J
Historic document signed by San Martín featuring the 'Bando Histórico de 1815'

José de San Martín Monument Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide in Athens, Greece

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The José de San Martín Monument stands in central Athens as a powerful symbol of international friendship, freedom, and the shared history between Greece and Latin America. Honoring the legendary Argentine liberator José de San Martín—who played a pivotal role in the independence movements of Argentina, Chile, and Peru—the monument invites locals and visitors to reflect on universal ideals of liberty, democracy, and self-determination. Its location near the city’s major landmarks and its open, welcoming setting make it a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or cross-cultural connections.
(Aeroleo Blog; The Famous People; City of Athens Tourism)

Historical Background and Significance

General José de San Martín (1778–1850) is celebrated as one of South America’s greatest liberators, instrumental in the independence of Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Born in Yapeyú, Argentina, he was educated and trained in Spain before returning to South America to lead military campaigns that freed large swathes of the continent from Spanish colonial rule. His audacious crossing of the Andes and subsequent victories cemented his reputation as a military and strategic genius.
(The Famous People; Saylor Foundation PDF)

The monument in Athens, gifted by the Argentine government, stands as a tribute to San Martín’s enduring impact and symbolizes the kinship between Greece and Argentina—two nations whose histories are marked by struggles for liberty and independence. Its presence in Athens underscores the universal relevance of San Martín’s ideals and the value of international solidarity.
(Aeroleo Blog; be-monumen.be)

Monument Location and Setting

The José de San Martín Monument is centrally located near Syntagma Square and the National Garden, two of Athens’ most prominent landmarks. The area is easily accessible by public transportation:

The monument itself is set in a landscaped public square, surrounded by gardens and paved walkways. Benches and shaded areas provide a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation and photography.
(City of Athens Tourism; Accessible Routes Athens)

Artistic Features and Inscriptions

This striking bronze equestrian statue depicts General San Martín in military regalia astride a rearing horse, capturing his leadership and courage. The statue is modeled after the original by French sculptor Louis-Joseph Daumas, first unveiled in Buenos Aires in 1862. The pedestal features prominent inscriptions and coats of arms:

Front inscription:

“JOSE DE SAN MARTIN 1778 – 1850
GENERALISIMO DEL EJERCITO DE LA REPUBLICA DEL PERU Y FUNDADOR DE SU LIBERTAD
CAPITAN GENERAL DE LA REPUBLICA DE CHILE
BRIGADIER GENERAL DE LA CONFEDERACION ARGENTINA”

Famous quote:

“EN EL ÚLTIMO RINCÓN DE LA TIERRA EN QUE ME HALLE ESTARE PRONTO A SACRIFICAR MI EXISTENCIA POR LA LIBERTAD”
(“In the last corner of the earth where I find myself, I will always be ready to sacrifice my life for liberty.”)

The sides display the coats of arms of Argentina and Belgium, highlighting the international reach of San Martín’s legacy. The foundry mark “Carlos Campolonghi y hijos Buenos Aires” confirms the statue’s origin.
(be-monumen.be)


Visiting Hours and Admission

  • Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As an outdoor monument in a public space, there are no time restrictions.
  • Admission: Free. No tickets or reservations are required.

For optimal lighting and a vibrant atmosphere, visit during daylight hours. The monument is beautifully illuminated in the evening for those who prefer a quieter experience.


Accessibility and Facilities

  • Wheelchair Access: The area around the monument is paved and largely flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Some nearby paths, especially within the National Garden, may be uneven.
  • Nearby Amenities: Public restrooms are available at Syntagma metro station. Cafés, restaurants, and shops are abundant in the surrounding district.
    (Accessible Routes Athens; audiala.com)

Guided Tours and Practical Tips

While there are no dedicated guided tours for the monument itself, it is often featured as part of broader Athens walking tours focused on international monuments, diplomacy, or the city’s historical center. Local providers and apps like Audiala offer self-guided audio tours with historical context.

Travel tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: April to mid-June, and September to mid-October, offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
    (Global Highlights; Real Greek Experiences)
  • Photography: Excellent photo opportunities from multiple angles; early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light.
  • Etiquette: Please respect the monument—do not climb or sit on the statue. During official ceremonies, maintain a respectful distance.

Cultural and Diplomatic Context

The monument serves as a gathering place for commemorative events and cultural ceremonies, especially on dates significant to Argentina and Greece. Wreath-laying ceremonies and cultural performances are held on occasions such as Argentine Independence Day and San Martín’s birthday, strengthening the diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.
(NPS Memorial Plaque)


Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

The monument’s location makes it easy to integrate into an exploration of Athens’ top sites:

  • National Garden: Adjacent, ideal for a peaceful walk.
  • Acropolis & Acropolis Museum: Iconic ancient site and world-class museum.
  • Panathenaic Stadium: Venue of the first modern Olympic Games.
  • Monastiraki Flea Market: Bustling market for souvenirs and local flavor. (Lonely Planet Athens Guide; Earth Trekkers Athens Guide)

A suggested itinerary: Start at the Acropolis, stroll through the National Garden, pause at the San Martín monument, and finish with lunch in the Plaka district.


Safety and Responsible Tourism

The area is well-patrolled and generally safe, though standard precautions against pickpocketing apply. Dispose of litter properly and respect park rules. Smoking is prohibited in most public gardens, and tap water in Athens is safe to drink.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee or required ticket?
A: No, the monument is free and open to the public 24/7.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, paved paths and ramps provide accessibility.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: While there are no monument-specific tours, broader city tours often include the site.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, photography is encouraged—please be respectful.

Q: What is the best way to reach the monument?
A: By metro (Syntagma/Evangelismos stations), bus, or on foot from central Athens.



Conclusion

The José de San Martín Monument in Athens is not only a remarkable work of public art but also a living testament to the enduring values of liberty, independence, and international friendship. Its central location, historical resonance, and accessibility make it a highlight of any Athens itinerary. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a traveler exploring global connections, or simply seeking a tranquil spot amidst the city’s buzz, the monument offers a unique and enriching experience. Pair your visit with nearby landmarks, participate in cultural events, and let the legacy of José de San Martín inspire your journey through Athens.

Plan your visit today, and for up-to-date guides, tours, and cultural insights, download the Audiala app or follow official Athens tourism channels.


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Athens

Academy Of Athens Library
Academy Of Athens Library
Acropolis Western Hills
Acropolis Western Hills
Aerides Bath
Aerides Bath
Agios Panteleimon Church, Ilissos
Agios Panteleimon Church, Ilissos
Aiolou Street
Aiolou Street
Akadimias Street
Akadimias Street
Alexandros Papadiamantis
Alexandros Papadiamantis
Alma Theatre
Alma Theatre
Altar Of Athena Polias
Altar Of Athena Polias
Altar Of The Twelve Gods
Altar Of The Twelve Gods
Amalias Avenue
Amalias Avenue
Ancient Agora Of Athens
Ancient Agora Of Athens
Angelon Vima
Angelon Vima
Antitheatro
Antitheatro
Apo Michanis Theatre
Apo Michanis Theatre
Aqueduct Of Hadrian In Athens
Aqueduct Of Hadrian In Athens
Arch Of Hadrian
Arch Of Hadrian
Archaeological Society Of Athens
Archaeological Society Of Athens
Areopagus
Areopagus
Argo Theatre
Argo Theatre
Armenia (Khachkar), Athens
Armenia (Khachkar), Athens
Arrephorion
Arrephorion
Athena Promachos
Athena Promachos
Athens
Athens
Athens Concert Hall
Athens Concert Hall
Athens Conservatoire
Athens Conservatoire
Athens Klepsydra Well
Athens Klepsydra Well
Athens Olympic Tennis Centre
Athens Olympic Tennis Centre
Athens Olympic Velodrome
Athens Olympic Velodrome
Athens Polytechnic Uprising
Athens Polytechnic Uprising
Athens University Museum
Athens University Museum
Athens University Of Economics And Business
Athens University Of Economics And Business
Athens War Museum
Athens War Museum
Attis Theatre
Attis Theatre
Bagkeion Mansion
Bagkeion Mansion
Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation Museum, Athens
Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation Museum, Athens
Benaki Museum
Benaki Museum
Benizelos Mansion
Benizelos Mansion
Bouleuterion
Bouleuterion
Bust Of Aristotle Valaoritis
Bust Of Aristotle Valaoritis
Bust Of Dionisios Solomos
Bust Of Dionisios Solomos
Bust Of Jean Moreas
Bust Of Jean Moreas
Bust Of Lela Karagianni, Athens
Bust Of Lela Karagianni, Athens
Bust Of Spyridon Samaras
Bust Of Spyridon Samaras
Caves Of Apollo, Zeus And Pan
Caves Of Apollo, Zeus And Pan
Centre For The Study Of Traditional Pottery
Centre For The Study Of Traditional Pottery
Chicago Athenaeum
Chicago Athenaeum
Choragic Monument Of Lysicrates
Choragic Monument Of Lysicrates
Choragic Monument Of Thrasyllos
Choragic Monument Of Thrasyllos
Constantine I Of Greece
Constantine I Of Greece
Daphni Monastery
Daphni Monastery
Davelis Cave
Davelis Cave
Demosion Sema
Demosion Sema
Diana Theatre, Athens
Diana Theatre, Athens
Dipylon
Dipylon
Eleftherios Venizelos Historical Museum
Eleftherios Venizelos Historical Museum
Eleftherios Venizelos (Statue)
Eleftherios Venizelos (Statue)
Eleusinion
Eleusinion
Ellie Lambeti (Bust)
Ellie Lambeti (Bust)
Embassy Of Germany, Athens
Embassy Of Germany, Athens
Embassy Of Norway, Athens
Embassy Of Norway, Athens
Embassy Of Slovenia, Athen
Embassy Of Slovenia, Athen
Embassy Of South Korea, Athens
Embassy Of South Korea, Athens
Embassy Of Sweden, Athens
Embassy Of Sweden, Athens
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Athens
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Athens
Embassy Of The United States, Athens
Embassy Of The United States, Athens
Enneakrounos
Enneakrounos
Epigraphical Museum
Epigraphical Museum
Erechtheion
Erechtheion
Evangelos Zappas
Evangelos Zappas
Fethiye Mosque, Athens
Fethiye Mosque, Athens
Frankish Tower
Frankish Tower
Frissiras Museum
Frissiras Museum
General Confederation Of Greek Workers
General Confederation Of Greek Workers
General State Archives
General State Archives
George Karaiskakis Statue, Athens
George Karaiskakis Statue, Athens
Giorgakis Olympios
Giorgakis Olympios
Gloria Theatre, Athens
Gloria Theatre, Athens
Greece Crowns Byron
Greece Crowns Byron
Hall Of The Academy Of Athens
Hall Of The Academy Of Athens
Harilaos Trikoupis
Harilaos Trikoupis
Harokopio University Of Athens
Harokopio University Of Athens
Hekatompedon Temple
Hekatompedon Temple
Heliaia
Heliaia
|
  Hellenic Children'S Museum
| Hellenic Children'S Museum
Hellenic Motor Museum
Hellenic Motor Museum
Hellinikon Stadium
Hellinikon Stadium
Heroum Of Musaeus, Athens
Heroum Of Musaeus, Athens
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum
Ilion Municipality
Ilion Municipality
Imia Memorial
Imia Memorial
Ioannis Makriyannis
Ioannis Makriyannis
Ioannis Varvakis
Ioannis Varvakis
Jewish Museum Of Greece
Jewish Museum Of Greece
José De San Martín
José De San Martín
José Gervasio Artigas
José Gervasio Artigas
José Martí
José Martí
Karaiskaki Square (Athens)
Karaiskaki Square (Athens)
Karytsi Square
Karytsi Square
Kerameikos
Kerameikos
Kerameikos Archaeological Museum
Kerameikos Archaeological Museum
Kifisia Municipality
Kifisia Municipality
Klafthmonos Square
Klafthmonos Square
Konstantinos P. Cavafy
Konstantinos P. Cavafy
Konstantinos Zappas
Konstantinos Zappas
Kontopigado Site
Kontopigado Site
Kostas Perrikos
Kostas Perrikos
Kostis Palamas
Kostis Palamas
Library Of Pantainus
Library Of Pantainus
Lyceum
Lyceum
Maria Callas Museum
Maria Callas Museum
Maximos Mansion
Maximos Mansion
Melina Mercouri (Bust)
Melina Mercouri (Bust)
Memorial To The National Resistance, Koukaki
Memorial To The National Resistance, Koukaki
Metroon
Metroon
Metropolitan Cathedral Of Athens
Metropolitan Cathedral Of Athens
Monument Of Nikias
Monument Of Nikias
Monument Of The Eponymous Heroes
Monument Of The Eponymous Heroes
Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus
Mousouri Theatre
Mousouri Theatre
Municipal Gallery Of Athens
Municipal Gallery Of Athens
Museum Of Anthropology, University Of Athens
Museum Of Anthropology, University Of Athens
Museum Of Cycladic Art
Museum Of Cycladic Art
Museum Of Greek Children Art
Museum Of Greek Children Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Musical Instruments
Museum Of Greek Folk Musical Instruments
Museum Of Illusions
Museum Of Illusions
Museum Of The Ancient Agoraha-3019
Museum Of The Ancient Agoraha-3019
Museum Of The Antidictatorship Democratic Resistance
Museum Of The Antidictatorship Democratic Resistance
Museum Of The Bank Of Greece
Museum Of The Bank Of Greece
Museum Of The City Of Athens (Foundation Vourou-Eutaxia)
Museum Of The City Of Athens (Foundation Vourou-Eutaxia)
Museum Of The History Of The Greek Costume
Museum Of The History Of The Greek Costume
National And Kapodistrian University Of Athens
National And Kapodistrian University Of Athens
National Archaeological Museum Of Athens
National Archaeological Museum Of Athens
National Library Of Greece
National Library Of Greece
National Museum Of Contemporary Art
National Museum Of Contemporary Art
National Observatory Of Athens
National Observatory Of Athens
National Reconciliation Monument
National Reconciliation Monument
National Theatre Of Greece - Ziller Building
National Theatre Of Greece - Ziller Building
Numismatic Museum Of Athens
Numismatic Museum Of Athens
Odeon Of Pericles
Odeon Of Pericles
Odysseas Elytis (Statue)
Odysseas Elytis (Statue)
Old National Printing Office Of Greece
Old National Printing Office Of Greece
Old Parliament House
Old Parliament House
Old Royal Palace
Old Royal Palace
Older Parthenon
Older Parthenon
Palataki, Chaidari
Palataki, Chaidari
Pallas Theatre
Pallas Theatre
Panagis Athanase Vagliano
Panagis Athanase Vagliano
Panathenaic Way
Panathenaic Way
Pandroseion
Pandroseion
Panepistimiou Street
Panepistimiou Street
Panteion University
Panteion University
Parnassos Literary Society
Parnassos Literary Society
Paul And Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum
Paul And Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum
Pedestal Of Agrippa
Pedestal Of Agrippa
Pelasgic Wall
Pelasgic Wall
Perserschutt
Perserschutt
Pompeion
Pompeion
Propylaea Of Athens
Propylaea Of Athens
Rabbithole Art & Performance Space
Rabbithole Art & Performance Space
Rigas Velestinlis
Rigas Velestinlis
Sacred Gate
Sacred Gate
Sanctuary Of Pandion
Sanctuary Of Pandion
Sanctuary Of Zeus Polieus
Sanctuary Of Zeus Polieus
Socrates (Statue)
Socrates (Statue)
St. Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, Athens
St. Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, Athens
Stadiou Street
Stadiou Street
Statue Of Adamantios Corais, Athens
Statue Of Adamantios Corais, Athens
Statue Of Alexandros Panagoulis
Statue Of Alexandros Panagoulis
Statue Of George Averof, Athens
Statue Of George Averof, Athens
Statue Of George Canning, Athens
Statue Of George Canning, Athens
Stoa Basileios
Stoa Basileios
Stoa Of Eumenes
Stoa Of Eumenes
Stoa Of Zeus
Stoa Of Zeus
Stoa Poikile
Stoa Poikile
Strategeion
Strategeion
Synagogue In The Agora Of Athens
Synagogue In The Agora Of Athens
Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection
Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square
Temenos Of Dionysos
Temenos Of Dionysos
Temple Of Aphrodite Urania
Temple Of Aphrodite Urania
Temple Of Apollo Patroos
Temple Of Apollo Patroos
Temple Of Athena Nike
Temple Of Athena Nike
Temple Of Olympian Zeus
Temple Of Olympian Zeus
Temple Of Rome And Augustus
Temple Of Rome And Augustus
Theatre Aliki
Theatre Aliki
|
  Theatre "Athenon"
| Theatre "Athenon"
Theatre Dimitris Ηorn
Theatre Dimitris Ηorn
Theatre Of Dionysus
Theatre Of Dionysus
Theatrical Museum Of Greece
Theatrical Museum Of Greece
Theatro Alambra
Theatro Alambra
Theatro Ilisia
Theatro Ilisia
Theatro Lampeti
Theatro Lampeti
Theatro Metaxourgeio
Theatro Metaxourgeio
Theatro Peroke
Theatro Peroke
Theatro Poreia
Theatro Poreia
Theatro Sfendoni
Theatro Sfendoni
Theatro Stathmos
Theatro Stathmos
Theatro Technis Karolos Koun - Frinichou
Theatro Technis Karolos Koun - Frinichou
Theatro Tzeni Karezi
Theatro Tzeni Karezi
Theatro Vembo
Theatro Vembo
Theatro Vretania
Theatro Vretania
Theocharakis Foundation
Theocharakis Foundation
Theodoros Kolokotronis
Theodoros Kolokotronis
Tower Of The Winds
Tower Of The Winds
Tzistarakis Mosque
Tzistarakis Mosque
Varvakeios Market
Varvakeios Market
Veaki Theater
Veaki Theater
Virgin Mary Athiniotissa
Virgin Mary Athiniotissa
Voukourestiou Street
Voukourestiou Street
William Ewart Gladstone
William Ewart Gladstone
Zappeion
Zappeion
Zina Theater
Zina Theater