Located next to the National Gardens, the Zappeion Mansion, or simply, ‘Zappeion’, as it is called by the locals, is one of the most impressive and important historical buildings in Athens. As early as 1859, the Greek government had been contemplating renovating the structure, using plans drawn up by Theophile Hansen and his French counterpart Boulanger.

Although well funded by Evangelos Zappas, the project never quite got off the ground. Eventually, Hansen became involved and the project was finally approved. Its official inauguration took place in 1888. Ever since, the Zappeion has become a symbol of modern Athens. It has been home to a variety of functions, including exhibitions, official ceremonies, parts of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and Hellenic Radio in 1936.

Today it serves as a press centre for political parties during elections.