GREECE TRAVEL GUIDES

"ATHENS is a vibrant city full of life, sounds and colours. I feel that you can never be lonely here," explains MONASTIRAKI-based jewellery designer KONSTANTINA PENTELOUS.

MONASTIRAKI area guide

by KONSTANTINA PANTELOUS

Born and raised in PIRAEUS—the port of Athens, KONSTANTINA PENTELOUS loves the sea. It's in the heart of Athens, however, where she found her calling. In 2012, after the birth of her two children, Achilles and Hermina, she left her career in translating to pursue a more creative passion: jewellery making. With her MONASTIRAKI-based label HERMINA, Pentelous started making bracelets with cords, chains, and materials from hardware stores before entering the world of silver jewellery. 

ATHENS has a unique vibe that’s hard to describe. What is it about the city that speaks to you the most?

Indeed ATHENS is a vibrant city full of life, sounds and colors. I feel that you can never be lonely here. Our hospitality is at a very high level and it comes naturally to us giving it more value.

The HERMINA jewellery flagship in Athens' bustling MONASTIRAKI area.

Your store is based in MONASTIRAKI. How does this neighbourhood compare to others in Athens in terms of atmosphere and culture?

MONASTIRAKI is lively, bustling and eclectic. It’s a crossroads of history and modern life. There’s a raw energy and unpredictability here that gives it an edge.

MONASTIRAKI in central Athens is an intersection of history and modern life.

What are some hidden gems in the area that most tourists don’t know about?

ECLETICA gallery for me is a must visit. Also, PALLADOS STREET where you will find so many raffia baskets made in Athens.

MONASTIRAKI is surrounded by ancient landmarks. Can you share any historical facts about the area?

Here you will find Ottoman-era mosques, Byzantine churches, Roman ruins. and flea markets all coexisting next to trendy cafes and rooftop bars.

"Our hospitality is at a very high level and it comes naturally to us, giving it more value."

Your jewellery is inspired by mythology. Is there a particular story or god/goddess that you love?

My favorite god is definitely Hermes. He was the messenger of Gods and a cunning figure. He was clever, quick-witted and I find very amusing the fact that he was the patron of thieves and tricksters. Hermes was also the one to escort the souls of the dead to the afterlife.

There are countless places to eat in MONASTIRAKI, making it hard to choose. The area is also synonymous with souvlaki. Do you have any favourite spots in the area?

Definitely grab a souvlaki from KOSTAS in Agias Eirinis square. It is worth the queue!

Do you have a favourite place to sit, have a drink, and enjoy a snack?

At the moment my favorite place for dinner or to enjoy a good bottle of wine is KAPANI MARKET in (nearby area) Keramikos. If I want to enjoy a quick snack in the area I walk to FEYROUZ.

ATHENS—and Greece in general—has an impressive jewellery scene. Why do you think that is?

We have a rich and ancient tradition of jewelry making that spans thousands of years, evolving though various historical periods. A tradition rooted in history yet open to innovation.

"[ATHENS has] a raw energy and unpredictability ... that gives it an edge."

Photographs by KONSTANTINA PENTELOUS and MARIA FARRO.