Gazi

South of the junction of Iera Odos and Pireos Streets is Gazi, known in old Athens as Gazohori, an area that gradually developed around the old gasworks plant in the 1860s. Its residents were, initially, mostly blue-collar workers and day-labourers. The area hosted several brothels, garages and somewhat questionable businesses that were looked upon unfavourably. After the gasworks plant closed, the area was almost completely deserted.But starting in the 1990s and continuing into the early 2000s, the area underwent significant reconstruction and renovation. Pavements and parks were built and a number of taverns, ouzo bars, theatres and other cultural venues began to operation. With the opening of the Kerameikos Metro station, the area became easily accessible from every corner of Athens, and his since grown into a hip destination for locals and tourists, especially during the weekends. The Benaki Museum, the New Stage of the National Theatre, and the restored old factory, now called Technopolis, are also part of the new, vibrant Gazi.

Reference: www.athensattica.gr