The traditional welcome reception for delegates of the Eurovision Song Contest, hosted by the Mayor of Athens, will take place at the Zappeion Megaron on Monday, 15th May. In 1979, Greece signed its membership for the European Union at the very same place.

Building the Zappeion Megaron started in 1874 and lasted 14 years. The building was designed by the architect Theophil Hansen. It has hosted the first modern Olympic Games which took place in Athens, back in 1896. In recent years, the Zappeion Megaron has witnessed important moments in Greece�s political history. It normally serves as an international exhibition hall according to the original plan of its designers.

The welcome reception is a traditional happening in the week before the Eurovision Song Contest takes place, providing the delegations and journalists with an opportunity to get in touch with the host city's hospitality and local cuisine.