Quick Information

RECOMMENDED DURATION

2 hours

VISITORS PER YEAR

1451727

NUMBER OF ENTRANCES

2

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - SKIP THE LINE

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

Did you know?

Glass floor and archaeological site: The Acropolis Museum allows visitors to get a closer look at their ongoing excavations through a glass floor. It is a unique addition to the museum’s architecture.

Precise alignment: The museum is built so you can view the Acropolis site from its halls. Bernard Tsuchumi had been dedicated to maintaining the museum’s orientation and alignment with the archaeological site.

Parthenon Marbles: It is rumored that the Acropolis Museum initially had an empty gallery in hopes of housing the Parthenon Marbles, which are kept in the British Museum.

Highlights of the Acropolis Museum

The Moschophoros

Admire the Archaic elegance of The Moschophoros, a 6th-century BCE sculpture portraying a youth carrying a calf. This masterpiece, attributed to the artist Antenor, captivates with its exquisite detailing.

The Caryatids

Marvel at the iconic Caryatids, six draped female figures that once served as architectural supports in the Erechtheion. Crafted by the sculptor Kallimachos, these 5th-century BCE marvels symbolise grace and strength.

The Parthenon marble sculptures

Explore the Acropolis Museum Parthenon Gallery and marvel at the collection of classical marble sculptures by Phidias and his assistants. Dating back to 447-432 BCE, these masterpieces depict Greek mythology with unparalleled artistry.

The Temple of Athena Nike frieze

Discover the intricate frieze from the Temple of Athena Nike, a masterpiece by the architect Callicrates. Dating to the 5th century BCE, this frieze depicts mythological scenes, adding depth to the temple’s historical significance.

Ramp of the Sanctuary of Artemis Brauronia

Journey through the Sanctuary of Artemis Brauronia and encounter the Ramp’s extraordinary sculptures. Carved in the 5th century BCE, these Acropolis Museum artifacts offer insights into ancient Greek religious practices and artistic expressions of devotion.

Portrait of Emperor Augustus

In the Roman Period section, admire the portrait of Emperor Augustus. Crafted in the 1st century BCE, this lifelike representation highlights the influence of Roman aesthetics during the transition from the Hellenistic era.

The Artemis of the Sanctuary

Explore the Sanctuary of Artemis and encounter the serene Artemis of the Sanctuary. Dating to the 2nd century BCE, this sculpture captures the divine essence of Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt.

The Propylaia frieze

Witness the detailed frieze from the Propylaia, a testament to Greek architectural brilliance. Created by Mnesicles and Phidias in the 5th century BCE, this frieze narrates historical events with unparalleled artistic finesse.

The Nereid Monument frieze

Delve into the Hellenistic treasures with the Nereid Monument frieze. Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, this intricate artwork depicts mythological figures and maritime scenes, showcasing the grace of Hellenistic sculpture.

Gallery of the Slopes glass floor

Experience the modern marvel of the glass floor in the Gallery of the Slopes. This contemporary feature allows visitors to witness ongoing archaeological excavations beneath the museum, connecting the present with ancient history.

The Acropolis Museum collection

Archaic Gallery

The Acropolis Museum Archaic Gallery transports you back between the 7th and 5th centuries BCE, featuring exquisite sculptures like the Moschophoros. Detailed carvings and intricate designs showcase the evolution of Greek art during this foundational period.

Classical Period

The Classical Period unfolds with awe-inspiring sculptures from the 8th century BC and 5th century AD, including the Caryatids. Explore the pinnacle of Greek artistic achievement, marvelling at the timeless masterpieces that define this era.

Parthenon Gallery

The Acropolis Museum Parthenon Gallery houses the metopes, friezes, and pediment sculptures from the Parthenon, including plaster casts of the original Elgin Marbles, (currently located in the British Museum in London). Each of these narrate myths and historical events that offer a profound insight into the temple’s grandeur.

Propylaia & the Temple of Athena Nike

This section reveals the artistic finesse of Greek craftsmanship through detailed carvings from the Propylaia and the Temple of Athena Nike. These architectural marvels provide a visual narrative, enriching the understanding of ancient Greek culture.

Roman Period & Late Antiquity

Witness the evolution of Greek art during the Roman Period and Late Antiquity (1st century BC to 5th century AD). Portraits, statues, and sarcophagi reflect cultural shifts, showcasing the dynamic interplay between Greek and Roman influences during this transformative era.

The Sanctuary of Artemis Brauronia

Immerse yourself in the sacred realm of Artemis, the Greek goddess of childbirth and healing. This dedicated section unveils artifacts, votive offerings, and statues from the sanctuary, offering a profound insight into ancient religious practices and the veneration of deities.

Fragments of the Parthenon Frieze

Explore a dedicated space focusing on fragments of the Parthenon Frieze, a marble sculpture from the Parthenon. This section closely examines intricate details, narrating the story behind each fragment and contributing to a deeper understanding of this monumental artwork.

Gallery of the Slopes of the Acropolis

The Gallery of the Slopes offers a unique perspective with its glass floor, allowing visitors to witness ongoing archaeological excavations. This section seamlessly connects the present with the past, providing a fascinating glimpse into the continuous discovery beneath the museum.

History of the Acropolis Museum

  • 1834: The Acropolis of Athens complex is declared an archaeological site by the newly established Greek government. An increasing number of artifacts spanning centuries begin to be excavated from the site.
  • 1865 – 1874: The first Acropolis Museum is built to house the treasures unearthed from the Acropolis. However, it is a small building and, as more and more artifacts continue to be found at the site, it soon runs out of space. A second building is constructed adjacent to the first. Together these two buildings continue to operate as the museum for the next 100 years.
  • 1976: The vision for a new museum near the Acropolis is conceived, addressing the need for a dedicated space to preserve and showcase the archaeological treasures of ancient Greece.
  • 2000: An architectural competition is launched to design the new museum, signalling the importance of creating a world-class facility to house the significant artifacts from the Acropolis.
  • 2001: Construction of the modern Acropolis Museum begins, incorporating advanced architectural concepts to provide an immersive experience for visitors and to meet international museum standards.
  • 2007: The completion of the Acropolis Museum represents a milestone, symbolizing the culmination of efforts to create a contemporary space that harmonizes with the historical significance of its contents.
  • 2009: On June 20, the Acropolis Museum officially opens its doors to the public, unveiling a state-of-the-art facility that not only preserves the legacy of ancient Greece but also enhances the global understanding of classical civilization.
  • Present day: The Acropolis Museum continues to be a cultural hub, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its remarkable collection, providing a captivating journey through the history and artistry of one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

Who built the Acropolis Museum?

Acropolis Museum architect Bernard Tschumi designed the current structure, a modern architectural masterpiece that opened in 2009. Tschumi, renowned for his innovative approach, seamlessly integrated the contemporary structure with ancient history. He collaborated with Michael Photiadis, whose expertise in museum design played a pivotal role. The use of glass provides a visual connection to the historic surroundings. Tschumi and Photiadis’ collaborative effort ensures the Acropolis Museum, Athens, serves as a fitting guardian for the rich cultural heritage it houses.

Architecture of the Acropolis Museum

Aerial view of the Acropolis Museum

The architectural style of the Acropolis Museum seamlessly blends modernism with classicism, featuring glass elements that provide transparency and a visual connection to the ancient Acropolis. The building stands on raised columns, creating an elevated feel. The use of natural light highlights the artifacts and enhances the visitor experience. The construction involved advanced techniques to ensure a stable foundation over ongoing archaeological excavations.

The Acropolis Museum symbolizes a harmonious integration of past and present, reflecting a profound respect for Greece’s rich heritage. It stands as a testament to contemporary design meeting historical preservation.

Frequently asked questions about the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum, Athens, Greece, spans an area of 25,000 square metres, with over 14,000 square meters of exhibition space. It houses over 4,200 artifacts across four levels, including an ongoing archaeological excavation in the basement.

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