Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MUSEUMS
1. NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
One of the world's most important museums, jam-packed with a jaw-dropping array
of treasures from the ancient and Classical Greek civilizations. Don't miss the exquis-
ite frescoes of 17th-century-BC Thira, and the golden hoard of splendid prehistoric
Mycenae. (For further details see
National Archaeological Museum
.)
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2. AGORA MUSEUM
The fascinating displays of finds from the city's ancient marketplace focus on objects
used in the workings of the first democracy, including the declaration inscribed on
marble that a government of democracy, not tyranny, was to rule. (For further de-
tails see
Agora Museum (Stoa of Attalos)
.
)
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3. MUSEUM OF GREEK MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Greek musical instruments are far more varied than the bouzouki that plucked out
the theme to
Zorba the Greek
. The Greek musical tradition, though heavily influen-
ced by Turkey and Asia, has filtered through the unique Hellenic sensibility. The ar-
ray of beautiful instruments includes carved Byzantine lyres, ivory lutes and gypsy
flutes. (For further details see
Museum of Greek Musical Instruments
.)
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4. NEW ACROPOLIS MUSEUM
Officially opened in mid-2009, this beautifully designed museum has been built
partly as a political gambit to force Britain to return the Parthenon marbles, which
currently reside in the British Museum. (For further details see
New Acropolis Mu-
seum
.)
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