[InTime News]
More than two decades after the Greek state expropriated four refugee apartment blocks on Alexandras Avenue in Athens, a long-delayed restoration plan is moving forward, reviving a conflict over who should shape the future of the historic buildings.
Constructed between 1933 and 1936 for families from Asia Minor and Pontus, the Bauhaus-style complexes narrowly escaped demolition in the early 2000s after campaigns by architects and universities secured landmark protection status.
Yet the buildings remained neglected for years, eventually becoming home to a self-organized community of more than 400 residents, including migrants, Greeks and 50 children.
The Attica regional authority now says European funding will restore the apartments as social housing “of dignity and solidarity,” while promising relocation support for current occupants.
But the residents’ collective rejects the plan, warning of displacement and gentrification.
Instead, it is asking permission for its nonprofit association to renovate the buildings independently, using its own resources.
Both sides describe the project as a social mission, but their competing visions appear increasingly headed toward confrontation.