National Archaeological Museum Athens

Quick information

ADDRESS

28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece

RECOMMENDED DURATION

4 hours

Timings

8am–5pm

VISITORS PER YEAR

500000

TICKETS

From € 9

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Established in 1829, the National Archaeological Museum stands as the first museum of the independent Greek state. Initially located in Aegina, the first capital, it moved to Athens in 1834 when the capital shifted and officially opened its doors in 1889.

The museum is housed in a graceful neoclassical building from the 19th century.

As the largest museum in Greece, it encompasses an area of 8,000 m² divided into numerous halls showcasing an outstanding collection of antiquities with over 11,000 exhibits. The museum possesses one of the world's most extensive and impressive bronze collections.

History of the Athens National Archaeological Museum

1829: After Greece’s liberation from the Ottoman Empire, the museum houses its first collection on the island of Aegina.

1834: The museum’s collection is moved to Athens and kept at the Temple of Hephaestus.

1866: Architect Ludwig Lange offers a design plan for the museum, which is later improvised by Panagis Kalgo, Armodios Vlachos, and Ernst Ziller.

1866 to 1889: The Greek government, with generous donations from the likes of Eleni Tositsa, begins the construction of Athens’ first independent archaeological museum.

1891 to 1900s: The museum grows its collection with donations from significant archaeological sites around the world.

1939 to 1945: During World War I, the Athens National Archaeological Museum hides its collections to prevent them from being damaged or stolen.

1980s to 1990s: The authorities add climate control systems to make visitors feel more comfortable when exploring the exhibits.

2002 to 2004: To prepare for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, the museum adds new exhibition halls and improves its facilities.

2010 to 2024: The museum continues to add advanced digital displays to enhance visitor experience.

Frequently asked questions about National Archaeological Museum Athens

How large is the museum's collection?

The Athens National Archaeological Museum is built on 8,000 square meters and houses over 11,000 exhibits, offering a comprehensive view of Greek civilization across millennia. The collection is meticulously organized by era and artifact type, making it easy for visitors to explore.

When was it opened to the public?

Ludwig Lange, a famous architect, had laid out the first design plan for the museum in 1886. After significant improvisations by Panagis Kalgo, Armodios Vlachos, and Ernst Ziller, the museum was opened to the public in 1889. It was the first national archaeological museum of the independent Greek state.

What are the most famous artifacts on display at the museum?

The National Archaeological Museum of Athens provides a wealth of information on Greek civilization through exhibits, audio-guided tours, and interactive displays. Among its 11,000 exhibits, the Antikythera mechanism, Mycenean Warrior Vase, Artemision bronze statue, and the gold mask of Agamemnon are some must-see highlights.

What is the best way to navigate the museum to see all the highlights?

Start with the prehistoric collection, then move through the sculptures, vases, and artifacts. The museum is organized to guide visitors chronologically, so following this path ensures you’ll experience the artifacts in historical context.

Is there a particular time when the museum is less crowded?

Early mornings on weekdays are typically quieter, making it the best time to visit the National Archaeological Museum, if you want to avoid crowds and take your time exploring.

Are there any interactive or family-friendly exhibits?

Yes, the Athens Archaeological Museum has a few interactive displays, like the Antikythera Mechanism, 3-D models, and advanced augmented reality simulations, which instantly transport you to a mythical world. One such VR experience you must try is Odysseus’ ship, where you can feel what it must have been like to be the Homeric hero, battling the Cyclops and sirens to return to Athens.

Can I see the original Parthenon sculptures at the museum?

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens does not house the original Parthenon sculptures. Most of the original Parthenon Marbles are displayed at the British Museum in London. However, this museum does hold a few fragments of the Parthenon frieze, which depict scenes from the Panathenaic procession held in honor of the goddess Athena.

What is the Antikythera Mechanism, and why is it famous?

The Antikythera Mechanism is an ancient Greek analog device used to predict astronomical positions. Often referred to as the world’s first computer, it’s one of the museum’s most intriguing artifacts.

What is the Mycenean collection known for?

The Mycenean collection in the Athens National Archaeological Museum is known for housing artifacts uncovered from the Late Bronze Age (around 1600 to 1100 BC). Its most famous piece is the gold death mask of Agamemnon, which was used to cover the face of a deceased noble from around that time.

Can I touch the exhibits at the museum?

You cannot the artworks and artifacts inside the Athens Archaeological Museum. However, visitors with partial or full vision loss can take advantage of a special tactile workshop. A knowledgeable personnel will take you through about 20 sculptures, which you can touch and experience.

Is the museum collection accessible to visitors with disabilities?

The National Archaeological Museum has ramps and elevators to accommodate visitors with limited mobility. This museum in Athens also provides tactile tours and special educational programs for visitors with partial or full vision loss and hearing problems. There are almost 20 exhibits inside the museum, which visitors with disabilities can touch and experience.