Mt. Lycabettus has always been one of the most popular sights in Athens, with visitors climbing its slopes (or opting for the far less demanding vernacular ride) for the stunning views of the city, an Instagram snap of the quaint whitewashed chapel of St George, or the hill's cafés and restaurants. But this summer of 2024, for the first time in years, there's another reason to hike up Lycabettus: the reopening of the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre.
Perched atop the highest peak in central Athens, the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre has long been a cultural beacon, drawing locals and visitors alike to its open-air performances. Ask any Athenian over the age of 40 to name their five favourite concerts in Athens and one (or more) Lycabettus concerts will surely come up; from Radiohead to Björk, Lou Reed, Nick Cave, Paco De Lucia and John MacLaughlin, the Blues Brothers, Tangerine Dream and James Brown, the list goes on.
Originally designed in 1965 by renowned architect Takis Zenetos, this iconic venue has recently undergone a major renovation, which has breathed new life into its storied stage. After a 15-year hiatus, the theatre reopened in September 2023, marked by a major concert featuring the esteemed Greek composer Stavros Xarchakos. However, the theatre has always been closely associated with Athenian summers, so we may as well admit that this summer is its real debut - and the 2024 line-up announced proves our point.
Crowning Athens' highest peak, the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre is a beloved venue.
Courtesy: City of Athens
Summer Highlights
The theatre, run by Technopolis Athens*, has announced the first part of its programme, with a diverse line-up of over 50 nights of concerts for all tastes. This first leg runs until August 1, but the theatre's season lasts until well into late October, so expect the second part to drop sometime during the summer. This year's bill features collaborations with some of the city's biggest and oldest music festivals, such as Plisskën Festival and Rockwave Festival. Here's a quick rundown of what to see and when at the City of Athens Lycabettus Theatre this 2024 summer season. Meet you up high!
*Technopolis also runs the recently renovated Kypseli Municipal Market, where you're bound to find something fun, interesting and educational at any time of the year.
