An Ark of Culture

The iconic Benaki Museum, with over one hundred thousand exhibits, narrates Greek history.

In a neoclassical mansion built in 1860 in the heart of Athens, at the junction of Vasilissis Sofias and Koumbari Streets, timeless exhibitions recount the course of Greek civilization from prehistory to the 20th century. Close to the National Gardens and Greek Parliament, The Benaki Museum was founded in 1930 by Antonis Benakis, an emblematic Hellenic figure. A cosmopolitan, art enthusiast known for his patriotism, philanthropy and humanitarianism, he selflessly bequeathed his ancestral home to the Greek state, transforming it into a cherished museum which featured exhibitions of items he collected from Egypt thirty years prior.

Through his personal collection of historic art and artefacts, his aspiration to enrich the nation resonated with the community at large. Many of the objects currently displayed in the museum were generously donated by families and individuals connected to him. Over time, the collections have grown. From the year 2000 onwards, so-called ‘umbrella’ museums have opened as extensions of the Benaki Museum.

Each year, the museum holds around 30 temporary exhibitions, 450 cultural events and over 500 educational programmes. Its library contains 200,000 volumes, the most extensive collection in Greece. Finally, the museum hosts seven art conservation workshops. Its gift shop offers unique items based on its exhibits.