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(Redirected from Patrae)
'Patras ' (Demotic Greek: 'Πάτρα', ''Pátra'', Classical Greek: Πάτραι, ''Pátrai'', , Ottoman Turkish: ''Ballıbadra'') is the third-largest city of Greece and the capital of the prefecture of Achaea, located in northern Peloponnese, 215 kilometers to the west of Athens. The city is built at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon, overlooking the Gulf of Patras.
The Patras metropolitan area is a conurbation of a quarter of a million inhabitants.[1] The core settlement has a history of four millennia, and in Roman times it became a cosmopolitan centre of the eastern Mediterranean whilst, according to Christian tradition, it was the place of Saint Andrew's martyrdom. Dubbed Greece's ''Gate to the West'', Patras is a commercial hub, while its busy port is a nodal point for trade and communication with Italy, and indeed with the rest of Western Europe. The city has two Public Universities and one Technological Institute, bringing a large student population, and making it a major scientific centre with a field of excellence in technical education. The striking Rio-Antirio bridge connects Patras' eastern suburb of Rio to the town of Antirrio, essentially connecting the peninsula of the Peloponnese with mainland Greece. The city hosts one the country's most colourful carnivals, taking place every spring; notable features of the Patras Carnival include its mammoth-sized satirical floats and its extravagant balls and parades, enjoyed in a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with relatively cool yet humid summers and very mild winters. The city is known for supporting an indigenous cultural scene mainly active in the performing arts and modern urban literature ; it was European Capital of Culture 2006.
The most common explanation given for the name Patras is the mythological one, from ''Patreus'' the name of the town's legendary settler.
Patras is located 215 kilometers west of Athens by road, 94 kilometers northeast of Pyrgos, 7 kilometers south of Rio, 134 kilometers west of Corinth, 77 kilometers northwest of Kalavryta, and 144 kilometers northwest of Tripoli.
A central feature of the urban geography of Patras is its division in upper and lower town connected with stairs. This is the result of an interplay between natural geography and human settlement patterns; the lower town, which includes the 19th century urban core and the harbour, is adjacent to the sea and stretches between the estuaries of the rivers Glafkos and Haradros, built on a what was originally a bed of river soils and dried-up swamps while the old upper town covers the area of the pre-modern settlement, around the Fortress, on what is the last elevation of Mount Panachaikon (1,926 m) Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 before the Gulf of Patras.
The largest river in the area is Glafkos flowing South of Patras. Glafkos rises from the Mount Panachaikon and its water is since 1925, collected in a small mountainous reservoir-dam near the village of Souli and then pumped to provide energy for the country's first hydroelectric plant. [2] The water is also used to water the orchards of Eglykas and as a supply for drinking water for the city. Other rivers are ''Haradros'', ''Meilichos'' and the mountain torrent ''Diakoniaris''.
Of great importance for the biological diversity in the area and the preservation of its climate, is the swamp of Agyia, a small and coastal aquatic ecosystem of only 30 hectares, located north of the city centre. Main features of the wetland is the apparent rarity of its survival in the heart of a densely populated urban centre in a relatively arid climate, and its admittedly high level of biodiversity, with over 90 species of birds being observed until the early 1990s, according to a study by the Patras Bureau of the ''Hellenic Ornithological Society''. [3]
Another geophysical characteristic of the region is its seismicity, which has been recorded since the historic times and has caused frequent destruction until recently, namely in 1993 with a quake of 5 degrees in the Richter scale close to the urban area of Patras and a quake that occurred close to Aigion in 1995. The bordering Ionian islands, have also frequently been hit by more severe earthquakes. During antiquity the most notable example of destruction caused by earthquake in the region was the submergence of the ancient Achaean city of Eliki.
Main articles: History of Patras
The first traces of settlement in Patras date to the 3rd millennium BC, in modern Aroe. During the Middle Helladic period (the first half of the 2nd millennium BC) another settlement was founded in the region. Patras flourished for the first time during the Post-Helladic or Mycenean period (1580–1100 BC). Ancient Patras was formed by the unification of three Mycenaean villages located in modern Aroe, Antheia and Mesatis. Mythology tells us that after the Dorian invasion, a group of Achaeans from Laconia, led by the Patreus, established a colony. During antiquity, Patras remained a farming region but it was in Roman times when it became an important port.
After 280 BC, and prior to the Roman occupation of Greece, Patras played a significant role in the foundation of the second "Achaean League" (Achaiki Sympoliteia) together with the cities Dyme, Triteia and Pharai. As a consequence, the initiative of political movements was transferred for the first time to western Achaea. Later on, and following the Roman occupation of Greece in 146 BC, Patras played the main role and Augustus founded a Roman colony there. A cadastral map was drawn up, privileges granted, and crafts created, the most important that of earthen oil lamps which were exported almost to the entire known world of the time. Two industrial zones were created, temples built, roads that rendering Patras a communication center opened, and the streets paved with flagstones and foreign religions introduced. Patras was by then a cosmopolitan city. But at the end of the 3rd century AD it fell into decline, probably because of a strong earthquake that struck the whole of the northeastern Peloponnese, in 300 AD.
Main articles: Saint Andrew
According to Christian tradition, Saint Andrew came to Patras to preach Christianity during the reign of Emperor Nero and was crucified as a martyr. He is said to have suffered crucifixion on a cross of the form called ''Crux decussata'' (X-shaped cross) and commonly known as "St Andrew's cross". He has ever since been considered the patron saint of the city. According to tradition his relics were removed from Patras to Constantinople, and thence to the West. Local legend says the relics were sold to the Romans by the local priests in exchange of the Romans constructing a water reservoir for the city [4] ; according to St. Jerome, who cites the translation of his relics to Constantinople in the fourth century, the relics of Luke the Evangelist were also transferred from Patras to Constantinople with them, suggesting, with other testimonies of the activity of St. Luke in Achaea, that Patras was the place where he too, was martyred.
In recent years, the relics were kept in the Vatican City, but were sent back to Patras by decision of the Pope Paul VI in 1964. The relics, which consist of the small finger and part of the top of the cranium of St Andrew, have been kept since in the later Church of St Andrew, in a special tomb, and are reverenced in a special ceremony every November 30. The cross of St Andrew, upon which he was martyred, is also kept in there , near the Saint's relics.
Two temples were built in his honor; an old Byzantine-style basilica, and a new monumental church completed in the 1970s.
During the Byzantine times Patras continued to be an important port as well as an industrial center. In 551 AD it was laid to ruin by an earthquake. In 807 AD, it was able, without external assistance to defeat the Slavonians (see also Avars), though most of the credit of the victory was assigned to St Andrew, whose church was enriched by the imperial share of the spoils, and whose archbishop was made superior of the bishops of Methone, Lacedaemon and Corone. Indeed, one of the most scholarly philosophers and theologians of the time, Arethas of Caesarea was born at Patrae, at around 860. By the 9th century there are strong signs the city was prosperous: the widow Danielis from Patras had accumulated immense wealth in land ownership, the carpet and textile industry, and offered critical support in the ascent of Basil I the Macedonian to the Byzantine throne.
In 1204 Patras was conquered by the Fourth Crusade, and became the seat of the Latin Duchy of Achaia within the Principality of Achaea. Captured in 1205 by William of Champlitte and Villehardouin, the city became capital and its archbishop primate of the principality of Achaea. In 1387 De Heredia, grand master of the order of the Hospital at Rhodes, endeavoured to make himself master of Achaea and took Patras by storm. In 1408, it became Venetian. At the close of the 15th century however, the city was governed by the archbishop in the name of the pope; in 1428 Constantine, son of John VI., managed to get possession of it for a time. It was seized again by the despot Constantine in 1430, who was immediately contested by the Ottoman Empire.
In 1458 Patras was conquered by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Mehmet II. Under the Ottomans, it was known Baliabadra (from Greek Παλαιά Πάτρα, the town, as opposed to Νέα Πάτρα, the fortress). Though Mehmet granted the city special privileges and tax reductions, it never became a major centre of commerce. Venice and Genoa attacked and captured it several times during the 15th and 16th centuries, but never re-established their rule effectively.[5]
On 7 October 1571, the Ottoman fleet on one side and the fleet of the Christian Holy League on the other, clashed in the Gulf of Patras, in the Battle of Lepanto. The Ottomans were defeated, but the Holy League did not seize the city of Patras. The news of Ottoman defeat was celebrated in Patras, but a revolt organized by five of the elders of the town and metropolitan Germanos I of Old Patras (1561-1572) was stifled and its instigators executed.[6] Patras was, at length in 1687, surrendered by the Turks to the Venetians, who made it the seat of one of the seven fiscal boards into which they divided the Morea. In 1714 it fell again, with the rest of the Morea, into Turkish hands.
In general, the first period of Turkish rule (1460-1687) was miserable, but from 1715 onward there was a revival of commerce, and during the 18th century Patras became an economically prosperous town again on the basis of agriculture and trade.
Patras played a crucial role in the Independence struggle against the Ottomans (1821). It was here that the Greek Revolution began;[7] but the Turks, confined to the citadel, held out until 1828. It is argued that the Greek Revolution was declared the 25 March 1821, when the then archbishop of Old Patras, and member of the revolutionary organization Filiki Eteria, Germanos swore in the first independence warriors at the chapel of ''Agios Georgios'' , close to the modern day square.
Patras was liberated on 7 October 1828 by the French expeditionary force in the Peloponnese, under the command of General Maison. In 1829 the then Governor of Greece, Ioannis Capodistrias approved a very ambitious new urban plan for the city--which was still in ruins--presented to him by the French army engineer Stamatis Vulgaris. The plan was not enforced until the mid-19th century, and then only with great adaptations conforming to the interests of powerful landowners. Patras developed quickly into the second largest urban centre in late 19th century Greece.[8]
The city benefited from its role as the main export port for the agricultural produce of the Peloponnese.[9] It was the main centre for the organisation of production of raisin, offering warehouse, banking and insurance services. However, this early era of prosperity was short-lived; in 1894 raisin export prices in the international markets began to plummet, due to overproduction and international circumstances, triggering a prolonged crisis with deep financial, political and social repercussions, known as the Great raisin crisis.[10] Trade with western Europe, mainly Britain, France and Italy, did much to shape the city's early identity as a significant port and cosmopolitan urban centre in early 20th century Greece.
In the early 20th century, Patras developed fast and became the first Greek city to introduce public streetlights and electrified tramways.[11] The war effort necessitated by the first World War hampered the city's development and also created uncontrollable urban sprawl with the influx of refugees from Asia Minor. During the Second World War, the city was a major target of Italian air raids ; during the period of Axis occupation, a German military command was established and German and Italian troops stationed in the city. On 13th December 1943, in the nearby town of Kalavryta, German troops executed the entire male population and set the town ablaze. After liberation the city moved fast to recover, but in later years found itself increasingly overshadowed by the urban pole of Athens.
The city is now divided into upper and lower parts connected by broad flights of steps, as well as streets. The upper part is the older and more picturesque, but the lower part is attractively laid out, with plenty of squares in a geometrical pattern. The most notable squares are ''Psila Alonia'' and ''Georgiou I'' square. There are a number of exquisite neoclassical buildings, such as the ''theatre "Apollon"'' in Georgiou I Square, the ''Town Hall'', the headquarters of the ''Local Trade Association'' and the ''Justice Court''.
The most significant ancient monument open to the public in Patras is the ''Roman Odeon'', now reconstructed and in use as an open-air theatre for performances and concerts during the summer months. Overlooking the whole town is the ruined ''Castle'', whose current outline dates back to the Venetian invasion of the town (1687-1715). Today, its interior is laid out as a public garden.
Close to the seafront, between the site of the new and the old port, there is the monumental church of St Andrew, and in a projection of land stands a replica of the city's emblematic old lighthouse, built as a part of a coastline beautification project. Generally, much of Patras' coastline has streets running alongside; including ''Akte Dymaion'' in the south, and ''Iroon Polytechneiou'' to the north. Unfortunately, due to bad urban design planning and institutional weakness on the part of the City Council, which in turn is due to a lack of financial planning, most of the city's coastal areas are not in an ideal situation, with some spots illegally occupied by shops built along the coastline. This is contrary to what the Constitution of Greece of 2001 declares; that the Greek coastline is a "national treasure", and as such belongs to the People.
The city is endowed with many neoclassical buildings and mansions from late 19th-early 20th century, which now enhance the city centre. Years of neglect and the absence of protection enforcement, as well as recent earthquakes, had contributed to the destruction of many, but today most surviving neoclassical buildings are under protection status. A project for the restoration of the city's architectural heritage is part of the 2006 Cultural Capital bid.
Several (Λαϊκή)laikê (produce bazaars) take place in the city's neighborhoods on weekdays and on Saturday.
The Achaia region is home to 4 museums spanning from the Patras Archaeological Museum to the Museum of sacrifice of the people of Kalavrita.Region of Western Greece: Monuments - Accessed on Feb. 9, 2007 The region is also home to many different Ancient Greek and Byzantine Monuments, including the Roman Odeum, Castle of Rio, and Fortress of Patras to name a few.Region of Western Greece: Monuments - Accessed on Feb. 9, 2007
The Periphery of Western Greece covers an area of 11,350 km² Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 and has its capital situated in Patras.
The Achaia Prefecture covers an area of 3,274 km²Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 and too has its capital in Patras.
★ Moira (northeast)
★ Souli
★ Elekistra (east)
★ Agyia
★ Mpozaitika, east part
★ Demenika, northern part
★ Lefka, a small subdivision south of the Glaukos river and north of Paralia and Messatidos (Ovryá)
★ Skiessa, a small subdivision 5 km NE of downtown.
★ Sinora
★ Romanos, about 5 km E of downtown
★ Vrysaiika, about 6 km SE of downtown
★ Psarofai, 3-4 km southwest of downtown
★ Zarouhleika, 5 km southwest of downtown
Patras has many shopping areas, picturesque cafes, pubs, discos, and restaurants, as well its known educational and cultural facilities such as schools, colleges, a university, a library, two theatres , galleries and cinemas. Two state-funded hospitals exist in the city: Saint Andreas, the oldest of the two, is named after the city's patron saint, and resides on the south side of the city. The University Hospital of Rio is a university hospital, where medical students intern and specialise in their major, and resides on the north-eastern part of the city, inside the city's University campus.
★ Port
:The port has excellent car-ferry links with the Ionian islands and the major Adriatic ports of Italy.
★ Rail connection
:A rudimentary single, narrow gauge track of around 12 km crosses the city. The central passenger train station lies west of downtown between the port's Aghiou Nikolaou mole and Othonos-Amalias Avenue. The main freight station of Aghios Andreas lies further south, next to the homonymous church. Finally the old depot of Aghios Dionysios, of about ten tracks, which lies a little north, now offers elementary turntable and roundhouse facilities. Its length is around 400 m. It is situated near the park and Athinon Street.
★ The Rio-Antirio bridge
:Is located north of Patras, and links Peloponnese to mainland Greece. It was completed in August 2004.
★ The new highway
:A beltway, the length of which is 20 km, was first opened in 2002 to alleviate traffic passing through the city. Two highway lanes are being constructed, to link the beltway to the city's new port.[12]
★ Mini beltway
:Is being constructed to relieve the city center from heavy congestion. [13]
★ New port
:A new port is under construction in the southern part of the city. [14]
★ Small Industries Park (Viotehniko Parko)
:A park for hosting small industries will be constructed next to the river Glaykos and provide them with basic infrastructure and easy connection with the new port.
★ High Speed Interconnections with the large beltway.
:Two big highways are under construction that will connect the seacoast and the new port with the large beltway that surrounds the city of Patras. The first is over the small river Diakoniaris, while the second consists of two roads, 4 km each, in parallel with river Glaykos. [15][16]
★ Expansion of the Kanakari street.
:A project that will lead to an additional entrance and passage for the city center.
★ Dam of the Peiros-Parapeiros river.
:The dam will supply with water the city of Patras and the surrounding area. [17]
★ Metropolitan Optical Network of Patras
:An optical network will be deployed with a total length of 48 km[18]
★ New standard gauge railway to Korinth and further to Athens
★ New Highways
:Expansion of the highway connection with Athens and Pyrgos. Construction of the Ionia Odos highway until Ioannina
The city economy has a larger service sector. Its main activities are retailing, logistics, financial services, and the public sector services. Patras suffered from a great problem of deindustrialization during the late 1980s and 1990s; many big productive units were shut down one after the other and the workforce, as well as the city's economy, had to restructure. To this aim contributed the university, and a small but dynamic service and technology sector that evolves around it. The city-region retains some of its traditional winemaking and foodstuff industries and a small agricultural sector.
Patras' industrial area is 20 km south of downtown, and is located between the 16th km of GR-9 and Fares/Phares (pro. FAH-rehs). Major businesses in Patras are:
★ Transport
:'Port of Patras', 'Seaplanes', 'Araxos Airport', 'Hellenic railways', 'Ιntercity Buses'
★ Tertiary Education
:'Uni. Patras', 'Hellenic Open University', 'TEI Patras'
★ Regional Hospital
:'University Hospital', 'Agios Andreas', 'Olympion S.A.'
★ Administration
:'Region of Western Greece', Perfecture',
★ Logistics
★ Banking
:Most Greek Banks have their regional headquarters for Western Greece located in Patras.
★ Construction & Real estate
★ ICTs
★ Catering
★ Retailing
★ Tourism
★ Media
★ Advertisement
★ Foodstuff industries
★ Wineries and distilleries (Achaia-Clauss)
★ Dairy Products
★ Pharmaceutical production
★ Textiles
★ Machinery
★ Timber
★ Energy [19],[20]
There has been a significant development in the R & D sector during the last years, as a result of the many research institutes and the University impact in the area.
★ 'Computer Technology Institute'
★ Systems Institute'
★ 'Patras Science Park'
★ 'Institute of Chemical Engineering & High Temperature Chemical Processes
★ 'Institute of Biomedical Technology'
There are around 10 local radio stations (including Super B, Top FM, Step FM and more) and 4 television stations, one covering the entire south-western region of Greece and 3 stations broadcasting only in the prefecture of Achaia (see Achaea#Television). The main newspapers are the Peloponnisos[1] and ''Imera''. More newspapers are, Epi ta proso, To Gegononta tis Achaias, Gnomi, Kosmos tis Patras, Proodos and ''Simerini'' Fanzines include Splats.
The current cultural activity of the city includes the ''Patras International Festival'' (various artistic activities, mainly in the field of music), the ''Patras Carnival'' and the Poetry Symposium. [21][22] The city hosts several conservatoires and schools of music, including one devoted exclusively to Byzantine music, and several orchestras and choirs. There is one full-time theatre group in the city, as well as several amateur groups.[23] A number of schools teach dancing, and there are plans to set up a dance theatre within the context of the Patras Municipal Regional Theatre. Patras has a visual arts workshop, a school of icon painting and a carnival float workshop, and hosts a Municipal Gallery as well as private art galleries ; there is also a Municipal Library, an archaeological museum, a folk art museum, an historical and ethnological museum and a museum of the press. The architectural heritage of the city is dominated by neo-classicism, but also includes structures from other periods.
[24]
Main articles: Patras Carnival
The 'Patras Carnival', 'Patrino karnavali' is the largest event of its kind in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe, with a heritage reaching back 160 years. The events begin on 17 January and last until Clean Monday. The carnival is not a single event but a variety of events that includes balls, parades, hunting of hidden treasure, a childrens' carnival and more . Its apogee comes in the last weekend of Carnival with the Saturday evening parade of carnival groups, the extravagant Sunday parade of floats and groups, and finally the ritual burning of king carnival in the mole of Saint Nikolaos street in the harbour of Patras. Its characteristic principles are spontaneity, improvisation, inspiration and volunteerism.
The 'International Festival of Patras' takes place every summer, with a program consisting mostly of plays--both ancient drama and modern theatre--as well as various musical events.
Patras has also a very strong indie rock scene with critically acclaimed bands such as Raining Pleasure, Abbie Gale, Serpentine, Doh an Doris and many more. Patras, is also the birthplace of Karagiozis, the Greek shadow theatre with Dimitris Sardounis as its founder.
The city is the seat of a Greek orthodox archbishopric, while there is a living community of Roman catholics and a historical Anglican church.
Patras was chosen by the European Commission to be the European Capital of Culture for the year 2006. The concept of the event revolved around the main theme of "Bridges" and "Links", taking benefit from the City's rich history and its position as a "Gate to the West", to underline the essence of the productive interaction of culture and civilisation in Europe. The EU Commission found Patras' plans very ambitious and also commented that a successful hosting of the title by a medium sized city would make it possible to redefine the meaning of the term Cultural Capital. During 2006 various cultural events took place.
The 'Selection Panel' for 2006 noted in its final report:
With the completion of the Capital of Culture programme, a part old factory was renovated to host exhibitions and house a small theatre, and neoclassical buildings around the city were renovated as part of a plan to preserve the city's architectural heritage and link it to its cultural life.
A major new archaeological museum is being built, which with its globe-like roof and modern architectural design, will enhance the town's northern entrance and take its place among the other town landmarks.
Main articles: Patras Sports
Patras has many sports facilities and important teams in all the major Greek leagues. Panachaiki Gymnastiki Enosi is the major sports club based in Patras.
★ Balas
★ Charadros
★ Skiessa
★ Elikistra
★
★ Karya
★
★ Pournarokastro
★
★ Ryaki
★
★ Romanos
★ Moira
★
★ Gotseika (Gotsaiika)
★
★ Pigi (abandoned)
★ Neo Souli
★
★ Agios Ioannia
★
★ Bintzeika
★
★ Kefalovryso
★
★ Panagia
★
★ Profitis Ilias
★ 'Patras'
Nowadays, the municipalities of Rio and Antirrio have functionally become a part of the wider urban complex of Patras, other suburbs are:
★ Aktaio (north)
★ Agios Georgios Riou (north)
★ Petroto (east)
★ Saravali (southeast, south)
★ Mintilogli (south)
★ Monodendri (south)
★ Ovria (south)
★ Paralia (south)
★ Vrachnaiika (south)
★ Roitika (south)
★ Tsoukaleika
The urban area of Patras includes the towns of:
★ Rion (12,674)
★ Paralia (9,153)
★ Vrachneika (4,805)
★ Messatida (12,246)
That is 18,5% of the urban population.
★ GR-5/E55
★ GR-8/E55 and E65 (partly Panepistimiou Street)
★ GR-8A
★ GR-9/E55 (partly Akti Dymaion)
★ GR-33 (partly Kalavryton, Georgiou Papandreou Street and Akrotiriou)
★ Patras Bypass
★ Agiou Andreou Street
★ Dimitris Gounaris Avenue
★ Iroon Polytechneiou Street
★ Kolokotronia Street
★ Korinthou Street
★ Maizonos Street
★ Othonos-Amalias Avenue
★ Riga Fereou Street
The city boasts a relatively large number of politicians in the national political arena as its natives. Particularly in the first century after liberation, when the city was second only to Athens in the urban hierarchy of the country, significant personalities that shaped the character of Greece were associated with Patras. Famous natives include the prime ministers: Dimitrios Gounaris the main leader of the anti-venizelist party in the 1910s, Stylianos Gonatas a high-ranking officer, politician and one of the leaders of the “1922 Revolution”, Andreas Michalakopoulos a prominent liberal party cadre, foreign minister and prime minister, Dimitrios Maximos a distinguished economist, minister and finally prime minister during the civil war era. More recent figures include George Papandreou (senior) leader of the Center Union and one of the most important political personalities in post World War II Greece, Panagiotis Kanellopoulos the last democratically elected head of government before the establishment of the 1967 junta and Konstantinos Stephanopoulos, the former president of the Hellenic Republic.
★ Germanos of Patras
★ Zaimis
★ Athanasios Kanakaris
★ Benizelos Rouphos
★ Danielis
★ Nikolaos Andriakopoulos
★ Nikos Barlos
★ Stephanos Christopoulos
★ Kostas Davourlis
★ Themistoklis Diakidis
★ Kostas Katsouranis
★ Themis Rigas
★ Dimitrios Tofalos
★ Vassilis Stravopodis
★ Arethas of Caesarea
★ Jean Goldkette
★ Dimitris Hantzopoulos
★ Memos Makris
★ Mnaseas
★ Jean Moréas
★ Kostis Palamas
★ Matilde Serao
★ Saint Regulus
★ 'Aleksinac', Serbia
★ 'Bydgoszcz', Poland
★ 'Chişinău', Moldova
★ 'Bari', Italy
★ 'Ancona', Italy
★ 'Gjirokastër', Albania
★ 'Canterbury', Australia
★ 'Reggio Calabria', Italy
★ 'Limassol', Cyprus
★ 'Craiova', Romania
★ 'Banja Luka', Bosnia and Herzegovina
★ 'Ammochostos', Cyprus
★ 'Saint-Étienne', France
1. EU Commission, Directorate General for Regional Policy, Inforegio, Urban Audit, City profile, http://www.urbanaudit.org/CityProfiles.aspx
2. Thomopoulos, St. N, ''History of the City of Patras from Antiquity to 1821'', Patrai 1952, (ed. Triantafyllou, K.N.)
3. http://www.ornithologiki.gr/en/enmain.htm
4. Thomopoulos, St. N, ''History of the City of Patras from Antiquity to 1821'', Patrai 1952, (ed. Triantafyllou, K.N.) 5. Encyclopaedia of Islam ''s.v.'' Baliabadra
6. Chasiotis, Ioannis "Revolutionary efforts in the Greek area after the naval battle", ''Istoria tou Ellinikou Ethnous'', Ekdotiki Athinon, vol. 10, pp. 320-321, Athens 1974
7. Strategus Makrygiannis, "Memoirs", Book A, Chapter I, Athens, 1849, http://www.snhell.gr/testimonies/writer.asp?id=102
8. Triantafyllou, Κ.Ν., ''Historic Lexicon of Patras''
9. Kounenaki Pegy, "19th Century Patras: how the character of the city changed with the development of the port after 1828" ''Kathimerini'' 14-10-01 http://news.kathimerini.gr/4dcgi/_w_articles_civ_491371_14/10/2001_3252
10. Nasi Balta, "The civilization of raisin. Raisin cultivation in 19th century Peloponnese, the economic crisis, and the revolt of the farmworkers. The political, cultural and social framework" ''To Vima'' 06/02/2000 Page S03 http://tovima.dolnet.gr/print_article.php?e=B&f=12838&m=S03&aa=1
11. Thomopoulos
12. http://www.ditikiellada.gov.gr/mediaupload/%C1%F1%F7%E5%DF%E1%20%E5%F6%E1%F1%EC%EF%E3%DE%F2/par_patra.pdf
13. http://www.ditikiellada.gov.gr/mediaupload/%C1%F1%F7%E5%DF%E1%20%E5%F6%E1%F1%EC%EF%E3%DE%F2/mini_perimetriki.pdf
14. http://www.patrasport.gr/el/organization/port.html#i__171238864_870
15. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_35.cfm
16. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_30.cfm
17. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_34.cfm
18. http://ru6.cti.gr/broadband/el/man_93_patras.php
19. http://www.acciona-energia.com/default.asp?x=0002020101&lang=En#gre
20. http://www.dei.gr/frmmapstation.asp?id=174&nt=124&lang=2
21. http://www.depap.gr
22. Poetry Symposium
23. ''Patras Municipal Regional Theatre''
24.
''Excerpt from the Report of the Selection Panel for the European Capital of Culture 2006''
25. http://www.depap.gr
26. Poetry Symposium
27. ''Patras Municipal Regional Theatre''
28. Patras Final Report
29. Patras Future Report
30. 1928-1980 statistical data are from: "The population of Greece in the second half of the 20th century". Hellenic Republic. National Statistical Service of Greece. Athens 1980 & "Statistical Yearbook of Greece" Hellenic Republic. National Statistical Service of Greece. Athens 1980
31. Population data from 1853 to 1920 are cited from: Kosta N. Triantafyllou, "Istorikon Lexikon ton Patron: Istoria tis poleos ton Patron apo arxaiotaton xronon eos simeron kata alphavitikin eidologikin katataksin" 3rd edition, Patrai 1995
32. Data on municipal and urban population refer to 'permanent' population and are taken from: the "2001 Census" of the National Statistical Service of Greece
★ Communities of Achaia
★ Patras Wireless Network
★ The official website of the city
★ Patras 2006 European Capital of Culture
★ The official website of the Carnival of Patras
★ A video about Patras Carnival from Travel Channel
★ Video about Patras European Capital of Culture 2006
'Patras ' (Demotic Greek: 'Πάτρα', ''Pátra'', Classical Greek: Πάτραι, ''Pátrai'', , Ottoman Turkish: ''Ballıbadra'') is the third-largest city of Greece and the capital of the prefecture of Achaea, located in northern Peloponnese, 215 kilometers to the west of Athens. The city is built at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon, overlooking the Gulf of Patras.
The Patras metropolitan area is a conurbation of a quarter of a million inhabitants.[1] The core settlement has a history of four millennia, and in Roman times it became a cosmopolitan centre of the eastern Mediterranean whilst, according to Christian tradition, it was the place of Saint Andrew's martyrdom. Dubbed Greece's ''Gate to the West'', Patras is a commercial hub, while its busy port is a nodal point for trade and communication with Italy, and indeed with the rest of Western Europe. The city has two Public Universities and one Technological Institute, bringing a large student population, and making it a major scientific centre with a field of excellence in technical education. The striking Rio-Antirio bridge connects Patras' eastern suburb of Rio to the town of Antirrio, essentially connecting the peninsula of the Peloponnese with mainland Greece. The city hosts one the country's most colourful carnivals, taking place every spring; notable features of the Patras Carnival include its mammoth-sized satirical floats and its extravagant balls and parades, enjoyed in a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with relatively cool yet humid summers and very mild winters. The city is known for supporting an indigenous cultural scene mainly active in the performing arts and modern urban literature ; it was European Capital of Culture 2006.
Name
The most common explanation given for the name Patras is the mythological one, from ''Patreus'' the name of the town's legendary settler.
Geography
NASA view of Patras
Patras is located 215 kilometers west of Athens by road, 94 kilometers northeast of Pyrgos, 7 kilometers south of Rio, 134 kilometers west of Corinth, 77 kilometers northwest of Kalavryta, and 144 kilometers northwest of Tripoli.
A central feature of the urban geography of Patras is its division in upper and lower town connected with stairs. This is the result of an interplay between natural geography and human settlement patterns; the lower town, which includes the 19th century urban core and the harbour, is adjacent to the sea and stretches between the estuaries of the rivers Glafkos and Haradros, built on a what was originally a bed of river soils and dried-up swamps while the old upper town covers the area of the pre-modern settlement, around the Fortress, on what is the last elevation of Mount Panachaikon (1,926 m) Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 before the Gulf of Patras.
The largest river in the area is Glafkos flowing South of Patras. Glafkos rises from the Mount Panachaikon and its water is since 1925, collected in a small mountainous reservoir-dam near the village of Souli and then pumped to provide energy for the country's first hydroelectric plant. [2] The water is also used to water the orchards of Eglykas and as a supply for drinking water for the city. Other rivers are ''Haradros'', ''Meilichos'' and the mountain torrent ''Diakoniaris''.
Of great importance for the biological diversity in the area and the preservation of its climate, is the swamp of Agyia, a small and coastal aquatic ecosystem of only 30 hectares, located north of the city centre. Main features of the wetland is the apparent rarity of its survival in the heart of a densely populated urban centre in a relatively arid climate, and its admittedly high level of biodiversity, with over 90 species of birds being observed until the early 1990s, according to a study by the Patras Bureau of the ''Hellenic Ornithological Society''. [3]
Earthquakes
Another geophysical characteristic of the region is its seismicity, which has been recorded since the historic times and has caused frequent destruction until recently, namely in 1993 with a quake of 5 degrees in the Richter scale close to the urban area of Patras and a quake that occurred close to Aigion in 1995. The bordering Ionian islands, have also frequently been hit by more severe earthquakes. During antiquity the most notable example of destruction caused by earthquake in the region was the submergence of the ancient Achaean city of Eliki.
History
Main articles: History of Patras
Byzantine Fortress
The monumental church of ''St Andreas'', where the saint's relics are kept, said to be erected over the place of his martyrdom.
Patras, exportation of raisin
The ''Apollo Theatre'' in Georgiou I square, a work of the architect Ernst Ziller, built with the contributions of the thriving 19th century commercial class
Antiquity
The first traces of settlement in Patras date to the 3rd millennium BC, in modern Aroe. During the Middle Helladic period (the first half of the 2nd millennium BC) another settlement was founded in the region. Patras flourished for the first time during the Post-Helladic or Mycenean period (1580–1100 BC). Ancient Patras was formed by the unification of three Mycenaean villages located in modern Aroe, Antheia and Mesatis. Mythology tells us that after the Dorian invasion, a group of Achaeans from Laconia, led by the Patreus, established a colony. During antiquity, Patras remained a farming region but it was in Roman times when it became an important port.
After 280 BC, and prior to the Roman occupation of Greece, Patras played a significant role in the foundation of the second "Achaean League" (Achaiki Sympoliteia) together with the cities Dyme, Triteia and Pharai. As a consequence, the initiative of political movements was transferred for the first time to western Achaea. Later on, and following the Roman occupation of Greece in 146 BC, Patras played the main role and Augustus founded a Roman colony there. A cadastral map was drawn up, privileges granted, and crafts created, the most important that of earthen oil lamps which were exported almost to the entire known world of the time. Two industrial zones were created, temples built, roads that rendering Patras a communication center opened, and the streets paved with flagstones and foreign religions introduced. Patras was by then a cosmopolitan city. But at the end of the 3rd century AD it fell into decline, probably because of a strong earthquake that struck the whole of the northeastern Peloponnese, in 300 AD.
Saint Andrew
Main articles: Saint Andrew
According to Christian tradition, Saint Andrew came to Patras to preach Christianity during the reign of Emperor Nero and was crucified as a martyr. He is said to have suffered crucifixion on a cross of the form called ''Crux decussata'' (X-shaped cross) and commonly known as "St Andrew's cross". He has ever since been considered the patron saint of the city. According to tradition his relics were removed from Patras to Constantinople, and thence to the West. Local legend says the relics were sold to the Romans by the local priests in exchange of the Romans constructing a water reservoir for the city [4] ; according to St. Jerome, who cites the translation of his relics to Constantinople in the fourth century, the relics of Luke the Evangelist were also transferred from Patras to Constantinople with them, suggesting, with other testimonies of the activity of St. Luke in Achaea, that Patras was the place where he too, was martyred.
In recent years, the relics were kept in the Vatican City, but were sent back to Patras by decision of the Pope Paul VI in 1964. The relics, which consist of the small finger and part of the top of the cranium of St Andrew, have been kept since in the later Church of St Andrew, in a special tomb, and are reverenced in a special ceremony every November 30. The cross of St Andrew, upon which he was martyred, is also kept in there , near the Saint's relics.
Two temples were built in his honor; an old Byzantine-style basilica, and a new monumental church completed in the 1970s.
Byzantine Empire
During the Byzantine times Patras continued to be an important port as well as an industrial center. In 551 AD it was laid to ruin by an earthquake. In 807 AD, it was able, without external assistance to defeat the Slavonians (see also Avars), though most of the credit of the victory was assigned to St Andrew, whose church was enriched by the imperial share of the spoils, and whose archbishop was made superior of the bishops of Methone, Lacedaemon and Corone. Indeed, one of the most scholarly philosophers and theologians of the time, Arethas of Caesarea was born at Patrae, at around 860. By the 9th century there are strong signs the city was prosperous: the widow Danielis from Patras had accumulated immense wealth in land ownership, the carpet and textile industry, and offered critical support in the ascent of Basil I the Macedonian to the Byzantine throne.
Latin Rule
In 1204 Patras was conquered by the Fourth Crusade, and became the seat of the Latin Duchy of Achaia within the Principality of Achaea. Captured in 1205 by William of Champlitte and Villehardouin, the city became capital and its archbishop primate of the principality of Achaea. In 1387 De Heredia, grand master of the order of the Hospital at Rhodes, endeavoured to make himself master of Achaea and took Patras by storm. In 1408, it became Venetian. At the close of the 15th century however, the city was governed by the archbishop in the name of the pope; in 1428 Constantine, son of John VI., managed to get possession of it for a time. It was seized again by the despot Constantine in 1430, who was immediately contested by the Ottoman Empire.
Ottoman Rule
In 1458 Patras was conquered by the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Mehmet II. Under the Ottomans, it was known Baliabadra (from Greek Παλαιά Πάτρα, the town, as opposed to Νέα Πάτρα, the fortress). Though Mehmet granted the city special privileges and tax reductions, it never became a major centre of commerce. Venice and Genoa attacked and captured it several times during the 15th and 16th centuries, but never re-established their rule effectively.[5]
The Battle of Lepanto
On 7 October 1571, the Ottoman fleet on one side and the fleet of the Christian Holy League on the other, clashed in the Gulf of Patras, in the Battle of Lepanto. The Ottomans were defeated, but the Holy League did not seize the city of Patras. The news of Ottoman defeat was celebrated in Patras, but a revolt organized by five of the elders of the town and metropolitan Germanos I of Old Patras (1561-1572) was stifled and its instigators executed.[6] Patras was, at length in 1687, surrendered by the Turks to the Venetians, who made it the seat of one of the seven fiscal boards into which they divided the Morea. In 1714 it fell again, with the rest of the Morea, into Turkish hands.
In general, the first period of Turkish rule (1460-1687) was miserable, but from 1715 onward there was a revival of commerce, and during the 18th century Patras became an economically prosperous town again on the basis of agriculture and trade.
Patras played a crucial role in the Independence struggle against the Ottomans (1821). It was here that the Greek Revolution began;[7] but the Turks, confined to the citadel, held out until 1828. It is argued that the Greek Revolution was declared the 25 March 1821, when the then archbishop of Old Patras, and member of the revolutionary organization Filiki Eteria, Germanos swore in the first independence warriors at the chapel of ''Agios Georgios'' , close to the modern day square.
Modern times
Patras port: the mole of Aghiou Nikolaou street
Picture of the Anglican Church in Patras.
Patras was liberated on 7 October 1828 by the French expeditionary force in the Peloponnese, under the command of General Maison. In 1829 the then Governor of Greece, Ioannis Capodistrias approved a very ambitious new urban plan for the city--which was still in ruins--presented to him by the French army engineer Stamatis Vulgaris. The plan was not enforced until the mid-19th century, and then only with great adaptations conforming to the interests of powerful landowners. Patras developed quickly into the second largest urban centre in late 19th century Greece.[8]
The city benefited from its role as the main export port for the agricultural produce of the Peloponnese.[9] It was the main centre for the organisation of production of raisin, offering warehouse, banking and insurance services. However, this early era of prosperity was short-lived; in 1894 raisin export prices in the international markets began to plummet, due to overproduction and international circumstances, triggering a prolonged crisis with deep financial, political and social repercussions, known as the Great raisin crisis.[10] Trade with western Europe, mainly Britain, France and Italy, did much to shape the city's early identity as a significant port and cosmopolitan urban centre in early 20th century Greece.
In the early 20th century, Patras developed fast and became the first Greek city to introduce public streetlights and electrified tramways.[11] The war effort necessitated by the first World War hampered the city's development and also created uncontrollable urban sprawl with the influx of refugees from Asia Minor. During the Second World War, the city was a major target of Italian air raids ; during the period of Axis occupation, a German military command was established and German and Italian troops stationed in the city. On 13th December 1943, in the nearby town of Kalavryta, German troops executed the entire male population and set the town ablaze. After liberation the city moved fast to recover, but in later years found itself increasingly overshadowed by the urban pole of Athens.
Urban Vistas
Psila Alonia Square
The Old Lighthouse (replica of the original lighthouse of Patras)
The city is now divided into upper and lower parts connected by broad flights of steps, as well as streets. The upper part is the older and more picturesque, but the lower part is attractively laid out, with plenty of squares in a geometrical pattern. The most notable squares are ''Psila Alonia'' and ''Georgiou I'' square. There are a number of exquisite neoclassical buildings, such as the ''theatre "Apollon"'' in Georgiou I Square, the ''Town Hall'', the headquarters of the ''Local Trade Association'' and the ''Justice Court''.
The most significant ancient monument open to the public in Patras is the ''Roman Odeon'', now reconstructed and in use as an open-air theatre for performances and concerts during the summer months. Overlooking the whole town is the ruined ''Castle'', whose current outline dates back to the Venetian invasion of the town (1687-1715). Today, its interior is laid out as a public garden.
Close to the seafront, between the site of the new and the old port, there is the monumental church of St Andrew, and in a projection of land stands a replica of the city's emblematic old lighthouse, built as a part of a coastline beautification project. Generally, much of Patras' coastline has streets running alongside; including ''Akte Dymaion'' in the south, and ''Iroon Polytechneiou'' to the north. Unfortunately, due to bad urban design planning and institutional weakness on the part of the City Council, which in turn is due to a lack of financial planning, most of the city's coastal areas are not in an ideal situation, with some spots illegally occupied by shops built along the coastline. This is contrary to what the Constitution of Greece of 2001 declares; that the Greek coastline is a "national treasure", and as such belongs to the People.
Architecture
The city is endowed with many neoclassical buildings and mansions from late 19th-early 20th century, which now enhance the city centre. Years of neglect and the absence of protection enforcement, as well as recent earthquakes, had contributed to the destruction of many, but today most surviving neoclassical buildings are under protection status. A project for the restoration of the city's architectural heritage is part of the 2006 Cultural Capital bid.
Several (Λαϊκή)laikê (produce bazaars) take place in the city's neighborhoods on weekdays and on Saturday.
Landmarks
The Achaia region is home to 4 museums spanning from the Patras Archaeological Museum to the Museum of sacrifice of the people of Kalavrita.Region of Western Greece: Monuments - Accessed on Feb. 9, 2007 The region is also home to many different Ancient Greek and Byzantine Monuments, including the Roman Odeum, Castle of Rio, and Fortress of Patras to name a few.Region of Western Greece: Monuments - Accessed on Feb. 9, 2007
Government
Western Greece Periphery
The Periphery of Western Greece covers an area of 11,350 km² Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 and has its capital situated in Patras.
Achaia Prefecture
The Achaia Prefecture covers an area of 3,274 km²Region of Western Greece: Geography - Accessed Feb. 9, 2007 and too has its capital in Patras.
Municipality (former communes)
★ Moira (northeast)
★ Souli
★ Elekistra (east)
City Quarters
★ Agyia
★ Mpozaitika, east part
★ Demenika, northern part
★ Lefka, a small subdivision south of the Glaukos river and north of Paralia and Messatidos (Ovryá)
★ Skiessa, a small subdivision 5 km NE of downtown.
★ Sinora
★ Romanos, about 5 km E of downtown
★ Vrysaiika, about 6 km SE of downtown
★ Psarofai, 3-4 km southwest of downtown
★ Zarouhleika, 5 km southwest of downtown
Infrastructure
Port of Patra
Patras has many shopping areas, picturesque cafes, pubs, discos, and restaurants, as well its known educational and cultural facilities such as schools, colleges, a university, a library, two theatres , galleries and cinemas. Two state-funded hospitals exist in the city: Saint Andreas, the oldest of the two, is named after the city's patron saint, and resides on the south side of the city. The University Hospital of Rio is a university hospital, where medical students intern and specialise in their major, and resides on the north-eastern part of the city, inside the city's University campus.
★ Port
:The port has excellent car-ferry links with the Ionian islands and the major Adriatic ports of Italy.
★ Rail connection
:A rudimentary single, narrow gauge track of around 12 km crosses the city. The central passenger train station lies west of downtown between the port's Aghiou Nikolaou mole and Othonos-Amalias Avenue. The main freight station of Aghios Andreas lies further south, next to the homonymous church. Finally the old depot of Aghios Dionysios, of about ten tracks, which lies a little north, now offers elementary turntable and roundhouse facilities. Its length is around 400 m. It is situated near the park and Athinon Street.
★ The Rio-Antirio bridge
:Is located north of Patras, and links Peloponnese to mainland Greece. It was completed in August 2004.
★ The new highway
:A beltway, the length of which is 20 km, was first opened in 2002 to alleviate traffic passing through the city. Two highway lanes are being constructed, to link the beltway to the city's new port.[12]
Under construction
★ Mini beltway
:Is being constructed to relieve the city center from heavy congestion. [13]
★ New port
:A new port is under construction in the southern part of the city. [14]
★ Small Industries Park (Viotehniko Parko)
:A park for hosting small industries will be constructed next to the river Glaykos and provide them with basic infrastructure and easy connection with the new port.
★ High Speed Interconnections with the large beltway.
:Two big highways are under construction that will connect the seacoast and the new port with the large beltway that surrounds the city of Patras. The first is over the small river Diakoniaris, while the second consists of two roads, 4 km each, in parallel with river Glaykos. [15][16]
★ Expansion of the Kanakari street.
:A project that will lead to an additional entrance and passage for the city center.
★ Dam of the Peiros-Parapeiros river.
:The dam will supply with water the city of Patras and the surrounding area. [17]
★ Metropolitan Optical Network of Patras
:An optical network will be deployed with a total length of 48 km[18]
★ New standard gauge railway to Korinth and further to Athens
★ New Highways
:Expansion of the highway connection with Athens and Pyrgos. Construction of the Ionia Odos highway until Ioannina
Economy
The city economy has a larger service sector. Its main activities are retailing, logistics, financial services, and the public sector services. Patras suffered from a great problem of deindustrialization during the late 1980s and 1990s; many big productive units were shut down one after the other and the workforce, as well as the city's economy, had to restructure. To this aim contributed the university, and a small but dynamic service and technology sector that evolves around it. The city-region retains some of its traditional winemaking and foodstuff industries and a small agricultural sector.
Patras' industrial area is 20 km south of downtown, and is located between the 16th km of GR-9 and Fares/Phares (pro. FAH-rehs). Major businesses in Patras are:
Service sector
★ Transport
:'Port of Patras', 'Seaplanes', 'Araxos Airport', 'Hellenic railways', 'Ιntercity Buses'
★ Tertiary Education
:'Uni. Patras', 'Hellenic Open University', 'TEI Patras'
★ Regional Hospital
:'University Hospital', 'Agios Andreas', 'Olympion S.A.'
★ Administration
:'Region of Western Greece', Perfecture',
★ Logistics
★ Banking
:Most Greek Banks have their regional headquarters for Western Greece located in Patras.
★ Construction & Real estate
★ ICTs
★ Catering
★ Retailing
★ Tourism
★ Media
★ Advertisement
Manufacturing
★ Foodstuff industries
★ Wineries and distilleries (Achaia-Clauss)
★ Dairy Products
★ Pharmaceutical production
★ Textiles
★ Machinery
★ Timber
★ Energy [19],[20]
Research
There has been a significant development in the R & D sector during the last years, as a result of the many research institutes and the University impact in the area.
★ 'Computer Technology Institute'
★ Systems Institute'
★ 'Patras Science Park'
★ 'Institute of Chemical Engineering & High Temperature Chemical Processes
★ 'Institute of Biomedical Technology'
Media
There are around 10 local radio stations (including Super B, Top FM, Step FM and more) and 4 television stations, one covering the entire south-western region of Greece and 3 stations broadcasting only in the prefecture of Achaia (see Achaea#Television). The main newspapers are the Peloponnisos[1] and ''Imera''. More newspapers are, Epi ta proso, To Gegononta tis Achaias, Gnomi, Kosmos tis Patras, Proodos and ''Simerini'' Fanzines include Splats.
Culture
Patras Carnival the float of the king of Carnival
The current cultural activity of the city includes the ''Patras International Festival'' (various artistic activities, mainly in the field of music), the ''Patras Carnival'' and the Poetry Symposium. [21][22] The city hosts several conservatoires and schools of music, including one devoted exclusively to Byzantine music, and several orchestras and choirs. There is one full-time theatre group in the city, as well as several amateur groups.[23] A number of schools teach dancing, and there are plans to set up a dance theatre within the context of the Patras Municipal Regional Theatre. Patras has a visual arts workshop, a school of icon painting and a carnival float workshop, and hosts a Municipal Gallery as well as private art galleries ; there is also a Municipal Library, an archaeological museum, a folk art museum, an historical and ethnological museum and a museum of the press. The architectural heritage of the city is dominated by neo-classicism, but also includes structures from other periods.
[24]
Cultural events
Main articles: Patras Carnival
The 'Patras Carnival', 'Patrino karnavali' is the largest event of its kind in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe, with a heritage reaching back 160 years. The events begin on 17 January and last until Clean Monday. The carnival is not a single event but a variety of events that includes balls, parades, hunting of hidden treasure, a childrens' carnival and more . Its apogee comes in the last weekend of Carnival with the Saturday evening parade of carnival groups, the extravagant Sunday parade of floats and groups, and finally the ritual burning of king carnival in the mole of Saint Nikolaos street in the harbour of Patras. Its characteristic principles are spontaneity, improvisation, inspiration and volunteerism.
The 'International Festival of Patras' takes place every summer, with a program consisting mostly of plays--both ancient drama and modern theatre--as well as various musical events.
Music scene
Patras has also a very strong indie rock scene with critically acclaimed bands such as Raining Pleasure, Abbie Gale, Serpentine, Doh an Doris and many more. Patras, is also the birthplace of Karagiozis, the Greek shadow theatre with Dimitris Sardounis as its founder.
Religious life
The city is the seat of a Greek orthodox archbishopric, while there is a living community of Roman catholics and a historical Anglican church.
European Capital of Culture 2006
Patras 2006 Button
Cultural Capital
Patras was chosen by the European Commission to be the European Capital of Culture for the year 2006. The concept of the event revolved around the main theme of "Bridges" and "Links", taking benefit from the City's rich history and its position as a "Gate to the West", to underline the essence of the productive interaction of culture and civilisation in Europe. The EU Commission found Patras' plans very ambitious and also commented that a successful hosting of the title by a medium sized city would make it possible to redefine the meaning of the term Cultural Capital. During 2006 various cultural events took place.
The 'Selection Panel' for 2006 noted in its final report:
The current cultural activity of the city includes the ''Patras International Festival'' (various artistic activities, mainly in the field of music), the ''Patras Carnival'' and the (organized each year for the 25 years by an ad hoc committee at the University of Patras).[21][22] The city hosts several conservatoires and schools of music, including one devoted exclusively to Byzantine music, and several orchestras and choirs. There is one full-time theatre group in the city, the, as well as several amateur groups.[23] A number of schools teach dancing, and there are plans to set up a dance theatre within the context of the Patras Municipal Regional Theatre. Patras has a visual arts workshop, a school of icon painting and a carnival float workshop, and hosts a Municipal Gallery as well as private art galleries. The city has a Municipal Library, an archaeological museum, a folk art museum, an historical and ethnological museum and a museum of the press. The architectural heritage of the city is dominated by neo-classicism, but includes also constructions from other periods.
:The Patras 2006 proposal focuses on two central ideas: “bridges” and “dialogues”. Cultural managers from Patras and the general public will be involved in developing these ideas. Further, four poles/programmes of cultural attraction will be developed. The first, “A city for Europe”, will relate to the architectural heritage, the industrial revolution and similar subjects. “The counterpart cities” programme will be developed in the fields of human and social sciences and in diverse artistic fields. “The three sea battles” will present a cultural programme focusing on peace and understanding. The last theme, “The many homelands”, is directly linked to the etymology of the name of the city. This programme will amongst other things concentrate on art workshops, the transfer of know-how, way of life and entertainment.
''Excerpt from the Report of the Selection Panel for the European Capital of Culture 2006''[28][29]
With the completion of the Capital of Culture programme, a part old factory was renovated to host exhibitions and house a small theatre, and neoclassical buildings around the city were renovated as part of a plan to preserve the city's architectural heritage and link it to its cultural life.
A major new archaeological museum is being built, which with its globe-like roof and modern architectural design, will enhance the town's northern entrance and take its place among the other town landmarks.
Sports
Main articles: Patras Sports
Patras has many sports facilities and important teams in all the major Greek leagues. Panachaiki Gymnastiki Enosi is the major sports club based in Patras.
Subdivisions
Settlements
★ Balas
★ Charadros
★ Skiessa
Neighbourhoods
Municipal districts
★ Elikistra
★
★ Karya
★
★ Pournarokastro
★
★ Ryaki
★
★ Romanos
★ Moira
★
★ Gotseika (Gotsaiika)
★
★ Pigi (abandoned)
★ Neo Souli
★
★ Agios Ioannia
★
★ Bintzeika
★
★ Kefalovryso
★
★ Panagia
★
★ Profitis Ilias
★ 'Patras'
Suburbs
Nowadays, the municipalities of Rio and Antirrio have functionally become a part of the wider urban complex of Patras, other suburbs are:
★ Aktaio (north)
★ Agios Georgios Riou (north)
★ Petroto (east)
★ Saravali (southeast, south)
★ Mintilogli (south)
★ Monodendri (south)
★ Ovria (south)
★ Paralia (south)
★ Vrachnaiika (south)
★ Roitika (south)
★ Tsoukaleika
Population
| Year | Province of Patras[30] | Greater Patras | Patras[31] | Municipal Population[32] | Change | Urban Population | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1853 | 36,103 | 19,499 | 15,854 | - | - | - | - |
| 1861 | 41,489 | 23,020 | 18,342 | - | - | - | - |
| 1870 | 46,527 | 26,190 | 16,641 | - | - | - | - |
| 1879 | 57,173 | 34,227 | 25,494 | - | - | - | - |
| 1889 | 71,533 | 44,970 | 33,529 | - | - | - | - |
| 1896 | 78,443 | 50,158 | 37,985 | - | - | - | - |
| 1907 | 83,478 | 51,932 | 37,728 | - | - | - | - |
| 1920 | - | - | 52,174 | - | - | - | - |
| 1928 | 118.2 | - | 61,278 | - | - | - | - |
| 1940 | 141.3 | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| 1951 | 154.1 | 94,192 | 87,570 | - | - | - | - |
| 1961 | 165.3 | 103,985 | 96,100 | - | - | - | - |
| 1971 | 174.7 | 120,847 | 112,228 | - | - | - | - |
| 1981 | - | 154,596 | 142,163 | - | - | - | - |
| 1991 | - | 170,452 | 153,344 | 161,782 | - | 190,463 | - |
| 2001 | - | - | 161,114 | - | 7,770/5.07% | 210,494 | 20,031/10,52% |
The urban area of Patras includes the towns of:
★ Rion (12,674)
★ Paralia (9,153)
★ Vrachneika (4,805)
★ Messatida (12,246)
That is 18,5% of the urban population.
Transportation
Roads
★ GR-5/E55
★ GR-8/E55 and E65 (partly Panepistimiou Street)
★ GR-8A
★ GR-9/E55 (partly Akti Dymaion)
★ GR-33 (partly Kalavryton, Georgiou Papandreou Street and Akrotiriou)
★ Patras Bypass
Major streets of the city
★ Agiou Andreou Street
★ Dimitris Gounaris Avenue
★ Iroon Polytechneiou Street
★ Kolokotronia Street
★ Korinthou Street
★ Maizonos Street
★ Othonos-Amalias Avenue
★ Riga Fereou Street
People
Politics related
The city boasts a relatively large number of politicians in the national political arena as its natives. Particularly in the first century after liberation, when the city was second only to Athens in the urban hierarchy of the country, significant personalities that shaped the character of Greece were associated with Patras. Famous natives include the prime ministers: Dimitrios Gounaris the main leader of the anti-venizelist party in the 1910s, Stylianos Gonatas a high-ranking officer, politician and one of the leaders of the “1922 Revolution”, Andreas Michalakopoulos a prominent liberal party cadre, foreign minister and prime minister, Dimitrios Maximos a distinguished economist, minister and finally prime minister during the civil war era. More recent figures include George Papandreou (senior) leader of the Center Union and one of the most important political personalities in post World War II Greece, Panagiotis Kanellopoulos the last democratically elected head of government before the establishment of the 1967 junta and Konstantinos Stephanopoulos, the former president of the Hellenic Republic.
★ Germanos of Patras
★ Zaimis
★ Athanasios Kanakaris
★ Benizelos Rouphos
★ Danielis
Sports Related
★ Nikolaos Andriakopoulos
★ Nikos Barlos
★ Stephanos Christopoulos
★ Kostas Davourlis
★ Themistoklis Diakidis
★ Kostas Katsouranis
★ Themis Rigas
★ Dimitrios Tofalos
★ Vassilis Stravopodis
Culture Related
★ Arethas of Caesarea
★ Jean Goldkette
★ Dimitris Hantzopoulos
★ Memos Makris
★ Mnaseas
★ Jean Moréas
★ Kostis Palamas
★ Matilde Serao
★ Saint Regulus
Twin cities
★ 'Aleksinac', Serbia
★ 'Bydgoszcz', Poland
★ 'Chişinău', Moldova
★ 'Bari', Italy
★ 'Ancona', Italy
★ 'Gjirokastër', Albania
★ 'Canterbury', Australia
★ 'Reggio Calabria', Italy
★ 'Limassol', Cyprus
★ 'Craiova', Romania
★ 'Banja Luka', Bosnia and Herzegovina
★ 'Ammochostos', Cyprus
★ 'Saint-Étienne', France
Photo gallery
References
1. EU Commission, Directorate General for Regional Policy, Inforegio, Urban Audit, City profile, http://www.urbanaudit.org/CityProfiles.aspx
2. Thomopoulos, St. N, ''History of the City of Patras from Antiquity to 1821'', Patrai 1952, (ed. Triantafyllou, K.N.)
3. http://www.ornithologiki.gr/en/enmain.htm
4. Thomopoulos, St. N, ''History of the City of Patras from Antiquity to 1821'', Patrai 1952, (ed. Triantafyllou, K.N.) 5. Encyclopaedia of Islam ''s.v.'' Baliabadra
6. Chasiotis, Ioannis "Revolutionary efforts in the Greek area after the naval battle", ''Istoria tou Ellinikou Ethnous'', Ekdotiki Athinon, vol. 10, pp. 320-321, Athens 1974
7. Strategus Makrygiannis, "Memoirs", Book A, Chapter I, Athens, 1849, http://www.snhell.gr/testimonies/writer.asp?id=102
8. Triantafyllou, Κ.Ν., ''Historic Lexicon of Patras''
9. Kounenaki Pegy, "19th Century Patras: how the character of the city changed with the development of the port after 1828" ''Kathimerini'' 14-10-01 http://news.kathimerini.gr/4dcgi/_w_articles_civ_491371_14/10/2001_3252
10. Nasi Balta, "The civilization of raisin. Raisin cultivation in 19th century Peloponnese, the economic crisis, and the revolt of the farmworkers. The political, cultural and social framework" ''To Vima'' 06/02/2000 Page S03 http://tovima.dolnet.gr/print_article.php?e=B&f=12838&m=S03&aa=1
11. Thomopoulos
12. http://www.ditikiellada.gov.gr/mediaupload/%C1%F1%F7%E5%DF%E1%20%E5%F6%E1%F1%EC%EF%E3%DE%F2/par_patra.pdf
13. http://www.ditikiellada.gov.gr/mediaupload/%C1%F1%F7%E5%DF%E1%20%E5%F6%E1%F1%EC%EF%E3%DE%F2/mini_perimetriki.pdf
14. http://www.patrasport.gr/el/organization/port.html#i__171238864_870
15. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_35.cfm
16. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_30.cfm
17. http://www.michaniki.gr/newsite/erga_new_34.cfm
18. http://ru6.cti.gr/broadband/el/man_93_patras.php
19. http://www.acciona-energia.com/default.asp?x=0002020101&lang=En#gre
20. http://www.dei.gr/frmmapstation.asp?id=174&nt=124&lang=2
21. http://www.depap.gr
22. Poetry Symposium
23. ''Patras Municipal Regional Theatre''
24.
''Excerpt from the Report of the Selection Panel for the European Capital of Culture 2006''
25. http://www.depap.gr
26. Poetry Symposium
27. ''Patras Municipal Regional Theatre''
28. Patras Final Report
29. Patras Future Report
30. 1928-1980 statistical data are from: "The population of Greece in the second half of the 20th century". Hellenic Republic. National Statistical Service of Greece. Athens 1980 & "Statistical Yearbook of Greece" Hellenic Republic. National Statistical Service of Greece. Athens 1980
31. Population data from 1853 to 1920 are cited from: Kosta N. Triantafyllou, "Istorikon Lexikon ton Patron: Istoria tis poleos ton Patron apo arxaiotaton xronon eos simeron kata alphavitikin eidologikin katataksin" 3rd edition, Patrai 1995
32. Data on municipal and urban population refer to 'permanent' population and are taken from: the "2001 Census" of the National Statistical Service of Greece
See also
★ Communities of Achaia
★ Patras Wireless Network
External links
★ The official website of the city
★ Patras 2006 European Capital of Culture
★ The official website of the Carnival of Patras
★ A video about Patras Carnival from Travel Channel
★ Video about Patras European Capital of Culture 2006
| 'North:' Strait of Rio-Antirio, Rhion | ||
| 'West:' Gulf of Patras | Patras | 'East:' Erineos, east of the Panachaicus, Leontio (independent commune) |
| 'South:' Paralia, Messatida/Messatis |
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