Museum of Cycladic Art
Neofitou Douka 4, Athens, Greece, 106 74
This museum houses one of the top ancient art collections in Athens, centered around the Cycladic figurines dating from 3000 BC to 2000 BC that inspired many 20th-century artists. Admire Greek and Cypriot art spanning the millennia between 2000 BC and 500 AD, as well as a multimedia exhibit of scenes from daily life in ancient Greece.
The basics
The Museum of Cycladic Art is among the most important in the capital, so book your ticket in advance or join a guided museum tour to avoid the line at the ticket window. Many guided tours also stop at the Benaki Museum to take in its collection that traces Greek history from the Bronze Age to the 20th century.
The museum gets its name from the Cycladic civilization that dominated the Cycladic Islands between 3200 and 2100 BC, and its collection includes artifacts dating from three different time periods during this civilization. There is also a collection of ancient Greek art with pieces dating from 2000 BC through 395 AD, and Cyprian art from prehistoric times to the Roman Empire. A highlight is an exhibition depicting the daily life of ancient Greeks; it uses photos, diagrams, and videos to explain wedding and funeral rituals, entertainment, school, military expeditions, and athletics.
Things to know before you go
- The Cycladic figurines on the ground floor of the museum inspired artists from Picasso to Modigliani, so will fascinate enthusiasts of modern art as well as history buffs.
- The museum is comprised of two neighboring buildings connected by a glass-roofed hallway. * The main building holds the museum's permanent collection, while the adjacent building hosts temporary exhibits of contemporary art.
- There is a café for snacks, light meals, and drinks, as well as a gift shop inside the museum.
- Both museum buildings are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible; access is via the main building and there are elevators inside.
How to get there
The Museum of Cycladic Art is located at 4 Neofytou Douka, and can be reached via metro lines 2 and 3 (Syntagma stop). Alternatively, the museum is an easy walk from many of the city’s central sights.
When to get there
The museum is open throughout the year, but is closed on select days, so it’s recommended to check up on the opening schedule before you visit. The stylish cafè is an excellent spot for a light meal in the heart of the city, so time your visit just before or after lunch.
The Benaki Museum
Along with the Museum of Cycladic Art, the Benaki Museum is considered one of the best collections of ancient Greek art and culture in Athens. With thousands of artworks and artifacts spanning Greek history from the Bronze Age to today, a visit here offers an overview of millennia of Hellenic evolution.
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