Glyfada
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Glyfada is the most densely populated and developed area on the southern side of Athens. It is considered one of the city¢s chic suburbs, combining the feel of the countryside with the conveniences of urban life. The area boasts one of the finest shopping centers in Athens and offers a wide variety of entertainment options. Located approximately 16 km from the city center, Glyfada is a favorite destination for Athenians, especially during the summer months when the beachfront venues dominate the capital¢s nightlife.
Glyfada has a long and rich history. In ancient times, the area was part of the municipality of Aixone, whose residents primarily engaged in fishing. The name derives from the Aixonean barbel fish, which was abundant in the region. Historical sources indicate that Glyfada has been continuously inhabited throughout the centuries.
In the early 20th century, the area was renamed Glyfada, after the sweet water wells (glyfo = salty or bitter water) found there. In 1943, the communities of Glyfada and Helliniko merged to form the Municipality of Evryalis, which was renamed the Municipality of Glyfada two years later. Gradually, Glyfada developed into a modern coastal resort. Its vast lands and dense vegetation also supported livestock farming, which contributed to the local economy, despite occasional conflicts with farmers over land use.
When referring to Glyfada, one distinguishes between Lower Glyfada, the commercial hub, and Upper Glyfada, the Terpsithea area, which began to develop after the 1960s. The area is divided by Vouliagmenis Avenue, separating Upper and Lower Glyfada. Upper Glyfada is a growing neighborhood with luxurious villas and apartment buildings, where former grazing lands have transformed into a beautiful urban area. Lower Glyfada is a bustling, vibrant part of the city, offering a wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants, nightlife venues, excellent transport links, sports centers, beaches, and four marinas.
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