The National Historical Museum is a historical museum in Athens. Founded in 1882, is the oldest of its kind in Greece. It is located in the Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, which housed the Hellenic Parliament from 1875 until 1932. The museum houses the collection of the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece (IEEE), founded in 1882. It is the oldest collection of its kind in Greece, and prior to its transfer to the Old Parliament, it was housed in the main building of the National Technical University. The collection contains historical items concerning the period from the capture of Constantinopolis by the Ottomans in 1453 to the Second World War, emphasizing especially the period of the Greek Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the modern Greek state. Among the items displayed are weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, manuscripts, as well as a large collection of traditional Greek costumes from various regions. The collection is displayed in the corridors and rooms of the building, while the great central hall of the National Assembly is used for conferences.
Athens National Historical Museum Tours and Tickets
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The National Historical Museum is a historical museum in Athens. Founded in 1882, is the oldest of its kind in Greece. It is located in the Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, which housed the Hellenic Parliament from 1875 until 1932. The museum houses the collection of the Historical and Ethnological Society of Greece (IEEE), founded in 1882. It is the oldest collection of its kind in Greece, and prior to its transfer to the Old Parliament, it was housed in the main building of the National Technical University. The collection contains historical items concerning the period from the capture of Constantinopolis by the Ottomans in 1453 to the Second World War, emphasizing especially the period of the Greek Revolution and the subsequent establishment of the modern Greek state. Among the items displayed are weapons, personal belongings and memorabilia from historical personalities, historical paintings by Greek and foreign artists, manuscripts, as well as a large collection of traditional Greek costumes from various regions. The collection is displayed in the corridors and rooms of the building, while the great central hall of the National Assembly is used for conferences.
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- Visitors to Athens interested in an in-depth look at Greek history from the Byzantine rule to the early 20th century will appreciate the museum’s vast collection, while architecture buffs will be taken with the 19th-century building’s elegant design.
- Visiting the museum as part of a tour or taking in its vast collection inside requires a significant amount of time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes.
- The museum hosts both a permanent collection and a regular series of temporary exhibitions tied to the history and culture of Greece.
- There is a museum shop that sells an interesting array of Greek souvenirs and books.
- The National History Museum is accessible to wheelchairs both inside and out.
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For Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Hearing kits
Access for Seniors
- Recommended time for visit 1 hour
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Accessible elevator
- Easy without assistance
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
- Exhibit height - 2
- Accessible Toilet
Access for Visually Impaired
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
Welcome to the National History Museum (Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío) in Athens. Let yourself be transported through time as you embark on an emotional journey of visitation.
As you enter the grand halls of the museum, the scent of aged parchment and dust tickles your nose, evoking a sense of mystery and intrigue. The soft echo of footsteps resonates through the marble corridors, hinting at the countless stories waiting to be discovered.
You find yourself standing before a towering statue of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. Her stern gaze seems to pierce through the centuries, filling you with a sense of awe at the power and majesty of ancient Greece.
Moving through the exhibits, you come across a collection of delicate pottery, each piece telling a story of daily life in antiquity. Running your fingers lightly over the smooth surfaces, you can almost feel the hands of the artisans who crafted these beautiful works of art.
As you wander through the exhibits, the sound of distant voices and laughter seems to echo through the halls, as if the ghosts of the past are whispering their secrets to you. You can almost taste the flavors of ancient Greek cuisine, rich with olive oil and fragrant herbs.
In a darkened corner, you discover a display of ancient armor and weapons, their polished surfaces gleaming in the dim light. The weight of history hangs heavy in the air as you imagine the battles that were fought and the lives that were lost in the name of conquest.
Finally, you come to a quiet garden courtyard, filled with the sound of trickling fountains and birdsong. The warmth of the sun on your face and the scent of blooming flowers brings a sense of peace and serenity, a moment of respite in the midst of the tumultuous past.
As you leave the museum, you carry with you the echoes of the past, the whispers of history that linger in the air. The National History Museum is not just a collection of artifacts, but a living, breathing testament to the triumphs and tragedies of humanity.
The National History Museum (Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío) in Athens offers audio descriptive guides for visitors with visual impairments. These guides provide detailed audio descriptions of the exhibits and help enhance the museum experience for those with visual disabilities.
Additionally, the museum occasionally offers sensory-friendly hours for visitors with sensory sensitivities. During these special hours, the museum aims to create a more calm and peaceful environment by lowering ambient noise levels and reducing visual stimulation.
It is recommended to check the museum’s website or contact them directly for specific information on the availability of audio descriptive guides and sensory-friendly hours during your visit.
The National History Museum, also known as the Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío, is a must-visit destination in Athens for both locals and tourists. This museum is not only a treasure trove of Greece’s rich history but also a place where locals can connect with their heritage and gain a deeper understanding of their past.
Local writers and artists often find inspiration in the exhibits and artifacts housed within the National History Museum. For writers, the museum provides a wealth of stories and narratives that capture the essence of Greek history, from ancient times to the present day. Artists, on the other hand, are drawn to the visual representations of Greece’s past, which they can then interpret and incorporate into their own work.
One local writer, Maria, shares her experience of visiting the National History Museum: "Walking through the halls of the museum, I am transported back in time to the days of ancient Greece. The artifacts and exhibits here tell the stories of our ancestors, their triumphs and struggles, and their enduring legacy. As a writer, I find endless inspiration in the tales of bravery, love, and betrayal that are etched into the fabric of our history."
For artists like Nikos, the museum is a treasure trove of visual inspiration: "I love visiting the National History Museum to study the intricate details of ancient pottery, sculptures, and architecture. The craftsmanship of our ancestors never fails to amaze me, and I often incorporate elements of Greek art and design into my own work. The museum is a constant source of creativity for me."
Overall, the National History Museum is not just a place to learn about Greece’s past, but a living, breathing entity that continues to inspire and captivate locals through its exhibits and artifacts. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that shapes the identity of the Greek people and allows them to connect with their roots on a deeper level.
### National History Museum (Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío), Athens: Directions and Transportation
#### Transportation Options:
1. Metro: The National History Museum is easily accessible by the Athens Metro. The nearest metro station is Thissio (Line 1 - Green Line), which is a short walk from the museum.
2. Bus: Various bus lines serve the area near the museum, including bus routes 049, 815, and 899. Check with the local bus service for detailed schedules and routes.
3. Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option for reaching the museum. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps like Uber.
4. Car: If you prefer to drive, there are parking facilities near the museum. However, parking can be limited, especially on busy days.
5. Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available for visitors with limited mobility.
### National History Museum (Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío), Athens: Ticket Booking and Discounts
#### Ticket Booking:
- Tickets for the National History Museum can be purchased at the museum entrance or online through their official website.
- It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long lines.
#### Discounts:
- Student Discount: Students with a valid student ID can often get discounted admission tickets.
- Senior Citizen Discount: Senior citizens aged 65 and above may be eligible for reduced ticket prices.
- Family Discount: Some museums offer special discounts for families or group tickets.
- Free Admission: Check if there are certain days or times when the museum offers free admission to the public.
### National History Museum (Ethnikó Istorikó Mouseío), Athens: Local Amenities
#### Parking:
- There are parking facilities near the museum, but availability can vary. Consider using public transportation if you prefer not to worry about parking.
#### Restrooms:
- Restrooms are available inside the museum for visitors’ convenience.
#### Dining Options:
- The museum may have a cafeteria or restaurant on-site where visitors can grab a snack or meal.
- Nearby, there are also plenty of cafes and restaurants offering a variety of dining options catering to different dietary needs.
Enjoy your visit to the National History Museum in Athens!