Μουσείο της Πόλεως των Αθηνών – Ίδρυμα Βούρου-Ευταξία, Athens Travel Guide

The Athens City Museum, also known as the Vouros-Eutaxias Foundation, offers a captivating journey into the Athens of the 19th century, when the city became the capital of the newly founded Hellenic State. The museum is located in two significant historical buildings at 5 and 7 Paparrigopoulou Street. The neoclassical house at number 7, known as the "Old Palace," was built in 1833 and served as the residence of King Otto and Queen Amalia, the first royal couple of Greece, from 1836 to 1843.The museum's collection comprises approximately 40,000 items, offering a comprehensive view of Athenian life and culture. Visitors can admire furniture and personal belongings of the royal couple, as well as furnishings, paintings, and other objects from prominent Athenian families. A highlight is the oldest and largest existing oil painting of Athens, dating back to 1674, which depicts the Acropolis before its partial destruction in 1687. The museum also features an interactive digital display that provides historical insights into the city's buildings, showcasing their appearance in 1842.The museum's exhibits extend beyond the royal collections to include items from the Dekozis-Vouros family, including the museum's founder, Lambros Eftaxias. These collections offer a glimpse into the lives of the Athenian aristocracy and their contributions to the city's development. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.Visitors can explore various collections, including ancient items, musical texts and instruments, sculptures, stamps, Byzantine relics, coins, photographs, and more. The museum also features a library with a collection of rare books available on its website.