Similar efforts have been made in the past in Greece. Urban garden and vineyard programs run by municipalities across the country that provide land – based on income criteria – to those who want to become an urban gardener to grow their own herbs, tomatoes and lettuce.

However, a few days ago, a large and large-scale action was announced for Tricis Park, which, in addition to benefiting residents of neighboring areas, will also revitalize the park itself. A portion of the 1,200 acres that make up its total area will be made available to families who will be financially selected and given the opportunity to start their own vegetable garden. In its full development, the action, on which the park administration and the Agricultural University of Athens are cooperating, will reach 100 acres.

The Agricultural University will advise, based on the local microclimate, which foods should be grown for maximum yield, and students and faculty will educate residents and play a more general advisory role throughout this process.

I first saw urban gardens a few years ago in Germany and the Netherlands, and the first reaction was, of course, great surprise. However, in these countries, as well as in some other countries outside Europe, the benefits of urban agriculture have been used for two decades. A practice that, in addition to “respite” for economically disadvantaged citizens, strengthens the connection of residents of large urban centers with nature, creates islands of greenery, creativity, cooperation, in some cases delays or impedes construction.

If the Tritsis Park experiment, which is probably the largest of its kind in Greece to date, is successful, it could pave the way for other similar initiatives. There are unstructured spaces in Athens and other urban centers that, with the right configuration, could well be turned into orchards. In many ways, this would be a great asset for all of us.