The diploma thesis deals with the Acropolis of Athens as a space-symbol. After a short introductory reference to the history of the Acropolis, the following proposals attempt to understand and redefine the way the «sacred rock» is being addressed and exploited.
The first four proposals are based on a common methodology and development system. An introduction to the general spirit of each one is made with two distinctive quotes and a typical picture. A selection of archival images comes next, along with a constructed scenario and a theoretical approach. Consequently, the proposal is represented with a land use map and architectural plans, photosurrealistic images and constructed pieces of propaganda.
On the «Acropolis» Squat, the hill is taken over by the Athenian multitude, after the events of a bankruptcy. The spatial result alters the rock on the level of land uses and under a general, ad hoc spirit. On the «Acropolis» Camping, a series of catastrophic natural phenomena wipe Athens out of the map and transform the Acropolis into an island that hosts a fully equiped encampment. On the «Acropolis» Metropolitan Park, after a state’s initiative, the Parthenon departs on a long, worldwide tour, leaving a hard-to-handle void behind. While waiting for the monument to come back, a Park is constructed on the surface of the hill, spread with mild planting, sport facilities and a monumental construction on the ground where the Parthenon used to stand. On the «Acropolis» Theme Park, a theme park is installed on the «sacred rock» and turns it into a public-debt-paying venture and a fun destination for visitors from all over the world.
The fifth, final proposal, under the title «Acropolis», does not conclude in some specific spatial result as it is rather concerned with the relation of the Acropolis with the city of Athens, attempting, at the same time, to transcend the symbolic charge of the monument. The finishing point of this diploma thesis urges to a new outlook of the monument, above and beyond its forcible sacredness, under a general spirit of constant dispute and redefinition.