The Acropolis Museum (Greek: Μουσείο Ακρόπολης, Mouseio Akropolis) is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens.
The museum was built to house every artifact found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes, from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. It also lies over the ruins of a part of Roman and early Byzantine Athens.
The museum was founded in 2003, while the Organization of the Museum was established in 2008. It opened to the public on 20 June 2009. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres. The Organization for the Construction of the new museum is chaired by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Professor Emeritus of Archaeology, Dimitrios Pandermalis.
Visitor Info
Rating
★ 4.7 38,287 reviews
Visit Time
~120 min
Best Time
Weekday morning
Insider Tips
- · Pair the museum with the Acropolis itself rather than treating it as a standalone stop
- · The glass floors and Parthenon gallery are the key highlights
- · Book a morning slot if you want a calmer visit
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why was this museum built? ▾
It was built partly to house all surviving sculptures from the Acropolis in a purpose-designed facility and partly to strengthen Greece's argument for the return of the Elgin Marbles from the British Museum.
Where are the Elgin Marbles? ▾
Lord Elgin removed about half the Parthenon's sculptural program to London between 1801 and 1812; they remain in the British Museum despite ongoing Greek requests for their repatriation.
What is the most important piece in the collection? ▾
The Caryatids — five of the six original porch maidens from the Erechtheion — are displayed at eye level in a climate-controlled gallery on level 2; the sixth is in the British Museum.
Is there an entrance fee? ▾
€15 for adults (€10 November–March); the ticket does not include the Acropolis site itself, which requires a separate or combined ticket.
How long should I spend here? ▾
Budget at least 90–120 minutes; a detailed visit covering all three floors including the Parthenon Gallery can easily take 2.5 hours.
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Acropolis Museum — offline map & tips