About this Activity
Visit one of the most stunning neoclassical-style buildings in Athens and immerse yourself in a unique exhibition showcasing Greek culture from prehistory to the 20th century. Admire an impressive array of historical antiquities, including prehistoric, ancient Greek, and Roman art, as well as Byzantine art and historic heirlooms. This museum offers an enriching experience that highlights the depth and richness of Greece's cultural heritage across centuries.
Address
Koumpari 1 & Vasilissis Sofias, 10674, Athens
Collection
Please note that queues may occur at busy times, so we recommend allowing an extra 10 minutes for entry.
Photography without flash is usually permitted, unless otherwise indicated.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside exhibition areas.
For the best experience during summer months, we suggest visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Opening Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 - 18:00.
Thursday: 10:00 - 00:00
Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
Note: Opening hours are subject to change. Please check with the attraction for the latest information.
Closed
1. Click 'Redeem' in the attraction listing and select your desired pass.
2. Click 'Show Passes'.
3. Show the QR code on the pass at the ticket office to gain entry.
Highlights
Iconic Neoclassical Architecture - Visit one of Athens' most stunning neoclassical-style buildings.
Comprehensive Greek Culture Exhibition - Explore a unique collection covering Greek culture from prehistory to the 20th century.
Diverse Historical Collections - Admire a variety of historical antiquities, including Prehistoric, Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine Art, and Historic Heirlooms.
What To Expect
The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture is housed in one of the most beautiful neoclassical-style buildings in Athens, near the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament. It was converted into a museum in order to shelter the collections of Antonis Benakis and was donated to the Greek nation by Benaki himself and his three sisters, Alexandra, Penelope and Argine.
Following its most recent refurbishment (1989–2000), the building houses a unique exhibition on Greek culture arranged diachronically from prehistory to the 20th century. There are 3 permanent collections that refer to Prehistoric, Ancient Greek and Roman Art, Byzantine Art and Historic Heirlooms. The collection of Prehistoric, Ancient Greek and Roman antiquities which was formed through the contributions of several Greek and foreign donors, as well as from the reserves of other museums, covers a vast chronological period stretching from the dawn of prehistory to the end of the Roman era.
The Byzantine collection links the ancient Greek world to that of modern Greece. The collection is exceptionally rich and is divided into two groups.The collection of historical heirlooms recreates the history of modern Greece from the end of the 18th century onwards. Many of the objects in the collection are family heirlooms donated by the descendants and relatives of individuals who are intimately connected with the history of modern Greece.