National Technical University of Athens, Athens

Exarchia is a vibrant neighborhood, known for its lively atmosphere and strong student presence, as it is in close proximity to the National Technical University of Athens ("Polytechneio"). Situated just a short distance from Exarchia Square, down Stournari Street, the university has a rich history.

Established by Royal Decree in 1836, it was the sole institution offering engineering degrees in Greece until the 1950s, but gained international recognition during the student uprising in 1973, when Greek students protested against the military junta ruling the country at the time. In response to the protests, the dictatorial regime infamously sent a tank crashing through the university's gates, resulting in the deaths of numerous students. Each year, on the 15th of November, the campus is closed in remembrance of these students who fought for the overthrow of the military dictatorship.

The traditional campus of the Technical University is located in the heart of Athens on Patision Avenue, featuring a collection of magnificent neo-classical buildings designed by architect Lysandros Kaftantzoglou (1811–1885). In the 1980s, a new campus, the Zografou, was constructed to accommodate the university's growth.