Museum of Cycladic Art
Attikí
Founded in 1986 by Nikolaos and Dolly Goulandris, the Museum of Cycladic Art in Athens is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting artifacts from the Cycladic civilization and Ancient Greece. The museum's main building, designed by Ioannis Vikelas, opened in 1985, followed by the acquisition of the neoclassical Stathatos Mansion in 1991, which hosts temporary exhibitions. Its permanent collection includes over 3,000 items, featuring iconic Cycladic figurines and artifacts dating from the 4th millennium BC to the 6th century AD. The museum is renowned internationally for its significant private collection, praised by The New York Times for its cultural value. Temporary exhibitions have showcased works by celebrated modern and contemporary artists such as Salvador Dalí, Caravaggio, Ai Weiwei, and Jeff Koons, creating a dynamic dialogue between ancient and modern art. The museum also offers educational workshops and guided tours, enhancing visitor engagement with the rich cultural heritage of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean regions. Its location in central Athens makes it a prominent cultural destination for both locals and tourists.
Plan your trip to Greece with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit the museum during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the exhibits. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for special exhibitions. The museum offers discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Take advantage of guided tours and educational workshops to deepen your understanding of Cycladic art and its significance. The museum café provides a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the collections.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's permanent collection includes over 3,000 Cycladic and Ancient Greek artifacts.
- •It was praised by The New York Times as one of the world's most significant private collections of Cycladic antiquities.
- •The museum hosts temporary exhibitions featuring renowned modern artists like Salvador Dalí, Ai Weiwei, and Jeff Koons.
- •The Stathatos Mansion, part of the museum complex, is a neoclassical building acquired in 1991 for exhibitions.
- •The collection spans from the 4th millennium BC to approximately the 6th century AD, covering cultures of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.
History
The Museum of Cycladic Art was established in 1986 to house the extensive collection of Cycladic and Ancient Greek artifacts amassed by Nikolaos and Dolly Goulandris since the 1960s.
Its main building was completed in 1985, designed by architect Ioannis Vikelas.
In 1991, the museum expanded by acquiring the neoclassical Stathatos Mansion for temporary exhibitions.
Over the decades, it has grown into one of the most important institutions preserving Cycladic art, continuously enriching its collections and hosting influential exhibitions of both ancient and contemporary art.
Place Guide
Main Building1985
Designed by Ioannis Vikelas and opened in 1985, this building houses the permanent collection of Cycladic and Ancient Greek art, including iconic marble figurines and pottery.
Stathatos Mansion1991 (acquisition)
A neoclassical mansion acquired in 1991, serving as the venue for temporary exhibitions featuring both Greek and international modern and contemporary artists.
Contact
Phone: 21 0722 8321
