Benaki Museum

Benaki Museum Travel Guide

Overview

The Benaki Museum of Greek Culture is an essential destination in Athens, Greece, showcasing a vast array of artifacts that narrate the evolution of Greek culture from ancient times to the 20th century. Housed in a stunning neoclassical building, the museum offers an engaging experience for those interested in history, art, and cultural heritage.

Background

Founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis, the son of a politician from Alexandria, Egypt, the museum originated from his generous donation of a diverse collection of artifacts. This includes jewelry, ceramics, marble sculptures, manuscripts, and everyday items. The museum, which was once a family residence, has been renovated to present a unique exhibition of Greek culture. Its neoclassical architecture and strategic location near the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament make it a prominent feature among Athens’ cultural institutions.

Getting There

The Benaki Museum is conveniently reachable via public transport. Visitors can take metro lines 2 or 3 and disembark at either Syntagma or Evangelismos stations. The museum is also a short walk from the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament. For those requiring assistance, the entrance on Vas. Sofias Avenue is wheelchair accessible.

Highlights

1. **Traditional Greek Costumes**: The museum features a remarkable collection of regional costumes that reflect Greece’s rich cultural tapestry.
2. **Byzantine Art**: A captivating array of Byzantine icons is on display, showcasing their beauty and historical importance.
3. **Classical Artifacts**: Visitors can admire significant Classical Greek pieces, spanning from the Bronze Age to World War II.
4. **Mansions of Macedonia**: The museum exhibits complete sitting rooms from Macedonian mansions, intricately designed to illustrate the opulent lifestyles of the past.
5. **Agricultural Implements**: The collection also includes beautifully crafted agricultural tools, enhancing the museum’s diverse offerings.
6. **Temporary Exhibitions**: Regularly changing temporary exhibitions cover a wide range of subjects, from contemporary art to historical narratives.

Admission Fees

– **General Admission**: €12
– **Temporary Exhibition**: €8
– **Reduced Rate Admission**: €9
– **Reduced Rate for Temporary Exhibition**: €6
– **Journalists**: €1

Visiting Tips

1. **Audio Guides**: Free audio guided tours are available through QR codes in various languages, including Greek, English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and Ukrainian.
2. **Last Entry**: Ensure to arrive at least one hour before closing for the last entry.
3. **Accessibility**: The museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with a dedicated entrance on Vas. Sofias Avenue.
4. **Pets**: While guide and assistance dogs are welcome throughout the museum, other pets are not allowed in exhibition areas or dining facilities.
5. **Opening Hours**: The museum operates from Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
6. **Closed Days**: The museum is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays, including New Year’s Day, Epiphany, Clean Monday, March 25th, Easter Day, Easter Monday, May 1st, Holy Spirit Day, August 15th, October 28th, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Conclusion

A visit to the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture promises an enriching exploration of Greece’s vibrant cultural history. Whether your interests lie in history, art, or simply appreciating one of Athens’ architectural gems, the Benaki Museum is an unmissable attraction.