Information about the city and port of Piraeus Greece
Piraeus is the main port of Greece and with a transport of 19 million passengers annually is the largest in Europe and third in the world. After the Olympics of 2004 the port has been modernised and is probably one of the most beautiful ports in the Mediterranean.
Today the port of Piraeus is used only for passenger boats. The commercial cargo and containers port has been moved to Keratsini and Ikonion and further on to Aspropyrgos and Elefsina for the Tankers. From here the ferries transfer passengers and goods to all the islands of the Aegean. More ferry information about, departure gates and timetables can be found in our Greek ferry schedule page.
Piraeus is a historic port city that dates back to ancient Greece. It was once the main commercial hub of Athens and has played a significant role in the country’s maritime history. Today, Piraeus is one of the busiest ports in Europe, serving millions of tourists and locals every year.
The city offers plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. For those seeking outdoor activities, there are numerous beaches along the coast where you can swim or sunbathe under clear blue skies.
Piraeus also boasts an impressive range of restaurants, cafes and bars that serve traditional Greek cuisine alongside international dishes. A stroll down Zea Marina provides great views of yachts lining up on their berths while people enjoying dinner with friends at nearby restaurants.
The bustling port area is another highlight worth exploring in Piraeus – it’s a hive of activity with ships coming in and out all day long. At night time when everything lights up; it becomes even more breathtaking as visitors enjoy local street food vendors selling souvlaki skewers.
The port of Piraeus
The port of Piraeus is one of Greece’s most important ports, handling millions of passengers every year. If you’re traveling to or from the Greek islands, chances are that you’ll pass through Piraeus at some point.
To make your journey as smooth as possible, it’s worth knowing about the passenger gates at the port. There are three main gate areas: Gate E8 for ferries to Aegina and Agistri; Gates E1-E7 for ferries to Crete, Cyclades, Dodecanese and Northeast Aegean Islands; and Gates E9-11 for international ferry services.
Once you’ve found your gate area, there will be a series of numbered gates where you can board your ferry. The numbers correspond to each boat’s departure time – so be sure to check which gate number corresponds with your ferry before heading too far away!
It’s worth noting that during peak season (June-August), queues can get quite long at the passenger gates. It’s best to arrive early if possible or book priority boarding in advance.
While navigating the passenger gates might seem daunting at first glance – with a little preparation and patience – it should be no problem!
Where is Piraeus located
Piraeus located in the region of Attica, Greece. It is situated on the Saronic Gulf, about 10 kilometers southwest of the center of Athens, the capital of Greece. Piraeus is an important port city and serves as the main gateway to the Aegean Islands and the rest of Greece.
Geographically, Piraeus occupies a narrow strip of land along the coast, stretching from the southwest to the northeast. It is surrounded by hills on three sides, providing a natural harbor that has been crucial for its maritime activities throughout history.
The city is characterized by its extensive port facilities, which include numerous piers, docks, and marinas. The Port of Piraeus is one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe, serving as a major hub for both passenger and cargo transportation. Ferries, cruise ships, and commercial vessels connect Piraeus with various Greek islands, as well as other Mediterranean destinations.
Piraeus is also known for its urban development, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The city center features a bustling commercial district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The neighborhoods extend from the coastline up into the hills, offering panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf.
In terms of transportation, Piraeus is well-connected to the rest of Greece and the Athens metropolitan area. It has a comprehensive network of buses, trams, and the Athens Metro, providing easy access to other parts of the city and beyond. The metro line connects Piraeus with downtown Athens, making it a popular commuting route.
Overall, Piraeus is an integral part of the Athens urban area and serves as a vital economic and transportation hub for Greece. Its strategic location and maritime infrastructure make it a significant center for trade, tourism, and shipping in the region.
History of Piraeus
Ancient Times
Piraeus was initially a rocky peninsula that served as a natural harbor. It is believed to have been inhabited as early as the 26th century BCE. However, it gained prominence during the Golden Age of Athens in the 5th century BCE. The Athenian statesman Themistocles recognized the strategic importance of Piraeus as a naval base and initiated the fortification of the port city.
The construction of the Long Walls, defensive fortifications connecting Athens to Piraeus, began in 493 BCE. These walls provided a secure connection for the transport of goods and troops from the port to the city of Athens. Piraeus grew rapidly, becoming the principal port of Athens and a thriving commercial center.
Classical and Hellenistic Periods
During the Peloponnesian War (431-404 BCE), Piraeus played a crucial role as the Athenian fleet’s base. However, in 404 BCE, after the defeat of Athens in the war, the Spartans dismantled the Long Walls and limited the city’s power. Nevertheless, Piraeus continued to be an important port throughout the Hellenistic period, attracting trade and maritime activities.
Roman and Byzantine Periods
In 86 BCE, Piraeus fell under Roman control after the Roman general Sulla captured Athens. Under Roman rule, Piraeus experienced growth and prosperity. The Romans rebuilt the port and enhanced its infrastructure. However, during the decline of the Roman Empire and the subsequent Byzantine era, Piraeus faced periods of decline and devastation due to barbarian invasions.
Ottoman and Modern Periods
Piraeus came under Ottoman rule in 1456 and remained so for nearly four centuries. During this time, the city’s importance waned, and it suffered from neglect and limited growth. In the 19th century, as the Greek War of Independence unfolded, Piraeus became a significant battleground between the Greeks and the Ottomans.
After Greece gained independence in 1832, Piraeus began to regain its importance. The newly formed Greek state focused on developing Piraeus as its primary port. The harbor was expanded, new infrastructure was built, and maritime trade flourished. The completion of the Corinth Canal in 1893 further increased Piraeus’s significance as it became a major international port.
Modern Era
In the 20th century, Piraeus continued to evolve and expand. The city played a crucial role during both World Wars as a supply base for the Greek armed forces. After World War II, Piraeus experienced substantial industrial development and became the largest industrial center in Greece.
Today, Piraeus is not only an important commercial and industrial hub but also a popular tourist destination due to its historical significance and proximity to Athens. The port serves as a gateway to the Greek islands, attracting numerous visitors each year.
Piraeus in the 60’s
Until the 60’s Roloi (the Clock) was the most famous landmark and Cafe of Piraeus, that unfortunately the military regime knock down and created a small triangle square with a statue of Themistocles.
During the pre-war times in Piraeus where existing the Lemonadika (an area that has been become a song).Lemonadfika was the place where Kaiques and Barges where bringing Lemons and fruits from the islands in this area many Rembetes like Vamvakaris (see rembetiko music) found material and wrote their best songs.
All over this area where huts made from any kind of material as small shops, cafes and any kind of small business. Amongs the people that where working there were some less savoury characters, so the area slowly became a place of the small underground world of Piraeus that later on moved to “Troumpa” the area between Notara and Filonos street that had inspired many films among the “Never on Sunday” and “Kokina Fanaria” (the red lights).
The cabaret area of “Troumba” was closed in the 60’s. During the second world war Piraeus was heavily bombarded by the Luftwaffe. A piece of a British ship that was exploded during the bombing can been seeing at the small park next to St. Dionysius church embedded on a Pine tree.
Economy and finance
being the largest port in the country and one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean region. As such, the economy of Piraeus is heavily influenced by its maritime activities and related industries.
The port of Piraeus serves as a gateway for international trade, handling a significant volume of imports and exports, including container shipping, bulk cargo, and passenger transportation. The port’s efficiency and connectivity have made it a crucial hub for trade between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
In addition to its port activities, Piraeus has a diverse economy with sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, services, and finance. Manufacturing plays a significant role, with industries including shipbuilding and repair, textiles, food processing, and chemicals. The city also has a vibrant tourism sector, attracting visitors with its historical sites, coastal areas, and cultural attractions.
Furthermore, Piraeus serves as a regional financial center, housing the headquarters of major Greek banks and financial institutions. The presence of these institutions contributes to the city’s financial services sector, including banking, insurance, and investment services.
The economy of Piraeus has faced challenges in recent years due to Greece’s economic crisis, which began in 2009. However, efforts have been made to stabilize the country’s economy and restore growth, and Piraeus has benefited from these efforts. Foreign investment and infrastructure development projects have helped in revitalizing the city’s economy.
Must see attractions in Piraeus
There are many nice places to visit in Piraeus and the surrounding areas. The new infrastructure has made the port of Piraeus one of the best in the Mediterranean. Among the most important places to visit while you are in Piraeus either waiting for the ferry to take you to the Greek islands or during a short visit are many.The Municipality Theatre (Dimotiko Theatro) Marina of Zea (Pasalimani) , Kastella, Tourkolimano marina (Mikroimano) , Peiraiki (at the coast) Hadjikiriakio. In all those areas you will find restaurants, fish taverns ,bars and clubs.
Ancient walls
Parts of the Ancient walls that connected Piraeus with Athens (Makra Teihi) can been seen in the Marina of Zea where also located the Maritime museum and in parts of Peiraiki coasts. On Profitis Helias hill the visitor can have a panoramic view of Athens and Piraeus as well to all the Saronic gulf.
Agios Spyridon Church
Visit the Metropolis of Piraeus at the Junction of Vasileos Georgiou and Ethnikis Antistaseos Avenues. The church of St Spyridon a few meters further on Akti Miaouli and further on the same street the church of Agios Nikolaos near to the old Customs and opposite the Piraeus Exhibition hall.
Markets
Visit the Piraeus fish and meat market at the triangle of Akti Poseidonos, Dimosthenus street and Gounari street. Not as big as the Athens market Varvakeios but a very interesting place to see.
The Piraeus Metro
Further down the Poseidonos Avenue located the terminal of the Metro a Great building that it was build in the end of the 20’s according the architectural style of those years.
Municipal Theater of Piraeus
Walking up the King George Avenue at the junction with Heroon Polytehneiou street located the Municipal Theater of Piraeus. Right at the front are the Square Korai where situated the Municipality of Piraeus building. This historic theater is a prominent cultural venue in the city. It stages a variety of performances, including plays, ballets, operas, and concerts. The building itself is an architectural gem and has been an important cultural institution since its establishment in 1885.
The famous fish taverns in Peiraiki
Following the Heroon Polytehneiou street you wil go further on Hadjikyriakou street where at the end you will find many fish taverns.
In Pasalimani and Peiraiki you will enjoy the views of the Saronic gulf and a plethora of fish taverns. In Marina Zeas as well in Peiraiki and Kastella you can see remains of the Ancient wall that was connecting Athens with Piraeus. In the same marina located the naval museum of Piraeus.
Just before you turn for the Dodecanese ferries in Agios Dionyssios there is a famous area with many Souvlaki shops the so called Souvlatzidika. The area located at the Junction of Akti kondyli and Akti Letioneia if you follow the street Thesmoforou Kekropos that goes to Keratsini.
Mikrolimano
This picturesque marina is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It features a charming waterfront lined with cafes, bars, and seafood taverns. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal, go for a walk, or relax by the sea.
Archaeological Museum of Piraeus
Housed in a neoclassical building, the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Piraeus and its surrounding areas. The collection includes sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and other archaeological finds, providing insights into the city’s rich history.
Veakeio Open-Air Theatre
Located in the neighborhood of Kastella, Veakeio is an open-air amphitheater that hosts various cultural events, including concerts, theatrical performances, and dance shows. Its hillside location offers stunning views of the city and the sea.
Pasalimani
Also known as Zea Marina, Pasalimani is another marina in Piraeus that offers a vibrant atmosphere with cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, especially during sunset, with beautiful views of the boats and the sea.
Hellenic Maritime Museum
Located in a 19th-century building, the Hellenic Maritime Museum showcases Greece’s maritime history through an extensive collection of ship models, navigational instruments, maps, paintings, and other artifacts. It’s a fascinating place to explore for maritime enthusiasts and history buffs.
Piraeus Municipal Art Gallery
Situated in a neoclassical building, the Piraeus Municipal Art Gallery features a collection of Greek art from the 19th and 20th centuries. It includes works by renowned Greek artists, providing an insight into the country’s artistic heritage.
Church of Saint Nicholas
This beautiful Byzantine-style church is one of the landmarks of Piraeus. With its stunning architecture and impressive interior adorned with colorful frescoes and intricate decorations, it’s worth a visit for those interested in religious art and architecture.
Neighborhoods in Piraeus
Kastella
Located on a hillside, Kastella offers stunning views of the port and the Saronic Gulf. It is a picturesque neighborhood with beautiful neoclassical houses, narrow streets, and cozy tavernas. Kastella is a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy the sunset and the vibrant atmosphere.
Pasalimani
Pasalimani, also known as Zea Marina, is a bustling neighborhood with a marina filled with luxurious yachts and sailboats. It is lined with waterfront cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy a meal with a sea view.
Mikrolimano
Mikrolimano, meaning “small port,” is a charming harbor located near the center of Piraeus. It is known for its traditional fish tavernas, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Mikrolimano is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Piraeus City Center
The heart of Piraeus is its city center, which is a bustling commercial area with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can find traditional Greek markets, modern shopping malls, and vibrant street life. The central square, Korai, is a popular meeting point and often hosts events and cultural activities.
Freatida
Freatida is a neighborhood located near the port and is known for its naval history. It is home to the Hellenic Naval Academy and several naval museums. Freatida offers a glimpse into Piraeus’ maritime heritage and is a fascinating place to explore.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods in Piraeus, and each has its own unique charm and attractions. Exploring these areas will give you a taste of the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and maritime character.
North and west neighborhoods
Another large neighborhood of Piraeus is Korydallos. This area borders with Nikea to the south and west and with the municipality of Agia Varvara in the west. In recent years Korydallos has become one of the trendiest places in Piraeus with good night life of smart cafeterias and excellent shopping for fashionable designer label clothes.
Around Eleftherias Square you can find branches of the most famous coffee houses and cafeterias.The shopping mile of Taxiarhon Street is one of the most visited shopping high streets in Piraeus. Every week thousands of shoppers are coming from other areas to buy or window shop at the latest fashions in the various boutiques that line Taxiarchon Street.
The west neighborhoods of Piraeus include the area of Drapetsona, that used to be one of the poorest and most neglected areas of Piraeus. This is due to the fact that next to it used to be a fertilizer factory (Lipasmata) which for many years polluted the area. Fortunately, the factory has now closed down and the electrical generating factory which is close by in Kerartsini is only used when there is a need for extra electricity.
Today, Drapetsona has been developed and brand new modern flats are erupting overnight like mushrooms. Keratsini lies to the northwest of Drapetsona where the commercial port of Piraeus begins. Millions of tones of merchandise are offloaded here from transatlantic container ships especially at the area of Ikonio.
The port continues further on to Perama where the Perama shipyards and the ferries to Salamia are located. After the Perama peninsula the port of Piraeus continues from the Skaramangas shipyards to the oil refineries of Aspropogos continuing further on to the Elefsina shipyards.
This makes the coastline of the whole of the Port of Piraeus totally over 40 kilometres thus the third bigger port of the world and biggest port of Europe. In older times the dozens of cargo, tankers and container ships used to anchorage a few mile out of the port of Piraeus, today the most of them use as anchorage the south coasts of Salamina and the gulf of Elefsis (mainly tankers).
Other areas of Piraeus are Agia Sophia or Maniatika that took its name from the people of Mani who first settled here,.further to the north is Neapolis and Amfiali.
The huge street Petrou Ralli that goes through the areas of Roof and Agios Ioannis Rendis after crossing the Kifissou Avenue by bridge extends to Grigoriou Lambraki Avenue connecting Athens with Nikea, Korydallos, Neapoli, Amfiali, Keratsini and Perama. At the beginning of Pireos Street in Piraeus is the area of Kaminia that borders with Nikea.
This name comes from the traditional occupation and factories that was carried out here, namely making clay for bricks, pots, etc. The word Kaminia in English is like a clay oven or kiln for firing pots etc.
Things you can do in Piraeus
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: This museum houses a wide collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Piraeus and its surrounding areas. You can learn about the city’s maritime history, see ancient sculptures, pottery, and other artifacts.
Explore Mikrolimano: This picturesque harbor area is lined with seafood restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a meal with a view, or simply relax in one of the cafes while taking in the atmosphere.
Discover the Maritime Museum of Greece: Located near the main port, the Maritime Museum provides insights into Greece’s maritime heritage. It features an extensive collection of ship models, nautical instruments, historical documents, and naval artifacts.
Take a boat tour: As a major port, Piraeus offers various boat tours that allow you to explore nearby islands such as Aegina, Hydra, and Poros. These tours provide a chance to enjoy the beautiful Greek islands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Wander through Pasalimani: Another charming harbor area, Pasalimani, offers a vibrant waterfront with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the sea breeze and admiring the yachts and sailboats moored in the marina.
Visit the Church of Saint Nicholas: This beautiful Byzantine-style church is located in the center of Piraeus and is worth a visit. Admire the stunning architecture, frescoes, and icons inside the church.
Enjoy Piraeus Municipal Theater: If you’re interested in arts and culture, check out the Piraeus Municipal Theater. It hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows. Take a look at their schedule to see if there’s something that catches your interest during your visit.
Shop at Piraeus Flea Market: If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to the Piraeus Flea Market. It offers a wide range of goods, including antiques, vintage items, clothing, and souvenirs. You might find unique treasures and bargains while exploring the market.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started on your exploration of Piraeus. The city has a vibrant atmosphere, and there are many more things to see and do based on your interests and preferences.
Shopping in Piraeus
The main shopping centre of Piraeus Located on the triangle between Gounary street, Ethnikis Antistaseos street and Akti Poseidonos where the fish and meat market of Piraeus located and the roads around them with shops of any kind of thing.
Walking along Gounari street you are surrounded by the smells of exotic spices ,like cinnamon ,gloves and nutmeg that are mixed with the local aroma of thyme and oregano that from the various grocery shops.
Further on following the King George II Avenue from Piraeus Metropolis church Agia Triada towards Pasalimani and around Korai square and Iroon Polytechneiou street are many shops of any kind as well as around the City Hall theatre (Demotiko Theatro) .
Fashion boutiques can be found on the smaller parallel streets that heading to Pasalimani like Sotiros Dios and Bouboulinas. In Pasalimani there are also boutiques and shopping centres.
Piraeus Flea Market (Dimotiki Agora)
Located in the center of Piraeus, the flea market offers a wide range of products, including clothing, antiques, accessories, and household items. You can find unique items and bargain prices here.
Marina Zeas shops
This picturesque marina area has a selection of boutique shops, offering clothing, accessories, and jewelry. It’s a great place to stroll around and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere while browsing through the shops.
Piraeus Street Market
Known as the “Laiki agora” or “Dimotiki agora,” this is a lively street market where you can find fresh produce, local products, spices, and more. It’s an excellent place to experience the local culture and buy fresh ingredients.
Athens Heart Shopping Center
Located near Piraeus, this modern shopping center offers a wide range of shops, including clothing stores, electronics, cosmetics, and restaurants. It’s a convenient option if you’re looking for a variety of stores under one roof.
Aretaieio Shopping Center
Situated in the heart of Piraeus, Aretaieio Shopping Center is another popular choice. It features a mix of shops, including fashion, accessories, electronics, and a supermarket. You can spend a few hours here exploring different stores.
Protoporos Bookstore
If you’re a book lover, Protoporos is a well-known bookstore in Piraeus. They offer a wide selection of books, including Greek literature, international bestsellers, and children’s books.
Remember to check the opening hours of the stores you plan to visit, as they may vary. Additionally, keep in mind that Greece follows the Mediterranean lifestyle, where shops might close for a siesta during the afternoon and have different hours on Sundays.
Dining out in Piraeus
If you’re looking for places to eat out in Piraeus, here are a few restaurant suggestions in different areas of the city:
Seafood in Mikrolimano
This picturesque harbor area in Piraeus offers several excellent dining options with beautiful waterfront views.
Varoulko Seaside
Known for its seafood and Michelin-starred chef, this restaurant offers a creative Mediterranean menu with a focus on fresh fish and seafood.
To Perasma
A popular taverna serving traditional Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood, meze (appetizers), and grilled meats. It has a lovely outdoor seating area by the sea.
Pasalimani eateries
Another vibrant area in Piraeus, Pasalimani is known for its lively atmosphere and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Aegli Zappiou
Located in a historic building in Pasalimani, this restaurant offers a mix of Greek and international dishes with an emphasis on quality ingredients and a cozy ambiance.
Malamatina
A family-run taverna known for its warm hospitality and delicious Greek food. Try their moussaka, souvlaki, and a variety of meze dishes.
Piraeus Center: The central area of Piraeus, near the port, is bustling with restaurants, tavernas, and fast-food options.
The Fish Market
A seafood restaurant offering a wide selection of fish and seafood dishes. It has a casual atmosphere and friendly service.
Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
This unique deli-restaurant serves traditional Greek products, including cured meats, cheese, and other delicacies. It’s a great place for a light meal or a snack.
Kastella restaurants
Located on a hill overlooking the port of Piraeus, Kastella offers panoramic views and a few charming tavernas.
Kouzina-Kouzina
A cozy restaurant serving Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The menu includes a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
7 Thalasses
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf, this seafood restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh fish, shellfish, and Greek specialties.
Sport activities in Piraeus
Water Sports
Given its coastal location, Piraeus provides excellent opportunities for water sports. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing in the crystal-clear waters of the Saronic Gulf.
Yachting and Boat Trips
Piraeus is a major yachting hub, and you can rent a yacht or join boat trips to explore the nearby islands, such as Aegina, Poros, and Hydra. These trips often include activities like swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
Basketball
Greece is passionate about basketball, and Piraeus is home to one of Europe’s most successful basketball teams, Olympiacos B.C. If you enjoy watching sports, you can catch a game at the Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF), which has a vibrant atmosphere during matches.
Tennis
Piraeus has several tennis courts where you can play the sport or take lessons. These facilities may require prior reservations or memberships.
Running and Cycling
Piraeus has some scenic waterfront areas and parks where you can go for a run or a bike ride. The Mikrolimano Marina and the coastal promenade offer pleasant routes for jogging or cycling enthusiasts.
Gymnasiums and Fitness Centers
If you prefer indoor sports and fitness activities, there are numerous gyms and fitness centers in Piraeus where you can engage in workouts, aerobics, yoga, and more.
Traditional Greek Sports
While not as common, you may also find opportunities to participate in traditional Greek sports like wrestling, weightlifting, or discus throwing. Local sports clubs or cultural organizations occasionally offer classes or events related to these activities.
FC Olympiakos the soccer team of Piraeus
FC Olympiacos, commonly known as Olympiacos Piraeus, is a professional football club based in Piraeus, Greece. It is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in Greece, having won numerous domestic and international titles.
Founded in 1925, Olympiacos has a rich history and is considered one of the “big three” clubs in Greek football, along with Panathinaikos and AEK Athens. The club’s home stadium is the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium in Faliro, which has a capacity of around 32,000 spectators.
Olympiacos has dominated Greek football for many years, winning a record 46 Greek Super League titles as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. The team has also won 27 Greek Cups and 4 Greek Super Cups. They have a strong and passionate fan base, known as “Gate 7,” who support the team with great fervor.
In addition to domestic success, Olympiacos has also made a name for itself in European competitions. The club has participated in the UEFA Champions League on numerous occasions, reaching the quarterfinals in the 1998-1999 season. They have also enjoyed success in the UEFA Europa League, reaching the quarterfinals in the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 seasons.
Olympiacos has had a number of notable players throughout its history, including legendary Greek striker Nikos Anastopoulos, Brazilian forward Rivaldo, and Greek goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis, among others.
Piraeus in Greek music culture
Piraeus, being a major port city, has been a hub of cultural exchange and has attracted musicians and artists from various regions of Greece. This has resulted in a fusion of different musical styles and genres, creating a diverse and eclectic folk music culture.
One of the prominent folk music genres associated with Piraeus is rembetiko. Rembetiko is a style of Greek urban folk music that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in urban centers like Athens and Piraeus. It has its roots in the marginalized communities of the port cities and is often characterized by its melancholic melodies, poetic lyrics, and a strong connection to the working class. Rembetiko songs often narrate stories of hardship, love, loss, and the realities of urban life.
Piraeus has also been a significant center for traditional Greek dances, such as syrtos, kalamatianos, and hasapiko. These dances are often accompanied by live music, including instruments like the bouzouki, baglamas, and guitar. The lively rhythms and energetic movements of these dances reflect the joyous spirit of Greek folk culture.
In addition to rembetiko and traditional dances, Piraeus has nurtured a vibrant contemporary folk music scene. Numerous local musicians and bands have emerged, blending traditional Greek elements with modern influences. These contemporary folk artists often experiment with various musical styles, incorporating elements of rock, jazz, and world music into their compositions.
Piraeus also hosts various music festivals and events throughout the year, providing platforms for both established and emerging folk musicians to showcase their talents. These events celebrate the city’s rich musical heritage, attracting enthusiasts from all over Greece and beyond.
Overall, Piraeus has a deep connection to Greek folk music culture. From the traditional sounds of rembetiko to the lively dances and contemporary folk music, the city continues to be a thriving center for the preservation and evolution of Greece’s musical traditions.
Piraeus in international movies
Piraeus has been featured in several movies over the years. Here are a few notable examples:
“Never on Sunday” (1960): Directed by Jules Dassin, this film is set in Piraeus and explores the life of an American scholar who becomes infatuated with a free-spirited prostitute (Melina Merkouri). It showcases various locations in Piraeus, including its port area and streets.
“Zorba the Greek” (1964): Although the majority of the film is set in Crete, Piraeus is featured in the opening scene where the protagonist, Basil ( Alan Bates), arrives in Greece. The city’s port is shown as Basil disembarks from the ship and makes his way to a local cafe where he meets Zorba ( Antony Queen ).
“Boy on a Dolphin” (1957): This film stars Sophia Loren as a sponge diver in Greece who discovers a valuable artifact, a statue of a boy riding a dolphin. The movie showcases the port of Piraeus and its surrounding areas, including scenic views of the city.
“Stella” (1955): Set in Piraeus during the 1950s, this Greek film directed by Michael Cacoyannis tells the story of a strong-willed woman named Stella, played by Melina Mercouri, who fights against societal norms. The film captures the atmosphere and streets of Piraeus at that time.
“Bangkok Hilton” (1989): While the majority of this Australian miniseries takes place in Thailand, Piraeus is featured in one of the early episodes. The character played by Nicole Kidman travels to Piraeus to meet a smuggler who can help her escape.
These are just a few examples of how Piraeus has been portrayed in movies. The city’s vibrant port area, streets, and distinctive Greek architecture have made it a compelling location for filmmakers.