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National Archaeological Museum: A Treasure Trove of Ancient Greece

Discover the treasures of ancient Greece at the National Archaeological Museum, home to the world's richest collection of Greek antiquities.

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The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is Greece's largest museum, housing an unparalleled collection of Greek antiquities from prehistory to late antiquity. Explore iconic artifacts like the Mask of Agamemnon, the Antikythera Mechanism, and stunning sculptures, offering a deep dive into ancient Greek civilization.

A brief summary to National Archaeological Museum

Local tips

  • Visit during the off-season (November to March) for lower admission fees and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be spending a few hours on your feet exploring the extensive collections.
  • Take advantage of the multilingual audio guides to enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
  • Check for free entry days, such as March 6, April 18, May 18, and October 28.
  • Consider visiting the garden cafe for a relaxing break amidst the ancient artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The National Archaeological Museum is easily accessible via the Athens Metro. Take Line 1 (Green Line) to Victoria Station, which is a short 5-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take Line 2 (Red Line) to Omonia Station, which is about a 10-minute walk. Numerous buses and trolleybuses also stop near the museum, including lines 224, 608, and A8 at the Polytechnio stop. A single metro or bus fare within Athens typically costs €1.20.

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk north along Panepistimiou Street (also known as Eleftheriou Venizelou), passing the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library. Turn left onto Patission Street (28th October Street), and the museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 25 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens and can take you directly to the museum at 44 Patission Street. A taxi ride from Plaka or Syntagma Square typically costs around €5-€10, depending on traffic. You can also book a taxi online or use ride-sharing apps.

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Discover more about National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum, founded in the late 19th century, stands as a testament to the rich history and artistic achievements of ancient Greece. It is the largest archaeological museum in Greece and one of the most important museums in the world for ancient Greek art. The museum's vast collection, comprising over 11,000 exhibits, presents a comprehensive panorama of Greek civilization from the dawn of prehistory to late antiquity. The museum's collections are organized into several major sections, including the Prehistoric Collection, featuring finds from Neolithic, Minoan, and Mycenaean cultures; the Sculpture Collection, showcasing masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture; the Vase and Minor Objects Collection, displaying the evolution of Greek pottery and craftsmanship; and the Metallurgy Collection, highlighting the technological advancements in metalworking. A notable Egyptian art collection also resides within the museum. Among the museum's most celebrated artifacts are the Mask of Agamemnon, a gold funerary mask discovered at Mycenae; the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient astronomical calculator; the bronze statue of Poseidon/Zeus found off Cape Artemision; and the Jockey of Artemision, a bronze statue of a young jockey riding a horse. These treasures, along with countless other sculptures, vases, jewelry, and everyday objects, offer visitors a unique glimpse into the world of ancient Greece. During World War II, the museum's treasures were carefully packed into wooden boxes and buried to protect them from looting, demonstrating the dedication to preserving Greece's cultural heritage. Today, the museum continues to serve as a vital center for archaeological research, conservation, and education, ensuring that the legacy of ancient Greece endures for generations to come.

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