_{A message from Mayor Ronnie Marks}

Welcome to the City of Athens, a city that is Classic. Southern. Character.

Athens has been a Classic since 1818 when Athens incorporated as a city before Alabama became a state. In 1819, voters made Athens the county seat of Limestone County. 

As our city has grown, it has maintained its charm. Athens still is Southern. That is most evident in downtown Athens and around The Square. In Athens, going to "The Square" is a place to make memories. It's the place to find the perfect outfit, enjoy an upside banana split, or become mesmerized by the toy train winding through a window display at the hardware store. The historic Limestone County Courthouse is the backdrop for parades, high school pep rallies, storytelling, and art events and is surrounded by a retail area to shop for the unique and dine on divine cuisine. 

Athens ranks high in various categories tabulated by Niche.com, including safety, public schools, and being family friendly.

These accolades highlight that Athens has Character. You will find events distinctive to Athens, such as the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention and Athens Storytelling Festival. You will discover notable stories, such as a Union Civil War fort where runaway slaves fought and were captured and later received an education, telling us the saga of slave, to soldier, to student. 

In addition, parents will find innovative educational opportunities such as Athens City Schools’ Spark Academy that brings Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) training to students in grade K-2. Families also will find ways to enjoy exploring our city from our National Recreation Trail known as the Swan Creek Greenway to our culture trails, Sportsplex, and Alabama Veterans Museum and Archives.

When you visit Athens, I invite you to take a stroll on our sidewalks, to take a tour of our sites, and to take time to hear our stories. Discover for yourself why our city is Classic. Southern. Character.

Looking forward to meeting you,