My Week in Athens… February 15

Last Thursday night I met a writer friend for a coffee in the centre of Athens. She was excited to tell me about a new project she’s working on, a concept for a new online business. We met at the Black Duck on Christou Lada Street – off Stadiou Street.

I was impressed with the place – spotless, airy, creative space - but creative in the sense of a canvas hanging in a gallery, as opposed to grafitti on the side of a building. It’s a ‘grown-up’ café, bar, restaurant and art gallery – with painting and photo exhibitions, musical events, theatrical performances. Interesting menu. Appropriate service. Acceptable prices. And – wait for it – wheel-chair accessible, including a dedicated washroom. Their own marketing is not overstated: “The Black Duck offers a breath of art and aesthetics in the everyday life of the center of Athens.”

5 days later, the neighbourhood wears the evidence of the weekend’s violence. Burned out buildings and broken windows. But The Black Duck is still open, and my friend’s project is moving forward… Destruction and creativity, neighbours.

Black Duck, Christou Lada 5A

This was, if nothing else, a week of reflection for a lot of us.

See you next week…

Jack

In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…