National Archaeological Museum Athens Highlights: Iconic artifacts & contemporary exhibitions

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Visitors viewing ancient Greek statues at Athens National Archaeological Museum.

Inside the National Archaeological Museum Athens

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens houses over 11,000 artifacts (sculpture, frescoes, and technical inventions) from across the Greek world. The museum offers an overview of prehistoric, classical, and Hellenistic cultures. Read on to discover must-see highlights and collections you’ll encounter inside.







Top highlights at the National Archaeological Museum Athens

Mask of Agamemnon

This gold funerary mask, unearthed in a royal Mycenaean tomb at Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann, is one of the most famous archaeological finds in Greece. It is a powerful symbol of Mycenaean craftsmanship and early Greek culture.

Antikythera mechanism

Recovered from a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera, this 2nd-century BC device is widely considered the world’s first analog computer. Used to track astronomical positions, eclipses, and the calendar, the mechanism reflects the mechanical knowledge of its time.

Thera wall paintings

These vivid frescoes from the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri (on Santorini) were preserved in volcanic ash after the island’s catastrophic eruption. They depict colorful scenes of nature, rituals, and daily life, offering rare insights into Aegean culture in the 17th century BC.

Bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon

This life-sized bronze figure was found in the sea off Cape Artemision. The exact identity is debated—it may be Zeus hurling a thunderbolt or Poseidon with a trident—but the pose, musculature, and dramatic energy make it one of the finest examples of Classical Greek sculpture.

Horse and jockey of Artemision

Discovered in the same shipwreck as the Artemision bronze, this remarkable Hellenistic sculpture captures a galloping horse with a young boy riding bareback.

Kore and kouros statues

These statues of a young maiden (kore) and youth (kouros) come from the Archaic period and were typically used as grave markers or temple offerings.

Mycenaean collection

In addition to the Mask of Agamemnon, the museum holds a vast array of gold jewelry, engraved weapons, ceremonial vessels, and wall reliefs from Mycenaean tombs. This collection sheds light on the complex social structures and burial rituals of the Mycenaean elite.

Cycladic figurines

These abstract marble figures from the Cycladic islands predate Classical Greece by nearly two millennia. Their minimalist form, typically folded-arm female figures, has inspired countless modern artists and offers insight into early Aegean religion and burial customs.

Egyptian antiquities

This section includes mummies, painted coffins, statues of deities, and amulets from dynastic Egypt. The museum’s Egyptian collection is one of the most significant in Southern Europe and explores connections between Greek and Egyptian cultures during antiquity.

The National Archaeological Museum Collections

Metalwork and jewelry

This section presents finely crafted weapons, armor, and decorative items. You’ll see bronze helmets worn by hoplite warriors, silver vessels used in elite households, and intricate gold wreaths used in ceremonial or funerary contexts.

Roman period collection

The Roman-era rooms feature marble statues, portraits, and mosaics, showcasing how Roman patrons adopted and adapted Greek artistic traditions. Many of the works are Roman copies of earlier Greek masterpieces, giving visitors a unique chance to see how Greek styles lived on during the empire.

Epigraphic Museum

Located in the same complex, this museum holds over 14,000 inscriptions, ranging from legal decrees and public records to epitaphs and dedications. It provides a fascinating look into the administrative, religious, and civic life of ancient Greece.

Frequently asked questions about museum highlights

What is the most famous artifact in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens?

The Mask of Agamemnon is widely considered the museum’s most iconic artifact due to its age, beauty, and historical significance.

What is the Antikythera Mechanism and why is it important?

It is a 2nd-century BC device used for astronomical calculations, considered the world’s first analog computer.

Can I see the wall paintings from Santorini at this museum?

Yes, the museum houses several well-preserved Thera frescoes from the ancient city of Akrotiri.

What can I find in the Mycenaean collection apart from the Mask of Agamemnon?

You’ll see gold diadems, ceremonial cups, bronze swords, and carved stone seals from royal tombs.

How large is the Egyptian collection?

It’s one of the largest Egyptian collections in Greece, featuring over 1,000 artifacts, including sarcophagi, statues, and everyday items.

What is the best time to view the highlights with fewer crowds?

Visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially Tuesdays after 1pm when the museum opens later and is less busy.

Can I take photos of the museum highlights?

Yes, non-flash photography is allowed throughout the museum. However, tripods and video recording are not permitted.

Is there a specific floor or wing for the famous sculptures?

Most major sculptures, including the Artemision bronzes and kouroi, are located on the ground floor in the Sculpture Collection.

How long should I spend seeing the highlights properly?

Plan to visit for at least 2 to 3 hours to comfortably view the main galleries and major works.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.