The occasion for the present work entitled "Locus Amoenus: A wandering on the Hill of Nymphs", was a series of personal stimuli and a strong interest in erotic architecture, the imagery of the erotic and romantic landscape, but also the relationship of architecture with desire in a more broad context, which are analysed in detail below. The choice of the Latin term Locus Amoenus in the title was based on the ambiguous content of the two words, as they indicate the character of the project. The term "locus" means place, location, point, hill. On the other hand the term "amoenus" that accompanies and characterizes it, means "idyllic, pleasant" and consists of three basic elements: trees, grass, water or some association of idyllic islands and is sometimes associated with the Garden of Eden. But what is Locus Amoenus and what are its characteristics that shape the identity of a modern urban landscape? To what extent is this place related to desire and the architecture of desire?
Lycabettus is not just any hill in the capital, nor is it just a green space. It is a place with a mythological and cultural dimension, something very important for its identity, while it is the dominant urban forest of the city centre. It is the "eye of the city" that offers enjoyment of the panoramic view, something that makes it an "emblematic landmark" of local and supra-local importance. In other words, it is the place where man escapes from everyday life and becomes his refuge. The elements that compose it, such as paths, maze, forests, caves, enhance the idyllic and bucolic landscape that has a positive effect on the mental health of man. Thus, the hill is transformed into a modern urban "locus amoenus" of an exquisite and ideal place where the erotic desire and the desire of the walker for sighting and wandering are manifested.