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Tickets: Purchase at museum.
Established in 1882, Athensβ National Historical Museum is the oldest museum of its type in Greece. The museumβs permanent collection tells the tale of Greek culture from ancient to modern times, with sections and hallways narrating aspects of Greek society over different centuries and periods β most notably the fall of the Byzantine Empire, the beginning of the Ottoman Empire and Latin rule, and the countryβs liberation struggles during the Greek War of Independence. Artefacts on display include weapons, personal effects, and memorabilia from historical figures like Lord Byron, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, authentic manuscripts, and a large collection of traditional Greek outfits and jewelry from various areas of Greece.
The museum was formerly housed in the main building of the Athens Polytechnic University, but relocated in 1960 to its permanent home inside the Old Parliament Building on Stadiou Street in central Athens. The building accommodated the Greek Parliament from 1875 to 1932, until it moved to its current location at Syntagma Square. The grand Central Hall of the National Assembly is still used for conferences today; visitors can see it when entering the museum, situated just behind the ticket desk.
The National Historical Museum is located in central Athens, one block northwest of Syntagma Square and about 1km from Monastiraki Square. The nearest metro stations are Syntagma or Panepistimio, both about a 300-meter walk on city streets.
National Historical Museum Hours and Information
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm from September to June. Tuesday to Sunday 10am-4pm during July & August. Closed on Mondays.
- Website: nhmuseum.gr
- Location:13 Stadiou St.
- Telephone: +30 210 323 7617
- Entrance Fee: 3β¬/person full admission, reduced admission 1.5β¬/person.
- Free Admission: Every Sunday, March 25, May 18th, October 28th.
- Parking: Street parking, nearby pay lots.
- Nearest Metro Connection: Syntagma, Panepistimio