Museum of Cycladic Art, Athens (must see)

This museum is home to one of the world's most exquisite collections of Cycladic art, featuring elegant carvings that are unlike anything found in contemporary civilizations. These artifacts are remnants of an ancient culture that thrived in the Cycladic Islands of the Aegean Sea from around 3,200 to 1,000 BC. The islands formed a homogenous unit, with pristine white marble from places like Paros and Naxos, as well as rich mineral deposits including gold, silver, and copper on other islands. Such an abundance of resources led to a flourishing industry in various arts and crafts, especially sculpture, metallurgy, and jewelry-making. The items were traded not only within Greece but also with Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

The museum's collection was initially curated by Nikolaos and Dolly Goulandrís, members of Greece's most prominent shipping dynasty, and it has grown over time with contributions from other Greek collectors. Dating back to the 3rd millennium BC, the Cycladic marble sculptures depicting both women and men exhibit a haunting simplicity that has inspired numerous 20th-century artists and sculptors, including Henry Moore, Picasso, and Modigliani. Additionally, the museum features an outstanding selection of ancient Greek and Cypriot art pieces, some dating as far back as 5,000 years ago.

In the main building, the Cycladic collection is on the first floor, ancient Greek art is on the second floor, and the third floor features ancient Cypriot art, while the fourth floor houses objects depicting everyday life in antiquity. The neoclassical Stathátos Mansion, an adjacent structure designed by Bavarian architect Ernst Ziller in 1895, hosts temporary exhibitions, receptions, and lectures.

Why You Should Visit:
The four floors of this exceptional museum offer a comprehensive exploration of the history and culture of the Cycladic Islands through various means, including exhibits, artifacts, soundscapes, and films.

Tip:
Be sure to explore the second building as well. While you may come across interesting temporary exhibitions, the building itself is worth a brief stroll.