre of Herodes Atticus, interest and attractions along attractions (based on scheduled the Propylaea and the Temple the routes the buses follow, like timetable). of Athena Nike. Take a moment the Acropolis, the Panathenaic to enjoy the breathtaking view Stadium, Cape Sounion, Delphi, Here are some of the most com- of Athens and continue the tour Mycenae and many other jewels mon routes that organised bus with a visit to the New Museum of Greek culture. The tour in- tours offer in Athens: of Acropolis, designed by Ber- cludes visits to the monuments, nard Tschumi and due to open in memorials, museums and gov- Athens Sightseeing June 2009. ernment buildings of Athens, This tour gives you an opportu- Many of the bus tour companies as well as visits to historic sites nity to discover the great variety also offer a night-time tour of away from the city centre. that Athens has to offer and to Athens that introduces you to get acquainted with the cultural Athenian entertainment, featur- heritage of Greece. ing a fine dinner at a traditional This tour usually begins with an Greek tavern with folk music introduction to the more con- and plenty of dancing, usually temporary side of Athens, includ- followed by a stroll around the ing Syntagma Square, the Greek picturesque streets of Plaka. Parliament, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier and the Duration: National Library, among others. Approximately 5 hours It continues towards the “Sacred Price Range: €30 - €60

51 52 TRANSPORTATION

Another pleasant and cheap way to explore the historic Delphi centre of Athens is on Athens Another must offered by - or Sightseeing Bus Line 400. The ganised bus tours is a daytrip route begins at the National to Delphi. Delphi is located in Archaeological Museum and southern mainland Greece, makes stops at the city's top along the slope of Mount Duration: sightseeing spots. The dura- Parnassus, and includes the Approximately 9 hours tion of the round trip is 90 Sanctuary of Apollo and the Price Range: €70 - €100 minutes. The ticket costs €5 site of the ancient oracle. It and can only be purchased on takes approximately 90 min- These are some of the most the bus. It is valid for 24 hours Cape Sounion utes to get there from the popular guided tours offered, and provides for unlimited Cape Sounion is one of the centre of Athens. although there are plenty travel on the Athens Sight- most famous and scenic loca- Delphi was the site of the of options to suit everyone's seeing Public Bus Line and all tions in Attica. It is the south- Delphic oracle, the most im- tastes and needs. An appeal- modes of public transport. ern-most point in Attica and portant oracle in the classical ing alternative offered by offers a breathtaking view of Greek world; it was sacred many of the tour companies Services the Aegean and the islands. throughout the Greek world is a tailor-made tour, whereby Time Table Frequency In ancient times, the temple as the site of the omphalos each group or family selects was the last sign of civilisa- stone, the centre of the earth their own route depending June – September: tion the Athenians saw as and the universe. on their interests. These tours 07:30 – 21:00 30’ they sailed away from home A drive through the rich plain can be arranged through October & May: and the first as they returned. of Boeotia, the city of Thebes, your travel agent. No matter 09:00 - 18:00 30’ A drive along the coastal related to the tragedy of King which route you choose, the November – April: road, passing through the at- Oedipus, and Livadia will take guided bus tour is a unique 10:00 – 16:00 60’ tractive suburbs of Glyfada, you to Delphi, where you can and fascinating way to dis- Vouliagmeni and Varkiza will visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, cover the hidden gems of the If you also want to enjoy the take you to Cape Sounion, the Treasury of the Athenians Greek culture and heritage. warm Athenian sun while dis- where the glorious Temple and the museum. Enjoy the ride! covering the city, you should of Poseidon stands above the The museum contains mas- try the open-top double deck- cliffs. Enjoy the spectacular terpieces of ancient Greek er bus tour that departs every view from the temple and sculpture, such as the bronze 30’ from Syntagma Square. then grab a bite of fresh sea "Charioteer of Delphi" and the The open-top double decker food with a glass of cold ouzo famous athlete Hagias. It is bus goes to all the Athenian at the tavernas nearby. also worth visiting the spring top sightseeing spots in 90’ of Castalia and the sanctuary and the ticket costs €18. Duration: of Athena Pronaia. On the Approximately 4 hours way back to Athens, a short Price Range: €30 - €50 stop is usually scheduled at the charming mountain village of Arachova, built on the southern slopes of Parnassus and well known for its attractive hand-woven carpets, rugs and quilts, as well as for its local wine and cheeses.

53 54 DAYTRIP

The route from Athens to the village passes through planted fields, vineyards, olive groves and lush hillsides Chosen by the ancient Greeks to become a permanent on Attica's east side. The wondrous peaceful beaches part of history, it is a place of civilisation, courage and rest the eye while the body enjoys the sun and clear daring that tells of the course followed by the Greek waters. The most popular beach is at Schinias, which people across the ages and through eternity. served as the venue for rowing and canoeing competi- Certainly a visit to Marathon calls for an early start, tion during the 2004 Olympic Games. when Nature is just coming alive and the sun begins to warm the paving stones. Marathon is a flashback Back to the future in time, a journey to the past and present of Athens, as The Marathon area is of great historical significance, the monuments and natural beauty tell the whole story as it was the site of the famous battle of the same MARATHON: of the capital of the city-state. Marathon got its name name that took place in 490 BC. Ten thousand Athe- from the son of Epopeus who was banished by his fa- nians and a thousand Plataeans pushed the Persians ther and came to this area – 42 km northeast of Athens to the sea, where they boarded their ships and re- A walk through history – a suppliant. treated. The Greeks owed their victory over the Persian A fertile, half-moon-shaped valley, it is protected by army to military genius Miltiades. Immediately after There are some places that leave their imprint behind. the hills of Vrilissos and the mountains of Diakria and the battle was won, a soldier named Pheidippides was No matter how many years go by, they continue to radiate touches the sea at Marathon Bay. It is one of the most sent to Athens with the news. He ran all the way to fertile valleys, where fruit trees and grape vines are cul- Athens and managed to say, "We have won," before he a certain brilliance. Marathon is such a place. tivated. collapsed and died.

55 56 DAYTRIP

That was the first marathon, and it is this Each one warrants special protective same route that today's marathon runners measures so that the ecosystem is not dis- follow. The 9m-high tomb was erected at The most notable finding is the "Mara- turbed. Specifically, the Schinias wetlands the site of the battle in memory of the 192 thon Youth (Ephebe)," an impressively in- (430 hectares) and hilly areas around the Athenians who had lost their lives fight- tact statue found by fishermen in 1925. It Kynosoura peninsula and Drakonera are ing; there were originally 10 columns on is bronze, 1.24 m tall, and thought to be of fully protected. The wetlands constitute top of the burial mound to represent the the Praxiteles school. The museum is open a habitat for species of wild birds, such as 10 tribes of Attica. The tomb was discov- daily, except Mondays, 8:30 am – 3 pm. egrets and hawks, as well as many other ered in early 1884 by Heinrich Schliemann. species of birds. It is possible to take part The Marathon Run Museum in a variety of activities here, such as bicy- The Rhamnus mystery This is the second spot that makes a visit cling, bird watching and short excursions The archaeological site of Rhamnus lies to Marathon a true history lesson. It was to nearby areas. near Marathon and findings at the site in- opened in 2004 and presents the com- dicate the area was inhabited during the plete history of the Olympic Marathon Neolithic age. Its name derives from the Race from 1896 in Athens through 2004, word "rhamnus," a shrub variety (buck- when it was again held in Athens and in thorn) found throughout the area. In an- which 220 athletes from 55 countries par- How to get to Marathon cient times, Rhamnus was known for its ticipated. Most of the photographs, post- From the centre of Athens, port and its castle. There are remains of ers and drawings have been provided to follow Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, two temples at the site: the Great Temple the museum by the International Olympic which branches into Messogion dedicated to Nemesis, the goddess of di- Committee from the Olympic Museum Avenue. Marathon Avenue be- vine retribution, which is considered the Lausanne. The Marathon Run Museum is gins at Stavros Aghias Paraske- most important sanctuary of this specific open daily, except Monday, 9 am – 9 pm. vis and continues to Marathon. goddess in all of ancient Greece; and the At the Marathon intersection, Small Temple dedicated to Themis, the Marathon Lake Lake Marathon Avenue leads to goddess of justice. Both temples were A dam was constructed at the point where the lake. built in the 5th century BC. the torrents of Charadros and Varnavas There are also remains of the ancient the- meet to shore up the lake and collect rain atre, the fortress and several grave sites. water. This is how the artificial lake of Mar- Besides the archeological sights, visitors athon was formed; following necessary are rewarded with the marvelous views treatment, its waters flow to the Athens toward Evoikos Bay and the surrounding reservoirs through underground adque- lush green landscape. ducts. It is the largest permanent source of potable water for Athens and Piraeus. Marathonas Archaelogical Museum The Marathon Dam is particularly impres- Though well-known to visitors, it is a rather sive as the artful construction and Pende- small museum featuring important find- likon marble cladding make it the only one ings from various historical periods. It is of its kind in the world. Marathon Lake is located next to the Middle Helladic cem- a place of incomparable beauty, enriched etery of Vrana and houses artifacts from by the pine forest and picturesque lanes; the prehistoric age through the Roman pe- there is also a quaint café near the dam. riod. The artifacts from the Neolithic period discovered in the Cave of Pan at Oinoi, the Schinias-Marathon National Park funerary stelae and the votive inscriptions This is one of the 25 fully charted protected from the sanctuaries of Marathon are espe- areas of Greece. The Olympic Rowing and cially noteworthy. Canoeing Centre was located here and the tomb of the fallen warriors from the Battle of Marathon was included in its designation. The national park is divided into eight zones, one marine zone and seven land- based zones. 57 58 CULTURE

China National Acrobatic Troupe

SPRING CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS

AC/DC

AC/DC, famous worldwide for their magnificent shows and their sold-out appearances galvanising JAMES BLUNT crowds in big stadiums everywhere, are bringing the Black Ice World James Blunt returns to Athens Tour to Athens. Black Ice World Tour March 7 to round off his latest tour is the first worldwide tour of the For more than three decades, the with a performance at the Faliro electrifying hard rock band, AC/DC, Young brothers have enjoyed the Pavillion. James Blunt (born James since 2001, while it is the first time highest level of success. With songs Hillier Blount, February 22, 1974) is in their long- running career they such as Back in Black, Hell’s Bell, an English singer-songwriter whose will appear in Athens. Exactly seven Highway to Hell and For Those debut album, Back to Bedlam, and months after the start of Black Ice About to Rock, the most important single releases – especially the World Tour, on 28 October in the guitar duo in the history of rock has number one hit You're Beautiful – Wachovia arena at Wilkes-Barre, succeeded in becoming a permanent brought him to fame in 2005. Pennsylvania, we welcome AC/DC part of the musical subconscious of on 28 May at ΟΑΚΑ in Athens. millions, regardless of their music His style is a mix of pop, rock and preferences. Their basic characteris- folk. Along with vocals, James Blunt tics are their unique energy and ec- performs on a variety of instru- centric Rock N Roll stage presence ments, including piano and guitar. -- huge bells, inflatable Rosie, loud He was nominated for five Grammy canons and, of course, the band’s Awards in 2006. Blunt subsequently trade mark, the school uniform of released his second album, All the restless Angus Young. Lost Souls, in 2007; this album was certified gold within its first week of release. Enjoy James Blunt live in Athens.

AC/DC China National Acrobatic Troupe 60 CULTURE

BODIES...THE EXHIBITION Depeche Mode CHINA NATIONAL ACROBATIC The human body - a fascinating experi- TROUPE, Badminton Theatre ence! 11 – 22 March BODIES...The Exhibition showcases meticu- DEPECHE MODE An acrobatic show for the whole family! lously dissected real human body specimens 12 May, Terravibe The China National Acrobatic Troupe was that have been preserved through an inno- specimens are on display in nine galleries Dave Gahan, Martin Gore and Andy founded in 1950 under the patronage of vative process and respectfully presented, showcasing the complexity of the body's Fletcher are coming back to conquer the the Prime Minister Zhou Enlai and was giving visitors the opportunity to view the many bones, muscles, nerves, blood ves- universe with the Tour Of The Universe the first acrobatic troupe created after beauty and complexity of their own organs sels and organs. 2009. the establishment of the New China. Its and systems. repertory consists of 100 different pro- BODIES...The Exhibition is a stunning Depeche Mode lead the pop electronica grammes which include air acrobatics, For visitors of all ages, BODIES...The Ex- display of human anatomy, arriving in Bu- scene with their stimulating perfor- vocal creations and magic. It is one of the hibition displays real human bodies and dapest following its huge success in cities mances and songs like Personal Jesus, I most powerful troupes of China, consist- allows people to view themselves as never such as New York, London, Washington, Feel You, Enjoy The Silence, Blasphemous ing of two acrobatic troupes, a circus, a before. More than 200 organs and full body Mexico City, Amsterdam and Prague. Rumours, Photographic and many more. magic studio, as well as two affiliated More than 11 million people have already With the 12th album to be recorded, De- performing companies. In March 2009, had a chance to discover all there is to peche Mode has had a glorious 28-year the magnificent troupe will again visit know about human anatomy. career during which they have sold over AC/DC Greece for 12 performances at Badminton 75 million records. One of the world’s big- Theatre with a new show full of colour, The exhibition opened in Athens on 7 Feb- gest and best live acts, Tour of the Uni- Rene Aubry breath-taking acrobatics and magic vir- ruary and will run until 10 May at Tech- verse 2009 will undoubtedly be the musi- tuosity. nopolis. cal highlight of summer 2009. THE MOSCOW STANISLAVSKY ART-ATHINA 2009 Reach out and touch faith. BALLET AND ORCHESTRA Athens International Contemporary 3-12 April Art Fair RENE AUBRY AT THE PALLAS The Stanislavsky Music Theatre of Mos- May 21-24, 2009 THEATRE cow, after a series of successful perfor- 5 May mances at the Royal Festival Hall of Lon- Launched in 1993 by the Hellenic Art Gal- René Aubry is a French composer born in don, comes to Athens to present Don leries Association, Art-Athina stands 1956. He is a multi-instrumentalist known Quixote, one of the most celebrated clas- today as one of the longest-running con- for blending classical harmonies with sical ballets of all times and full of spec- temporary art fairs in Europe, attracting modern instrumentation. Aubry has com- tacular choreographies, dancing virtuos- over 10,000 visitors annually. Art-Athina posed for choreographers such as Carolyn ity and Spanish temperament. It will be has witnessed a burgeoning growth in Carlson, Pina Bausch and Philippe Genty. performed at Badminton Theatre from 3 the number of art collectors, art dealers, He has also scored for films and released to 12 April. curators, artists, critics and other art en- many of his own albums. He will be in thusiasts from around the world visiting Athens at the Pallas Theatre on 5 May for JOHN WILLIAMS GUITAR RECITAL the event, establishing Athens’ reputation one memorable performance. 12 March as a vigorous, vibrant art scene. The Moscow Stanislavsky Ballet and Orchestra - Don Quixote James Blunt John Williams will present a guitar recital with works by Antonio Vivaldi, Domenico The fair will welcome a showcase of se- Scarlatti, Enrique Granados, Isaac Albéniz, lected international galleries, a wide John Williams, Agustin Barrios Mangoré, range of international collectors and art Ennio Morricone, Stanley Myers, John T. professionals through the VIP guest pro- Williams, Peter Sculthorpe and tradition- gramme, distinctive parallel events, talks, al Irish music. Williams is the Grammy exhibitions and art projects. Newly relo- Award-winning, Australian-born British cated next to the seashore in the Faliro classical guitarist who is included among Bodies Bay, Art-Athina presents a unique oppor- the foremost ambassadors of the guitar. tunity to discover and enjoy international He will be in Athens on 12 March at the contemporary art in Greece. Athens Concert Hall. John Williams

61 62 food

Essence of Greece!

You can sense there are hidden treasures inside as you cross the threshold: products of the Greek soil, still unfamiliar to many, but with a centuries-old culture behind them that bears witness to the course of the Mediterranean diet through time. A single visit will not be enough, however.

Mastiha Shop (Panepistimiou 6 και Kriezotou, Athens, 210-3632750) Known throughout the world as the resin tear of the mastic tree from the famous island of Chios, mastiha proves its value day after day. At the Mastiha Shop, you will find a full range of mastic-based products – from toothpaste to nougat to taffy. The well-known Chios Mastiha liqueur and Mastiha Ouzo are stocked, along with spoon sweets from Chios. In addition to foodstuffs, you will also find a variety of beauty products, as the therapeutic and beautifying properties of mastiha are widely recognised. Soaps and hand-, face- and body-creams are available in vintage packaging nostalgically recalling days gone by.

"I Symbetheri" (The In-Laws) (Stournari 14, Athens, 210-3836661) For Cretans, the secret to good health lies in the products from their rich native earth. Their diet consists of plenty of fruits, vegetables, greens, produce, legumes, dairy products (especially feta, graviera and mizithra cheeses), virgin olive oil and bread. Their dishes are spiced with wonderful aromatic herbs, such as oregano; they make sweets from honey and grape must syrup and drink excellent Cretan wine. All of Crete's products come directly to this shop, where you will also find rusks ideal for making the Cretan dakos, pure goat's cheese, Cretan honey, spoon sweets and herbs, as well as kaltsounia cheese pies and Sfakia cheese and honey pies.

Mesogaia (Nikis 52 and Kydathineon, Plaka, 210-3229146) Neo-Greek grocery stores have become a part of life in Athens, and one of the first to open was Mesogaia. Here you will find so many excellent products, you won't know which to try first: olives and olive paste, homemade jams and spoon sweets, pasta, organic olive oil, rusks, biscuits, Drapetsona halva, homemade ice cream, cheeses and delicious bread that arrives fresh from Evia every morning. You will be impressed by the excellent service provided by a staff that is well versed in how the products are made and you will really feel that you know what you're buying and eating.

"Pantopoleion tis Mesogiakis Diatrofis", (Mediterranean Diet General Store) (Sofokleous 1 και Aristidou 11, Athens, 210-3234612) The Mediterranean diet has become famous throughout the world for its beneficial ingre- dients. This traditional Mediterranean Diet General Store offers everything on which its reputation is based: olive oil from Crete, award-winning organic wine labels and rusks, pies, sauces, jams and rare cheeses, as well as organic beer from the Piraiki Brewery. Browse the shelves stocked with sundry jars. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask a member of the staff standing by to give you a guided tour of everything Greece has to offer.

63 64 food

"Ola ta Kala" Grocers (A Bit of Everything) (Gianitsopoulou 1, Esperidon Square, Glyfada, 210-8981051 και Kifissias Ave. 238-240, Kifissia, 210-8089908) This well-known grocery stocks the best organic products in Greece: fresh milk, cheeses, pasta, sauces, the finest varietal wines, spoon sweets and jams. You will also find organic olive oil from the Aghia Triada monastery in Chania, mushrooms from Evia, tuna from Alonissos, masourakia (baklava) rolls from Chios, tomato and olive sauce and ouzo from Mytilene, salmon and trout from Galatista and a variety of homemade savouries sold in bulk, such as dolmadakia gialantzi and fish-roe spread taramosala- ta made from white fish-roe paste. It is a true journey of pleasure.

Green Farm (Dimokritou 13, Kolonaki, 210-3614001) Enjoy organic products from select farms in Greece and Europe at this shop. All goods are cultivated according to strict Euro- pean guidelines and with a passion for top-quality agricultural products. Their stock includes everything you need for complete organic dining: fruit, vegetables, nuts, milk, cheeses, pasta, various kinds of bread and biscuits. You will also find a large variety of organic wines, oils, olives and herbs, as well as deli meats, fresh meat, legumes, fish and frozen goods. In brief, it's an organic supermarket of European standards!

Lesvos Shop (Athinas 33, Omonia, 210-3217395) This is the pride of Lesvos, offering the valued products of this island's famed cuisine. Cheeses (ladotyri, kalathaki, melichloro), homemade pasta, spoon sweets, honey, olive oil, ouzo (the better known Plomari, Ouzo 12 and Varvagianni brands), wines and even cosmetics for the face and body. The shop also stocks all kinds of Lesvos syrup-soaked sweets, a large variety of olives, all kinds of raki and country sausages, pastourma and many types of trahana (frumenty) and egg noodles. The list would not be complete without the infinite number of sweets and biscuits made by the renownedW omen's Cooperatives of Lesvos.

"To Perivoli tis Ikologias" (Eco-garden) (Andr. Metaxa 13-15, Exarcheia, 210-3847766) Here you'll find a garden for small and interesting producers bringing the best products from all over Greece: seasonal fruits, fresh vegetables, legumes and a wide variety of herbs. There are also many types of olives, nuts (walnuts, almonds and hazel) and a line of local taste treats. They also take orders for organically produced fresh meat, fruits and vegetables.

Delitopia (Thetidos 15, P. Faliro, 210-9886444) This small delicatessen is a new addition to the natural product market, stocking jams and sweets made by Yiam, Statir and Arkadiani, specially made salads by Yannis Baxevanis, excellent cheeses and deli meats (Greek and European), fish products and extra-virgin olive oils, home-baked bread from wood-fired ovens in Evia, handmade soaps and pastries. Homemade cookies with white chocolate and orange are particular favourites.

"Thymari tou Strefi" (Strefi Hill Thyme) (Kallidromiou 51Α, Exarcheia, 210-3300384) This beautiful grocery brings select products from all over Greece, including excellent deli meats, cheeses and sweets made by women's cooperatives. Many agricultural cooperatives also have their goods on offer, including herbs, legumes, rusks, spoon sweets, olives, nuts, wines and various types of olive paste.

Athens Central Market Also known as Varvakeio Market, this area is enclosed by Athinas, Evripidou and Sofokleos streets. There is a central vegetable, meat and fish market there selling all of the Greek family's favourites. Fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fruit arrive every day and Athenians will wander through looking for items that cannot be found elsewhere. It is worth strolling through the area's streets to see what products are available and to choose fresh and nutritious goods from among the outdoor stalls.

What to take back with you You will find so many things you'd like to buy that you will not be able to choose.W e suggest some of the more delectable Greek products: virgin olive oil from Crete or Kalamata, wines from the islands, pistachios, dried figs, egg noodles, mountain honey, spoon sweets and olives. You don't have to buy large quantities; you'll be back soon!

65 210x280 athens ad:Layout 1 6/3/09 10:30 Page 1

CITY OF ATHENS

66 THEATER

ARTS Exhibition Athens Video Art Festival Dear Industry Collegue

We are delighted to welcome leading experts from across the globe to Athens to explore airport city concepts. The Athens International Airport City is designed in line with the Greek classical principle of ‘human scale’ and is committed to offering attractive Dance Festival Technopolis hosted hundreds events services and facilities in an appealing business from May 1999 to present such as: environment. Let us all share our experience at Visual Art - Photography - Technol- this conference and discuss all that’s new in the ogy - Sculpture -Conferences - global airport cities context, capitalising on our Seminars, International Festivals - potential and creating value for our customers, Concerts - Theatrical and Dance airport users and neighbouring communities. Events- Business Forums - Educational Programs - Let me invite you to participate as a conference Product presentations delegate, a sponsor or an exhibitor and contribute to maximising this event. Do not miss the BABEL Comics Festival Concert Alkistis Protopsalti opportunity of boarding this flight in Athens!

Sincerely yours,

Dr Yiannis N. Paraschis Chief Executive Officer, Athens International Airport S.A. Testimonials The Host of ACE 2008 The Delegates The Sponsors “We had a wonderful time hosting Airport “Thank you for the organisation of this great “I wanted to express my sincere Cities in Dallas/Fort Worth and have got conference. It was well set up, very congratulations and thanks for the vision nothing but great feedback from it.” informative and professional and yet still and foresight Insight Media and Dr Kasarda Jeffrey P Fegan, CEO, informal enough to actually enjoy!” have shown by staging this conference & Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport Simon Kloppenburg, Advisor Airport exhibition.” Development, Curacao Airport Holding NV Gregory J Erne, “Technopolis” of the City of Athens provides: Chief Investment Officer, REDICO Access to the disabled, Coffee bar, 20 WC, nearby parking.

Operating hours: Weekdays and Weekends 10.00-22.00. Conference and Sponsorship and session (Operating hours may be modified without notice) registration information speaker information Access: Trolley: Line 21 (from Omonia Square), Emma Dean Andrew Hazell OASA Busses: 035, 049, 811, 815, 838, 914, B18, ?18, 731, 031. Events Manager Events Director Train: Station “Thision”. [email protected] [email protected] Metro: Station "Keramikos". CITY OF ATHENS +44 (0) 208 831 7505 +44 (0) 208 831 7518 Contact: 67 Technopolis City of Athens, 100 Piraeus Str., 11854 Gazi, Athens CULTURE TO THE NEIGHBOURHOODS Tel: 210-3461589 and 210-3467322, Fax: 210-3413228 http://www.cityofathens.gr/dimotikoi-foreis/texnopolis-dimoy-athinaion Íikitaò Êaklamanis Mail: [email protected] www.airportconference.com 21X28adv_breath.pdf 4/2/09 4:09:44 PM

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