I think it is more appropriate to blog about what is happening in Athens, today rather than where I'm going, what I'm doing, and what I'm wearing..
Syntagma (means constitution) square here in Athens today is being showered with fire, gas and rocks. It's hard to watch the violent turned protest against the greek parliament over the latest austerity. People here are angry over the many cutbacks that have taken place, and many more that will take place. It is expensive to live here with the Euro in place and now that cuts are being made, and taxes raised, how can one support their family?! Pensions have been cut, retirement given early or taken away. Even still, the spirit and resilience of this people endure.
Here is a bit of history about Syntagma square. In 1843, the turkish King Otto was forced to grant a constitution to the people after an uprising, and so the name of this square was annointed. Many political demonstrations take place at this square, fittingly since it houses the Parliament - Greeks will be heard! Syntagma square was also where the first shots of the cold war took place. Also, notably and something I remember my mom talking about, the military junta fell here in 1974. These are just a few historical events that have taken place at this square. After learning about these events, I understand how the square was given it's name and why the people of Greece have chosen this place to be heard.
I know my descriptions aren't that great and I'm sure I haven't given it justice, but I hope this will ignite some curiosity to learn more about this square, about this culture, about the people of Greece, and in general, this country - Hellas.
Syntagma (means constitution) square here in Athens today is being showered with fire, gas and rocks. It's hard to watch the violent turned protest against the greek parliament over the latest austerity. People here are angry over the many cutbacks that have taken place, and many more that will take place. It is expensive to live here with the Euro in place and now that cuts are being made, and taxes raised, how can one support their family?! Pensions have been cut, retirement given early or taken away. Even still, the spirit and resilience of this people endure.
Here is a bit of history about Syntagma square. In 1843, the turkish King Otto was forced to grant a constitution to the people after an uprising, and so the name of this square was annointed. Many political demonstrations take place at this square, fittingly since it houses the Parliament - Greeks will be heard! Syntagma square was also where the first shots of the cold war took place. Also, notably and something I remember my mom talking about, the military junta fell here in 1974. These are just a few historical events that have taken place at this square. After learning about these events, I understand how the square was given it's name and why the people of Greece have chosen this place to be heard.
I know my descriptions aren't that great and I'm sure I haven't given it justice, but I hope this will ignite some curiosity to learn more about this square, about this culture, about the people of Greece, and in general, this country - Hellas.
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