Parnassus Society
In 1872, at the suggestion of poet Spyridon Vassiliadis, the Parnassus Society decided to found the School for Poor Children in an attempt to tackle one of the gravest social problems of that time. In 1901, the school had 2,149 pupils. By 1925, that figure had fallen to 1,316, which was still high considering that the state had since created similar institutions. Eventually the state offered free education for all, and in 1980 Parnassus changed its mission. In the afternoon it runs primary school lessons for foreigners and the illiterate; foreign language classes that prepare students for certificates in English, French, Italian, Spanish and German; introductory and advanced computer classes, and lessons in Byzantine music. Students can be no older than 35. Cost: 200 euros. Duration: 1 year. For info, log on to www.lsparnas.gr.
