Grigoropoulos Anniversary: Athens Metro Closures and Traffic Adjustments This Friday

In anticipation of events marking the 16th anniversary of Alexandros Grigoropoulos' death, extraordinary measures will be implemented on Friday for the Athens Metro.

The adjustments aim to ensure public safety and facilitate demonstrations expected to draw large crowds to central Athens.

Metro Station Closures

According to an announcement by the Hellenic Police (EL.AS.), the following stations will be affected:

• "Panepistimio" station will close at 9:00 AM.
• "Monastiraki" station (Lines 1 & 3) will close at 11:00 AM, reopening briefly at 3:00 PM, and closing again at 5:00 PM.

During these times, trains will pass through these stations without stopping. The reopening of stations will be determined and announced by EL.AS.

Traffic Restrictions

In addition to Metro adjustments, traffic in Athens’ city centre will be regulated throughout the day. Police have advised drivers to avoid traveling or parking in areas near planned events to reduce congestion and ensure smooth operations. Measures have been taken by the Attica Traffic Police Directorate to assist commuters in navigating affected zones.

Background on the Anniversary

The measures coincide with demonstrations commemorating the fatal shooting of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos on December 6, 2008. The incident, which occurred in the Exarcheia district of Athens, sparked nationwide protests and riots.

On that evening, two special police guards engaged in a confrontation with a group of teenagers. Despite orders to disengage, the guards pursued the youths and confronted them on Tzavella Street. During the altercation, one guard fired his weapon, fatally wounding Grigoropoulos. Witnesses and forensic evidence later contradicted claims of self-defense, suggesting the officer had targeted the teenager intentionally.

Grigoropoulos' death became a symbol of police brutality and youth dissent in Greece, triggering widespread demonstrations and serving as a rallying cry against state violence.