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The lithogeochemical character of near-surface bedrock in the Athens Basin is being studied in order to elucidate the natural origin of several potentially harmful elements in the urban environment. The initial soil geochemistry research has indicated that geology is a major controlling factor of high concentrations of several elements in Athens soil, including Cr, Ni, Co and As. Chromium, Ni and Co are typically enriched in mafic and ultramafic rocks which are present in Athens alpine bedrock. Relatively high concentrations of As in soil are also related to the weathering regime of specific rock types. Ongoing research on this topic will help to better understand the association between the local geology and the distribution of As in Athens soil, an issue of primary concern because of the toxic character of this element.