The National Library of Greece is situated near the center of city of Athens. It was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen, as part of his famous Trilogy of neo-classical buildings including the Academy of Athens and the original building of the Athens University. It was founded by Ioannis Kapodistrias. The original idea for establishing a National Library was from the philhellene Johann Jakob Mayer, in an August 1824 article of his newspaper Ellinika Chronika, published at Missolonghi, where Mayer and Lord Byron had been promoting Greece's independence. Mayer's idea was implemented in 1829 by the new Greek government of Ioannis Kapodistrias, who grouped together the National Library with other intellectual institutions such as schools, national museums, and printing houses. These were all placed in a building (then being used as an orphanage) on the island Aegina and supervised by Andreas Moustoxydis, who thus became president of the committee of the Orphanage, director of the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, and director of the National School. At the end of 1830, the library, which Moustoxydis named the National Library, had 1,018 volumes of printed books, which had been collected from Greeks and philhellenes. In 1834, the Library was relocated to Athens, the new capital, and was at first housed temporarily in the public bath in the Roman Agora of Athens and then later in the Panagia Gorgoepikoos church. The collection increased rapidly. In addition to the purchase of books from private libraries, supervised by Dimitris Postolakas (1,995 volumes), the Library accepted many large donations of books, like one from Christoforos and Konstantinos Sakellarios (5,400 volumes) and one from Markos Renieris (3,401 volumes). In 1842, the Public Library merged with Athens University's library (15,000 volumes), and was housed together with the currency collection at the new building of Otto's University. The first director (then-called "president") was Georgios Kozakis-Typaldos of the newly enlarged institution, retaining the job until 1863. At this time, the Library was enriched with significant donations and with rare foreign language books from all over Europe. With the royal charter of 1866, the two libraries merged, and were administered as the "National Library of Greece". From 1877–1910, its director was Michael Deffner. On 16 March 1888 the foundation stone for a new neoclassical marble building was laid. The building was financed by three Kefallonian-born brothers of the Diaspora, Panagis, Marinos and Andreas Vallianos. It was designed by Baron Theophil von Hansen and its construction supervised by Ernst Ziller. The Library remained in the older University building until 1903, when it was relocated to the new Vallianos building, which still partly houses the Library in addition to two other buildings, at Agia Paraskevi and Nea Halkidona.

National Library (Vallianeion) Tours and Tickets
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The National Library of Greece is situated near the center of city of Athens. It was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Freiherr von Hansen, as part of his famous Trilogy of neo-classical buildings including the Academy of Athens and the original building of the Athens University. It was founded by Ioannis Kapodistrias. The original idea for establishing a National Library was from the philhellene Johann Jakob Mayer, in an August 1824 article of his newspaper Ellinika Chronika, published at Missolonghi, where Mayer and Lord Byron had been promoting Greece's independence. Mayer's idea was implemented in 1829 by the new Greek government of Ioannis Kapodistrias, who grouped together the National Library with other intellectual institutions such as schools, national museums, and printing houses. These were all placed in a building (then being used as an orphanage) on the island Aegina and supervised by Andreas Moustoxydis, who thus became president of the committee of the Orphanage, director of the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, and director of the National School. At the end of 1830, the library, which Moustoxydis named the National Library, had 1,018 volumes of printed books, which had been collected from Greeks and philhellenes. In 1834, the Library was relocated to Athens, the new capital, and was at first housed temporarily in the public bath in the Roman Agora of Athens and then later in the Panagia Gorgoepikoos church. The collection increased rapidly. In addition to the purchase of books from private libraries, supervised by Dimitris Postolakas (1,995 volumes), the Library accepted many large donations of books, like one from Christoforos and Konstantinos Sakellarios (5,400 volumes) and one from Markos Renieris (3,401 volumes). In 1842, the Public Library merged with Athens University's library (15,000 volumes), and was housed together with the currency collection at the new building of Otto's University. The first director (then-called "president") was Georgios Kozakis-Typaldos of the newly enlarged institution, retaining the job until 1863. At this time, the Library was enriched with significant donations and with rare foreign language books from all over Europe. With the royal charter of 1866, the two libraries merged, and were administered as the "National Library of Greece". From 1877–1910, its director was Michael Deffner. On 16 March 1888 the foundation stone for a new neoclassical marble building was laid. The building was financed by three Kefallonian-born brothers of the Diaspora, Panagis, Marinos and Andreas Vallianos. It was designed by Baron Theophil von Hansen and its construction supervised by Ernst Ziller. The Library remained in the older University building until 1903, when it was relocated to the new Vallianos building, which still partly houses the Library in addition to two other buildings, at Agia Paraskevi and Nea Halkidona.
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- The library’s collection is not open to the general public, but the elegant facade and entry hall with sweeping staircase offers a great photo op for fans of neoclassical architecture.
- Be sure to wear sunblock and a hat if touring Athen’s highlights on foot or by bike, especially in the scorching summer months.
- The National Library can be approached via wheelchair, but the entrance requires climbing one of the two soaring staircases.
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Learn MoreFor Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
- Speech To Text
Access for Seniors
- Distance from drop-off location to entrance: Less than 20 m
- Recommended time for visit 1 hour
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
Accessibility for wheels
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Accessible elevator
- Easy without assistance
- Step-Free
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
- Exhibit height - 3
- Accessible Toilet
Access for Visually Impaired
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
As you step into the grand entrance of the National Library of Greece, a sense of awe washes over you. The air is filled with the faint scent of old books, a reminder of the countless stories and knowledge held within these walls. The sound of shouffling footsteps echo off the marble floors, creating a rhythm that seems to lead you deeper into this world of literary treasures.
As you make your way through the library, your fingers brush against the rough textures of ancient manuscripts and the smooth, cool surfaces of polished wooden tables. The hushed whispers of scholars and the occasional creak of bookshelves being moved create a symphony of scholarly activity around you.
Unique moments await around every corner. Perhaps you stumble upon a rare edition of Homer’s Iliad, its yellowing pages filled with tales of heroism and tragedy. Or maybe you come across a delicate handwritten letter from a famous poet, the ink faded but the emotions still raw and vivid.
In the reading room, the soft glow of golden lamps bathes the space in a warm light, inviting you to sit and lose yourself in the words of great thinkers and storytellers. The rustle of pages turning, the scratch of pens on paper, and the occasional sigh of contentment create a melodic backdrop to your exploration.
As you ascend the grand staircase, you feel a sense of reverence for the knowledge held within these walls. The weight of history presses down on you, but it is a comforting weight, a reminder of the enduring power of words and ideas.
And as you finally make your way back to the entrance, a sense of gratitude fills your heart. Gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of so many great minds, to be surrounded by the collective wisdom of generations past and present. The National Library of Greece is not just a repository of books, but a sanctuary of the human spirit, a place where emotions are stirred, imaginations ignited, and journeys of the mind taken.
This emotional journey of visitation is a testament to the power of literature, history, and the written word to transport us to new worlds, to evoke deep emotions, and to connect us with our shared humanity. So take a moment to pause, to reflect, and to savor the experience of being in this extraordinary place. Let the National Library of Greece be not just a destination, but a destination of the heart and soul.
The National Library of Greece in Athens does not currently offer audio descriptive guides or have specific sensory-friendly hours. However, visitors with special accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the library in advance to discuss any accommodations that may be available. The library staff will do their best to assist visitors with special needs and make their visit as comfortable as possible.
The National Library of Greece, located in Athens, is not only a historical landmark but also a cultural hub that has inspired many local writers and artists.
Many writers and artists in Athens consider the National Library to be a source of inspiration and knowledge. It houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and documents that provide valuable resources for research and creative endeavors. Local writers often visit the library to immerse themselves in its rich literary environment and draw inspiration from its collections.
Moreover, the architecture of the National Library itself is a source of inspiration for many artists. The neoclassical building, designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen, is considered a masterpiece of architectural design and a symbol of Greece’s cultural heritage. Its grandeur and elegance have been captured in numerous artworks, photographs, and literary works by local artists.
In addition, the National Library also plays a significant role in promoting cultural events and exhibitions that showcase the work of local writers and artists. Many cultural events, book launches, and art exhibitions are held at the library, providing a platform for local talents to showcase their creativity and engage with the public.
Overall, the National Library of Greece serves as a vital cultural institution that not only preserves the country’s literary heritage but also nurtures the creativity and artistic expression of the local community. It continues to be a source of inspiration and a place where writers and artists can connect with each other and with the rich cultural heritage of Greece.
To reach the National Library of Greece in Athens, you have several transportation options available:
1. Public Transportation: The library is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the metro to the "Panepistimio" station on Line 2 (red line), which is located just a short walk away from the library. Various bus lines also stop near the library.
2. Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option to reach the National Library. You can easily find taxis throughout the city, and they can drop you off right at the entrance.
3. Car: If you are driving to the library, there is limited street parking available nearby. However, parking spaces might be difficult to find. Alternatively, there are paid parking lots in the area where you can park your vehicle.
Accessibility:
The National Library of Greece is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators to facilitate access for individuals with mobility challenges. The library also has accessible restrooms and designated parking spaces for people with disabilities.
Ticket Booking and Discounts:
Entry to the National Library of Greece is typically free of charge. However, for certain exhibitions, events, or special collections, there might be a small fee. You can inquire about tickets for these specific occasions either online through the library’s website or in person at the ticket office.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Make sure to bring a valid ID or documentation to qualify for any discounts.
Local Amenities:
- Parking: As mentioned earlier, limited street parking is available near the library. There are also paid parking lots in the vicinity where you can park your vehicle.
- Restrooms: The library has restrooms on-site, including accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities.
- Dining Options: While there may not be dining options within the library itself, there are several cafes, restaurants, and food stalls in the surrounding area where you can grab a bite to eat. These dining options cater to various dietary needs, ranging from traditional Greek cuisine to international dishes.