The heart of the Greek community in Sydney, the Marrickville Region, has officially been renamed “Little Greece” after the proposition was voted by the Inner West Council members, last week.

The prospect of renaming the precinct to “Little Greece” or “Little Athens” has been in the cards since April, when it was first suggested by councilor Sam Iskandar.

After further consultation, “Little Greece” was the name favoured for the area that would include Livingstone Rd and Victoria Rd.

Marrickville has always been home to the Greek community. To this day, Greek is the main language heard on the streets.

There are kafeneia, and continental grocers, deli’s, a Greek school and church, a strong Greek presence that is recognized by all Australians of Greek heritage living in Sydney.

“This is about respecting our migrant heritage and continuing to build our multicultural future.

To all the Greek Australians who have built Marrickville into one of the best places on earth we say simply, Efharisto,” Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne posted on his Facebook page.

Mr Byrne added that he hoped “in another 50 years our grandchildren will still be coming to Marrickville to eat Greek food, learn the Greek language and practice Greek culture.”

The naming of “Little Greece” follows previous decisions of this Council to rename central Petersham as “Little Portugal” and central Leichhardt as “Little Italy”.

The naming of “Little Greece” will be celebrated on 25 March in conjunction with Greek Independence Day.