Benaki Museum

Housed in an elegant neoclassical mansion, the Benaki Museum was founded by art collector Antoni Benaki in 1931. This stunning private collection of about 20,000 small and large works of art includes treasures from the Neolithic era to the 20th century. The folk art collection (including magnificent costumes and icons) is superb, as are the two entire rooms from 18th-century Northern Greek mansions, ancient Greek bronzes, gold cups, Fayum portraits, and rare early Christian textiles. The new wing that opened in 2003 doubled the exhibition space of the original 20th-century neoclassical town house belonging to the wealthy Benaki family. The new galleries will house special exhibitions. The museum shop is excellent. The cafe on the roof garden offers a spectacular view over Athens, as well as a 25€ buffet dinner Thursday. This is a very pleasant place to spend several hours -- as many lucky Athenians do, as often as possible. After you visit the Benaki, take in its new branch, Benaki Museum of Islamic Art.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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