Commemorative events marking the 52nd anniversary of the 1973 student Polytechnic uprising against the military junta will peak today, Monday, November 17, 2025.
The three-day commemoration officially began last Saturday, with the gates of the historic National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) campus on Patision Street opening to the public.
The NTUA campus doors opened at 9:00 AM and will remain open until 1:00 PM (13:00) today. Over the weekend, a large number of people, including representatives from political parties, organizations, and institutions, visited the site to pay tribute to those who were lost or fought for democracy during the dictatorship.
The day’s events will traditionally culminate in a large demonstration this afternoon, with a march leading to the US Embassy.
Draconian security measures for the anniversary of the Polytechnic uprising
The Hellenic Police (ELAS) has enacted “draconian” security measures across central Athens ahead of the main commemorative march. Over 5,000 police officers are on duty from various units, including the riot police (MAT), motorcycle patrol (DIAS), special rapid response units (DRASI, OPKE), security forces, and traffic police.
Officers have been deployed around the Polytechnic, other university buildings, key public buildings, and the embassies of the US and Israel, as well as the broader Exarchia district, which is often a flashpoint for unrest.
Related: Have the Athens Polytechnic Uprising Ideals Lost their Glow?
Advanced surveillance and traffic disruptions
According to police sources, the massive force is being supported by officers from the Anti-Terrorism Service and the National Intelligence Service (EYP). Plainclothes officers are conducting preventive checks at key locations throughout the city center.
The ELAS Operations Center will receive continuous visual updates from drones and a helicopter, which will also be monitoring apartment building rooftops, particularly in the Exarchia area. Thorough checks are being conducted in areas where there is intelligence suggesting that “war materials” (potential protest projectiles or weapons) may have been hidden.
Emergency traffic regulations are in effect across central Athens. Furthermore, several key metro stations will close after 2:00 PM (14:00) to more efficiently manage demonstrations and security.
Related: CIA Daughter Remembers the Polytechnic Uprising in Greece
