Athens Technnopolis ~ Gas

The history of the Athens Gasworks

In 1857, the French businessman François Théophile Feraldi

undertakes the project to provide gas lighting in Athens. The City of Athens grants to Feraldi the concession of coal gas production and distribution for 50 years. From then on coal gas will illuminate the streets of Athens for a period of 60 years.

Ιn 1887, Giovanni Baptista Serpieri undertakes the

management of the factory. This marks the beginning of a period of growth and development for the small Athens gasworks plant. Gasholders, steam boilers, steam engines, purification units and structures are constructed in the factory’s 7.5 acres lot. This rapid growth is associated with the expansion of the use of coal gas as a form of energy in homes and factories, besides street lighting.

In 1938 the gasworks becomes a municipal enterprise and in 1952 the Athens Municipal Gasworks Company (DEFA) is established. After WWII coal gas loses ground against electricity and other forms of energy.

The Athens gasworks cease operation in 1984. In 1986, the Ministry of Culture declares the gasworks a historic preservable monument and begins to commission studies for its protection and exploitation.

The first art exhibitions and events are held in the plant facilities in 1999. The Technopolis City of Athens becomes one of the most renowned culture hubs in Athens.

The Industrial Gas Museum opens its doors in 2013, turning a new page in the history of the old factory.