Despite the rain complicating matters since yesterday afternoon, the pre-inauguration events at the “Venizelos” station of Thessaloniki’s metro were both impressive and deeply moving for many.

See video from APE-MPE on the history of the Thessaloniki Metro

The emotion was evident in the eyes of former mayor Sotiris Kouvelas, who initiated the project back in 1987. Speaking to journalists after a tour led by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, he described it as “a project that feels like my child three times over.” The understated emotion was also palpable in Minister Mendoni, who revived what was essentially a “dead” project, overcoming challenges from the Central Archaeological Council while showcasing the hundreds of thousands of antiquities uncovered during construction. The significance of the moment was reflected in the faces of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and President Katerina Sakellaropoulou, visiting the archeological site integrated into the station, arguably the most spectacular metro feature in Europe.

However, today’s focus shifts from the past to the future. Following the inauguration ceremony scheduled at the Pylea Depot, the Prime Minister will officially launch the metro by starting the first train.

The project, which faced delays spanning 37 years and nearly derailed multiple times, is eagerly anticipated by Thessaloniki residents. Once operational, along with planned extensions from 2025, it is expected to significantly ease the city’s traffic congestion. During the first four days, the metro will offer free rides. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, any initial “teething problems” are expected to be resolved by Christmas as the city adapts to this entirely new transport system.

Tour of the Venizelos station archeological site

A major success story

“I am delighted to see the neighborhood smiling. I know how much both the area and the entire city have suffered due to the metro project. But today, we look forward, and as of tomorrow, this unique technical achievement will be handed over to the people of Thessaloniki. A project that I am confident will transform the entire city,” Mitsotakis said after yesterday’s tour with Minister Mendoni.

For the government, the Thessaloniki Metro represents not only an emotional milestone but also a significant political achievement. A project once ridiculed as an endless joke has now become a tangible reality. Moreover, it showcases the harmonious coexistence of modern infrastructure with cultural heritage.

This sentiment will shape today’s remarks by Mitsotakis, who expects more inaugurations across the country by the end of his government’s second term. The Prime Minister is confident that upcoming government policies will yield visible, impactful results, similar to recent initiatives like free afternoon surgeries and new traffic violation monitoring systems in Athens.

Looking ahead, Mitsotakis believes that by the 2027 elections, the government will have a solid record of achievements to present.

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