Monday, January 09, 2006

The square of Alexander the Great


On the corner of Danforth and Logan Avenues, in the middle of Greek town, there exists a small, public space with all the elements of a traditional European square. It seems that traditional habits and needs are still alive, even after a couple of generations. All the services, comforts and resources necessary are there. Let's list them: One monument of Alexander the Great, a significant Greek historical figure; one backdrop with vines, a reminder of the grapevines of the Mediterranean; one fountain with running water, an important sound during summer nights; a few patios where one can have a bite or refreshments; a few quite comfortable benches where people can exchange experiences and ideas; a couple of mature trees to keep cool under that protect from the elements; dozens of people (even at 1 o'clock in the morning) and some visitors from "out-of-town" seen here leaving after a well deserved rest.

An excellent example of how with little effort, a very pleasant urban space can be created when the community is willing to pay attention to the messages sent by their city.

2 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Alexander the Great was historically significant to many but primarily the Macedonians

8:02 PM  
Blogger public squares said...

I do agree. Alexander the Great was significant figure to the Macedonians from both sides of the border between Macedonia and Greece.
Author of the original text.

7:47 AM  

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