Guardian: Overtourism and short-term rentals are choking the “neighbourhood of the gods” – The battle to save Plaka

February 19, 2025
Written by E.Tsiliopoulos

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Guardian: Overtourism and short-term rentals are choking the “neighbourhood of the gods” – The battle to save Plaka

In one of Europe's oldest neighborhoods, Plaka, over-tourism, noise pollution, and the rampant growth of short-term rentals have driven residents to despair. The situation has reached a crisis point, the British Guardian reports in an article, with the mayor of Athens, Charis Doukas, announcing the creation of a special task force to protect the historic neighborhood.

"It was the news we were all waiting for," said Lydia Karra, president of the Society for the Environment and Cultural Heritage (Ellet). "Finally, action is being taken."

Plaka, known as the "neighborhood of the gods", is facing an existential threat. Increased tourism and the exploitation of real estate by investment funds and developers have displaced residents, turning entire buildings into Airbnb-style accommodations.

Plaka under suffocating pressure: 10 million tourists expected in Athens

Greece expects 35 million tourists in 2025, with 10 million of them visiting Athens, a number almost equal to the country's population.

The number of people living in Plaka is estimated to be around 10,000 people..

"For the first time, Athens will be Greece's top destination, but this is not sustainable," warns Karra. "Plaka has exceeded its limits of endurance."

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