The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the world’s premier institutions for ancient Greek heritage. Founded in 1893 and housed in a grand neoclassical building completed in 1889, it offers a comprehensive journey through Greek civilization—from prehistory to late antiquity.
🕒 Opening Hours & Admission (as of Summer 2024)
- Summer Season (April–October)
- Monday to Sunday: 08:00 – 20:00
- Tuesday: 13:00 – 20:00
- Ticket Prices:
- Full: €12
- Reduced: €6
- Address: 44, 28th of October (Patission) Str., Athens 10682
- Phone: (+30) 213 214 4800
- Email: eam@culture.gr
- Website: namuseum.gr
🖼️ Highlights of the Collection
The museum’s vast collection includes over 11,000 artifacts. Notable pieces include:
- Mask of Agamemnon: A 3,500-year-old gold funerary mask from Mycenae, emblematic of Greek Bronze Age art.
- Antikythera Mechanism: An ancient analog computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses.
- Heracles of Antikythera: A monumental marble statue of Heracles at rest, retrieved from the Antikythera shipwreck.
- Nike of Epidaurus: A graceful marble statuette of the goddess Nike, originally part of the temple of Asclepius.
- Bust of Antinous: A striking portrait of the young favorite of Emperor Hadrian, discovered in Patras .
- Varvakeion Athena: A Roman-era reproduction of Phidias’s statue of Athena Parthenos, offering insight into ancient sculptural techniques.
🏛️ Visitor Amenities
- Café: Located on-site for refreshments.
- Museum Shop: Offers a range of books, replicas, and souvenirs.
- Accessibility: Facilities include elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
- Educational Programs: Interactive tours and workshops are available.
🏗️ Renovation Plans
A major renovation is underway, led by British architect Sir David Chipperfield. The project aims to expand exhibition space by 20,000 square meters, including new above- and below-ground galleries, garden areas, and a new entrance. This expansion will allow the museum to display more of its extensive collection, which currently showcases less than 10% of its holdings.
📍 Getting There
The museum is centrally located and easily accessible via public transportation. It’s within walking distance from the Omonia and Victoria metro stations.
🧭 Tips for Visitors
- Allocate 2–3 hours: To fully appreciate the museum’s extensive collection.
- Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages; consider booking in advance.
- Photography: Permitted without flash; check for any temporary restrictions.
- Combine Visits: Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the National Garden or the Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos.
