Academy of Athens, Athens

The Academy's edifice stands as a prominent Athens landmark and houses the nation's preeminent research institution. Established in 1926, its name pays homage to the ancient Academy of Plato, a renowned center of learning in classical antiquity.

Designed by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen and completed in 1885, the building offers a captivating glimpse into Athens as it stood over a century ago. It occupies the right side of a neoclassical trio that also encompasses the National Library on the left and the University of Athens in the center. Notably, the main entrance boasts two Ionic pillars adorned with figures of Athena and Apollo, while statues of illustrious ancient Greek philosophers and writers, including Socrates and Plato, grace both the exterior and interior.

The Athens Academy's significance is further exemplified by its depiction on a high-value collector's €100 coin minted to commemorate the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics. This choice aimed to underscore the idea that in the city of Athena, the Olympic Games should not only be a paramount sporting event but should also emphasize the equal importance of intellectual and cultural pursuits.

Tip:
You can take a peak inside to see at least the meeting room, splendidly decorated and impeccably preserved.