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Academy of Athens: A Neoclassical Masterpiece

Discover the Academy of Athens, a stunning neoclassical landmark and Greece's highest research institute, embodying the spirit of ancient scholarship.

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The Academy of Athens, established in 1926, stands as Greece's premier research institution and a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Part of the 'Athens Trilogy,' it embodies the city's intellectual heritage and serves as a link between its ancient past and vibrant present.

A brief summary to Academy of Athens

Local tips

  • Admire the Academy's architecture, especially the sculptures of Athena and Apollo, and the pediment depicting the birth of Athena.
  • Visit during the academic year (October to May) to experience the Academy's scholarly atmosphere.
  • Explore the surrounding 'Athens Trilogy' – the Academy, University, and National Library – for a complete neoclassical experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Academy of Athens is easily accessible by public transport. Take the Athens Metro Red Line (Line 2) to Panepistimio station. The Academy is located directly outside the station. A single 90-minute ticket costs €1.20. Alternatively, numerous buses and trolleybuses stop at 'Akadimia' bus stop right next to the Academy. A 90-minute bus ticket also costs €1.20.

  • Walking

    The Academy is centrally located and easily reachable on foot from many central Athens locations. From Syntagma Square, walk west along Panepistimiou Avenue for about 7 minutes. The Academy will be on your left, forming part of the 'Athens Trilogy'. From the Acropolis, the walk is approximately 25 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Simply flag one down or use a ride-hailing app. A short taxi ride from Syntagma Square to the Academy will cost approximately €3-€4 and take only a few minutes. The base fare for a taxi is €1.80, with a charge of €0.90/km during the day. Be sure the driver sets the meter at the beginning of the journey.

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Discover more about Academy of Athens

The Academy of Athens is not just a research institute; it's a monument to the enduring legacy of Greek intellect and artistic achievement. Designed by Danish architect Theophil Hansen in 1859, it forms a 'Trilogy' with the National Library and the University of Athens, showcasing a harmonious blend of neoclassical design. The Academy's architecture draws inspiration from the Acropolis, particularly the Erechtheion, reflecting the grandeur of 5th-century BC Athens. Construction, funded primarily by Simon Sinas, faced delays due to political turmoil but was completed in 1885. The building's exterior boasts intricate sculptures by Leonidas Drossis, including the central pediment depicting the birth of Athena, and murals by Christian Griepenkerl. These artworks represent ancient Greek mythology, 19th-century Hellenism, and visions of the future. While the Academy wasn't officially founded until 1926, the building initially housed the Numismatic Museum, the Byzantine & Christian Museum, and the General State Archives. Today, it operates as a hub for the sciences, humanities, and fine arts, promoting research and collaboration among scholars. Although the Academy is not always open to the public, its exterior is a sight to behold, and its impact on Greek intellectual life is undeniable.

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