Museum of Cycladic Art

When planning your trip to Athens, one of the top things to do in this ancient city is to explore its many world-class museums. Among the best museums in Athens, the Museum of Cycladic Art stands out as a must-visit attraction, offering a unique perspective on the region’s rich cultural history. In this piece, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about this fascinating museum, highlighting why it should be high on your list of things to do in Athens.

Nestled in the heart of Athens and just a few minutes walk from the Benaki Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art is conveniently located in the upscale neighbourhood of Kolonaki. The museum, also known as the Nicholas P. Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art, is just a stone’s throw away from Syntagma Square, making it easily accessible for visitors. Founded in 1986 by Nicholas and Dolly Goulandris, the museum was established to preserve and showcase the couple’s extensive collection of Cycladic art. These priceless artefacts represent a significant part of ancient Greek history and offer a window into the lives of the people who once inhabited the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea.

One of the primary reasons the Museum of Cycladic Art is considered among the best museums in Athens is its collection’s sheer quality and diversity. The museum’s exhibits focus on the Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Cypriot cultures, with more than 3,000 artefacts on display. These artefacts span over 5,000 years of history, from the Neolithic period to the Byzantine era, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

As you explore the Museum of Cycladic Art, you’ll be captivated by the iconic Cycladic figurines, which are one of the museum’s main attractions. These marble figurines, dating back to the early Bronze Age (around 3200 to 2000 BCE), are characterised by their simple, geometric forms and have inspired numerous modern artists, such as Pablo Picasso and Constantin Brancusi. The museum’s extensive collection of these elegant figurines is unmatched, making it a truly unique experience among tourist attractions in Athens.

Beyond the Cycladic figurines, the Museum of Cycladic Art also boasts an impressive array of ancient Greek artefacts, providing a comprehensive overview of the different periods of Greek history. From pottery and sculpture to jewellery and weaponry, the museum’s collection highlights the incredible artistry, skill, and craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks while also offering insight into their daily lives and religious practices.

In addition to its remarkable collection of artefacts, the Museum of Cycladic Art is also known for its engaging and informative temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions often focus on specific aspects of ancient Greek and Cypriot cultures, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s history, art, and archaeology. By hosting these thought-provoking exhibitions, the museum ensures that there is always something new and exciting for visitors to discover, making it one of the top activities in Athens for those with a keen interest in history and art.

The Museum of Cycladic Art is a treasure trove of ancient artefacts and a beautifully designed space that enhances the visitor experience. With its spacious, well-lit galleries, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the captivating world of Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Cypriot cultures. The building combines a neoclassical mansion and a modern wing, providing a striking contrast between old and new, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through time.

Visiting the Museum of Cycladic Art is not only an opportunity to learn about the ancient past but also a chance to understand the connections between these historical cultures and contemporary art. The museum’s dedication to showcasing the influence of Cycladic art on modern artists adds another layer of intrigue and fascination to the experience, making it one of the most unique attractions in Athens.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone looking for a memorable and enriching experience, the Museum of Cycladic Art should undoubtedly be on your list of must-visit tourist attractions in Athens. With its unparalleled collection and beautifully designed space, it promises to captivate and inspire visitors worldwide, leaving a lasting impression that will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip to this incredible city.

So, if you find yourself wondering what to do in Athens, take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Museum of Cycladic Art. It is a testament to the region’s vibrant and diverse cultural heritage, and a visit to this exceptional museum is sure to be an unforgettable and enriching experience that will make your trip to Athens truly memorable.

Here are my personal recommendations of the top things to do and see at the Museum of Cycladic Art:

Cycladic Figurines

One of the top things to see at the Museum of Cycladic Art is its unrivalled collection of Cycladic figurines. These elegant marble sculptures, dating back to the early Bronze Age, showcase the unique artistic style of the ancient Cycladic civilization. Their striking geometric forms have influenced modern artists like Picasso and Brancusi. Visiting the museum offers a rare opportunity to admire these iconic pieces up close.

Ancient Greek Artefacts

Exploring the vast array of ancient Greek artefacts is among the top things to do at the Museum of Cycladic Art. From pottery and sculptures to jewellery and weapons, the museum’s collection provides a comprehensive overview of different periods of Greek history. These artefacts highlight the incredible artistry and craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks and offer fascinating insights into their daily lives and religious practices.

Temporary Exhibitions

Don’t miss the chance to attend one of the engaging and informative temporary exhibitions at the Museum of Cycladic Art. Often focusing on specific aspects of ancient Greek and Cypriot cultures, these exhibitions provide a deeper understanding of the region’s history, art, and archaeology. As the museum frequently hosts new exhibitions, there’s always something fresh and exciting to discover, making it a must-visit destination for history and art enthusiasts.

Architecture and Design

The Museum of Cycladic Art’s unique fusion of neoclassical and modern architecture is another top thing to see during your visit. The spacious, well-lit galleries provide the perfect setting for admiring the impressive collection of artefacts and appreciating their historical significance. The beautifully designed space enhances the visitor experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating world of Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Cypriot cultures.

My advice for the best places for photos, videos, and even the perfect Instagram at the Museum of Cycladic Art:

Cycladic Figurines Close-ups

Capture the unique essence of Cycladic art by taking top photos of the museum’s iconic marble figurines. Their elegant, minimalist forms make for striking images that stand out on your Instagram feed. Don’t forget to play with angles and lighting to showcase their intriguing geometric shapes.

Ancient Greek Masterpieces

Snap some pictures of the incredible ancient Greek artefacts that tell the story of a rich cultural past. From beautifully crafted pottery to intricate jewellery, these timeless treasures provide endless inspiration for the perfect Instagram shot. Focus on the details to reveal the artistry and skill of the ancient world.

Museum’s Architecture

The harmonious blend of neoclassical and modern architecture within the Museum of Cycladic Art offers fantastic opportunities for eye-catching photos. Capture the contrast between the classic facade and the contemporary interior, highlighting the seamless integration of past and present.

Interactive Exhibitions

Engage with the museum’s interactive exhibits and document your experience through photos and videos. Share your connection with history and art, showcasing your newfound knowledge and appreciation for the ancient cultures.

These are my top tips (Ian’s tips if you will) for when visiting the Museum of Cycladic Art:

1. Plan your visit to the Museum of Cycladic Art on a weekday, as weekends can be busier, which may affect your experience. Weekday visits often provide a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to explore the exhibits at your own pace.
2. Allocate at least two to three hours for your visit to the Museum of Cycladic Art, as there’s plenty to see and do. This will give you enough time to explore the permanent collection, attend any temporary exhibitions, and take a break at the museum’s café.
3. Don’t forget to charge your mobile phone or camera before your visit, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout the museum. Capturing these memorable moments will make your trip to the Museum of Cycladic Art even more special.
4. Make use of the audio guides available at the museum to enhance your experience. These guides provide valuable context and information about the exhibits, helping you better understand the artefacts on display.
5. Before you leave, visit the museum’s gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts inspired by the Cycladic, ancient Greek, and Cypriot cultures. These items are a great way to remember your visit and a chance to support the museum’s mission.
6. Combine your visit to the Museum of Cycladic Art with other nearby attractions, such as the Benaki Museum, the Byzantine and Christian Museum, or a stroll around the elegant neighbourhood of Kolonaki. This way, you can make the most of your time in this fascinating area of Athens.

Here’s my advice regarding access for those with disabilities and/or impairments at the Museum of Cycladic Art:

The Museum of Cycladic Art is committed to ensuring accessibility for all its visitors, including those with disabilities and impairments. The museum has made several provisions to accommodate the needs of visitors with diverse requirements, making it an enjoyable and informative experience for everyone.

For visitors with mobility impairments, the museum offers wheelchair access to all its galleries and exhibition spaces. There are lifts available in the building, allowing easy access between floors, and ramps are in place where necessary. Additionally, there are designated seating areas throughout the museum where visitors can take a break and rest if needed.

For visitors with visual impairments, the museum provides various aids to enhance their experience. There are tactile exhibits, which allow visitors to touch and feel selected artefacts, enabling them to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry of these ancient pieces. Moreover, the museum offers detailed descriptive texts and labels that can be accessed through audio guides, providing valuable information about the exhibits and their context.

For visitors with hearing impairments, the museum can provide written information or transcripts of audio material upon request. This allows these visitors to fully engage with the exhibitions and gain a deep understanding of the artefacts on display.