The gates of Athens Polytechnic opened on Saturday morning for a three-day commemoration marking the 52nd anniversary of the 1973 student uprising against Greece’s military dictatorship, culminating on Monday with the annual march to the US Embassy.

The campus will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday.

Student unions are on the grounds, laying wreaths and holding events in memory of the November 1973 revolt, widely regarded as a turning point in Greece’s return to democracy. Over the three days, the Polytechnic will host commemorative ceremonies, documentary screenings and discussions featuring participants who played key roles in the uprising. A major event is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Authorities have imposed traffic restrictions across central Athens from 6 a.m. on Saturday until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, focusing on streets surrounding the Polytechnic, where parking and stopping are prohibited. Bus and trolley routes have also been modified.

Security has been stepped up, with more than 5,000 police officers deployed and a helicopter providing live aerial footage to the Athens police operations center.

The seven-year military dictatorship collapsed in 1974.

Source: Ekathimerini.com