4

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

ACB MAG ATHENS TOURISM AND ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

Editor - in - chief PRESIDENT

Giorgos Salamas Aikaterini Katsampe PRODUCTION

Editor CEO
LIVANIS PUBLISHING ORGANIZATION
Nikolaos Dervenoulas 98, Solonos Street, 106 80 Athens.
Panagiotis Arkoumaneas
T. 210 36 61 200, F. 210 36 17 791
ART DIRECTOR DIRECTOR, ATHENS CONVENTION BUREAU
www.livanis.gr
Angie Paragoulia George N. Angelis
DESIGN DIRECTOR
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Charalambos Andreanidis
Natasha Kefala
cover illustration ©ACB mag. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any
PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR
Evangelos Kaimakis part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or trans-
Kalliopi Andriopoulou mitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, pho-
EDITORIAL TEAM tocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission
Sakis Dimitrakopoulos of the Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company.

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editorial 5FrontlinesATEDCo News 6events calendarUPCOMING CONFERENCES JUNE-NOVEMBER10

case studiesBIODIVERSITY PROTECTION 20CASE STUDIES4TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “CULTURAL CONVERGENCE AND

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY “ 22interviewINTERVIEW WITH IOANNIS RETSOS 24venuesTHE ZAPPEION26case studiesSPORTS AND

CULTURE COME TOGETHER IN ATHENS 30museumsHELLENIC COSMOS CULTURAL CENTRE34hotelsATHENAEUM

INTERCONTINENTAL athens 38locationsFLISVOS MARINA42SIGHTSEEINGONE OF THE BESTWALKS IN THE WORLD45

airportCARING FOR THE FUTURE 48DAYTRIPSTHE JEWELS OF THE SARONIC GULF52

DAYTRIPHYDRA: HISTORY AND NATURAL BEAUTY 56CULTURESUMMER - AUTUMN CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS60

FOODA TASTE OF SUMMER! 64 3

4

p/38 Athenaeum
InterContinental athens

p/6 ATEDCo News

EDITORIAL
Panagiotis Arkoumaneas
CEO / Athens Tourism and Economic Development Company

p/45 One of the best walks

in the world
Dear readers,

Visiting Athens during summer and autumn is a really wonderful experi-

p/10
ence. It is a great opportunity to combine business with leisure and plea-
sure. Most fans of Athens will opine that there is no better time to visit our
upcoming City, which, regardless of season or reason, is the ideal destination for a con-
conferences
ference or a meeting while also taking enthralling tours and engaging in a
variety of activities, both within and beyond the city limits.

In this issue, you will read about upcoming conferences which will take
place in Athens from June to November.

You will also have the opportunity to read an interview with Giannis Retsos,
the new President of the Athens-Attica Hotels Association, who shares his

p/56 Hydra
insights into the hotel market.

You will be presented with a detailed description of the Zappeion Exhibition

Hall, one of Europe’s historic venues, the Hellenic Cosmos Exhibition Cen-

p/26  THE ZAPPEION

EXHIBITION HALL
tre and a very well known hotel located near the city centre. And of course,
we look into sports tourism and the success of the International Children’s
Games held in Athens in June 2009.

Furthermore, recreational travel is included, showcasing our world-class

marina, one of the best walks in the world and the jewels of the Saronic
Gulf.

Enjoy your reading and we look forward to seeing you in Athens.

p/60


summer - AUTUMN
CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
For more information, you can visit our website
www.athensconventionbureau.gr

p/30  International
Children's Games
5
6 FRONTLINES
ATEDCo Joins DMAI
February 26
As part of its ongoing efforts
to expand its international net-
working programme and broad-
en its know-how exchange
base, the Athens Tourism and
Economic Development Co. (AT-
EDCo) has joined Destination
Marketing Association Interna-
tional, a leading organisation in
the area of international tour-
ism. DMAI is one of the oldest
and most active associations of
Destination Management Or-
ganisations (DMOs) with 625
member organisations from 25
countries. It was formed in the
United States in 1914 as the In-
ternational Association of Con-
vention Bureaus (IACB) with
the main goal of promoting an
approach to the convention and
event planning industry that is
based on professionalism and
expert knowledge.
Today, DMAI is the most reliable
resource for networking and
know-how exchange among
DMOs worldwide and is con-
tinually expanding its services
through its foundation. The
foundation provides opportuni-
ties for education and training in
the sectors of tourism develop-
ment and destination market-
ing, an online resource library, a
destination assessment and ac-
creditation program, as well as
an ongoing series of specialised
conferences and seminars.
Through its membership in
DMAI, ATEDCo aims to further
broaden its international net-
work, to document successful
practices in destination man-
agement and marketing, to
draw and exchange technical
expertise and to promote Ath-
ens as a tourism destination. It
should be noted that ATEDCo is
already a member of the United
National World Tourism Organi-
sation (UNWTO), the Interna-
tional Congress and Convention
Association and the European
Cities Marketing network. Im-
mediate plans also call for a
further expansion of its interna-
tional networking programme
to include organisations offer-
ing specialty forms of tourism.
Athens Convention Bureau
receives award from HAPCO
March 9
ATEDCo CEO Panagiotis Arkou-
maneas received an award for
his contribution to the develop-
ment of conference tourism in
Greece through the creation of
the Athens Convention Bureau.
The award was part of the Hel-
lenic Association of Professional
Congress Organisers' (HAPCO)
5th Panhellenic Conference and
Workshops for Conference and
Business Tourism held 6 and 7
March.
Mr Arkoumaneas thanked HAP-
CO for the award and referred
to the efforts of ACB which
aim at promoting Athens as a
conference destination. He ex-
pressed optimism with regard
to the development of confer-
ence tourism and stressed that
with cooperation and initiative,
the goals that have been set for
Greek conference tourism can
be achieved.
The City of Athens partici-
pates in "Earth Hour 2009"
March 24
Bearing the slogan "Switch off
the light, see the difference," the
City of Athens invited all citizens
to take part in the global "Earth
Hour" initiative by switching
their lights off for an hour on
March 28, starting at 20:30.
"Earth Hour" is a major aware-
ness-raising effort concerning
climate change and energy
efficiency, which saw people
throughout the world join-
ing forces for the future of the
planet via one simple gesture,
namely by switching off their
lights for one hour.
The City of Athens played a lead-
ing part in the international effort
and, on the evening of March 28,
switched off lights for one hour at
the following locations:
- Lycabettus Hill
- City Hall on Kotzia Square
- City of Athens administrative
building on Liossion St
- All municipal buildings (Youth
and Sport Organisation gyms,
Cultural Centres, the seven
City District offices, Friendship
Clubs etc)
- Technopolis smokestacks
At the same time, the City of Ath-
ens informed all organisations
with which it had co-signed a
Memorandum of Cooperation
for the Replacement of the Plas-
tic Bag, all schools in the munici-
pality, the Ministry of Education's
Athens 1st Department Primary
Education and Secondary Edu-
cation Environmental Education
Offices, major hotels and busi-
nesses, and volunteer organisa-
tions so they could take part in
"Earth Hour."
As part of its effort to inform
and raise the awareness of citi-
zens and city visitors, the City
of Athens posted the global ini-
tiative's message on MATRIX
electronic message boards
throughout Athens.
Within the framework of
"Earth Hour" events, the City
of Athens, SKAI television and
radio and WWF co-organised
a concert on Pnyx Hill on
March 28. Mario Frangoulis
performed together with the
City of Athens Symphony Or-
chestra and the City of Athens
Music Ensembles Mixed Choir,
under the direction of maestro
Loukas Karytinos.
Greece occupied the first place
globally in terms of participa-
tion in "Earth Hour," followed
by Canada and Australia,
where the initiative began.
ATEDCo part of FT
Global Events congress
April 3
Financial Times Global Events
and the Athens Chamber
of Commerce and Industry
staged an international con-
ference in Athens 1-2 April on
how Greece can manage the
challenges and take advantage
of opportunities provided by
the changing global economic
environment. The conference
was held within the frame-
work of a broader internation-
al dialogue on the economic
and credit crunch. ATEDCo's
chief executive officer was
part of a special panel on the
role of tourism in the changing
economic environment. Pa-
nagiotis Arkoumaneas spoke
on current trends and their ef-
fect on incoming tourism into
Athens, as well as ATEDCo's ac-
tions in managing the impact
of the economic crisis.
ATEDCo receives award at
Tourism Panorama 2009
May 12
The City of Athens and the
Athens Tourism and Economic
Development Co. received an
award as part of the 14th "Tour-
ism Panorama" tradeshow.
The award was presented in
recognition of their contribu-
tion to tourism development
in Athens and for their contin-
ued efforts to promote Athens
as an ideal destination for City
Breaks and for business tour-
ism (conferences, corporate
meetings and incentive travel).
An honourary plaque was pre-
sented to ATEDCo President
Dr Katerina Katsampe by Aria
Manousou, Member of Parlia-
ment from Cyclades Prefec-
ture.
ATEDCo NEWS
ATEDCo participates in
the Athens Summit 2009
ATEDCo CEO Panagiotis Ark-
oumaneas presented the City
of Athens' plans to tackle cli-
mate change at the Athens
Summit 2009 – The Road to
Copenhagen: Managing Cli-
mate Change & Energy Secu-
rity in Southeast Europe and
Beyond. Hosted by FT Global
Events in association with
the Institute for Climate and
Energy Security the summit
brought together senior gov-
ernment officials, corporate
leaders, financiers and experts
to debate and discuss how the
twin goals of energy security
and managing climate change
can be achieved to the benefit
of all.
Sharjah President of Trade
and Tourism Authority
Visits Athens City Hall
April 24
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan
Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi,
president of the Commerce
and Tourism Development Au-
thority of the Arab Emirate of
Sharjah, and his colleagues vis-
ited Athens City Hall on 22 April
as Air Arabia, the Middle East's
first low-cost airline, launched
regular flights between Athens
and Sharjah.
The delegation was welcomed
by Athens Deputy Mayor for
International Relations Sophia
Daskalaki-Mytilineou.
The goal of the meeting was to
discuss the potential for coop-
eration in economic and tour-
ism development between
Athens and Sharjah through
specific efforts aimed at at-
tracting visitors to Athens.
These efforts were outlined by
ATEDCo Director for Tourism
Development Manolis Psaros,
who attended the meeting.
Another area of common in-
terest between Athens and
Sharjah is the staging of activi-
ties within a cultural exchange
framework. Sharjah, whose
name means "rising sun," is
the third largest of the United
Arab Emirates and has been
declared the Cultural Capital of
the Arab World by UNESCO in
recognition of its commitment
to art, culture and the preser-
vation of cultural tradition.
It should be noted that Athens
is the first Air Arabia destina-
tion in the European Union;
three scheduled flights are op-
erated weekly.
7
8 FRONTLINES
World of Athens –
Programme to promote
the City of Athens in
Europe and the USA
April 14
The Ministry of Tourism
launched an integrated com-
munications and promotion
programme showcasing Ath-
ens with five special events
that took place in the USA and
Europe in May and June. The
effort involved the staging of
road shows in the US cities of
Chicago and New York, as well
as in three European capital cit-
ies - London, Paris and Berlin.
The central idea of the pro-
motional programme derived
from the network of 24 cities
around the world sharing the
name of Athens which make
up the "World of Athens."
The aim of the programme was
to promote the new, contem-
porary face of Athens, which,
because of its dynamic history
and culture in combination
with its modern infrastructure
and forward-looking orienta-
tion, constitutes a European
metropolis and ideal tourist
destination.
The "World of Athens" sphere
was placed in a central square
of each city for four days. The
sphere, which is 15 metres high
and more than 15 metres in di-
ameter, served as a movable
projection chamber where ma-
terial on Athens was projected
and distributed.
The sphere can accommodate
up to 60 people at one time and
features state-of-the-art com-
puters and screens providing
promotional and informational
material on the history and civili-
sation of Athens, as well as its
infrastructure, nightlife, cuisine
and shopping opportunities.
In addition, the sphere's func-
tion was complemented by
an extended installation remi-
niscent of Athens, featuring
outdoor photo exhibitions,
Greek music concerts and oth-
er events which were set up
around the sphere at the city
squares.
To provide more in-depth pro-
motion of Athens and to de-
velop business contacts, com-
pany partenariats were also
scheduled. Among those in-
vited to attend the partenari-
ats were tour operators, travel
agents, conference organisers
and journalists from each city.
Business meetings were held
during the course of the parte-
nariats to familiarise those
attending with the tourism
product of Athens, to develop
contacts and promote coop-
eration among businesses.
The presence of each road
show in the abovementioned
cities received extensive media
exposure though advertise-
ments in the local press, ap-
pearances on local radio and
TV programmes and the coop-
eration of local organisations.
Athens Convention
Bureau scores big
success at IMEX 2009
With encouraging messages
regarding Athens' position in
the international conference
market and an outcome ex-
ceeding all expectations, the
Athens Convention Bureau's
participation in IMEX Frank-
furt 2009(May 26-28) ended
successfully.
Specifically, ACB representa-
tives took advantage of every
minute available at the three-
day meeting and incentive ex-
hibition to conduct more than
55 planned and unplanned
meetings with hosted buyers
and trade visitors, internation-
al trade association represen-
tatives, conference organisers,
and meeting and incentive
travel organisers from more
than 35 countries in Europe,
Asia, Australia and the USA.
Many of these meetings con-
firmed that interest in Athens
as a conference and event des-
tination over the next five years
remains high, despite the gen-
erally unfavourable economic
conditions whose impact is
being felt at this time. In addi-
tion, most visitors cited ACB's
presence as "a determining
factor," expressing satisfaction
with its method of operation,
as well as with the material
and information available on
Athens, its infrastructure and
its conference product.
ACB's presence was reinforced
by the International Congress
and Convention Association's
(ICCA) release of the report on
the international conference
market and the rating of world
conference destinations for
2008.
According to the report, Ath-
ens showed an impressive
upward trend among all des-
tinations as a city, reaching
15th place with 72 conferences
(from 25th with 54 conferences
in 2007) together with Istan-
bul (it was 19th in 2007). The
improved position of Athens
is considered to have helped
Greece's position in general, as
the country was among the 20
top conference destinations in
2008 in 19th place with 123 con-
ferences, up from 21st in 2007.
ACB gave particular emphasis
on the opening of the New
Acropolis Museum at this
year's IMEX, as it was already
a topic of great international
interest.
This year's IMEX drew 3,500 ex-
hibitors from 157 countries and
attracted a total of 3,700 host-
ed buyers and 5,000 visitors.
Athens hosted the first EU
Conference on Anti-Doping
The City of Athens hosted the
first European Union Con-
ference on Anti-Doping, or-
ganised by the European Com-
mission and the Commission's
Sport Unit. The conference
was held in the Greek capital
from May 13 to 15.
The initiative, which forms
part of the White Paper on
Sport passed by the European
Parliament, comprises three
important goals, namely:
(a) the coordination of actions
carried out by national anti-
doping organisations on a Eu-
ropean level and the promotion
of collaboration for more effec-
tive prevention and handling of
doping cases;
(b) the creation of an active Eu-
ropean anti-doping network;
(c) the formation of conclusions
and presentation of proposals
concerning the European Union's
contribution to anti-doping ef-
forts, in light of the fact that
the phenomenon has taken on
global dimensions.
43rd International
Children’s Games - '
Together, All Friends'
- in Athens
The 43rd International Chil-
dren's Games took place in
Athens with great success for
the first time. On June 23, the
capital opened its gates and
welcomed more than 2,000
children aged 12-15 from 87
countries around the world to
participate in the Games. More
than 7,000 people of all ages
filled the Panathenaic Stadium
in order to watch the Games
opening ceremony and show
their support for a unique
sporting and cultural event or-
ganised by the City of Athens.
The curtain fell on the Games
on Saturday, June 27, with a
closing ceremony that took
place at 20:30 at the Zappeion.
The teams from 87 cities, who
had an unforgettable five-day
experience in Athens, gathered
to celebrate their participation
in the International Children's
Games. Athens handed over
the baton to Manama, Bah-
rain, the city that will continue
the long history of the Games.
The 43rd International Chil-
dren’s Games were organised
by the City of Athens, the Ath-
ens Tourism and Economic De-
velopment Company and the
City of Athens Youth and Sport
Organisation.
Grand opening for the
New Acropolis Museum
The New Acropolis Museum
made its entrance into the elite
of international museums dur-
ing a grand opening lasting
one week and culminating on
20 June.
The official grand opening
ceremony took place on 20
June, though there was exten-
sive promotion on the mass
transport system for days in
advance. Banners and post-
ers were widely visible, while
a variety of events were staged
throughout the city. The mu-
seum doors opened on 17 June
for cultural journalists and
on 18 June for scientists and
academics, ministry officials
and representatives of foreign
archaeological schools based
in Greece. On 19 June, the mu-
seum opened to foreign jour-
nalists.
The climax of events was on 20
June with the arrival in Athens
of state political leaders, prime
ministers and international
cultural personalities, while
the museum and its exhibits
were the subject of interna-
tional television coverage on
the same day.
The public visited the museum
from 21 to 23 June by booking
through e-ticketing, limiting
entry to 2,550 people in three
daily zones over three days. Ad-
mission for the rest of 2009 will
remain at €1, while in 2010 it
will rise to €5. Starting in 2011,
admission prices will be broken
down into categories for senior
citizens, children, students and
disabled. The electronic book-
ing system will specify times
for museum visits.
9
10
4th International Conference on
Philosophy
1-4 June, St. George Lycabettus Hotel
The Philosophy Research Unit of the Ath-
ens Institute for Education and Research
staged its 4th international conference on
Philosophy. The aim of the conference was
to bring together scholars and students of
philosophy. Areas of interest include:
• History of Philosophy
• Ancient Philosophy
• European Philosophy
• African Philosophy
• American Philosophy
• Asian Philosophy
• Political Philosophy
• Moral Philosophy
• Aesthetics
• Logic
• Existentialism
• Analytic Philosophy and Pragmatism
• Philosophy of Religion
• Philosophy of Law
• Philosophy of Mathematics and Physics
• Philosophy of Biology
• Philosophy of Action
• Ethics
• Epistemology
3rd International
Conference on Psychology
8 -11 June, St. George Lycabettus Hotel
The Psychology Research Unit of the Ath-
ens Institute for Education and Research
held its 3rd International Conference on
Psychology in Athens. The aim of the con-
ference was to bring together scholars and
students from all areas of Psychology and
related disciplines.
3rd International Conference
on Mathematics & Statistics
UPCOMING 15-18 June, St. George
Lycabettus Hotel
CONFERENCES
The Mathematics and Statistics Research
Unit of the Athens Institute for Education
and Research will hold its 3rd International
JUNE-NOVEMBER Conference in Athens. The aim of the con-
ference is to bring together scholars and
students from all areas of Mathematics,
Statistics, Mathematics and Engineering,
and Mathematics and Education.
3rd International Conference
on Emerging Security Informa-
tion, Systems and Technolo-
gies: Securware 2009
18–23 June,
Hotel Armonia, Vouliagmeni
Securware 2009, the 3rd International
Conference on Emerging Security Informa-
tion Systems and Technologies, is an event
covering topics related to the theory and
practice of security, cryptography, secure
protocols, trust, privacy, confidentiality,
vulnerability, intrusion detection and oth-
er areas related to law enforcement, secu-
rity data mining, malware models, etc.
As a multi-track event, Securware 2009
will serve as a forum for researchers from
academia and industry, professionals,
standard developers, policy makers and
practitioners to exchange ideas. Possible
topics include techniques and applica-
tions, best practices, awareness and expe-
riences as well as future trends and needs
(both in research and practices) related to
all aspects of information security, secu-
rity systems and technologies.
8th European Hepato-Pancreato-
Biliary Association Congress
18-20 June, Megaron Athens
International Conference Centre
The 8th European Hepato-Pancreato-Bil-
iary Association Congress is an opportuni-
ty for top HPB colleagues to get together
and to exchange knowledge as well as to
work on ideas in improving HPB science
and, most importantly, patient care. The
success of the meeting will be secured by
the close cooperation with the Interna-
tional HPB Association, which is the um-
brella society of all regional associations.
15th Congress of the International
Society for Folk Narrative Research
21-27 June, Academy of
Athens - Conference Hall
The International Society for Folk Narra-
tive Research is an international academic
society whose objective is to develop
scholarly work in the field of folk narrative
research. The research interests of ISFNR
members around the world cover a num-
EVENTS CALENDAR
THEATER
ber of disciplines in the humanities and
social sciences, in addition to folklore,
including anthropology, cultural studies,
comparative literature, language, history,
museology, education and ethnography
from the point of view of narratives.
4th International Conference "People
with Disabilities and Mass Media"
22-23 June, Secretariat General of
Information - Secretariat General of
Communication
This conference focuses on the factors
which shape the new developing environ-
ment of digital media such as social web,
blogs, wikis, facebook, etc. The accessibil-
ity of and the participation of people with
disabilities in social networks is a constant
and forceful demand on their part. The
conference will also attempt to investi-
gate the potential of presenting disability
through advertising spots, as well as the
changes this practice might bring in our
perception of disability.
The 4th International Conference will
conclude with the active participation of
children with disabilities, because children
themselves can communicate their mes-
sage better than anyone through their ar-
tistic expression.
7th International Conference on
Politics & International Affairs
22-25 June, Athens
The Politics Research Unit of the Athens
Institute for Education and Research is
staging its 7th annual international con-
ference on Politics and International Af-
fairs. The aim of the conference is to bring
together scholars and students of Politics
and International Affairs and other related
disciplines.
11
12
International Symposium on
Human Aspects of Information
Security & Assurance (HAISA 2009)
25-26 June, University of Piraeus
This symposium, the third in a series, will
bring together leading figures from aca-
demia and industry to present and discuss
the latest advances in information security
from research and commercial perspec-
tives. HAISA 2009 is co-sponsored by Sy-
mantec, Emerald, the international journal
Information Management & Computer Se-
curity and the British Computer Society.
8th International Confer-
ence on Health Economics,
Management and Policy
29 Jun-2 July, University of Athens
The aim of the conference is to bring
together scholars, researchers and stu-
dents from all areas of health economics,
management and policy. Areas of inter-
est include: Equity and Poverty in Health,
Pharmaceutical Economics, Quality of
Life, Economic Evaluation, Health Care
Reforms, Social Security, School Health
Programs and Health Related Business.
5th International Conference
on Tourism
2-5 July, St. George Lycabettus Hotel
The aim of the conference is to bring to-
gether scholars, researchers and students
from all areas of tourism.
Areas of interest include:
• Tourism and Economic Development
• Tourism Geography
• National and Regional Tourism Policy
• European Union's Tourism Policy
• Mega Events (Olympics
Games) and Tourism
• Hotel Management and Marketing
• Restaurant Management and
Marketing
• Tourism Economics
• Tourism Marketing
• Tourism Management
• Travel Agents and Tour Operators
• Sports Tourism
• International Tourist Organisations
(i.e. WTO, WTTC etc).
• Tourism Research and Methodology
• Tourism, Recreation and Leisure
• Tourism Education
7th International Conference on
Accounting
6-9 July, Athens, Metropolitan Hotel
The Accounting and Finance Research
Unit of the Athens Institute for Educa-
tion and Research (ATINER) will hold its
7th International Conference in Athens,
on 6-9 July. The conference is being held
in parallel with the other conferences of
the Business and Law Research Division
of ATINER. The aim of the conference is to
bring together scholars, researchers and
students from all areas of accounting and
related disciplines.
7th International Conference on
Finance
6-9 July, Athens, Metropolitan Hotel
The Accounting and Finance Research
Unit of the Athens Institute for Education
and Research (ATINER) will hold its 7th In-
ternational Conference in Athens, 6-9 July.
The conference is being held in parallel
with the other conferences of the Business
and Law Research Division of ATINER. The
aim of the conference is to bring together
scholars, researchers and students from
all areas of finance and related disciplines.
7th International Conference on
Management
6-9 July, Athens, Metropolitan Hotel
The Management Research Unit of the
Athens Institute for Education and Re-
search (ATINER) will hold its 7th Interna-
tional Conference in Athens, 6-9 July. The
aim of the conference is to bring together
scholars, researchers and students from
all areas of management and related dis-
ciplines.
7th International Conference on
Marketing
6-9 July, Athens, Metropolitan Hotel
The Marketing Research Unit of the Ath-
ens Institute for Education and Research
(ATINER) will hold its 7th International
Conference in Athens, 6-9 July. The aim of
the conference is to bring together schol-
ars, researchers and students from all ar-
eas of marketing and related disciplines.
Bridging the Mediterranean:
The Athens Business Forum
8-10 July, Divani Apollon Palace & Spa
One year after the official launch of the
Union for the Mediterranean, the private
sector will meet in Athens on July 8, 9 and 10
to reaffirm its strong commitment to foster-
ing economic ties which will lead to develop-
ment, growth and job creation in the Euro-
Mediterranean region. They will also engage
in a constructive dialogue with political lead-
ers, decision makers, authorities and institu-
tions on all aspects concerning the future of
the Union for the Mediterranean.
The forum, being staged by SEV, the Hellenic
Federation of Enterprises, will draw togeth-
er more than 800 businessmen and manag-
ers, business organisation executives and
officials from all Mediterranean countries
who will have the opportunity to conduct
individual meetings, take stock of existing
ventures, or meet potential partners and
identify future possibilities for cooperation.
3rd International Conference on
Experiments/Process/System Model-
ling/Simulation/Optimisation
8-11 July, Divani Caravel Hotel
The Laboratory of Fluid Mechanics and
Energy (LFME) at the University of Patras
is staging the 3rd International Conference
on Experiments/Process/System Model-
ing/Simulation/Optimization (3r IC-EpsM-
sO) to be held in Athens from July 8 to 11.
All scientists and engineers from the aca-
demic, scientific, engineering and indus-
trial sectors are welcome to participate in
the conference and to contribute both in
the promotion and the dissemination of
scientific knowledge.
4th International Conference on
Interdisciplinary Social Sciences
8-11 July, University of Athens
The conference will address interdisciplin-
ary practices across the social sciences, and
between the social sciences and the natural
sciences, applied sciences and their profes-
sions. Plenary speakers will include some of
the world's leading thinkers in the social sci-
ences; also scheduled are numerous paper,
colloquium and workshop presentations.
5th International Conference on
Fitness, Health & Active Living
9-10 July, Athens, St' George Lycabet-
tus Hotel
The Sports Research Unit of the Athens In-
stitute for Education and Research (ATIN-
ER) in collaboration with the Pan-Hellenic
Association of Sports Economists and
Managers (PASEM) and the Pan-Hellenic
Association of Fitness and Health Clubs
(Gyms) will hold their 5th International
Conference on Fitness, Health and Active
Living in Athens, 9 to 12 July .
The aim of the conference is to bring to-
gether scholars and students from all areas
of applied and integrated health sciences,
including physiology, health psychology,
health promotion, epidemiology, biome-
chanics, sports medicine, training meth-
ods, nutrition and physical education.
2nd International Conference on
Literature, Languages & Linguistics
13-16 July, Athens, St' George Lycabet-
tus Hotel
The aim of the conference is to bring to-
gether scholars and students of languag-
es, literatures and linguistics. Areas of in-
terest include:
• Literatures and Languages
• Classics
• Medieval and Renaissance Literature
• Contemporary Literature
• Comparative Literature
• Drama, Film, Television, and other Media
• Poetry and Prose (Fictional and Non-
fictional)
• Translation
• Linguistics
• Theoretical Linguistics
• Language Acquisition
• Teaching of Foreign Languages (includ-
ing technology in the classroom)
• Sociolinguistics
EVENTS CALENDAR
International Conference in Advances
in Social Network Analysis and Mining
20-22 July, Hellenic-
American University
The international conference on Advances
in Social Network Analysis and Mining
(ASONAM 2009) will primarily provide an
interdisciplinary venue that will bring to-
gether practitioners and researchers from a
variety of SNAM fields to promote collabo-
rations and exchange of ideas and practic-
es. ASONAM 2009 is intended to address
important aspects with a specific focus on
the emerging trends and industry needs
associated with social networking analysis
and mining. The conference solicits experi-
mental and theoretical works on social net-
work analysis and mining along with their
application to real life situations.
General areas of interest to ASONAM 2009
include information science and mathe-
matics, communication studies, business
and organizational studies, sociology, psy-
chology, anthropology, applied linguistics,
biology and medicine.
International Conference on Bound-
ary Element Techniques
22-24 July, Athens, Amarilia Hotel
The aim of the conference is to promote
further international co-operation be-
tween scientists and engineers from dif-
ferent disciplines involved in the study and
development of the Boundary Element
Techniques. The Boundary Element Meth-
od (BEM) also known as the Boundary In-
tegral Equation Method (BIEM) has in re-
cent years become an established method
of solution in several important areas of
engineering, such as fracture mechanics,
acoustics and solid dynamics, among oth-
ers. However, there are still many areas
where the method needs to be developed
further. The participants are encouraged
to explore new formulations and ideas for
a wide range of applications as well as re-
port on advances made on the numerical
implementation of the method. The ap-
plication of the method to practical prob-
lems is very much encouraged. The confer-
ence will cover all aspects of the boundary
integral methods. 13
14
5th International Conference on Com-
puter Science and Information Systems
27-30 July, Athens, St' George Lycabet-
tus Hotel
The Computer Research Unit of the Athens
Institute for Education and Research (ATIN-
ER) will hold its 5th Annual International
Conference in Athens, on 27-30 July. The aim
of the conference is to bring together schol-
ars and students of Computer Science, Soft-
ware Engineering,
Computer Engineering, Databases, Data
Mining, Bio-informatics, Information Re-
trieval, Networks, Communications, Multi-
media Information Systems, Digital Imaging,
Digital Microelectronics, Security, Artificial
Intelligence, Algorithms, Graphics, Human
Computer Interaction, Business Information
Systems, Electronic Business, Computer Sci-
ence Business Applications, Programming,
Information Management, Information
Technology, Information Systems and Com-
puter Science Education.
4th International Symposium on Eco-
nomic Theory, Policy and Applications
3 August - 6 August, Athens, St' George
Lycabettus Hotel
The aim of the conference is to bring to-
gether scholars and students of Economics.
Areas of interest include:
• General Economics and Teaching
• Schools of Economic Thought and Meth-
odology
• Mathematical and Quantitative Methods
• Welfare Economics
• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics
• International Economics
• Financial Economics
• Public Economics
• Health, Education and Welfare
• Labour and Demographic Economics
• Law and Economics
• Industrial Organization
• Business Administration & Business Eco-
nomics - Marketing - Accounting
• Economic History
• Economic Development, Technological
Change and Growth
• Economic Systems
• Agricultural and Natural Resource Eco-
nomics
• Urban, Rural and Regional Economics
• Cultural Economics.
6th International Conference on Small
and Medium Sized Enterprises:
Management - Marketing - Economic
Aspects
10-13 August, Athens, St' George Lyca-
bettus Hotel
The Athens Institute for Education and Re-
search (ATINER) will hold its 6th Interna-
tional Conference on SMEs, on 10-13 August
in Athens. Areas of interest include Busi-
ness, Economics, Management, Marketing,
Accounting, Finance, Human Resources,
MIS and Law. Special sessions will be devot-
ed to education and small business, small
business policy, family business, entrepre-
neurship, innovation, technology, creativ-
ity, regulation and legislation.
2nd International Symposium on
Agricultural Research
28-31 August, Athens, St' George Lyca-
bettus Hotel
The aim of the conference is to bring to-
gether scholars and students of all related
disciplines. Areas of interest include:
Botany, Ecology and Nature Conservation,
Waste Management, Rural Development,
Biomass, Animal Behaviour, Geochemistry,
Computers in Agriculture, Food and Nutri-
tion, Plant and Tree Studies, Sea Studies,
Marine, Agriculture Engineering, Crop Stud-
ies, Agronomy, Soil, Mycology, Fish, Forest,
Genetics, Agribusiness, Hydrology, Land
Use and Policy, Pesticides, Plant Pathology
and Veterinary Sciences.
World Congress of the World
Federation for Mental Health
2 - 6 September, Hilton Hotel Athens
Athens provides the perfect venue for the
2009 World Mental Health Congress of the
World Federation for Mental Health in the
61st year of the Federation's efforts to make
mental health a global priority.
The 2009 congress theme, "Working To-
gether for Mental Health," reflects WFMH's
call to action to "Make Mental Health a
Global Priority" and recognises the crucial
role of informed, concerted and coordi-
nated advocacy across the entire mental
health movement - consumers and
service users, family members and car-
ers, professionals, citizen advocates
and the informed public - if mental
health and mental illnesses are to gain
the attention and priority needed. The
2009 World Congress will provide nu-
merous opportunities for participants
to gain new information and skills, to
strengthen current networks and build
new ones, to share their own knowl-
edge and experiences and to become
actively engaged in the global mental
health movement.
AMIREG 2009 -- Towards
sustainable development:
Assessing the footprint of
resource utilisation and haz-
ardous waste management
7 - 9 September, Ionic Centre
The aim of this third conference is to
provide a forum for the world's leading
scientific and technical communities
to interact and address the main is-
sues and the key challenges related to
all aspects of resources and hazardous
waste management at the beginning
of the 21st century in order to improve
industry sustainability, reduce its en-
vironmental and health impacts in
substantial and measurable terms, en-
hance resource recovery efficiency and
reduce resource consumption.
Athens Conference on
Plasma Cell Dyscrasias
11 - 12 September,
Athens Hilton Hotel
Fifteen speakers with significant ex-
pertise in the field of plasma cell dyscr-
asias will give state-of-the art presen-
tations that will cover recent advances
in the biology, prognosis and manage-
ment of monoclonal gammopathy of
undetermined significance, multiple
myeloma, amyloidosis and of Walden-
strom's macroglobulinemia.
5th International ICST Confer-
ence on Security and Privacy
in Communication Networks
14 - 18 September, Amarilia Hotel
The aim of Securecomm is to bring to-
gether security and privacy experts in
academia, industry and government,
as well as practitioners, standards de-
velopers and policy makers, in order to
engage in a discussion about common
goals and explore important research
directions in the field. Securecomm
also serves as a venue for learning
about the state of the art in security
and privacy research, giving attendees
the opportunity to network with ex-
perts in the field. Presentations report-
ing on cutting-edge research results
are supplemented by panels on con-
troversial issues and invited talks on
timely and important topics.
7th International Symposium
on Minimal Residual Cancer
16 - 19 September, Astir Palace
Vouliagmeni Westin Athens Resort
The 7th International Symposium on
Minimal Residual Cancer will focus
on the technical advancements in the
detection and characterisation of Dis-
seminating Tumour Cells (DTCs) and
Circulating Tumour Cells (CTCs), and
their present use in cancer staging
and real-time monitoring of systemic
anticancer therapies, as well as the
specific biological properties and mo-
lecular characteristics of these cells.
A particular emphasis will be given on
the relationship of these cells to cancer
stem cells and the relevance of recent
findings for the development and use
of new targeted therapies in oncol-
ogy. The main objective is to organize
a symposium where latest research
will be presented by prominent and
established researchers in the field and
which will bring together and stimulate
intense discussions between both basic
and clinical researchers in the field.
EVENTS CALENDAR
7th European Congress on
Reproductive Immunology
17 - 20 September, Club-Med
Athenia Major topics include:
• Gamete Interactions - Embryo Anti-
genicity – Implantation
• The Placental Barrier - Allorecogni-
tion in Pregnancy
• Cellular and Molecular Regulation of
the Maternal Immune Response
• Epigenetics - Analysis - Statistics in
Reproduction
• Immune Causes of Infertility, Embryo
Loss and Perinatal Pathology
ESNR 2009 - 34th
European Society of
Neuroradiology Annual Meeting
17 - 20 September,
Hilton Athens Hotel
The year 2009 marks 40 years since
the 1st ESNR Congress was held in
Colmar, France, (Presidents: J.P. Braun
and A.Wackenheim). During this pe-
riod of time, extraordinary develop-
ments have taken place in neuroradiol-
ogy. Computerised tomography in the
1970s and magnetic resonance in the
1980s revolutionised the diagnostic ca-
pabilities of neuroradiology, while new
techniques in interventional neurora-
diology have resulted in the effective
treatment of brain and spinal diseases
which, in the past, were considered to
be incurable. The field of neuroradiol-
ogy continues to grow in the neuro-
science community with exciting new
technologies, both in diagnostics and
interventions.
2009 IASA Conference: Towards
a new kind of archive? The Digital
Philosophy in Audiovisual Archives
20 - 25 September, Megaron Athens
International Conference Centre
When IASA was founded 40 years ago,
few could imagine the realities with
which today's audiovisual archives
would be confronted.
15
16
As we approach the end of the first de-
cade of the 21st century, the digital age
for archives, libraries and museums is not
an option, but a reality. Huge digitisation
projects have been or are being imple-
mented, while at the same time the pro-
duction and distribution of the new con-
tent is mostly digital. What is the role of
the audiovisual archives in this new tech-
nological environment?
How distinct are the roles of the vari-
ous cultural heritage institutions? What
methods and techniques will ensure the
accountability and continuity of the au-
diovisual content? How have user expec-
tations been changed and what strategies
have been employed to meet them? Which
is the role of international organisations
and of the IASA in this new environment?
How can the National Archives of big and
small countries cope with this new envi-
ronment?
3rd International Conference on
e-Democracy - "Next Generation So-
ciety: Technological and Legal Issues"
23 - 25 September, Athens, Chamber
of Commerce and Industry
Recent developments in Information and
Communication Technology (ICT) have
paved the way to advanced communica-
tion, intelligent information processing
and ubiquitous access to information and
services. The ability to work, communi-
cate, interact, conduct business and enjoy
digital entertainment virtually anywhere
is rapidly becoming commonplace due to
a multitude of small devices, ranging from
mobile phones and PDAs to RFID tags and
wearable computers. The increasing num-
ber of connected devices and the prolifera-
tion of networks provide no indication the
trend is slowing down. On the negative
side, misuse of this same technology en-
tails serious risks in various facets, such
as privacy violations, advanced electronic
crime, cyber terrorism and even enlarge-
ment of the digital divide. In extreme cas-
es, it may even threaten basic principles
and human rights.
The 9th Hellenic European Re-
search on Computer Mathematics
& its Applications Conference
24 – 26 September, Athens University
of Economic and Business (AUEB)
The main research frontiers of Computer
Mathematics will feature strongly in the
exciting programme for HERCMA 2009.
Particular themes include Computational
Mathematics, High Performance Comput-
ing, Parallel Algorithms, Scientific Comput-
ing, Statistics and Operational Research,
Mathematics in Economics and Industry,
Electronic Commerce-Management and
Computing. Mini-symposia on topics re-
lated to the conference themes, including
active cross-disciplinary ones, will feature
prominently in the conference.W
4th Mediterranean Conference on
Information Systems: Informa-
tion Society Research, Education,
Policy and Practice in the Medi-
terranean Region (MCIS2009)
25 - 27 September, Athens University
of Economics and Business (AUEB)
The Mediterranean Conference on Infor-
mation Systems (MCIS) aims to:
• encourage and inspire innovative and
informative IS research that is relevant
to the social, economic and cultural par-
ticularities of the Mediterranean region;
• raise the visibility of IS-related research
practice, education and policy being car-
ried out in the Mediterranean region;
• bring together researchers, educators,
policy makers and practitioners originat-
ing from, or working in the region, thus
engaging junior and more experienced
members of the Mediterranean IS com-
munity in a creative dialogue.
The MCIS conference series is held under
the auspices of the Association of Informa-
tion Systems (AIS). The Athens University
of Economics and Business (AUEB) and
the Department of Management Science
and Technology (DMST) are honoured to
host the MCIS 2009 event in Athens.
Aspiring to set-up an inclusive, high qual-
ity IS conference with solid academic and
practitioner foundations, the MCIS 2009
organisation invites papers, case stud-
ies, panels and workshop proposals in
a number of areas that are relevant to IS
Research, Education, Policy and Practice
in the Mediterranean Region.
6th International Conference
on Instrumental Methods of
Analysis - Modern Trends and
Applications (IMA 2009)
4 - 8 October, Hotel Titania
The 6th International Conference "Instru-
mental Methods of Analysis-IMA" is a five-
day scientific meeting covering all areas of
modern trends and applications of chemi-
cal analysis. For the last 10 years, IMA has
provided an excellent framework for the
presentation of new concepts, instru-
ments, methods, systems and applications
in the area of modern chemical analysis.
Researchers and scientists from universi-
ties, research institutions, state organisa-
tions, and the industry come together dur-
ing the meeting to present their experience
in the current state of the art in the area
of instrumental methods of analysis. At
the same time, it provides the grounds for
graduate and post-graduate students to
present their projects, discuss scientific col-
laborations with other groups, as well as to
explore employment opportunities.
AICT 2009 - Athens Interventional
Cardiovascular Therapeutics X
9 - 10 October, Divani Caravel Hotel
"AICT 2009 - Athens Interventional Car-
diovascular Therapeutics Χ" is an interna-
tional meeting addressed to:
• Interventional Cardiologists
• Clinical Cardiologists
• Interventional Electrophysiologists
• Cardiac Surgeons
• Vascular Surgeons
• Interventional Radiologists
• Internal Medicine Specialists
• Physiologists
• Pharmacologists
Other healthcare professionals from a va-
riety of disciplines with an interest in the
current applications and future directions
of catheter-based endovascular therapy
are also welcome.
Topics to be covered will include:
• New Drug Eluting Stents
• Drug Eluting Stents in Complex Lesions
(Left Main, Bifurcations, CTOs)
• Vulnerable Atheromatic Plaque (Detec-
tion and Treatment) / New Imaging
Techniques
• Invasive and Non-Invasive Imaging and
Physiologic Lesion Assessment
• Distal Protection and Thrombectomy
Devices
• Carotid, Aortic, Renal and Peripheral
Vascular Interventions
• New Trends in Heart Failure Treatment
• Percutaneous Valve Replacement
• New Trends in Interventional Arrhyth-
miology
• Novel Strategies in Patients with Acute
Coronay Syndromes
• Patent Foramen Ovale Closure
THEATER
EVENTS CALENDAR
Euroscience Mediterranean
Event 2009 (ESME 2009)
15 – 19 October, Technopolis - Athens
Gazi Industrial Archaeological Park
ESME 2009 is being staged by the Euro-
science Greek Regional Section, under
the auspices of Euroscience, the Euro-
pean Association for the Promotion of
Science and Technology. It is the first in
a series of biennial events dedicated to
scientific research and innovation. ESME
provides a platform for dialogue on sci-
ence and technology, society and policy,
following the pattern of the Eurosci-
ence Open Forum, while focusing on
the specific characteristics and needs of
the Mediterranean region. The Eurosci-
ence Mediterranean Event 2009 aims at
bringing together scientists and young
researchers, senior government officials,
policy makers, NGOs, academics and sci-
ence communicators from all fields of sci-
ence, thus providing a unique network-
ing opportunity for all interested parties.
Through keynote lectures, selected work-
shops, papers and exhibition sessions,
ESME 2009 intends to assess the chal-
lenges facing the Mediterranean area's
scientific development and to focus on
the future opportunities while featuring
the best practices.
4th Trends in Medical
Mycology (TIMM)
18 - 21 October, Athens Hilton Hotel
TIMM-4 is the fourth in the series of
TIMM mycological international meet-
ings hosted jointly by the European Con-
federation of Medical Mycology (ECMM)
and by the Infectious Diseases Group of
the European Organisation for Research
and Treatment of Cancer (IDG-EORTC).
TIMM has become an important meeting
in the field of fungal infections, serving as
a forum in which investigators and clini-
cians from all over the world exchange
research results and opinions on medical
practice. Well-known speakers discuss
the most important advances in basic
science and clinical research in mycology.
The scientific programme will include
17
18
plenary sessions on fungal infections in
both immunocompromised and immu-
nocompetent hosts led by an interna-
tionally renowned faculty giving plenary
talks, leading round table sessions and
meet-the-expert meetings. The poster
session will encourage one-to-one dis-
cussions between faculty, presenters and
delegates. The meeting is designed for in-
fectious disease specialists, haematolo-
gists, oncologists, transplant physicians,
microbiologists, immunologists, derma-
tologists, intensivists and others with an
interest in medical mycology. TIMMs will
bring together more than 1,000 delegates
from all over the world. Medical mycology
is rapidly developing and is raising great
interest among scientists, physicians and
also drug companies because of its many
implications and the important underly-
ing medical needs.
World Forum on Energy Regulation IV
18 - 21 October, Athenaeum Intercon-
tinental Hotel
The event will be hosted by the Regula-
tory Authority for Energy of Greece (RAE)
and is organised jointly by RAE in coordi-
nation with the Council of European En-
ergy Regulators (CEER) under the guid-
ance of the WFER IV Steering Committee
consisting of chairpersons of the world’s
major regional regulator associations.
These regional regulator associations are
also active promoters of the Forum.
The World Forum on Energy Regulation IV
will build upon the themes and key find-
ings discussed during the World Forum I
in 2000 in Montreal, the World Forum II
in 2003 in Rome and the World Forum III
in 2006 in Washington, but shall also pro-
vide the international forum to discuss
recent developments in the energy indus-
try, new trends in energy regulation, and
selected sectoral, regional and global is-
sues of interest.
The WFER IV International Programme
Committee (IPC), which has a broad
representation of regulators, the energy
industry, financing institutions, academ-
ics and energy experts from Africa, Asia,
North and South America and Europe,
has already outlined the WFER IV Pro-
gramme. The event will include plenary
and parallel sessions, as well as sessions
with invited keynote speakers.
To underline the global character of the
Forum, special sessions devoted to is-
sues of particular interest for developing
countries and small island systems have
been scheduled. In addition to the formal
sessions, there will be opportunities for in-
formal networking and discussions, while
unique social events are planned.
Further topics have been identified under
each key-theme and IPC Subgroups are
already preparing a brief for each key-
theme and topic.
Key-themes of the WFER IV include:
• Security and reliability of supply through
competitive energy markets
• The role of regulators for a market re-
sponse to climate change
• The role of regulators in ensuring com-
petitiveness and affordability of energy
supply
• Issues of relevance to the independence,
powers, responsibilities and best prac-
tices of regulators
With the involvement of the world’s regu-
latory associations, the next World
Forum will continue to be of vital inter-
est for emerging and developed countries
and will foster much needed internation-
al cooperation to address world energy
market issues and encourage regulators
to act as agents of positive change.
EVENTS CALENDAR
THEATER
(EORTC CLTF 2009) Cutane-
ous Lymphomas: New Insights
in Diagnosis and Treatment
– From Bench to Bedside
23 - 25 October, Divani Caravel Hotel
This year’s conference topic, “Cutaneous
Lymphomas: New Insights in Diagnosis
and Treatment – from Bench to Bedside,”
is expected to be valuable in terms of ev-
eryday innovative approaches in clinical
practice to state-of-the-art knowledge in
advanced research, diagnostic methods
and clinical studies. Participants are in-
vited to share this knowledge with other
experts.
5th European Conference on Man-
agement Leadership and Governance
5 - 6 November, Atexcelixi Confer-
ence Centre
The European Conference on Manage-
ment Governance and Leadership (EC-
MLG 2009) invites researchers, academ-
ics, practitioners and others from all
areas to come together to hear, present
and discuss research. Participants can
again expect to interact, both formally
and informally, with colleagues from di-
verse backgrounds with a rich mixture
of views, ground-breaking concepts and
controversial thinking. Supervisors are
especially encouraged to bring their stu-
dents, as in past years feedback has been
strongly positive.
This fifth year of the conference will be
hosted by the Hellenic American Univer-
sity and will be held in the Atexcelixi Con-
ference Centre on the outskirts of Athens.
As one of the world’s oldest cities and an
ancient centre for philosophy and learn-
ing, it is fitting that a conference on Lead-
ership and Governance is held here.
19
20
Biodiversity Protection
A two-day conference in Athens on the future of European
biodiversity policy titled "Biodiversity Protection – Beyond
2010" took place on 27 and 28 April. Some 230 delegates from
all the EU Member States, along with representatives from
NGOs, European business and UN organisations, discussed
current EU policy on preserving EU biodiversity and identi-
fied priorities for future action.
The Athens conference was attended by leading scientists,
politicians, economists and academics from all EU Member
States and by representatives from public life and business.
European Union Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas
welcomed Prime Minister of Greece Kostas Karamanlis and
Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, among other
dignitaries.
There is growing evidence that although important prog-
ress has been made, such as the establishment of the Natu-
ra 2000 network, the decline of ecosystems and species is
continuing. To meet the EU's objective of stopping biodiver-
sity loss, it will be necessary for the political and economic
decision-making process to take the true value of biodiver-
sity into account.
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity – "biological diversity" – refers to the variety of life
that can be found on Earth. Taken together, these plants, ani-
mals, fungi and micro-organisms and the communities they
form are the vital web of life that supports our existence on
this planet. When one section of that web is removed, as in the
case of species extinction, the consequences can be severe and
unpredictable.
As a result of human action, our planet is now experiencing
biodiversity loss on a massive scale, with rates of extinction
that are estimated to be approximately 1,000 times higher
than normal. Scientists now speak of the sixth major ex-
tinction event in geologic history – an event whose conse-
quences no one can foresee.
Beyond 2010: Priorities and options for future EU Policy'
Why is biodiversity loss a problem?
Biodiversity provides human society with a wide range of
benefits in the form of goods such as food, materials, en-
ergy and medicines, and services such as carbon storage,
climate regulation, flood protection, protection against soil
From left to right Mr Dimas, Mr Karamanlis, Mr Barroso
erosion, nutrient cycling and water purification, recreation
and leisure.
There is now clear evidence that biodiversity loss has reached
a point where we are severely compromising nature's capac-
ity to deliver the goods and services upon which we are so
dependent, jeopardizing the possibility of sustainable devel-
opment. This loss should not be seen as a price to pay for
economic development. The problem is far more serious
because the potential environmental, economic and social
impacts are catastrophic and must be addressed urgently.
Environment: Commission calls for a shakeup in EU
biodiversity policy
Key findings include the need to improve communication
about the loss and its consequences, the importance of
thinking about ecosystem protection rather than species
protection, and the need to ensure that available funds are
indeed channelled towards nature protection projects. Sci-
entists acknowledge that biodiversity is in crisis around the
world, and that too little is being done to protect it. Europe
has a target date of 2010 for halting biodiversity loss in the
EU, and while some progress has been made in halting the
decline, the original target is unlikely to be met. The Com-
mission called a conference in Athens to examine ways of
improving its performance.
EU Environment Commissioner Dimas said: "Biodiversity is
life – beautiful, precious and fragile. But is also the basis of our
economic and social well-being. This is not widely enough
recognised and valued. As a result, it is in serious decline. The
fact is that biodiversity loss poses a threat every bit as worry-
ing as climate change. The 'Message from Athens' underlines
that biodiversity needs to become a universal political priority
because only then will we have a realistic chance of stopping
biodiversity loss."
An eight-point plan for nature protection
A wealth of new ideas was discussed at the conference, lead-
ing up to the "Message from Athens." The main points of the
message are:
1. A vision of why biodiversity matters. A better un-
derstanding is needed of the fact that healthy ecosystems
deliver tangible benefits underpinning our economic, social
and cultural well-being. The message of "why biodiversity
matters" needs to be clear and made more prominent.
2. A better understanding of where we are and what
we need to do. Better information on the state of biodiver-
sity and current trends in biodiversity is crucial. A better un-
derstanding of how natural systems work is also needed. The
conference recommended that biodiversity research should
be made a higher priority.
3. A fully functioning network of protected areas. One
of the great successes of recent years has been the consoli-
dation of Natura 2000, Europe's network of protected ar-
eas. The terrestrial part of the network should be completed
by 2010 and the marine part soon after.
4. Protecting "ordinary" biodiversity in Europe. The
statement stresses that biodiversity policy should evolve
towards the protection of the resilience and vitality of entire
ecosystems, as well as high nature value protected areas.
CASE STUDIES
5. Protecting global biodiversity. Europe's "biodiversity
footprint" in the rest of the world is large and is growing,
and this needs to be addressed. Global deforestation must
be stopped by 2030, and measures are needed to address
the impact of European patterns of consumption on global
biodiversity loss.
6. Integration of biodiversity into other policy areas.
The message recognises the importance of integrating bio-
diversity concerns into other policy areas. More research is
needed to identify areas where greater account needs to be
taken of biodiversity impacts.
7. Funding. Although many EU and national funds can the-
oretically channel funds toward biodiversity protection, the
actual level of financial resources allocated to nature pro-
tection remains relatively small. This needs to be addressed,
and new funding made available if necessary.
8. Climate Change. We cannot solve biodiversity loss with-
out addressing climate change and vice versa. We therefore
need to look for the “triple win” of biodiversity that can ac-
tively contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation. This
presupposes that climate measures are fully compatible
with policies for the protection of biodiversity.
21
22
4th International Conference
“Cultural Convergence and
Digital Technology”
“Society On-Line” The 1st International Conference on Web Science
18-20 March 2009 at the Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Centre
The Foundation of the Hellenic World
and the Web Science Research Initia-
tive (WSRI), within the framework of
the 4th International Conference "Cul-
tural Convergence and Digital Tech-
nology," staged the 1st International
Web Science Research Conference
2009: "Society On-Line." The confer-
ence took place from te 18 to 20 March
2009 at the "Theatron" of the Hellenic
Cosmos Cultural Centre.
Since it was first staged in 2003, and
given its success as an event in the
cultural life of the city, the Founda-
tion's “Cultural Convergence and Digi-
tal Technology” conference has be-
come a major Greek and international
institution.
This conference is the first of its kind to focus on the scientific
study of the social and technological dimensions of the Internet,
while at the same time signalling the creation of a new scientific
field. For the first time, top international scientists from business,
IT and the social sciences, as well as representatives of industrial
and cultural sectors, voiced their opinions on subjects regarding
culture and technology and the development of Web Science.
Among those who exchanged views and discussed the present
and the future of the Internet at the conference were:
• Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the WWW;
• Professor Joseph Sifakis, the first Greek recipient of the Turing
Award in 2007;
• Professor Dame Wendy Hall, Founding Director of the WSRI and
President of the ACM;
Web Science Conference 2009:
• J acques Bus, Head of Unit, D4 – ICT
for Trust and Security DG Information
Society.
The conference was opened by H.E.
the President of the Hellenic Repub-
lic, Karolos Papoulias, while Minister
of Culture Antonis Samaras and Min-
ister of Development Kostis Hatzida-
kis also addressed the conference.
Conference Aim – Thematic Units
Because of the ever-increasing cen-
tral role of Web applications in fields
such as research, health, e-business,
culture and entertainment, it is im-
perative that we engage in interdisci-
plinary research of the Web and that appropriate methodologi-
cal tools for doing so are found. WSRI aims at understanding the
effect that IT technologies and the Web have on science and our
daily lives. It also aims at promoting research and producing sci-
entific knowledge for the future development of the WWW, put-
ting emphasis on the technological, social, cultural and psycho-
logical dimensions of the individual user’s presence in an on-line
society.
The thematic units that were addressed at the conference were
relevant to questions such as the development of new concepts
and empirical scientific tools for the Web; the establishment of
criteria and research methodologies for on-line individuals and
communities; the precise nature of the on-line behaviour of the
individual user on a political, psychological, commercial and busi-
ness level; the reliability and usability of Web applications; the pri-
vacy and protection of personal data; and security and transpar-
ency on the Web.
Specifically, the conference focused
on the following areas of interest:
• Marketing and Consumer On-Line Be-
haviour
• Digital Citizens Bill of Rights
• Online Dispute Resolution
• Education and the Web
• Psychology and the Web
• Social Meaning on the Web
• Distributed Social Data
• Security and Trust in Cyberspace
• Cognitive Technology and the Web
• Implications of the Mobile Web
• Case Studies for Web Science
• Social Networking and Identity
• Net Neutrality and Control
• Web Politics and e-Government
case studies
Some crucial questions that were dis-
cussed included:
•W
 hich methods must we use in order to
study and understand the way the Web
works so that we can foresee and secure
its future? Key issues related to web applications in
the field of culture were also discussed at
• C
 an we guarantee that the Web is acces- this year’s conference, where one of the
sible to and usable by all, including those main speakers was Greek Minister of Edu-
with special needs, those from different cation Aris Spiliotopoulos. These issues
cultural backgrounds, and finally those included the use and dissemination of cul-
with linguistic or other particularities? tural information through digital technol-
ogy and the contribution of the latter to
• H
 ow do individuals and groups behave the construction of a framework of con-
on the Web? What motivates them to vergence of various cultures, while help-
interact with each other, communicate ing them retain their distinctive features.
on an interpersonal level, educate them-
selves, participate in political processes,
and use financial or health services?
•W
 hich web applications do users trust
and to which on-line institutions do they
address themselves? Can the Web func-
tion as a universal instrument of fun,
communication, interaction, exchange
of information and search for opinions?
• H
 ow can we understand and control the
“dark” side of the Web – i.e. cybercrime,
pornography and terrorist networks –
without at the same time undermining
the positive experience of the rest of the
users?
23
24
INTERVIEW
WITH IOANNIS RETSOS
Ioannis Retsos, elected as the new president of the Athens-Attica Hotels Association a few months ago,
belongs to a new generation of hoteliers in Greece. Co-owner of a chain of hotels in Athens and other
parts of Greece, he is very knowledgeable about the hotel market.
The Athens-Attica Hotels Association,
along with other organisations in the
city, is interested in creating a large-
capacity conference centre which will en-
hance the services available and enable
the staging of large-scale conferences.
How do you think this year's economic crisis has affected tourism in Athens
and how are the city's tourism enterprises responding to the crisis?
With a crisis of this magnitude and extent that is more than just economic and af-
fects the whole world, it is inevitable that there would be an impact on tourism en-
terprises. What all of us in the hotel sector are betting on is that we can maintain
the high level of services offered while circumventing – as much as possible – the
general climate, and at the same time proceed with activities that will help us, unite
us and serve as a "window of opportunity" for the future. Though all of our revenues
have been reduced, we are fortunately able to resist, with businesses and employees
working together. We are optimistic because Athens is a timeless and, shall we say,
eternal destination which has survived wars and natural disasters and much more
difficult economic circumstances and situations.
INTERVIEW
What is your opinion of the conference infrastructure in Athens? How would rate the
level of service offered by hotels in Athens?
Let us not forget that Athens was completely revamped for the 2004 Olympic Games. Hotels in
particular renovated both rooms and conference facilities. As a result, we can boast of having
the most up-to-date hotel services in Europe. Many hotels also made provisions for additional
conference rooms equipped with the latest technology in order to be able to stage state-of-the-
art conferences. The Athens hotels can host medium–sized conferences efficiently. However,
the city can also serve much more complex needs and much larger conferences, as it proved
with the successful staging of the Olympic Games. This is because, on the one hand, the dis-
tances between the city locations of greater interest to conference attendees are small and,
on the other hand, they are particularly interesting (such as the historical centre and the Attica
beaches). The Athens-Attica Hotels Association, along with other organisations in the city, is
interested in creating a large-capacity conference centre which will enhance the services avail-
able and enable the staging of large-scale conferences. In addition, it will become the flag ship
of the city's conference activities, putting it on the map of significant international conference
destinations. Supporting all of the above is the fact that Athens' existing infrastructure, such as
the fine airport, the updated road network, the improved mass transportation system, the rich
variety of shopping opportunities and the uniquely important sights, contributes to making it
an important and continually developing conference destination with great potential.
How do you see the future of conference tourism in Athens? Why do you believe a
company should select Athens for its conference?
On the basis of what I have already said, Athens "as is" constitutes the ideal destination, par-
ticularly for medium-sized conferences, and would have even greater potential if a large-ca-
pacity conference centre were added to its infrastructure. The state has committed to creating
such a centre at the Tae Kwon Do Faliro Pavillion. Beyond that, Athens is an ideal location for
conferences in its own right as it is already known as the birthplace of democracy as well as
conferences (let us not forget the open assembly meetings held by leaders in the classical city)
and dialogue, the arts and philosophy. Athens inspires dialectic debate and invites conference
attendees to choose it. At the same time, as we have said repeatedly, Athens is a modern Euro-
pean capital that can meet every need for shopping, entertainment and exploration. Everyone
– private individuals, local administrators and residents – is struggling under sometimes dif-
ficult circumstances and with the determination called for by these times. We never stop being
welcoming and respectful of visitors to Athens.
25
26 VENUES

The Zappeion
Exhibition Hall
The Zappeion Hall is one of the most important and prestigious venues for conferenc-
es, exhibitions and special events in Europe. Located in the historic centre of Athens,
within walking distance from the Acropolis and the marble Panathinaic Stadium of
the 1896 Olympic Games, it is surrounded by over 200,000 square metres of gardens
with winding paths, fountains and over 70 neoclassical sculptures.

General Information
When opened in 1888, it was one of the first buildings in Europe purposefully designed for exhibitions and con-
ferences. An extensive interior and exterior renovation, completed in 2006, restored the building to its original
grandeur while, at the same time, state of the art technology was introduced to the building.
It has served as the headquarters for the Greek EU Presidency, the Press Centre for the Ministry of the Press dur-
ing the 2004 Olympic Games and is now the home of Greece'sbiannual Fashion Week. The Zappeion Exhibition
Hall is one of the finest and most luxurious venues for domestic and international events in Athens. It is also a
member of the Historic Conference Centres of Europe.

CAPACITY
The Zappeion Exhibition Hall has approximately 4,000 square metres of space suitable for exhibitions and con-
ferences. A central atrium of 984 square metres can be used for conferences, concerts, cocktail parties and
sit-down dinners. There are two interior open courtyards of 957 square meters each utilised as service areas.
Rooms 14 and 5 have two rows of conference tables with microphones and headsets which seat 80 persons.
The Rooms also feature translation booths and facilities for showing videos or slide shows.

SERVICES
Apart from the conference rooms (with translation systems in nine foreign languages), there are also deluxe
reception areas, providing internet connection (speed 1024k), capability of telephone and teletype support, se-
curity and control systems (fire, electricity provision, alarm, internal and external television circuit) and modern
hygiene facilities. As for the telecommunications centre, it should be noted that there is already infrastructure
and operation of tele-photographs and telephone lines unit for long-distance and overseas calls. Their opera-
tion is available upon request from renters of the space for conferences and exhibitions.
There is also the possibility of obtaining additional telephone equipment for local and long-distance calls in
every room of the venue.

BANQUETS AND BALLS

The Atrium has hosted seated dinners for 350 persons in the centre courtyard with an additional 200 guests seat-
ed under the portico. Cocktail parties can comfortably accomodate 1,500 guests. In addition, the area just in front
of the entrance has been used to serve cocktails before the guests enter the Atrium for a seated dinner.

27
28 VENUES

HALL AND CAPACITY

HALL SQM. HT THEATRE CLASSROOM DINNER COCKTAIL
1 375 7.50 ------ ------ ------ 225
2 97 7.50 ------ ------ ------ 150
3 243 5.85 250 225 100 360
4 385 8.00 380 300 200 540
5 393 5.20 90 at Conference Tables ------ ------
6 236 5.60 250 225 100 360
7 550 5.70 ------ ------ 300 830
8 155 5.50 ------ ------ ------ 150
9 208 5.70 ------ ------ ------ 300
10 550 5.80 ------ ------ 300 830
11/12 385 7.70 380 225 250 360
13 243 5.85 250 225 100 360
14 393 5.85 90 at Conference Tables ------ ------
15 236 5.60 250 225 100 360
16 97 7.50 ------ ------ ------ 150
17 984 500 350 1000
24 957 SERVICE AREA
25 957 GARDEN

TECHNOLOGY: 1962 - Spring Conference of NATO – Exhibition of the Italian

Rooms 5 and 14
l 12 Built-in translation booths: width 3.20 Depth 2.50
Height 2.30 metres, featuring simultaneous, wired
translation system
l 3 interpreter's consoles per booth
l 3 microphones per booth
l 3 Auditel headphones per booth
l 100 Auditel headphones for the audience
l Exhibition halls are equipped with telephone and elec-
tric outlets, as well as ADSL 1024k internet connections.
ADVANTAGES
The Zappeion Exhibition Hall combines history with modern
technology in Europe's oldest continually inhabited city.
Located in the centre of the city, it is within walking dis-
tance from many high-class hotels, museums, government
offices, shopping districts and restaurants.
IMPORTANT EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS
1896 - The open circular atrium in the Zappeion Exhibition
Hall hosted the fencing events for the first Modern
Olympic Games in Athens
1903 - “International Exhibition” of entertainment with the
participation of several foreign exhibitors. - Presenta-
tion of the first motion picture in Greece
1938 - The Radio Station of Athens is established at the
Zappeion
1955 - Exhibition of paintings by Pablo Picasso
1958 - The Niarchos Collection of Contemporary Art
painter Caravaggio
1978 - 82nd Session of the Olympic Committee’s Interna-
tional Exhibition
1979 - 28 May – The induction of Greece into the European
Financial Community is signed
1980 - M  editerranean Countries Conference – 12th Periph-
eral Meeting of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organiza-
tion of the United Nations)
1983 - The Greek Presidency of the European Community
was hosted at the Zappeion Exhibition Hall
1984 - Inter-Balkan Conference of Experts, European
Universities Deans Session
1985-2002 - Exhibitions and conferences, both domestic
and international
2003 - The Presidency of the European Union was hosted at
the Zappeion Exhibition Hall
2004 - Annual Exhibitions of Antique and Art Dealers
2004 - Olympic Games Press Hall-Ministry of Press
2005 - I nternational Conference for the formal beginning
of the “Decade of UN for Education and Continuous
Evolution”
2006 - Inter-Balkan Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers
2006 - Reception of the Queen of Denmark
2006 - Conference of European Bank of Investments
2006 - Conference of the Arabic-Greek Forum
2007 - "Human Rights" Congress of the European Council
2007 - G  ala for the 50th anniversary of the Bank BNP
PARIBAS
29
30
Sports and culture come
together in Athens
The International Children's Games are one of the most important international athletic
events, not only because the athletes of tomorrow take part in them, but because of
By hosting them in 2009, Athens became
the centre of global athletic interest yet
again. After the recent hosting of the
Olympic Games in 2004, the Champions
League final and the Euroleague Final
Four in 2007, and in advance of the Spe-
cial Olympics World Games in 2011 and
the Mediterranean Games which will take
place in Volos in 2013, Athens can now be
defined as one of the main sports destina-
tions worldwide.
An international celebration of children's
sports, the International Children's Games
invite children and teenagers from all over
the world to meet each other and become
friends in the context of a sports event
held exclusively for them.
The event puts emphasis on sporting
ideas, respect, difference and understand-
ing different cultures and ways of think-
ing. The aim of the Games is not to win but
to create strong bonds of friendship and
solidarity between young athletes from all
over the world.
CASE STUDies
the philosophy behind them.
In its 40-year history, the International
Children's Games have welcomed more
than 30,000 children from all the conti-
nents of the planet, introducing them to
different places and helping them to un-
derstand different cultures.
Nowadays they take place under the aus-
pices of the International Olympic Com-
mittee, and are held in a different city each
year in the form of a Children's Olympics.
In 2009, apart from the summer games
which Athens hosted, winter International
Children's Games were held in two towns
in Switzerland (Vevey and Montreux 19-22
February). The 44th Games will take place
in 2010 in Manama, Bahrain, and the 45th
in Lanarkshire, Scotland.
31

32
History of the International Chil-
dren’s Games
From the first International Chil-
dren's Games in June 1968 in Celje,
Slovenia, to the 43rd which took
place in June in Athens, there has
been a single purpose: to promote
peace and understanding between
peoples. Children and teenagers
from all over the world, in the con-
text of a sports event dedicated to
them, are called to meet each other
and become friends, representing
their countries and cultivating feel-
ings of friendship and solidarity.
Since 1968 and the nine towns
which took part in the first Chil-
dren's Games to 2008, when rep-
resentatives of 100 different cities
and five different continents met in
San Francisco, the movement of the
International Children's Games has
continued to grow, embracing more
and more children.
More than 1,500 athletes from all
over the world take part in the events
every year. To date, there have been
40 summer and three winter events
in 20 different countries: Andorra,
Austria, Canada, the Czech Republic,
England, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slo-
vakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland,
Taiwan, Thailand, Ukraine and the
USA. In total, representatives from
332 different towns and 74 countries
have taken part.
GYMNASTICS
International Children’s Games,
Athens 2009
The International Children's Games
in Athens, with the motto "Together
- All friends," promoted the concept
of solidarity.
Every participant became an am-
bassador of great values, as they
represented not just themselves,
but also their city and country. The
educational nature of the Games
focused on spreading the idea of
healthy competition and the joy of
the game, with an understanding
their opponents. BASKETBALL
and respect for the rules and for
The unique experience of hosting the
Olympic Games in 2004, the trained
volunteers, the highly proficient
organising committee staff, the
pledges of the Greek Parliament and
the City of Athens for financial and
organisational support of the prep-
arations and hosting of the games,
and the special love of Athenians for
sports and youth were some of the
best guarantees for Athens hosting
the 2009 ICGs.
GYMNASTICS ATHLETICS
case studies
BASKETBALL
football
ATHLETICS
BASKETBALL
GYMNASTICS ATHLETICS
gymnastics
The reception that visitors received
was also of particular importance
BASKETBALL
for the success of the games, as it
included:
•m  odern transport networks in the
city (airport, road networks, sub-
urban railway, new metro lines);
• comprehensive hotel network;
•u  p-to-date security plans for large
tennis
international events;
• t he chance for visitors to visit a wide
BASKETBALL
range of archaeological sites in the
city;
• the New Acropolis Museum;
• t he contribution of the Greek mass
media, in particular the state tele- swimming
vision channels and international
promotion of the Games;
•e  ducational programs for the ath-
letes;
• s pecially selected and information-
al programs about doping, racism
and violence in sports grounds;
• f ree use of all means of public trans-
port for all accredited persons; volleyball
• t he use of new technologies for
those taking part in the Games.
BASKETBALL
basketball
track & field
34
Hellenic Cosmos
Cultural Centre
The convention map of Athens has changed dramatically
over the recent years, enhanced by many new venues.
At 254 Pireos St., on the former industrial axis joining
Athens and Piraeus, memory meets the city’s modern
identity. This is Hellenic Cosmos (http://www.hellenic-
cosmos.gr/), the Cultural Centre of the Foundation of
The best recommendation for your event,
in the heart of Athens
the Hellenic World (FHW), which was inaugurated in
1998. It is a living museum, an ultramodern cultural cen-
tre, where visitors can learn about history, culture and
sciences through interactive exhibitions, educational
programs, virtual reality shows and documentaries that
perfectly combine historical information with state-of-
the-art technological applications.
VENUES
“Tholos,” a domed virtual reality theatre that hosts three-dimensional digital shows, was inaugurated in
2007 (http://www.tholos254.gr/), while in March 2008 the ultramodern multi-function venue, “Theatron,”
commenced operation (http://www.theatron254.gr/) and hosts conferences, plays, concerts, corporate and
educational events, as well as shows with special stage demands.
Hellenic Cosmos, apart from being an ultramodern, living museum which combines culture with advanced
technology, has evolved into one of the most important venues in Athens. It relies heavily on multi-function-
ality and flexibility. Hellenic Cosmos, with its highly sophisticated technological infrastructure, can host all
types of events. Intercatering S.A., Hellenic Cosmos’ high-quality catering service, provides the experience,
know-how, professionalism and specialised personnel to run all the bars and canteens in the venue and to
guarantee that every event will meet with memorable culinary success.
The Hellenic Cosmos underground parking has a capacity of 220 cars, and there is an additional outdoor park-
ing area for at least 170 cars. Elevators and ramps at selected locations facilitate access to people with special
needs.
Hellenic Cosmos has already hosted some of the most important events of the year, such as the CISCO Con-
ference and the annual conference of the Greek committee ECR (Efficient Consumer Response), titled “The
Following Day,” while this year it will host performances of the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.
35
36
BUILDINGS 1 & 2 - ATRIUM
Building 1, the old VIOSOL factory, was re-
constructed in 1998 with a modern archi-
tectural concept so as to suitably house
the activities of the Hellenic Cosmos Cul-
tural Centre.
Building 2 was inaugurated in 2007 and in-
cludes the “Tholos,” an ultramodern virtual
reality system, reception areas and cafes.
The external shape of “Tholos” resembles
a swirling celestial body, a sensation en-
hanced by the special lighting at night.
It quickly became the symbol of Hellenic
Cosmos and a landmark on Pireos Street.
Specifically, Buildings 1 and 2 include two
exhibition areas that host exhibitions by
the Foundation of the Hellenic World, the
“Kivotos” virtual reality system, the central
foyer of Building 1, “Tholos” and its foyer,
the Projections Hall, the foyer of the ex-
hibition on mathematics, the “Tholos” bar
and the atrium cafe.
“Theatron”
“Theatron” (http://www.theatron254.gr/),
the new innovative and multi-function
space of Hellenic Cosmos, aims to attract
and support contemporary artistic ex-
pression and to constitute, together with
the other Cultural Centre facilities, an im-
portant cultural nucleus for Greece.
With its modular and polymorphic spaces,
“Theatron” can host the most demanding
productions in terms of space arrange-
ment and technological requirements.
With the use and the application of in-
novative techniques and architectural
solutions, “Theatron” can be rearranged
and adapted to the particular demands of
each event.
“Theatron” has two main halls,
“Antigone” and “Iphigenia.”
Antigone Hall can be arranged in 12 differ-
ent configurations and receive up to 1,346
people. The stage dimensions are 30m X
12m with an opening of 23.84m wide by
9.50m high, which can be extended to
the back of the stage with a maximum
backdrop of 18m. The audiovisual equip-
ment, unique in Greece, and the graphi-
cally rendered stage sets provide high
definition sound and image, thanks to
the special effects. Antigone Hall is also
equipped with translation booths, state-
of-the-art convention infrastructure that
can support live connections of image and
sound, and dressing rooms. Finally, the
hall includes an orchestra pit that can be
raised to stage level. Depending on the
needs of the event, Iphigenia Hall can be
unified with Antigone Hall or be divided
into three independent halls acoustically
isolated from one another. It easily varies
in size and seating arrangement; it has an
independent control room and can host
events for 50 to 550 people in various ar-
rangements (classroom, amphitheatri-
cally, “pi” shaped, etc).
“Theatron” also features Ismene, Danae,
Semele, Phaedra and Niobe halls for si-
multaneous or independent use.
The “Theatron” foyers are equipped with
screens, which may be used for direct
transmission of the performance, and
they can also host exhibitions and events.
The technical specifications of “Theatron”
meet the highest standards, while its au-
diovisual equipment is unique in Greece.
The incorporation of “Theatron” into the
Hellenic Cosmos complex provides addi-
tional potential for the staging of events,
since attendees can combine their visit
with the educational and entertaining ac-
tivities and the exhibitions of the Cultural
Centre.
VENUES
The planning of “Theatron” aims at the
continuous operation of the space in the
winter and summer season with a diverse
repertoire of spectacles. In March 2009,
the FHW’s 4th Conference on “Cultural
Convergence & Digital Technology” took
place in combination with the 1st Inter-
national Web Science Conference, when
“Web Science,” a research initiative headed
by World Wide Web inventor Tim Berners-
Lee, was launched.
Hellenic Cosmos as a Cultural Centre
Hellenic Cosmos, (www.hellenic-cos-
mos.gr), the FHW's Cultural Centre, was
founded in 1998 in order to host FHW’s
productions. It is an ultramodern, inter-
active museum that uniquely combines
culture and modern technology. With
technology as an ally in every programme,
exhibition, production, performance or
projection, it provides visitors with the op-
portunity to experience history, to “travel”
through space and time, but at the same
time, to learn and explore contemporary
issues, such as the protection of the envi-
ronment. Visitors are encouraged to par-
ticipate actively in the happenings. At Hel-
lenic Cosmos, there is not a single “Do not 01. ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT
touch” sign: everyone is invited to touch, 02. PROFESSIONAL CONGRESS ORGANISER
to experiment and to shape their own ex-
perience. 03. EVENTS & DESTINATION MANAGEMENT
04. STRATEGY & COMMUNICATION
At Hellenic Cosmos, visitors have
the opportunity to “travel” through
space and time to monuments and
sites of the past. “Tholos” (www.tho-
los254.gr), the ultramodern, spheri- 50SCIENTIFIC AND PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS 255INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS
cal virtual reality theatre with a ca-
pacity of 132 people, hosts the FHW's 760UNIQUE SOCIAL EVENTS77.256PARTICIPANTS37.200ABSTRACT PAGES
digital productions. The interactivity 17.800INVITED SPEAKERS210.000SQ. M EXHIBITION SPACE520MEDIA ACTIVITIES
of the shows allows visitors to take
part in the happenings and influence 4.000ACCREDITED JOURNALISTS100SKILLED PROFESSIONALS
the course of the presentations. The
result is a unique experience of im-
mersion into the virtual world which
is characterised by immediate re-
sponse, flexibility, originality and 

liveliness.
37
02_21X28_ADV_print.indd 1 4/28/09 5:08:13 PM
38
ATHENAEUM
INTERCONTINENTAL
ATHENS
No wonder the Athenaeum InterContinental Athens has been
named one of Greece’s leading hotels. Large guestrooms,
extensive conference facilities, award winning dining venues and
a central location appeal to business and leisure travelers alike.
LOCATION
The Athenaeum InterContinen-
tal Athens is in an ideal location
near the city centre and close to
many of its historic monuments.
It is also near the coast and only
36 km from Athens International
Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos."
Metro and tram stations are
within easy walking distance,
while the hotel's shuttle bus
makes regular trips to and from
the city centre from 8:30 to
22:30 daily.
ACCOMMODATION
The hotel features 543 luxury
rooms –the largest in the city -
including 60 suites, 18 of which
are on the Club InterContinen-
tal floors. Non-smoking rooms
and rooms specially designed for
mobility impaired individuals are
also available. All rooms, fully
equipped with high speed wire-
less Internet access, two-line
telephones, voice mail, connec-
tion ports for fax and Internet, 32
inch HD flat screen TVs and state
Hotel's lobby featuring Blue Man, the life-size sculpture of George Lappas that seems to hang in space bathing the lobby in blue light. of the art in room entertainment
system, feature premium design
and exquisite aesthetics.
HOTELS
Renovated Deluxe Rooms &
Suites
The Athenaeum InterContinen-
tal Athens continues its commit-
ment to consistently exceeding
the needs of its most discerning
guests, having initiated a multi-
million guestroom renovation
program due for completion in
2010. The first stage of the pro-
gram, which is already complet-
ed, entails major fundamental
improvements to the function-
ality and design of the 181 rooms
on the 2nd, 6th & 7th floor of the
hotel. The hallways of the new
Deluxe floors have been awak-
ened with vivid colours; orange,
red and yellow and are compli-
mented by lively wool carpeting.
Polished stone, wood and stain-
less steel lift foyers promote a
seamless continuation and fresh
welcoming already reflected in
the public areas of the Athenae- 39
um InterContinental Athens.
40
Showcasing the highest standards of
quality and aesthetics, the renovated
Deluxe rooms & suites, the most spa-
cious in Athens, provide a variety of
exclusive conveniences appreciated
by the modern day traveller includ-
ing ergonomic work area, 32’’ HD flat
screen TV with digital entertainment
system and high speed Internet ac-
cess (wired & wireless). The design of
the new rooms conceptually simple
yet grand, alternating horizontal lines
and geometric shapes with the soft
colors of cream, praline, nougat and
dark blue, results in a clever material
contrast with wool, leather, suede and
velvet. The guestroom’s interior fea-
tures stylish furnishings and specially
commissioned works of Modern Greek
Art adorning the leather clad walls.
Club InterContinental Rooms &
Suites
Club InterContinental occupies the
8th and 9th floors of the Athenaeum
InterContinental Athens, with 61
rooms and 18 suites offering the high-
est level of personal service and com-
fort. Upgraded services and a series of
special privileges include: a separate
reception area on the 8th floor for
fast check-in and check-out; a private
visitors' lounge (Club Lounge) with
a magnificent view of the Acropolis
and Lycabettus Hill; exclusive use of
specially designed facilities for busi-
ness meetings of up to six persons;
availability of Greek and international
press; access to a rich collection of
books, DVDs and CDs; free Internet
access in dedicated room within the
Club Lounge; and free use of the "wet
area facilities" of the I-Spa (steam
room, sauna, foot bath, artificial rain
shower).
CONFERENCE FACILITIES
Conference facilities, totalling an
area of 3,500 sq. metres and offering
great flexibility, consist of more than
35 breakout rooms with a capacity
to host successfully up to 3.500 del-
egates.
• The Athenaeum Ballroom, the larg-
est column free venue in the city,
featuring state of the art audiovi-
sual equipment, accommodates up
to 2,500 delegates.
• The Athenaeum Conference Centre
is located on the Lobby level and
consists of the Rotunda Lounge,
the main meeting room which can
be divided into three smaller rooms
and the Executive Boardroom.
• The Aphrodite room, highly distin-
guished by its natural daylight, is
the ideal choice for business meet-
ings and private functions.
• The Ypsilon & Omicron rooms
astound with their prestige, aes-
thetics and functionality support-
ing successfully highly demanding
events.
• The Ethniki Asfalistiki (National In-
surance Company) Conference Cen-
ter, the management of which has
been assumed by the Athenaeum
InterContinental Athens, is in a short
distance from the hotel. With a total
conference area of 1,700 sq. metres
and a Rooftop of 2,000 sq. metres,
the new Center can easily host a vari-
ety of event types.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
• Première Restaurant & Lounge Bar
(10th floor)
Located on the hotel's top floor, the
Première Restaurant & Lounge Bar,
winner of the Golden Chef ’s Hat award
for 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009, offers
authentic Mediterranean cuisine and
a panoramic view of Athens.
• cafezoe (at Lobby level)
Designed by highly acclaimed Tony
Chi, cafezoe, welcomes you with
authentic Greek and innovative inter-
national flavours.
HOTELS
• playzoe (at Lobby level)
Open during summer months, the
hotel's pool bar serves exotic cock-
tails, ice cream and snacks.
•C
 afé Vienna Tea Lounge (at Lobby
level)
This cosmopolitan meeting place at
the heart of the hotel is distinguished
by its unique flavour. Give in to irre-
Athenaum Ballroom, the largest column free venue in the city
sistible flavours temptations or enjoy
your favourite drink to the accompa-
niment of live piano.
• Tobar (at Lobby level)
This new retro-deluxe bar, designed
by world renowned Frenchman Pierre
Award winning rooftop Premiére
Yves Rochon, combines contempo-
rary design with luxury and comfort.
I-SPA by Algotherm (main entrance)
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
•H
 igh speed wireless Internet access
in all guestrooms and public areas of
the hotel.
•R
 oom Service is available 24 hours a
day.
•F
 ully equipped Business Centre of-
fering complete secretarial support,
Internet access, and computer, fax
and mobile phone rental.
•O
 pen during summer months, the
hotel’s outdoor swimming pool of-
fers leisure moments in the sun.
• The Shopping Arcade is located at
Lobby level.
• The renovated gym, fully equipped
by Technogym, is open all day.
•T  he new I-SPA by Algotherm is an Kappa breakout room featuring
authentic and natural retreat, high- authentic works of Modern Greek Art
ly distinguished by its use of sea
products and thalassotherapy.
• 3 50 authentic works of Modern
Greek Art adorning all hotel areas.
•U
 nderground secure parking of 130
spaces.
41
Club InterContinental room featuring exquisite
views of the Acropolis and Athens by night
42
Flisvos Marina
Just 6 km from the centre of Athens, Flisvos Marina is Greece’s
first world-class marina, catering to the needs of
a large number of mega yachts, while offering possibilities for
commercial use and venues open to the public.
LAMDA Flisvos Marina S.A. (LFM)
was established in 2002 with the ob-
jective of redesigning and rebuilding
the port and land infrastructure of
Flisvos Marina during a 40-year con-
cession agreement. An investment
plan, estimated at approximately
€45 million, has transformed Flisvos
Marina into a stellar, world-class
marina for yachts and mega-yachts
in the Southeast Mediterranean.
Flisvos Marina’s commitment to pro-
viding a high quality standard of ser-
vices was recently recognised world-
wide when it was certified under
ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001:2004
by Lloyd’s Register Group, making
it Greece’s first and only marina to
hold both certifications.
Boasting the blue seas of the Saronic
Gulf as its backdrop, and only 6 km
from the centre of Athens, in Paleo
Faliro, Flisvos Marina is Greece’s first
exclusive marina to offer large-scale
mooring capacity for mega-yacht
owners from Greece and abroad.
The marina features approximately
250 berths, 50% of which accom-
modate pleasure yachts and luxury
vessels with a length in excess of 30
metres.
These extensive berthing capacities
were recently complemented by ad-
ditional land and high-end commer-
cial properties and facilities enjoyed
by yacht owners, Athenians and visi-
tors alike.
LOCATIONS
The commercial complex, that
stretches across an area of 3,800
square metres, features a majestic
Mediterranean esplanade lined with
fine dining and shopping venues
as well as a roster of special events
throughout the year.
The goal is to establish Flisvos Ma-
rina as the premier mega-yacht
destination in the Eastern Mediter-
ranean and a meeting point in rec-
reation, shopping and dining for any
demanding customer.
The marine facilities in combination
with low-impact development and a
unique architectural style have con-
tributed to the creation of a world-
class marina that is expected to at-
tract upscale tourism.
43
44
Flisvos Marina Key Facts:
• Location: Flisvos, Paleo Faliro, Attica
(Lat: 37o 56',18N 023o 40',8E)
• Developing Company: LAMDA Flisvos
Marina S.A.
• Investment value: €45 million
• Total number of berths: 291 by the end
of October
• Land zone area: 56,000 square metres
• Number of stores: 34
• Enhancements/Development of
the Surrounding Land Property
• The development of the marina’s sur-
rounding property of 56,000 square
metres featured the building of six
low-level buildings. Covering an area of
3,800 square metres, the development
consists of a total of 34 commercial and
corporate establishments (stores and
offices).
• Following is a list of stores and offices
that currently operate at Flisvos Marina:
Recreation / Restaurants:
Pier One of the Pentelikon group (a res-
taurant multiplex including the restau-
rants TGI Friday’s, Brasserie Sud and the
bar-restaurant ΖΙΝC), Eric Kayser, Due
Cavalieri, HaagenDazs, Cruiser Exclusive
Bar & Shop, Breeze café & drinks, Mare
Marina Restaurant, To Taxeidi
Clothing / Accessories Shops:
Oltre Mare, Manalis Eyewear, Columbia,
BillaBong, Perga Marine, Quiksilver
Yachting Companies: PrivatSea Yacht-
ing, Albatros, A1 Yacht Trade Consortium,
EKKA Yachts, MPM Marine Hellas, Nauti-
lus Yachting, Cape4 Yachting, Ocean Inde-
pendence, Kappa Marine
LOCATIONS THEATER
SIGHTSEEING
Service-Oriented Shops: Breeze Books,
Press & Tobacco, ATM
• The renovation of Flisvos Marina’s park
has been carried out with careful en-
vironmental planning. Eight hundred
trees and 3,500 square metres of lawn
were planted.
• A watchtower has been constructed in Major events that have taken place
the north side of the marina in order to at Flisvos Marina:
ensure safe yacht entry and exit as well • 1st Havana Club Athens Flair Open '08
as movement within the port.
• Arrow Run
• The Flisvos Port Police, located in the
•E
 urope Corporate Games 2008 (Dragon
marina’s administration building, is re-
Boats) and 2009
sponsible for Flisvos, as well as the Ali-
• Flisvos Marina - Christmas Wonderland
mos and Delta Trokadero marinas.
• ERICSSON Corporate Event
• Two main parking areas with a capacity
of 320 vehicles have been developed to •G
 reek Grand Prix World Powerboat
Championship
accommodate visitors to the marina.
Additional services: Blue Flag award
• Administration service Flisvos Marina is being awarded the
"Blue Flag" since 2007 and was certi-
• Reception - Customer service - Informa-
fied by Lloyd’s Register Group with
tion
ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001:2004 for
• Service for yachts mooring
its quality management and environmen-
• Technical support for port and land tal policy in 2008.
premises
* The Blue Flag is an exclusive eco-label awarded
• Water supply to over 3,200 beaches and marinas in 37 countries
• Electricity across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, New Zea-
land, Canada and the Caribbean in the past year.
• Sewage station pump out service
The Blue Flag Programme is owned and run by the
• Fire detection and warning system
independent non-profit organisation Foundation
• Phone connection-Web (Internet) for Environmental Education (FEE). The Blue Flag
• Car parking lot and restrooms for works towards sustainable development at beach-
disabled people es/marinas through strict criteria dealing with wa-
ter quality, environmental education and informa-
• Recreational area / promenade
tion, environmental management and safety and
• Public restrooms and showers
other services.
• Fuel station
One of the best walks
• Commercial and corporate establish-
Contact:
ments (stores and offices)
Tel: +30 210 9871000-2
• Restaurants
in the world
Fax: +30 210 9871060
• Equipment supply and provisions
E-mail: info@flisvosmarina.com
• Yachting services, management and
yachts technical support Web: www.flisvosmarina.com
• Prestigious event management Dionysiou Areopagitou - Apostolou Pavlou - Ermou
• Yacht service from outsourced contrac-
tors for technical matters, diving services,
yachts maintenance, etc
• Customs 45
46
This is the best walk in modern Athens. In a couple of hours, you can see the most beautiful sites in the city from
these areas. Dionysius the Areopagite was a judge on the Areopagus, at the highest judicial council in Ancient
Greece. It is unlikely that he would have gone down in history for any of his judicial decisions if he had not been one
of the first to believe in the words which the Apostle Paul spoke from the Areopagus, and one of the first Christians
in Europe. Apostle Paul does not need such an introduction, nor does Hermes, the Greek god of trade. The walk
passes all of these, creating a triangular image of time from Ancient Greece up to the Greece of today.
We started on Amalias Avenue, at Hadrian's Gate - one of the most significant constructions of the Roman period in Athens
which was built in 131 BC. The beginning of Dionysiou Areopagitou Street has a few souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes.
The centre for bohemian intellectuals is the bar-restaurant Duende at 2 Tziraion St. It has a Parisian atmosphere, a well-
stocked bar and even better snacks and meals. But it is the new Acropolis Museum (Akropoli Metro station), designed by
Bernard Tschumi, that dominates this area.
The interior of the museum is expected to be ready by the end of the year, filled with antiquities from the Acropolis. On
Makrygianni St., opposite the Museum and after the archaeological delirium, you can nibble on something at the Oinom-
ageireio ton Theon, or sip on a coffee at Elea, or even have a drink at the Hawaiian-style Tiki.
If you want something traditional to eat, then Plakiotissa on the corner of D. Areapagitou and Makri Streets is a good
choice. Always found on the right is the Sacred Rock with the marvel of thousands of years - the Acropolis. It was built in
the Golden Age of Pericles (500 BC) under the supervision of the sculptor Phidias and designed by the architects Mnesicles,
Callimachus and Callicrates. To the left, stretching along the length of the road, are a number of neoclassical-style houses
which harmoniously blend with the other classic, that of Ancient Greece. The Odeion of Herodes Atticus, also known as
the Herodion, is another Roman building which decorates the pedestrianised Dionysiou Areapagitou. It was built in the
2nd century AD by an Athenian benefactor, Tiberius Claudius Herodes, to honour the memory of his wife. Today it is one of
the most important cultural sites, as a number of important artistic happenings are held there during the summer. It is now
common for people to take a walk down the road after performances, to 25 Robertou Gali, to discuss the performance at the
taverna Strofi.
Next to the Herodeion, but not so visible from the pathway, is the Theatre of Dionysius. Many experts consider this to be the
oldest of all known theatres in the world. It was the place where Ancient Greek drama was born and performed for the first
time. In the 5th century BC works by the four most significant poets of antiquity - Aeschylus, Euripides, Sophocles and Aris-
tophanes - were performed here during the annual drama contests which took place during the feast of the Great Dionysus.
Today, this no longer operates as a theatre, but it is still a sight which should not be missed.
SIGHTSEEING
A little before Dionysiou Areapagitou St. becomes Apostolou Pavlou St. - at the border if you like - without it being obvi-
ous, our feet found themselves walking along one of the most famous paved streets under the sun. It was built between
1951 and 1957, and connects the archaeological sites of the Philopappos monument and the Acropolis. It was the work
of Dimitris Pikionis, one of the great stylists of modern Greek architecture from World War II onwards. On the vibrantly
green hill of Philopappos, aside from the breathtaking panoramic view of Athens which reaches out to sea, visitors can
also marvel at the homonymous monument. It is a special type of mausoleum, built between 90 and 100 AD in honour
of Philopappos, a Roman Consul of Athens. Nearby, however, you can also visit a traditional example of a 16th century
Christian church, Agios Dimitrios the Loumbardiaris. According to tradition, the name Loubardiaris comes from an event
from the 17th century. On the eve of 26 October, a lightning bolt hit the Turkish Marshal Yusuf Aga and his family. The Aga
had set up a loumbarda (a large canon) at the Propylaia of the Acropolis, and was planning to fire at the Christians as
they were hurrying to celebrate the festival of Agios Dimitrios. Walking down Apostolou Pavlou St., there is an expanse of
greenness on the right-hand side - the Ancient Agora. This area was the birthplace of the renowned Athenian Democracy,
because it was there that the blending of views and ideas on the subjects of city, political systems, and human activities
in general took place.
Also along this part of the walk is Pnyx, which is where the Athenian Assembly - the administrative body of Ancient Athens
- used to meet. Today, Apostolou Pavlou St. is also where modern Athenians meet. It is somewhat different now though,
since along the length of the road you will come across a plethora of cafes to suit all tastes, creating the area now known
as Thisseio. A lot of young people, as well as a number of families, have made this one of the greatest hang outs in one of
the most beautiful places in Athens you can go to walk and relax. Athinaion Politeia has an exceptional selection of side
dishes to accompany your ouzo, as well as coffee. Flocafe is a well-known Athenian café chain with drinks and snacks.
After this, other options for coffee, are Kirki, Mentor, Meliti and 32 Kolones. All of these are on Apostolou Pavlou St. and all
have a view of the Sacred Rock of the Acropolis. After spending some time amongst the crowded cafes of Irakleidon and
Apostolou Pavlou Streets, we continue our descent towards Ermou, just after the electric train station. Souvlaki in hand,
bought from Gyristroula opposite the station, we continued towards the ancient cemetery of Kerameikos, which is in the
eponymous area the ancient Greeks considered the "kalliston proastion" (the most beautiful suburb), and where there are
tombs dating back as far as the Bronze Age. The best preserved part, however, is around the church of Agia Triada, on the
side nearest the Iera Odos (Sacred Way).
This is where the greatest personalities of Athens were buried. After all this historic wandering around the archaeological
areas of Athens and Ermou we found ourselves at the old Public Gas Works, at Gazi, or Gazochori (literally "Gas-place").
Nowadays, this operates as a modern cultural centre, known as Technopolis, for the City of Athens, which has developed
the old gasworks in an incredible way. A number of different places for food and nightlife have sprung up around the Tech-
nopolis (at Kerameikos Metro station).
Fish at Sardelles and meat at Butcher Shop on Persefonis St., Mexican food at Tapas on Triptolemou St., ouzo and raki at
Gazochori on Dekeleon St., experimental Greek cuisine at Kanela (on Konstantinoupoleos St.) and Crudo next-door for
wine and hors d’oeuvre after at trip to the bars. There is no end, every corner has a place to hang out at, and every road
has a different type of entertainment. On Triptolemou St. are Gazaki, Dirty Ginger, Socialistas and Sodade (at number
10), which are some of the first Gay bars in Athens. There are other gay friendly places on Konstantinoupoleos St., apart
from the alternative K44 and the Art House, such as Almodobar and the S-cape army academy. And the number of people
grows and grows since this is where the heart of night-time entertainment beats from morning right up until the follow-
ing morning! In its own way, Gazi is the end of the time line which started with the Athens of Pericles and the philosophers
and finishes with the Athens of the Hoxton and A Liar Man (trendy bars in Gazi Square), and the timeless Greek export
known as Athenian nightlife. To finish, we have a tip for night owls: To avoid the early morning hangover, try a crepe from
Meli Meli at 12 Iakchou St. You will understand what people in Greece mean when they call it "stomach balm".
47
48
Caring for the future
International Airport enviromental plan
The responsible and efficient manage-
ment of all environmental issues related
to the airport’s operation, based on the
principles of sustainable growth and con-
tinuous improvement of its environmen-
tal policy, constitutes one of the primary
goals of Athens International Airport.
Within this framework, AIA regularly moni-
tors and assesses environmental condi-
tions, informs the authorities and the public
and undertakes initiatives for environmen-
tal protection.
It should be noted that AIA is the only Greek
airport whose Environmental Department
implements an Environmental Manage-
ment System (EMS) that has been certified
in accordance with EN ISO 14001 (2004)
since December 2000. As part of the EMS,
the activities of the department include
Noise, Air Quality, Water, Waste, Natural
Environment and Social Initiatives.
AIR QUALITY
Athens international Airport acknowledg-
es the importance of air quality and ad-
dresses the issue by assessing emissions
from relevant sources, monitoring pol-
lutant concentrations and meteorologi-
cal parameters at the airport and in the
surrounding communities, and adopting
measures aiming to reduce emissions.
An Analysis of the Athens
Emissions Inventory
Athens International Airport estimates
emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOÌ), hydro-
carbons (HCs) and carbon monoxide (CO)
from sources at the airport site, includ-
ing aircraft emissions during the Land-
ing-Take-Off (LTO) cycle, emissions from
aircraft handling, emissions from road
traffic in public areas and on the apron as
well as emissions from other sources (e.g.
stationary).
Air Quality Monitoring
Athens International Airport estimates
pollutant emissions from sources related
to the operation of the airport. The equip-
ment comprises the following:
• An Air Quality Monitoring Network
(AQMN), which has been operat-
ing since 1998 and consists of five
permanent monitoring stations in-
stalled in the municipalities of Glyka
Nera,Koropi,Markopoulo,Pallini and
Spata, and one mobile station. Ground
level concentrations of the major pollut-
ants: NOÌ, ozone (O3), particulate mat-
ter (PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO2), CO and
HCs are measured as well as the basic
meteorological parameters.
•D  ifferential Optical Absorption Spec-
troscopy (DOAS) system, which records
pollutant concentrations and contrib-
utes not only to the assessment of air
quality on the airport premises, but also
to the monitoring of aircraft emissions
during take-off.
• Sonic Detection and Ranging (SODAR)
system, a Radio Acoustic Sounding Sys-
tem (RASS) and a Meteorological Sta-
tion, which are used to monitor several
meteorological parameters that affect air
quality in the greater Mesogaia region.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Emission Reduction Measures
Athens International Airport is committed
to reducing its impact on climate change
and has already successfully implement-
ed several measures to reduce emissions
from sources under its direct control, in-
cluding the energy-efficient design of the
airport buildings and infrastructure, ex-
tensive use of natural gas, well-developed
access to the airport via public transport,
participation in the European Green Light
and Green Building programmes since
2003 and 2006 respectively, and other
measures. In recognition of the remark-
able energy saving performance of its
facilities and buildings, AIA received the
“GreenBuilding Partner Award 2008.”
Climate Change Corporate Action
Plan
AIA's Climate Change Corporate Action
Plan is implemented in collaboration
with several other departments. The
completion of the eight actions compris-
ing the 2008 Action Plan bore the follow-
ing results:
• 15 vehicles were converted to operate
with LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). Fur-
thermore, four new hybrid vehicles were
added to AIA’s fleet.
• In the context of the “Switch-off engine”
campaign for vehicles waiting at the
MTB, leaflets were distributed to driv-
ers and relevant signage was installed.
• New “Green Design” guidelines were
developed in cooperation with the Uni-
versity of Athens.
• We collaborated with airlines and
ground handlers to establish a policy re-
stricting the use of Ground Power Units
(GPUs) by aircraft.
• A total area of 10,000 square metres
was planted with trees and shrubs in
the vicinity of the airport’s new Exhibi-
tion Centre.
• All company publications were printed
on recycled materials in 2008 and sev-
eral corporate gifts made of recycled
materials were also purchased.
• A recycling rate of 43% was achieved at
the airport.
• A Carpooling Scheme for AIA employees
was designed and developed.
Annual emissions of CO2 were reduced
by several thousand tonnes as a result of
the above actions.
AIRPORT
It should also be noted that almost all
of the above measures contributed to
reducing emissions of other pollutants
(e.g. NOx, SO2, CO, etc.) as well, and
subsequently helped improve air quality
in the region surrounding the airport.
Thanks to various energy-saving mea-
sures implemented by AIA in 2008, en-
ergy savings on the order of 500 MWh
were achieved in comparison to 2007,
resulting in a reduction of CO2 emissions
of approximately 475 tonnes. The average
electricity consumption per passenger
has decreased steadily since 2004 due
to the implementation of the above-
mentioned energy-saving measures and
the continuous increase in the number
of passengers. The decrease in natural
gas consumption compared with the
previous year is due to reduced heating
needs owing to the mild winter and the
implementation of initiatives to reduce
consumption by third parties operating
at the airport.
49
50 AIRPORT

RECYCLING
The implementation of financial incentives, namely refunds to third parties for all recycled materials generated at the airport, as well
as initiatives for the promotion of recycling has led to the recycling of 43% of all waste. AIA has established a Recycling Point, equipped
with bins for paper, plastic, glass, aluminium, metals, electronic waste and batteries. Airport personnel can help protect the environ-
ment by bringing recyclables from home.

During 2008, 9 tonnes of recyclables were collected at the Recycling Point. In addition to the promotion of recycling, AIA uses recycled
paper for printing and photocopying purposes in its offices. Furthermore, in 2008 all corporate publications were printed on recycled
paper.

Hazardous Waste
Hazardous Waste Management is a significant parameter associated with the airport’s operation. During 2008, 354 tonnes of hazard-
ous waste were produced on the airport site, of which 28.5% was disposed of via AIA's Alternative Management System that includes
treatment, valorisation and/or recycling. The remaining 71.5% (e.g. waste from oil-water separators, waste and sludge from the IWTF)
was transferred to a facility licensed for the treatment, valorisation and/or temporary storage of hazardous waste.

2008 Environmental Plan – Performance Report C

PROGRAMME TITLE TARGET RESULT Y

Recycling on airport site Achieve 20% recycling rate Achieved

on airport site by the year 2008 CM

Environmental awareness I 86% of Athens International Airport employees Achieved MY

to obtain environmental awareness training;

three environmental tours to be conducted CY

Analysis of NMT locations Analyse noise events for 8 permanent NOMOS Achieved CMY
based on flight track data Noise Monitoring Terminals
Bio-monitoring programme Record the status of fauna, flora and vegetation in order Achieved K

Phase II to define possible variations versus the baseline

Airport site emissions inventory 100% semi-automated monitoring and reporting airport Achieved
operation emissions on airport site
Surface water quality monitoring Install and operate an online watering system Achieved
at the main ponding area

2009 Environmental Plan - Objectives

PROGRAMME TITLE TARGET

Intercomparison of the Air Quality Assess the uncertainty of simultaneous measurements of
Monitoring Network analysers HC, CO, SO2, NOx, and O3, with AQMN analysers
Assessment of the Air Quality in Artemis Perform at least on year’s worth of air quality
monitoring with the mobile station of the AQMN in Artemis
Recycling programme at the Schools of Collect a minimum of 20 tonnes of recyclables
the Municipality of Artemis (paper & aluminium cans) from the schools in Artemis
Municipality by the end of 2009
Wildlife Hazard Control and Reduction Minimise wildlife strike risks
Programme Revision
Preservation of Vravrona Wetlands Provision of clean-up, signage, path development and
other works at the Vravrona wetlands in
cooperation with the Hellenic Ornithological Society
Display of Noise Data and Receiving Display noise data over the Internet and
Noise Complaints through the Internet receive noise complaints via AIA’s website
Environmental Awareness 91% of AIA employees to obtain environmental
awareness training by the end of year 2010
Increase Recycling on Airport Site Achieve a recycling rate of 50% on the airport site in year 2012
51
52
of the Saronic Gulf
The islands of the Saronic Gulf - Aegina, Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Agistri and
The combination of the gorgeous blue
colour of the sea, the equally gorgeous
green of the vegetation and their glori-
ous past makes them unique. They are
situated between the Saronic Gulf and
the Argolikos Gulf and are the most
popular and often-visited tourist des-
tinations because of their proximity to
© YORGOS KALOKENTIS
ΑEGINA
The jewels
Salamina - are noted for their natural beauty, their long history and
Athens. Let us begin a voyage that will
take us to both their past and present.
Aegina
Aegina is famous for its magnificent
beaches, the spectacular ancient
temple of Afaia and the church of Ag-
ios Nektarios, its patron saint. It took
their historical monuments.
its name from the nymph Aegina, the
daughter of Asopus. The Minoan pot-
tery found on the island testifies to
the fact that the island was inhab-
ited as early as 2000 BC. In Classical
times, Aegina was renowned because
of its status as a naval power. Around
650 BC, the island started to mint the
AGISTRI
“chelone” (turtle), the first silver coin in
ancient Greece, and it was also the first
island to establish measures. Aegina is
the second biggest island of the Saronic
Islands cluster in terms of area, popula-
tion and development. It has more than
15,000 inhabitants and its main town,
also called Aegina, is a tourist centre
with many well-preserved buildings.
Aegina combines two different charac-
teristics: opportunities for having fun
either in the town or in any of its famous
resorts (Agia Marina, Perdika, Souvala)
and access to quiet walks in its pictur-
esque, traditional villages (Kypseli, Ag-
ioi, Vagia). The inhabitants of the island
are known for their artistry in ceramics
and also for cultivating the unique Ae-
ginean pistachio. The most significant
sites of the island are the Temple of
Afaia, Paleochora, the remains of the
Temple of Hellanios Zeus, the Neolithic
settlement at Kolona and the Archaeo-
logical Museum. In the Plakakia, area
you can find the Kapralos Museum with
paintings and sculptures. Also worth
visiting are: the Metropolitan Church of
Agios Dionysios, built in 1806; the Gov-
ernor’s House, where Kapodistrias used
to stay and which has a library of 7,000
volumes; the Orphanage, built during
the era of Kapodistrias; the house where
author Nikos Kazantzakis stayed for a
while and which has a number of his
books, his photographs and his personal
objects. The majestic monastery of Ag-
ios Nektarios is a destination favoured
by admirers of religious monuments.
daytrips
Apart from buses, there are also a num-
ber of traditional horse carriages that
allow you to tour the city. The voyage to
Aegina from Piraeus takes one hour and
fifteen minutes by boat and 40 minutes
when you opt for the hydrofoils (Flying
Dolphins).
Agistri
Agistri is a small, verdant island and the
perfect place to relax. It is ideal for those
who wish to get away from the hustle
and bustle of Athens. Many archaeo-
logical findings, which can be seen at
the Cultural Centre of Megalochori, tes-
tify to the fact that the island was first
inhabited around the 5th cenutry BC
by Pelloponesians. From time to time,
many inhabitants from other places
53
54
settled on the island, chief among them
the Arvanites around the 14th century
AD. Towards the end of the 17th century,
the inhabitants of the island deserted
it because of the frequent pirate raids.
It was once again inhabited in 1821. The
tourist infrastructure is more than ad-
equate and its inhabitants – around
1,000 – are very hospitable. Agistri has
three main villages: Megalochori (or My-
los), Scala and Limenaria. The fact that
there are no vehicles on the island (there
is a bus service) makes it ideal for relax-
ation and the enjoyment of the beauty of
nature. Scala is the most famous beach
of the island. Other notable beaches in-
clude: Limenaria, Dragonera, the Mar-
eza, Aponisos, Mylos and Chalkiada (its
deep waters are ideal for those who like
underwater fishing. Agistri is 55 minutes
from Piraeus.
Spetses
Spetses, the island of the Greek heroine
Bouboulina, combines the picturesque
with the stately. Spetses, an island with
a long history in commerce and seafar-
ing, played a key role in the 1821 Greek
War of Independence. The island’s name
in Classical times was Pityoussa, which
means "piny," because of the many pines
on the island. The Venetians called it "iso-
la di spezzie," meaning "island of scents,"
and this is how its current name came
about, as "spezzie" became "Spetses"
by its Arvanite inhabitants. Nowadays,
the island has 4,000 inhabitants whose
main occupation is tourism and seafar-
ing. Spetses has managed to preserve its
unique architectural character, evident
in the many well-preserved manors. The
main point of reference of the island is
Dapia, a tourist and commercial centre
overlooking the harbour, where one can
see the statue of Laskarina Bouboulina.
The Old Harbour has also preserved its
traditional, picturesque features. Many
of the manors in Spetses are living tes-
taments to the island’s long history. One
such example is the manor of Laskarina
Bouboulina that has been turned into a
museum; another is the manor of Hatzi-
yannis Mexis, where objects and impor-
tant artefacts from the 1821 War of Inde-
pendence are housed. One can also find
artefacts of the 1821 war in the manor of
Botasis. Cars are forbidden in Spetses
and land transportation is provided
by carriages, bicycles and motorbikes,
while sea transportation is provided by
water taxis. The voyage to Spetses takes
around 4 hours by boat and 2.5 hours by
hydrofoil (Flying Dolphin)
Hydra
See separate article
Salamina
Salamina is famous for the naval battle
that took place there in Classical times
during the Persian Wars. According to
Greek mythology, the name Salamina
was given to the island by Cychreus,
the first king of the island, in honour of
his mother, Salamis. As many archaeo-
logical findings, especially in the areas
Aianteio, Pyrgiakoni, Kanakia, Kaki Bigla
and Saterli testify, Salamina was inhab-
ited as early as prehistoric times. Salam-
ina town, Aianteio, Abelakia and Selinia
are the biggest urban centres and the
population of the island today is more
than 37,000 people, most of whom
work on the Salamis Naval Base.
Poros
Poros is right across Argolida and Lem-
onodasos (Lemon Forest). In Classi-
cal times, it comprised of two islands
-- Sphaira (which took its name from
Sphairus, the charioteer of Pelops, king
of Pisa in Peloponnesus) and Kalau-
reia, also Kalavria or Calauria (meaning
"gentle breeze"). The last eruption of the
Methana volcano in 273 BC changed the
morphology of the area. Sphaira was
separated from Methana and Poros ac-
quired the form that it still retains today.
Poros is one of the islands that played a
key role in the 1821 War of Independence.
daytrips
For a short time in 1827, it became the
seat of the government of that era.
Another key event took place from Sep-
tember to December 1828, when repre-
sentatives from the great powers of that
time (Britain, France, Russia) met there
in order to establish the borders of the
newly formed Greek state. Nowadays,
Poros is a picturesque, modern and
quiet island whose main city is built am-
phitheatrically on the slopes of two hills.
The town of Poros is now a listed site.
The island has about 4,300 permanent
residents whose main occupation is
tourism. Among the island's mains land-
marks are: the clock tower, the symbol
of the island built in 1927 in the island’s
harbour; the neoclassical buildings that C
adorn the island, like the Deimetzis
M
building, Grivas’ shop and Villa Galini,
where many famous artists and intel-
Y
lectuals have spent time. In the centre CM
of the town, and specifically in Koryzis MY
Square, you can find the Archaeological
CY
Museum, the Chatzopouleios Municipal
Library and the Metropolitan Church of
CMY
Agios Georgios (Saint George), which K
has frescoes painted by the renowned
painter Parthenis.The boat from Piraeus
takes 2 hours and 15 minutes, whereas
the hydrofoil (Flying Dolphin) takes just
1 hour.
How to get there
You can take either a boat or a hy-
drofoil (Flying Dolphin) to visit all of
these islands. The Piraeus Port Au-
thority (210-4147800) and Hellenic
Seaways (210-419900) will give you
all the necessary information. You
can also enjoy a day or night cruise
in the Argosaronikos onboard the
cruising vessels of Sea Cruises Ex-
clusive (210-6128832).
55
56
Hydra:
history and
natural beauty
Hydra is the most cosmopolitan of the islands of the Saronic Gulf.
Its stately presence makes it one of the most
enviable tourist destinations.
It is not by chance that many famous people
have visited this extremely beautiful island to
bask in some of the glory one senses in every
uphill cobblestone alley. One visit will cer-
tainly make you feel immersed in its glorious
past...
Hydra’s history
During Classical times, Hydra was called Hy-
drea because of the island’s plentiful waters.
Hydra was populated as early as the Neolithic
Age (3000 – 2600 BC). Evidence of human
habitation has been found in the interior of the
Island,
and more specifically in the “Cave of Kolokotro-
nis.” The Hydrians played a key role in the 1821
Greek Revolution by featuring prominently in
naval battles from 1821 to 1829 with 186 ships.
At the beginning of the 19th century, the island
was booming economically. It was during that
period that the manors of the important fami-
lies of the island were built. After the revolution,
the island went through a period of decline and
many of its inhabitants deserted it. Neverthe-
less, it should be noted that five Greek prime
ministers came from this small island (G. Koun-
touriotis, A. Kriezis, D. Voulgaris, A. Miaoulis,
and P. Voulgaris), a fact that makes Hydra all
the more interesting. Today Hydra has 2,700
inhabitants who live their life far from the noise
and anxiety that characterise any big city. Their
occupation is almost exclusively fishing and
the tourist industr
DAYTRIPS
A destination for jet setters
Hydra is a cultural hub like most of the islands
of the Argosaronikos, such as Aegina, Salami-
na, Spetses, Poros and Agistri. Since the 1950s,
Hydra has once again become the place to be,
thanks to the artists and intellectuals that made
it the cultural hub that it is today. Another thing
to note is that no wheeled vehicles are allowed
on the island (the main means of transporta-
tion is the 500 or so donkeys). Every summer,
its port fills with sailboats and other spectacu-
lar yachts, as the island is a must-see for every
tourist who travels by sea. The town of Hydra is
particularly picturesque, as it is built amphithe-
atrically around its port. The many manors, the
temples and the statues all contribute to the
unique ambiance of the island.
Art meets tradition
Hydra is a picturesque, stately and cosmopoli-
tan island. Its naval history and its rich tradition
are the main reasons behind the existence of so
many renovated manors, the picturesque old
harbour of the island with its Parapets with the
Canons, the museums, the monasteries and
the Naval Academy. The town of Hydra enjoys
listed status and is spread between two rocky
hills. The multitude of traditional manors recall
a magnificent bygone era. Their classic archi-
tecture, with its internal courtyards and the
beautiful cobblestone pavements, is a living
testament to the glorious past of the island.
57
58
Inside these manors one can admire the
high, painted wooden ceilings, the arches
and the Venetian furniture -- all elements
that give these houses a distinguished air,
while the gardens with their marble water
fountains and bougainvilleas complement
this exquisite and aesthetically pleasing
picture. For many decades now, Hydra
has been one of the favoured destinations
of Greek and foreign visitors, prominent
among which are painters like Pablo Pica-
sso and Marc Chagall, who visited the is-
land and immortalized its austere form in
their paintings. Because of its reputation
as a magnet for artists of all kinds, an an-
nex of the Athens School of Fine Arts was
established there in 1936 and is currently
housed in the Tombazis manor.
Places to visit
There are many things to see in Hydra. Here
are our suggestions as to which are the
most important landmarks of the island:
the manor of Lazaros Kountouriotis, which
includes the Church of the Hypapante and
the Kountouriotis Museum; the manors of
the Maioulis, Voulgaris and Mpountouris
families; the manor of Tombazis, which
is made of stone and where one can find
the annex of the Athens School of Fine
Arts; the manor of the Tsamados family,
which houses the Merchant Marine Acad-
emy, a contemporary naval museum; the
Museum of History and Archives, next to
the Port Authority, a museum which has
invaluable archive material from the 1821
War of Independence, a museum section
and a library; and finally the Cathedral,
right in the centre of the island, a church
dedicated to the Virgin Mary’s Dormition.
DAYTRIPS
THE NEW FACE
Lodging and food
OF ATHENS
ON THE WEB
One day in Hydra is not long enough to
immerse yourselves in its atmosphere. So,
if you wish to stay longer, there are some
fine lodgings, such as Bratsera (22980-
53971), Hydroussa (22980-52400) and Mis-
tral (22980-52509). And since it is summer
after all, and you have to go for a swim, just
follow the others as they head towards
the centre of the harbour, in front of the
clock, where all the small boats and the
sea taxis depart for the beaches of the is- Enjoy the best
land, including beaches like Kaminia, Mira
Mare, Bistis and Agios Nikolaos. Near the
harbour you can find the organised beach
of Athens with us
of Vlihos, where you can enjoy a swim and
a meal at the Enialion. If food is your main www.breathtakingathens.com
concern, then you will be pleased to know
that there are some very picturesque
small tavernas like Geitoniko (Christina),
Kondylenia, Manolis and Steki. Before you
leave the island, make sure you pay a last
visit to Tsagaris’ shop where you can buy
the almond sweets Hydra is famous for.
All you need to know
How to get there:
Hydra is one and a half hours
about your business
from Piraeus, where you can take
either a conventional ship or the trip in Athens
hydrofoil (Flying Dolphin) to get
there. Piraeus Port Authority (210-
4147800) and Hellenic Seaways
www.athensconventionbureau.gr
(210-419900) will give you all the
necessary information. You can
also enjoy a day or night cruise in
the Saronic Gulf onboard the cruis-
ing vessels of Sea Cruises Exclusive
(210-6128832).
60
Rockwave Festival 2009
Celebrating its 13th year of
success, Rockwave once
again presents a four-day
music festival experience this
summer which promises to be
more spectacular than ever,
hosting some of the biggest
names on the international
music scene on two stages.
The Killers, Duffy, Gogol Bor-
dello, Moby, Placebo, Motley
Crue, Slipknot, Tricky, Foals,
Dinosaur Jr. and many more
will appear in one of the best
music festivals in Athens. It
is being held at Terra Vibe,
one of the biggest open-air
venues in the world and an
ideal location for Rockwave.
From 27 to 30 June, get ready
for four days of music, dance
and sun.
Synch festival 2009: Ath-
ens’ most diverse and
multi-dimensional music
festival returns
For the sixth consecutive
year, Athens' most diverse
and multi-dimensional mu-
sic festival returns with the
mission to promote the
various aspects of contem-
porary digital culture: from
music to art to cinema. Its
eclectic line-up, fine produc-
tion and, above all, its clear
view towards the future are
the elements that have won
the heart of Synch's ever-in-
creasing audience. Synch will
take place from 12 to14 June
at Technopolis in Athens and
the Benaki Museum.
The Synch festival will be
presenting the most original
and innovative acts on the
contemporary music scene:
from the dazzling disco-punk
summer - autumn
CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
of Friendly Fires and upcom-
ing Ebony Bones and Flor-
ence and the Machine, to
the stylish electropop of Ju-
nior Boys or Fujiya & Miyagi's
krautrock-inspired indie; from
the complex structures of
Squarepusher and new Warp
star Hudson Mohawke to the
disco mystery that goes by
the name of Black Devil Disco
Club or indie-electro produc-
tion of the New Young Pony
Club, Ellen Allien or dubstep
star The Bug.
EJEKT Festival brings mu-
sic's big names to Athens
Now in its 5th year, the EJEKT
Festival brings some of the
best-known as well as new
names in today's music scene
(pop, rock, soul, hip-hop,
nu rave, electronica), to the
Olympic Fencing Venue of
Ellinikon in Athens on 18 and
19 June for an audience of all
ages and musical tastes in
a big celebration of modern
music. Some of the artists to
perform include: Lauryn Hill,
the Pixies, Royksopp, Jarvis
Cocker and many more.
Athens and Epidaurus
Festival 2009
Musical concerts, theatrical
performances, ancient dra-
mas, lectures and many more
events will be held at the An-
cient Theatre of Epidaurus,
the Odeon of Herodes At-
ticus and various places
around Athens. Important
artists will make their Greek
debuts during the festival
(Romeo Castellucci, Guy Cas-
siers, Michael Thalheimer,
Alain Platel, Esa-Pekka Sa-
lonen) while productions of
well-respected international
institutions will take place
(Brooklyn Academy of Music,
Old Vic, Festival d' Avignon,
Wiener Festwochen). It is all
happening from to June to
August in Athens.
The Athens Festival is a great
celebration that has lasted 52
summers and has featured
some of the leading lights of
theatre, music and dance. The
festival will host 61 prominent
productions from 15 different
countries and hundreds of
artists will perform in 10 dif-
ferent venues around Athens
and at the Ancient Theatre of
Epidaurus; from Mitropoulos
and Callas to Rostropovich,
Pavarotti, Leonidas Kavakos
and Dimitris Sgouros; from
Theodorakis and Hadjidakis
to Savvopoulos, Protopsalti,
Dalaras and Marinella; from
Rondiris and Koun to Strel-
ler, Peter Hall, Noh theatre,
Bunraku puppet theatre,
and the Peking Opera; from
Balanchine to Pina Bausch;
and from Nureyev and Fon-
teyn to Martha Graham and
Alicia Alonso. Festival events
in Athens take place at an-
cient venues which inspire
awe and admiration. In the
past few years, new ven-
ues have been added to the
festival and the organisers
are hoping to expand audi-
ence numbers so that more
people can experience and
become familiar with the
events. The festival also plays
a vital part in promoting the
work of young artists. In ad-
dition to music and theatre,
there are also showcases on
dance, collaborations be-
tween different artists and
CULTURE
art exhibitions. The event
runs throughout the sum-
mer, allowing visitors to see
what they are interested in
at the festival. The organisers
of the festival are hoping to
rival other European festivals
which draw big tourist num-
bers from abroad.
The Athens and Epidaurus
Festival is one of the most
important cultural institu-
tions of Greece and among
the oldest in Europe. Through
the years, it continues to
maintain the highest artistic
standards and is still attract-
ing Greek and foreign artists
of the highest levels.
2nd Athens Biennale 2009
HEAVEN at Paleo Faliro
The 2nd Athens Biennale
2009 HEAVEN will take place
from 15 June to 4 October. The
exhibitions and events of the
biennale will unfold along
the coastline of Paleo Faliro
in various buildings and pub-
lic spaces. It is designed as
a large-scale, multi-faceted
contemporary art event, with
several exhibitions, activities,
music and theatre perfor-
mances, film screenings and
symposiums, with the par-
ticipation of more than 100
international artists.
Joss Stone to give unique
concert in Athens
Joss Stone, one of the most
gifted, young voices of soul, is
coming to Athens for a unique
concert on 2 September at
the Pallas Theatre. Those
lucky enough to get tickets
will have the opportunity to
enjoy the captivating voice of
61
this 22-year-old English singer
62
who will lull the audience with
hits like Spoiled, Love, You Had
Me and her amazing version of
the White Stripes' Fell in Love
with a Girl.
ReMap2: An international
art programme parallel to
the 2nd Athens Biennale
ReMap 2 is an international
platform of contemporary art
running parallel to the 2nd
Athens Biennale (16 June to
4 October). ReMap 2 takes
place in the culturally diverse
and dynamic districts of Ker-
ameikos and Metaxourgeio
(KM) in downtown Athens.
ReMap 2 offers a rich web of
more than 40 cultural events
and art happenings, includ-
ing exhibitions, open-air and
site-specific installations by
Greek and international gal-
leries, independent curators,
art groups, architects and ΚΜ
residents. All cultural events
take place in empty, functional
or derelict spaces, including
vacant buildings, parking lots
and plots of land.
Athens Fringe Festival
2009
Synthesis, in collaboration
with the Edinburgh Festival
Fringe, will stage the Athens
Fringe Festival 2009 on 15-21
June at "Technopolis," the most
versatile arts centre of the city
in the area of Gazi. Athens
Fringe is the first authentic off-
festival in Athens, a celebra-
tion of the arts that welcomes
artists from all over the world
to showcase their work, ex-
change ideas and interact with
the city and its inhabitants.
Santana live in Athens
Carlos Santana, the famous
Mexican Latin-rock guitar-
ist, will play live in Athens on
8 July as part of his European
summer tour. Forty years af-
ter his memorable show in
Woodstock and 10 years after
the success of his album Su-
pernatural that earned him
a Grammy Award, Santana,
the musician who presents a
fusion of Latin and rock ele-
ments, is visiting Athens.
Tango Passion in Athens
Tango Passion, the music and
dance whirlwind that started
in Buenos Aires, travelled to
Broadway and dazzled audi-
ences in Europe, Asia, Austra-
lia and the Middle East, comes
to Athens to present its new
show, Ultimo Tango, at the
Badminton Theatre, 9-14 June.
Through the eyes of choreog-
rapher Hector Zaraspe, it is
possible to discern the typical
human figures of Argentina's
"dirty" dance, the simple peo-
ple who invented the tango
in the immigrant slums, as
well as the stylish and elegant
patrons of the Buenos Aires
nightclubs.
Violin queen Vanessa Mae
at the Herodion
Violinist beauty Vanessa Mae
has come to Athens several
times and her concerts are al-
ways sold out. After a five-year
absence, she returns with an
amazing line-up featuring all
her material. The violin queen
will be appearing at the Odeon
of Herodes Atticus - Herodion
on 24 September. But this
time, she will be accompanied
by a six-piece band, an orches-
tra and a huge team of techni-
cians to present a unique show
never before seen in Athens.
King of flamenco dance
Joaquin Cortes at Kallimar-
maro Stadium
Joaquin Cortes sets off on a
journey of emotions. Under
the title Calé, he begins a ret-
rospective of his life and career,
registering his influences and
his personal experiences. Cor-
tes thus filters the essence of
six works he has directed and
performed throughout the
world over the last 20 years.
The flamenco dancer and cho-
reographer has once again put
all his heart and soul into this
much-anticipated show, set
for 14 September at the Kal-
limarmaro Panathenaic Sta-
dium in Athens.
15th Athens International
Film Festival – Opening
Nights
Organised by the Athens Film
Society, the 15th Athens Inter-
national Film Festival - Open-
ing Nights will bring the best
of international cinema to the
Greek capital. For 11 days, from
September 16 to 27, the heart
of cinema will beat in Athens.
Highlights of this year's fes-
tival include two important
openings for Greek cinema, a
collection of 20 rare cult films
and specials dedicated to two
of the greatest contemporary
film pioneers, Danish director
Jørgen Leth and Polish film-
maker Zbigniew Rybczynski.
The festival was first launched
in September 1995 and contin-
ues with great success until
now. The movie theatres ac-
commodating the festival are
the Attikon Cinemax Class,
Apollo Cinemax Class and Da-
naos 1 & 2 theatres.
ZZ Top 'Double Down Tour'
live in Athens
There's bourbon in the air and
smoke is hampering visibility,
but the passion and adrenaline
are there. It is the one and only
ZZ Top. Formed in 1969 in Hous-
ton, Texas, they hold a unique
record: in the 40 years of their
career, there has not been the
slightest change in the origi-
nal lineup. Billy Gibbons on
guitar and vocals, Dusty Hill
on bass and vocals and Frank
Bears on drums make up this
hot trio with 15 studio albums
and more than 20 hit singles to
their name. They appear at the
Faliro Sports Pavilion on Satur-
day, 24 October.
CULTURE
Singin’ in the Rain at Bad-
minton Theatre
Autumn will be ushered in with
one of the most amusing and
entertaining musicals of all
time at the Badminton Theatre
from 21 to 25 October. Singin’ in
the Rain features all the style
and spectacle of a golden age
and has a host of some of the
best loved comedy routines,
dance numbers and songs ever
written, including Good Morn-
ing, Make ‘em Laugh, Moses
Supposes, You Were Meant For
Me, and of course the most fa-
mous song and dance number
of all time, Singin’ in the Rain.
Olivier award-winning, West
End and Broadway star Tim
Flavin plays Don Lockwood,
the part immortalised by Gene
Kelly. Guaranteed to lift your
spirits and send you out sing-
ing and dancing whatever the
weather.
Universal Ballet - Nutcracker
A world created from the ele-
ments of the most beautiful
fairytale will spring to the Bad-
minton Theatre stage from
24 to 29 November, when the
Universal Ballet will dance to
Tchaikovsky's enchanting mu-
sic. This fairytale ballet, which
premiered in 1892, has inspired
dozens of productions by dis-
tinguished choreographer-
sand dancers and influenced
popular culture. It holds a
permanent place in the reper-
toire of one of Asia's most im-
portant classical dance com-
panies, the Universal Ballet,
which has appeared on some
of the major stages around the
world, including the Metro-
politan Opera in New York. The
experience and the dancing
technique of the company will
prove incomparable.
63
64 food

Baraonda Dionysos

A taste of
summer!
Athens may be a big city but this does not mean that you cannot find a shady green
spot where you can sit and relax. Is there anything better than eating under a mulberry
tree and smelling the soft, fine scent of honeysuckle? We did the leg work for you so
you don’t have to. We searched and found some of the best-known restaurants that
will you make you feel that you have embarked on a magical summer adventure.

Balthazar The ones in or near the centre

Cibus, Aigle Zappeiou, 210-3369364

Zappeion is next to the National Garden so Aigle Zappeiou is the most famous hang-out in Athens.
Since 1904, Cibus, its restaurant has occupied one of the most enviable sites in the whole city. Sur-
rounded by trees, this is a place that, although very near the busy centre of the city, is a haven that
allows its customers to enjoy the peace of nature around them. Chef Chrisanthos Karamolengos’ fa-
vourites are dishes representative of the Mediterranean cuisine. There, you can enjoy wonderful dishes
with an equally magnificent view of Lycabettus Hill.

Boschetto, Alsos Evangelismou, 210-7210893

The verdant and cool Alsos Evangelismou is located in a very beautiful area, where Vassilissis Sofias
Avenue meets the Hilton hotel and the National Gallery. The person in charge there is Italian chef Mau-
rizio Santin, who specialises in dishes with a distinct Italian flavour, like spaghetti with fish-roe and
swordfish fillets with white chocolate. We highly recommend some grappa to round off your meal.

Dionysos, 43 Rovertou Gali, Makriyianni, 210-9233182

The unique view of an illuminated Acropolis is reason enough to walk up Dionysiou Areopagitou and
sample some of the excellent creations of chef Michalis Dounetas. A loyal subscriber to Greek cuisine,
he creates his own dishes using produce of the Greek countryside. Dishes to try are: lamb’s ankle bone
served with gamopilafo (a kind of rice unique to Greek cuisine) and for dessert, a mastic mousse with
sour cherries.

Parko Eleftherias, Vassilissis Sofias Avenue, 210-7223784

In arguably the most musical place in Athens, next to the Megaro Mousikis, there is a verdant park
called Parko Eleftherias (Freedom Park), a cool and spacious place where you can enjoy a fusion cuisine
with light dishes. Rest for a while and enjoy the shade of the trees in a place that is in downtown Ath-
ens and yet feels far away from the centre of the city.

Near and far

Hydria, 68 Adrianou & Aiolou, Plaka, 210-3251619

You cannot walk around Plaka without eventually looking for a place to rest. Hydria is your best bet:
a place where coconut trees provide all the shade you need while ouzo and mezedes (snacks) will cer-
tainly boost your morale. Not to mention of course the fine dishes and the salads on offer there. Any-
way, you still have a long way to go to before you can say that you know Athens!
65
 CITY OF ATHENS
66 food

Aleria, 57 Megalou Alexandrou, Metaxourgio, 210-5222633

Walking along Agiou Konstantinou Street eastwards from Omonoia Square you
reach Metaxourgio. There you will find a renovated neoclassical building with an
enclosed courtyard and a clear view of the night sky. The creations of chef Leoni-
das Koutsopoulos, such as risotto with asparagus and meatballs with ginger and
limoncello, are nothing less than a real culinary marvel. The cool garden and its
wine list are ample reward for your efforts.
ARTS Exhibition Athens Video Art Festival
Balthazar, 27 Tsocha St. and Bournazou, Ambelokipoi, 210-6441215
Near Alexandras Avenue, within easy reach of the city centre, a shaded, cool gar-
den awaits you. The dishes on offer are all creations of chef Yorgos Tsiaktsiras,
who likes a Mediterranean flavour with a certain Italian twist. From the variety
of spaghetti on offer, those that stand out are pappardella (a wide form of fettuc-
cine, or a narrow form of lasagne) with caper and basil and tender tagliata with
rosemary. For dessert, we recommend the mille feuille with quince and cinnamon
ice cream.

Baraonda, 43 Tsocha, Athens, 210-6444308

There is another place near Alexandras Avenue that combines a cosmopolitan
Dance Festival Technopolis hosted hundreds events
cuisine with a cool, shaded yard. Its chef, Michalis Ntounetas, is renowned as an
from May 1999 to present such as:
expert in Greek cuisine and his love of traditional produce is immediately apparent
Visual Art - Photography - Technol-
when you taste his dishes. The ideal combination of a cool, relaxed atmosphere
ogy - Sculpture -Conferences -
and special dishes, like the black risotto with crayfish tails and the great cocktails
Seminars, International Festivals -
served there make this place a glamorous destination for dining out on a summer Concerts - Theatrical and Dance
night. Events- Business Forums -
On the outskirts of Athens Educational Programs -
Bobayo, 1 Arditou, Mets, 210-9219397 Product presentations
Mets is one of the classiest areas in Athens, near Ardittos Hill and the Panathenaic Piu Verde, Alsos Papagou,
Stadium of Athens. The view to the Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill, and even the Port 210-6546185 BABEL Comics Festival Concert Alkistis Protopsalti

of Piraeus, is guaranteed to liven the spirit. The cuisine of Baraonda does not shy If you want to enjoy the fresh for-
away from experimenting with dishes from around the world while still retaining est air and the dishes of chef Chris-
a Greek flavour. Among its offerings, we recommend the salad with asparagus and tos Tzieras, all you have to do is take
the special lamb dishes. We also urge you to try the Mango Daiquiri and Straw- Mesogeion Avenue and head north
berry Margarita cocktails, which are supreme! towards Papagou. Tall, shady trees
create a unique ambiance for dining.
Athiri, 15 Plataion St., Kerameikos, 210-3462983 The dishes we recommend are pork
In the up and coming area of Kerameikos, you will find Bobayo, which recently won steaks, pork sirloin ribs with lime, and
Athinorama magazine’s Golden Cap for Greek Creative Cuisine for its veal-based salted seabass. If you go there early
dishes. Chef Alexis Kardasis always has something new to offer his customers, in the evening, you can try the finger
while the courtyard with its trees adds to the magic. The menu offers traditional foods on offer as well as the pavlova
dishes, each unique in its own way, like fava beans of Santorini with marinated with Valrhona chocolate.
anchovy, small pieces of crab with chive, and orzotto (orzo pasta prepared like a
risotto, hence the name), with calamari and mussels. Yorti Baxevani, End of Iera Odos,
Daphni, 210-5326163
Cucina Povera, 13 Euforionos and Eratosthenous, Pangrati, 210-7566008 If you happen to find yourselves near
Very near the Panathenaic Stadium of Athens, towards Pangrati, you will find a the Forest of Daphni (on the road
small but inviting restaurant that offers Mediterranean dishes and is decorated in from Aspropyrgos to Athens) then “Technopolis” of the City of Athens provides:
a minimalist fashion. Its dishes are all based on seasonal products and its refresh- you have a first-class opportunity to Access to the disabled, Coffee bar, 20 WC, nearby parking.
ing salads are a must. Its greatest advantage is the pedestrianised street with the admire the pine-covered restaurant
statue of Perantinos where the restaurant is located that makes you feel as if you that belongs to the chef Yannis Bax- Operating hours: Weekdays and Weekends 10.00-22.00.
have travelled back in time to a bygone era. evanis. It is a perennial favourite of (Operating hours may be modified without notice)
children but also a place to enjoy an
Access:
ouzo and mezedes (snacks), grilled
Trolley: Line 21 (from Omonia Square),

sardines with samphire and tomato
marmalade, and mussel ramekin. It
is a very beautiful place where visitors
can enjoy unique dishes prepared by a
passionate lover of the culinary art.
CITY OF ATHENS
OASA Busses: 035, 049, 811, 815, 838, 914, B18, ?18, 731, 031.
Train: Station “Thision”.
Metro: Station "Keramikos". 67
Contact:
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: info@athens-technopolis.gr
68
www.breathtakingathens.com

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