Acropole Palace: An Art Nouveau Gem in Athens
Discover the architectural elegance and historical significance of Athens' Acropole Palace, a landmark Art Nouveau masterpiece.
The Acropole Palace, located on 28is Oktovriou Street in Athens, is a striking example of Art Nouveau architecture that reflects the city's cosmopolitan past. Constructed between 1926 and 1928 by architect Sotiris Magiasi, the palace originally functioned as a luxurious hotel, hosting the rich and famous in its elaborate ballroom. The building's design showcases a Greek interpretation of Art Nouveau, earning it recognition from UNESCO as one of Europe's most important examples of the style. The seven-story structure, rising to 34 meters, features a detailed facade with expensive materials like marble and wrought iron. Inside, the Acropole Palace housed 107 rooms and a basement nightclub that, in the 1960s, became a hub for Greek rock music. The palace also witnessed significant historical events, including the Polytechnic uprising in 1973, with its balconies serving as vantage points for journalists. After operating as a hotel for 60 years, the Acropole Palace closed for renovations in 1989. Today, the building belongs to the Ministry of Culture and is being restored to its original form. Future plans include exhibition halls, a roof garden restaurant, and spaces for cultural institutions, aiming to revitalize this architectural gem and integrate it into Athens' cultural landscape.
Local tips
- Admire the building's architecture from across the street to fully appreciate its Art Nouveau details.
- Check for ongoing restoration progress, as parts of the building may be temporarily inaccessible.
- Visit the nearby National Archaeological Museum to complement your historical exploration of the area.
A brief summary to Acropole Palace
- 28is Oktovriou 51, Athens, 104 33, GR
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Syntagma Square, take Metro Line 2 (Red Line) towards Anthoupoli and disembark at Metaxourgeio station. From there, walk east along 28is Oktovriou Street for approximately 10 minutes to reach the Acropole Palace. A single metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.
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Walking
From Omonia Square, walk south-east along 28is Oktovriou Street for approximately 15 minutes. The Acropole Palace will be on your right at number 51. This is a straightforward walk along a major street.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Simply tell the driver 'Acropole Palace, 28is Oktovriou 51'. The base fare is €1.80, with a charge of €0.90/km during the day. A short taxi ride from Syntagma Square will likely cost around €8.
