ABSTRACT
The authorities of the new Greek State wanted to replace the old pre-modern city with a modern European one, housing the necessary institutions in monumental buildings. However, the State was completely unable to realize that goal. The result was the compulsory reuse of existing pre-revolutionary buildings lying in the old Ottoman town, supposed to disappear in favour of the modern city which, however, was too slow to emerge. In consequence, contrary to all intentions, the official functions of Athens were once again concentrated in the old urban fabric, contributing thus to its preservation until today.
