Menu
National Archaeological Museum of Athens

National Archaeological Museum of Athens

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.