It’s supposed to be Athens’ old quarter district, a neighborhood tucked away under the north slope of the Acropolis. Plaka is often described as “quaint”, with “narrow, winding alleys”, full of examples of neo-classical buildings and turn-of-the-century stone-built homes for working-class masons, and replete with a handful of archaeology sites that comprise a “must-see” in any classical Athenian tour.

Yet the historic district is increasingly reminiscent of a … trash bin! Abandoned buildings are an increasing problem, while the urban landscape of ubiquitous – and mostly adolescent level – graffiti leaves nary a vertical surfaced untouched.

Add uncontrolled parking and scores of café and restaurants chairs and tables in the remaining open spaces and … voila – urban blight!