Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Athens)
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Athens is a war memorial located in Syntagma Square, in front of the Hellenic Parliament. It is a cenotaph dedicated to all Greek soldiers killed in war. The tomb is guarded day and night by Evzones of the Presidential Guard.
The monument itself features a relief depicting a dying hoplite. The inscription reads "ΑΓΝΩΣΤΩ ΣΤΡΑΤΙΩΤΗ" (Agnosto Stratioti), meaning "To the Unknown Soldier".
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a significant site for national ceremonies and events in Greece. Foreign dignitaries often lay wreaths at the tomb during state visits.
The Evzones, also known as Tsoliades, who guard the tomb, are an elite unit of the Hellenic Army. They are selected for their height and posture and wear a distinctive uniform that is steeped in historical significance. Their changing of the guard ceremony is a popular tourist attraction. The slow, deliberate movements of the guards are a traditional display of solemnity and respect.