National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum Athens is genuinely one of the best museums in Athens and an absolute must-see among the many Athens attractions. This exceptional museum is not only a treasure trove of ancient artefacts, but it’s also the perfect place to immerse yourself in the rich history of Greece, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Athens.

Just a five-minute walk from the Hellenic Motor Museum, it’s sometimes referred to as the Ethnikó Archaiologikó Mouseío or simply the NAM, is conveniently located in the Athenian neighbourhood of Omonia, in the city’s heart. It is easily accessible by public transport, with the metro station just a few minutes walk away. It is a perfect stop in your itinerary while exploring the many museums in Athens.

The museum’s primary purpose was, and still is, to preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Greece from prehistoric times to late antiquity. Established in 1829, the museum was initially built to house and protect the numerous artefacts excavated during the early 19th century. The building itself, designed by architect Ludwig Lange, was completed in 1889 and has since undergone several renovations to accommodate the ever-growing collection.

Stepping into the museum, you’ll be instantly captivated by the vast collection of over 11,000 exhibits beautifully displayed across five large halls. Each hall is dedicated to a specific era or theme, allowing you to journey through the different periods of Greek history as you explore the galleries.

Starting with the Prehistoric Collection, you’ll find artefacts dating back to the Neolithic, Cycladic, and Mycenaean periods. This collection includes the world-famous gold Mask of Agamemnon, discovered by Heinrich Schliemann at Mycenae, and the exquisite golden cups from the royal tombs of Vaphio, which are true masterpieces of ancient metalwork. Other highlights of this collection include the intriguing clay figurines from the Cycladic Islands and the exceptional frescoes from the ancient city of Akrotiri on the island of Santorini. The latter is particularly fascinating as they provide a glimpse into the daily life and customs of the Minoan civilisation.

As you move on to the Sculpture Collection, prepare to be mesmerised by the exceptional examples of ancient Greek sculpture, such as the larger-than-life marble statues of Zeus and Poseidon. This collection covers a wide range of artistic styles and periods, from the Archaic period to the Roman era. Notable works include the kouros statues from the Archaic period, which showcase the evolution of the human form in ancient Greek art, and the beautiful statue of Aphrodite, which perfectly embodies the grace and elegance of Hellenistic sculpture.

The Bronze Collection features some of the most significant ancient bronzes ever discovered, including the iconic statue of Poseidon or Zeus, found in the depths of the Aegean Sea, and the impressive bronze statue of a horse and its young jockey. This gallery also houses the unique bronze statue of the “Artemision Jockey”, which is a remarkable example of the Hellenistic sculptural tradition. The level of detail and craftsmanship are evident in these bronze masterpieces is truly awe-inspiring and a testament to the artistic prowess of ancient Greek sculptors.

The Vase and Minor Objects Collection boasts a stunning assortment of pottery from various periods, including the celebrated Dipylon amphora and the unique Antikythera mechanism, an ancient Greek analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses. This particular artefact is considered one of the most important discoveries in the history of technology and is a testament to the brilliance of ancient Greek engineers.

The collection also features an impressive array of intricate jewellery, delicate glassware, and exquisite metalwork, demonstrating ancient Greek artisans’ extraordinary craftsmanship and artistry. Among these treasures, you’ll find the stunning gold jewellery from the royal tombs of Mycenae and the intricate silver rhyton in the shape of a lion’s head, a superb example of ancient metalworking techniques.

Last but certainly not least, the Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities Collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the art and culture of Egypt and the Near East. Here, you’ll find diverse artefacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, statues, and jewellery, all of which showcase the rich cultural exchanges between the Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds. Highlights of this collection include the colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II, which stands over 3 metres tall, and the beautiful alabaster canopic jars, which were used to store the organs of the deceased during the mummification process.

The National Archaeological Museum Athens also hosts various temporary exhibitions focusing on specific themes or periods in ancient history. These exhibitions often feature artefacts from other museums in Greece and abroad, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore new perspectives and delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Greece and the wider Mediterranean world. The museum’s temporary exhibitions and extensive permanent collection ensure that there’s always something new and exciting to discover during each visit.

It’s worth noting that the National Archaeological Museum Athens is a remarkable institution for its impressive collection of artefacts and its dedication to research and education. The museum regularly hosts lectures, conferences, and educational workshops, ensuring that visitors of all ages can engage with and appreciate the significance of these ancient treasures. Additionally, the museum’s library houses an extensive collection of books, periodicals, and archival material related to archaeology and the history of ancient Greece, making it an invaluable resource for researchers and scholars from around the world.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience and are eager to delve into the captivating world of ancient Greece, then the National Archaeological Museum Athens is a must-visit destination among the many Athens attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the past, the museum offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Here are my personal recommendations of the top things to do and see at the National Archaeological Museum Athens

Mask of Agamemnon

One of the top things to see at the National Archaeological Museum is the famous gold Mask of Agamemnon. This exquisite artefact, discovered in Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann, is a shining example of the intricate craftsmanship of ancient Greece. Don’t miss the chance to marvel at this iconic piece of history up close during your visit.

Bronze Statue of Poseidon or Zeus

A must-see highlight at the museum is the impressive bronze statue of Poseidon or Zeus. This larger-than-life statue, found in the depths of the Aegean Sea, is a true masterpiece of ancient Greek art. Witnessing this iconic statue’s incredible detail and craftsmanship is definitely one of the top things to do at the museum.

Antikythera Mechanism (when on display)

Discover the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient Greek analogue computer used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses. This extraordinary artefact is considered one of the most significant discoveries in the history of technology. Exploring the ingenuity of ancient Greek engineers is a fascinating experience you shouldn’t miss.

Vaphio Gold Cups

Admire the exquisite golden cups from the royal tombs of Vaphio, which showcase the incredible skill of ancient Greek metalworkers. These beautifully crafted cups are adorned with intricate scenes of hunting and capture, making them a stunning testament to the artistic prowess of the Mycenaean civilization.

Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities Collection

Embark on a journey beyond ancient Greece with the museum’s Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities Collection. This fascinating gallery features an array of artefacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, statues, and jewellery, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural exchanges between the Mediterranean and Near Eastern worlds.

Sculpture Collection

Explore the evolution of ancient Greek sculpture through the museum’s extensive Sculpture Collection. From the early kouros statues of the Archaic period to the elegant and graceful works of the Hellenistic era, this collection offers a captivating journey through the development of Greek art.

Prehistoric Collection

Dive into the distant past with the Prehistoric Collection, which features Neolithic, Cycladic, and Mycenaean artefacts. This collection provides a unique opportunity to learn about the origins of ancient Greek culture and the fascinating civilizations that preceded it.

My advice for the best places for photos, videos, and even the perfect Instagram at the National Archaeological Museum Athens:

Mask of Agamemnon

Capture the enigmatic allure of the gold Mask of Agamemnon, an iconic symbol of ancient Greece. This intricate history will make your Instagram feed stand out and impress your followers with your cultural explorations.

Bronze Statue of Poseidon or Zeus

Snap a photo with the majestic bronze statue of Poseidon or Zeus as the centrepiece. This larger-than-life masterpiece serves as the perfect backdrop for a memorable and awe-inspiring Instagram post.

Antikythera Mechanism (when on display)

Showcase the ingenuity of ancient Greek engineers by sharing a video or photo of the fascinating Antikythera mechanism. This extraordinary artefact will pique the interest of your followers and spark conversations about the brilliance of ancient technology.

Vaphio Gold Cups

Highlight the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Greece with a close-up shot of the Vaphio gold cups. These exquisitely detailed artefacts will add a touch of elegance and refinement to your Instagram feed.

Egyptian Collection

Transport your followers to another world with stunning artefacts from the museum’s Egyptian Collection. A photo with the colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II or the intricate canopic jars will create a captivating visual experience on your feed.

Sculpture Collection

Capture the essence of ancient Greek art with a picture of the beautiful statue of Aphrodite or a striking kouros statue. These works of art will showcase ancient sculpture’s timeless beauty and elegance, making for top photos on your Instagram.

Museum Building Exterior

Finally, don’t forget to snap a photo of the stunning neoclassical façade of the National Archaeological Museum. The beautiful architecture is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable shot that will make your Instagram profile stand out.

These are my top travel tips (Ian’s tips if you will) for when visiting the National Archaeological Museum Athens:

1. The museum is a very popular place; therefore I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance right here. Personally, I’ve found that booking in advance is not only a fantastic way to save time and money while exploring the incredible ancient sites in Athens but also a great way to get skip-the-line access. Not only do I enjoy savings of up to 50%, but I also bypassed the long queues of tourists waiting to enter these very popular places.
2. Allow enough time to explore: The museum is vast and features a wealth of artefacts and exhibits. Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the collections and not feel rushed during your visit.
3. Wear comfortable shoes: The museum’s vast size and numerous exhibits mean you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes to ensure you can explore the galleries with ease.
4. Don’t forget the temporary exhibitions: In addition to the permanent collections, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes or periods in ancient history. Be sure to check out these exhibitions for a unique and enriching experience.
5. Take breaks: With so much to see and explore, it’s essential to take breaks during your visit. The museum has seating areas where you can rest and absorb the information you’ve gathered from the exhibits.
6. Visit the museum shop: Don’t forget to stop by the museum shop before leaving. You’ll find a range of souvenirs, books, and educational materials that can serve as mementoes of your visit or as gifts for friends and family.

Here’s my advice regarding access for those with disabilities and/or impairments at the National Archaeological Museum Athens:

The National Archaeological Museum Athens is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors, including those with disabilities and impairments. The museum offers a range of services and facilities to ensure that guests with diverse needs can fully enjoy their visit.

Wheelchair access

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts available throughout the building to provide easy access to all exhibition areas. Additionally, wheelchairs are available free of charge at the entrance, subject to availability.

Accessible restrooms

The museum has accessible restrooms designed to accommodate the needs of guests with disabilities. These restrooms are located on the ground floor of the museum.

Guide dogs

Visitors with visual impairments are welcome to bring their guide dogs to the museum. The museum staff are trained to assist and accommodate the needs of guests with guide dogs.

Sign language interpretation

For visitors with hearing impairments, the museum can arrange sign language interpretation for guided tours upon request. It is recommended to contact the museum in advance to make arrangements for this service.

Specialised guided tours

The museum also offers specialised guided tours for visitors with disabilities tailored to their specific needs and interests. These tours may include touch tours for visitors with visual impairments or simplified language tours for visitors with cognitive disabilities. It is recommended to contact the museum in advance to discuss your requirements and book a specialised tour.