The play areas are on two levels and are wheelchair accessible.
The playground in Ragava Olive Grove, located under the eastern edge of the Acropolis, with an area of 2,440 sq.m., is of high standards. The space was given to the public by the municipality of Athens, which received a certificate of suitability for operation from the Ministry of the Interior on June 20, 2024.
The play areas were organised on two levels, aiming to make full use of the park surface.
How the play areas were organised
On the lower level, which is aimed at preschool and school-age children and is also wheelchair accessible, a wooden house and a cart-horse were installed. There is also communication sensory play.
A stone sitting room was built on the south side for parents and guardians.
The second area, on the upper level, is aimed at older children and teenagers. It has equipment organised in a circular route for climbing, balancing, and sliding activities.
In the olive grove clearing, an earthen stage 40 cm higher than the pavement with stands was created, ideal for traditional group games and other activities.
The playground's official opening is expected in the near future.
"Meets international safety standards"
"Our little friends are getting a new place to play in the heart of Athens. This unique playground with a view of the Sacred Rock and the wall of the Acropolis complies with international safety standards," said the mayor of Athens, Haris Doukas.
"With the valuable help of ELLET [HELLENIC SOCIETY of Environment and Culture] and the Onassis Foundation, a model playground was created in an olive grove, using natural materials that respect the environment and the historical importance of the area.
"And this is only the beginning. More playgrounds are expected to be delivered to the public soon. We are implementing an intensive renovation program in collaboration with OPANDA and the Green and Cleaning Services.
"We create modern, safe, and free play spaces for children in the neighbourhoods of our city, necessary for their psychomotor development."
Two more fully renovated playgrounds, on Vafiochoriou Street in Gyzi and Vallianon Street in Ano Patisia, are expected to open in the summer.
Until autumn, the young residents and visitors of Athens will be able to enjoy another 11 new playgrounds that are being renovated.
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