Strefi hill started as a rocky mine that provided supplies for the clay pots sold in the Exarchia square in the early 19^th century. The hill and the mine belonged to the Strefi family. Strefi, a military man, lived near the hill. One day his wife found the newly washed clothes full of red dust from the mine. She convinced her husband to have trees planted on the hill. Eventually the hill became property of the state and more trees were planted between 1914 and 1940. Today the hill is a recreational corner of Athens and a hub for youngsters who like hanging out there.