Sofokleous Street


Sofokleous Street is a street in the downtown part of Athens, the Greek capital. It is named after the ancient Greek tragedian Sophocles. The street runs from Pireos Street and ends short from Stadiou Street at Pesmazoglou Street and Aristeidou Street. Until 2007 the Athens Stock Exchange was located in this street, near Aiolou Street on the north side. Further north lies Kotzia Square. The street is approximately 600 m long.
The nearest metro stations are Panepistimio and Omonia.

History

The Athens Stock Exchange first opened in 30 Sept.1876 on the street's north side, and soon moved to the junction of Aiolou and Sofokleous streets. From 1885 until 1891 it was housed at a building owned by the brokerage firm "Hermes" at 11 Sofocleous Street. On December 19, 1934, the new building was inaugurated in a formal manner. During World War II the various "policing" measures were hindered by brokers in the "free" market engaged in buying pounds in the streets around the Sophocleous Street building. On September 21, 1999, the highest price was recorded when the index reached 6,484.38 units, operating as a landmark for smallholders, who in a few years lost more than one hundred billion euros.
Modernistic eight storey-buildings were constructed in most parts of the street while neo-classical buildings still existed. Traffic lights and street lights were introduced. Traffic lights were also introduced at Pireos, Sokratous, Athinas and Aiolou streets.
After the move of the Athens Exchange its former building was used as the venue for the 4th Athens Biennale 2013 "AGORA".

Important buildings

many retail stores and restaurants.

Intersections