National Archaeological Museum Athens

Museum with a huge collection of ancient Greek art

In the National Archaeological Museum of Athens you will find a large collection of ancient Greek art. The collection consists of excavations and other archaeological finds from all over Greece.

National Archaeological Museum of Athens

In the National Archaeological Museum of Athens (Εθνικό Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο) you will find a large collection of ancient Greek art. The collection includes excavations and other archaeological finds from around the country. It is therefore the largest archaeological museum in all of Greece (the Acropolis Museum is only focussed in excavations from the Acropolis site). If you want to view the entire collection, you will probably need a whole day. To have a quick route through the Athens museum, a list of 4 must-sees in the museum:

Museum tip: The National Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, but it deserves time and energy. I recommend visiting on a separate morning rather than after a long day of sightseeing. Focus on the highlights first, such as the Mask of Agamemnon, bronze statues and Cycladic art.

Antikythera's mechanism

Antikythera's mechanism is an ancient analog computer. The computer was found on a ship and was used to calculate time and solar eclipses. It was also a calender. This is one of the most interesting mechanisms in the museum.

Mask of Agamemnonn

The Mask of Agamemnon is a gold mask that was always thought to be on the face of King Agamemnon in his tomb. However, it later turned out that the mask was much older. Much can be learned from this mask about the ancient traditions and beliefs that were important when someone died.

Poseidon of Artemision

The Poseidon of Artemision is an impressive bronze statue made in the classical period. The statue is made in the so-called strict style. Images in this style appear more natural and have more movement. It is not entirely clear who is depicted in the image. Experts think it could be Poseidon or Zeus.

Horseman of Artemision

The Horseman of Artemision is a bronze statue depicting a horse with a child on it. The statue was probably made around 150 BC. Because this statue is so old, it is very special that it has not perished. This image is also special because it was unusual at the time to depict moving horses.

National Archaeological Museum Athens Tickets

Where is the national museum located in Athens?

The National Archaeological Museum is located on the northern side of central Athens, close to the Exarcheia neighborhood and about a 15-minute walk from Omonia Square. Exarcheia is one of the most distinctive neighborhoods in Athens and is known for its alternative character, street art, student population, bookshops and lively cafés. A visit to the museum can therefore easily be combined with a walk through this unconventional neighborhood. From Syntagma Square, you can easily reach the National Archaeological Museum by metro or bus.