Background

Benizelos Mansion: Athens' Oldest House

Explore Athens' oldest house, the Benizelos Mansion, a unique museum showcasing Ottoman-era architecture and the life of Saint Philothei.

4.6

The Benizelos Mansion, also known as the Arhontiko of Agia Filothei, stands as the oldest surviving house in Athens, dating back to the Ottoman period. Built in the 16th century and renovated in the 18th, this unique museum offers a glimpse into the lives of Athenian nobles before the Greek Revolution.

A brief summary to Benizelos Mansion

Local tips

  • The mansion is located in the Plaka district, easily accessible by foot from many central Athens locations.
  • Entrance is by suggested donation, contributing to the upkeep of this historical landmark.
  • Visit on Tuesday, Thursday or Sunday to explore the museum.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Monastiraki Square, walk northeast on Adrianou Street for approximately 400 meters. The Benizelos Mansion will be on your right, marked by a stone fence. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk through the historic Plaka district.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Athens Metro to Monastiraki station (Blue Line or Green Line). Exit the station and walk northeast on Adrianou Street for approximately 400 meters. The Benizelos Mansion will be on your right. A single metro ticket costs €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi to Adrianou 96, Athens. From Syntagma Square, a taxi ride will typically cost between €8 and €20, depending on traffic and time of day. Note that there is a base fare of €1.80, plus €0.90/km during the day (05:00 to 24:00) or €1.25/km at night (24:00 to 05:00). Ensure the meter is set to the base fare at the beginning of the journey.

Unlock the Best of Benizelos Mansion

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Benizelos Mansion

Located in the heart of historic Athens at 96 Adrianou Street, the Benizelos Mansion offers a unique window into the city's past. Constructed in the 16th century by the Benizelos family, one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Athens, the mansion was later renovated in the 18th century, showcasing Ottoman architectural styles. The mansion is also known as the Arhontiko of Agia Filothei, named after Angelos Benizelos' daughter who was canonized as Saint Philothei. Visitors can explore the two-story structure, featuring a stone-built ground floor and a wooden upper floor. The ground floor houses three rooms and a portico, displaying large Byzantine storage jars and a wine press system. One room is dedicated to the story of Saint Philothei, highlighting her philanthropic work and fight for the freedom of enslaved Greek women. The upper floor, the main living space, features an open passageway and sitting rooms, providing insights into the daily life of a noble Athenian family during Ottoman rule. The mansion's courtyard features a well, a characteristic element of houses from this period. The remains of a Late Roman wall, built in 267 AD, can also be seen in the back court. The Benizelos Mansion provides a tangible link to Athens' Ottoman past, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the city's rich history.

Popular Experiences near Benizelos Mansion

Popular Hotels near Benizelos Mansion

Select Currency