The Museums in Athens: A Guide for Erasmus + and/or ESC volunteers
With its rich history and cultural richness, Athens offers Erasmus + and/or ESC volunteers a unique experience. The numerous collections and
exhibitions of the city's museums offer a comprehensive picture of
Greek and world history and art. In addition is a
great way to practise the Greek language. Here is a guide to
some of the most important museums in Athens that are worth a
visit.
Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum
is probably the most famous and certainly one of the most important
museums in Athens. It is located close to the Acropolis and hosts
findings from the Holy Rock and the surrounding areas. The museum
displays a fantastic collection of sculptures, such as the iconic
Parthenon Marbles, and offers an amazing view of the
Parthenon.
National Archaeological Museum
The
National Archaeological Museum is Greece's largest and most important
archaeological museum. Its collection includes ancient works of art
from prehistoric times to the Roman period. Exhibits such as
Mycenaean masks, the Treasure of Atreus and Cycladic figurines offer
a deep insight into ancient Greek history.
Museum of
Cycladic Art
The Museum of Cycladic Art focuses on Cycladic
art and culture. It has an extensive collection of Cycladic figurines
and other objects from the Cyclades, as well as exhibits from other
ancient Greek cultural regions. The museum also offers periodic
exhibitions of contemporary art.
Benaki Museum
The
Benaki Museum is one of the oldest and most important museums in
Greece. Its collections cover Greek art and history from prehistoric
to modern times. The museum has various annexes, such as the Islamic
Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Museum of Greek Folk Art.
National
Gallery
The National Gallery is Greece's main art museum. It
has an extensive collection of Greek and European works of art
ranging from the 19th century to the present. The emphasis is on
Greek painters and sculptors.
Goulandris Museum of
Natural History
For nature and science lovers, the
Goulandris Museum of Natural History offers a rich collection of
exhibits covering geology, botany, zoology and palaeontology. The
museum is particularly attractive to families and young
visitors.
Heraklion Museum
The Heraklion
Museum focuses on art and science, with exhibitions that explore the
intersection of these two fields. Its exhibitions include topics from
antiquity to the modern era and promote the understanding of
scientific and artistic creation.
Athens offers many more
museums and cultural sites worth discovering. Erasmus + and/or ESC volunteers have
the opportunity to explore a city full of history and art, and its
museums are a great starting point for this adventure.
Andriani, OLS Community Manager – Greek