While modern lifestyles have somewhat minimized the role of the public square in European life, these gathering spots still play an important role in a number of global communities.
In Ancient Greece, these ubiquitous areas were called Agoras. And they still are today.
And they are just as important today as ever – serving as a home for leisurely chats, special celebrations and neighborhood connectivity.
While the most prominent Agora is located in Athens, smaller Agoras exist in just about every Greek community.
Throughout the day and into the evening, people from all walks of life enjoy the richly landscaped areas, sit on park benches, visit food carts and do what comes naturally: share thoughts, ideas and recommendations.
While concepts like "word of mouth advertising" "viral marketing" or "social media" may be far from the minds of the people who visit their local Agora, the concept is still the same: people coming together to share their experiences with people they trust.
agora (plural agorae or agoras)
From Latin Ancient Greek γείρω (ageirō) “I gather, collect”
Noun