During a special event attended by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the new Metropolitan Park in Faliro Bay, developed by the Attica Region, was officially unveiled at Plateia Nerou.
The project has been named “AENAON, the Open Park of the Mediterranean,” and attendees were shown its final design through a 3D presentation.
In his speech, the Prime Minister highlighted the project’s importance not only for Greece but also for Europe. He praised the collaboration with regional governor Nikos Hardalias and local government representatives.
Mr. Mitsotakis referred to the park as “a truly unique space, not only for Attica but arguably for the entire Mediterranean,” aimed at providing recreational and sports opportunities for Attica’s citizens, particularly those from Kallithea, Moschato, and Palaio Faliro. He emphasized the government’s commitment to collaborating effectively with local authorities, stating, “We all work towards one goal: enhancing the quality of life for Attica’s residents through a variety of projects, while setting aside local rivalries and always thinking creatively.”
Describing the evolving Faliro Bay area, he noted it would serve as “a large ‘window’ from the capital and Attica to the sea,” complete with green spaces, cultural amenities, modern infrastructure, and a variety of activities. He mentioned that this park, in conjunction with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, would connect Piraeus along its coastal stretch all the way to Voula and Sounion, revitalizing Olympic facilities as well.
Addressing the regional governor, the Prime Minister noted that among the region’s initiatives, this project stands out as “the most emblematic,” promising, “We will work together to meet our timelines. We want to create a truly exceptional park here.”
Governor Hardalias called it “a beautiful, special day for Attica,” asserting that the completed project would become a new landmark for the metropolis, attracting both residents and tourists. He emphasized that the park would exemplify urban renovation designed with sustainability, aesthetic appeal, and inclusivity in mind.
Regarding the park’s name, Mr. Hardalias explained that “AENAON” symbolizes the governance philosophy of the regional Authority and represents continuous efforts to enhance citizens’ daily lives. He highlighted the designation “Open Park of the Mediterranean,” pointing out the sea’s critical importance to Attica from economic, geopolitical, and cultural perspectives, and noted that the project’s impact would extend beyond the region’s borders.
He expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, stating, “You have again placed your trust in us during challenging times and supported us in this significant effort to revive the project. We recognize the high expectations and see our new challenge as adhering to the implementation timeline.”
Mr. Hardalias revealed plans for the ongoing urban reconstruction to expand, indicating that the transfer of the Tae Kwon Do and Plateia Nerou properties from ETAD to the Region is expected in the coming months for a duration of 40 years. He also announced that a unified management entity would be established by the Attica Region, including all municipalities and local organizations, to create “a single green island, a comprehensive approach to urban revitalization.”
He elaborated on the efforts by the Attica Region’s administration to engage European partners and secure funding from the European Commission.
Concluding his address, the regional governor described the Park as a model for “metropolitan planning” in significant projects, with the Region holding exclusive responsibility for their execution. He stated that major initiatives would be implemented across all 66 municipalities in Attica, adhering to specific timelines with secured funding.
Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance, Nikos Papathanasis, emphasized the goal of significantly upgrading the area while balancing sustainability with aesthetic appeal for the benefit of residents and visitors alike. He congratulated Mr. Hardalias for his important contributions and mentioned that their strategic aim is to utilize all available EU financial resources, prioritizing public interest and social cohesion.
In a video message, European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Elisa Ferreira, referred to the project as a flagship initiative aligned with the principles of the European Bauhaus. She noted that the new Metropolitan Park in Faliro Bay exemplifies “public investment excellence not just for Greece but for all of Europe,” effectively connecting people with nature and their surroundings. She acknowledged the technical challenges that were overcome and praised the collaborative efforts of central and local authorities, particularly regional governor Mr. Hardalias,
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