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A few years ago, I was hanging out at my mum’s house when she asked me, “Have you ever heard of an abandoned button factory in Athens?”
I hadn’t.
But I Googled it.
And this morning we went exploring.
Turns out NINA, the name of the factory that in the 50s and 60s was responsible for the button needs of most of Greece was 20 minutes away from our house.
During its heyday, the factory supplied buttons for the garments of most of Greece, employing around 1,200 people. This was a time when the Greek textile industry was booming, and the Nina Button Factory played a crucial role in it.
Located near Pattision Street, a busy and central part of Athens, the factory is easy to spot thanks to its iconic three-starred chimney that still stands tall beside the building. But while the chimney remains a landmark, the rest of the factory has faded into obscurity. The building, now a shell of its former self, stands abandoned and neglected, a stark contrast to the bustling streets around it.
We were able to enter through the main street entrance, by squeezing through a few broken windows and landing onto a pile of trash.
Walking through the factory, it was impossible not to feel a sense of “wow”.
The bottom floor, which once must have buzzed with activity is the one most lacking in buttons, but it has a lot of interesting graffiti, tools and old parts of the machinery and furniture.
The sea of buttons falling down the stairs that drew so much attention, was still there, leading to the second floor.
At the top floor, the scene can only be described as a button explosion. At one point, my feet sank into the buttons up to my ankles. Previous explorers had placed wooden planks at that side, so you could walk without sinking.
The light coming through on that summer’s day made for some excellent photos as well.
Unfortunately, despite its historical significance, no efforts have been made to restore the building or to showcase the rich history of the area. The Nina Button Factory remains a forgotten gem, its story preserved only in the memories of those who worked there and in the viral photos that brought it fleeting fame.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the factory located?
The factory is located near Pattision Street, a busy and central part of Athens. It’s easily recognizable by its iconic three-starred chimney that still stands beside the building.
How can I visit the NINA Button Factory?
While the factory is abandoned and not officially open to the public, you can enter through broken windows or other openings. However, it’s important to note that entering abandoned buildings can be dangerous and may be considered trespassing.
Why did the factory close down?
Like many industrial sites from that era, the NINA Button Factory likely closed due to the decline of the textile industry in Greece.
Is there any effort to preserve the factory?
Unfortunately, there have been no significant efforts to restore the building or to preserve its history.
What should I bring if I decide to explore the factory?
Best wear sturdy shoes and long-sleeved pants (to avoid scrapes while entering) as well as a flashlight. The building is old and some parts are covered in trash and could be considered dangerous to shift through.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Must Know When Visiting Greece
- Emergency: Dial 112 for all emergencies. For police, dial 100. For ambulance 166. For fire dial 199.
- Language: English is widely spoken in most tourist areas. Common phrases to learn are “Kalimera” (Good morning), “Yia” (Hello and Bye – informal), and “Efharisto” (Thank you).
- Water: Tap water is safe in Athens, mainland Greece and a small number of islands. Always ask beforehand.
- Driving: Right-hand side, international driving permit recommended. Book your rental car with Discover Cars for the best rates and comparisons across all major and local companies.
- Accommodation: Booking.com for the most options on hotels, apartments and hostels. Free cancellation in a lot of places and no need to pre-pay. Great for their rewards points system.
- Islands: There are a lot of islands, spread out around the country. Start with a map or ferry service to get an idea of travel times. Ferry Scanner is the best for ferry bookings to the Greek islands.
- Activities: From cultural sights to day trips, food tours and city guides, use Get Your Guide.
- Public Transport: For Athens, use the Athens Metro. If you are not renting a car, use Trains (Hellenic Train) or KTEL (Public Buses) services.
- Domestic Airlines: The main airlines for air travel are Aegean Airlines and Sky Express. I recommend Aegean Airlines and its rewards program.
- Taxi: Always use a taxi app, instead of flagging down a taxi from the road. Use FREE Now (formerly BEAT).
- Culture: A siesta nap is still common in less touristy areas. This also means businesses will close between 2 PM – 5 PM. Except for hospitality businesses, everything is closed on Sundays.
