People come and go, but these structures stand tall for decades, often surrendered to the wear of time. However, for some neoclassical and historic buildings—those that survived the wave of apartment blocks that swept over Athens—there’s a window of opportunity for a second life.

Neoclassical and historic properties, which have undergone extensive renovations, represent a unique category in the real estate market, catering to a niche audience. This audience not only has the financial means but also the appreciation and knowledge to be captivated by the history these buildings carry.

Most of these properties are located in popular central areas of Athens, such as Plaka, Thiseio, and Kolonaki, while others, with histories spanning two or even three centuries, can be found in island destinations like Corfu, Syros, and Rhodes, or mainland spots like Pelion. These properties are offered by major international real estate agencies and come with high price tags. However, they stand out even compared to much more expensive modern properties, carrying within them a rich history and the imprint of the people who built and lived in them.

A “Wall-to-Wall” View with the Acropolis Museum

Among the most prestigious properties currently on the market in Athens is undoubtedly the Elysian View, located adjacent to the Acropolis Museum. Rightly regarded as “one of the most unique neoclassical buildings in Athens,” this building is 101 years old this year. Originally built as a family residence in 1923 and meticulously renovated in 2021, it now houses three distinct apartments and staff quarters. Covering 465 square meters, it features 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms.

Just a few meters from the pedestrian street Dionysiou Areopagitou, the Elysian View spans four levels, ending in a 108-square-meter terrace on the top floor with a 360-degree view of the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, and the city. The property can either be used as three independent units with dedicated staff space or transformed into a luxurious single-family home, depending on the buyer’s desires. To acquire this unique property, one must be prepared to pay its 12.8-million-euro price tag (€27,527 per square meter), placing it among the most expensive properties in Athens. It is being marketed by Greece Sotheby’s International Realty and Engel & Völkers.

In the Same Area, Near the Acropolis

In the same neighborhood and at the foot of the Acropolis, Rosette, another carefully renovated, listed property, is being offered by Greece Sotheby’s International Realty. Just steps away from the Herodeon and Dionysiou Areopagitou, this house is priced at 3.3 million euros (€12,088 per square meter). It covers 273 square meters, including a 90-square-meter courtyard and a 78-square-meter roof garden with an unobstructed view of the Acropolis. It boasts 5 rooms and 3 bathrooms.

“Every detail of this home has been carefully considered and masterfully restored, from the intricate gypsum ceiling moldings to the wooden floors and traditional tiles. The bathrooms are clad in the famous Dionysus marble, adding a touch of timeless luxury,” the listing notes. Another listing by the same agency is Aeolis in the Plaka area, near the Acropolis Museum, priced at 5.1 million euros. This art-deco mansion from 1930 spans 840 square meters on a 343-square-meter plot. It has 14 rooms, 9 bathrooms, and currently operates as a guesthouse. The property’s exterior is protected, and it could be transformed into a luxury boutique hotel or a unique family residence.

At the Foot of the Acropolis Since 1830

Another unique neoclassical home at the foot of the Acropolis was built on the ancient walls of Rizokastro, the medieval fortification of Athens. Constructed in 1830 and fully reconstructed in 1998, this modern, elegant residence spans 255 square meters over two levels, with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Acropolis, Lycabettus, and Plaka’s rooftops. Priced at 3.3 million euros and marketed by Engel & Völkers, this house is an ideal blend of history and contemporary aesthetics.

These neoclassical and historic buildings, often unique and rarely available on the market, are true gems for anyone seeking properties that merge the past’s grandeur with modern-day luxury.