Benizelos Mansion: Athens' Oldest House

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.