Benaki Museum: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Greek Art and Culture

Introduction

If you are planning to visit Greece, then one place you definitely should not miss is the Benaki Museum. Located in Athens, the capital city of Greece, the museum is a treasure trove of Greek art and culture. From ancient artefacts to modern art, the museum has a vast collection that will leave you awe-inspired. In this article, we will explore the museum in detail and discover the hidden gems of Greek art and culture.

History of Benaki Museum

The Benaki Museum was established in 1930 by Antonis Benakis, a wealthy Greek who had a passion for collecting artefacts related to Greek history and culture. The museum was initially housed in his family home in Athens, and it was later expanded to include several other buildings in the city. The museum is now one of the most significant cultural institutions in Greece, with a collection that spans several centuries.

Exhibits at Benaki Museum

The museum has a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits that cover various periods of Greek history and culture. Here are some of the most notable exhibits:

The Ancient Artifacts

The museum has an impressive collection of ancient artefacts, including pottery, jewellery, and sculptures. The exhibits include objects from the Neolithic period to the Roman era.

The Byzantine Collection

The museum’s Byzantine collection is one of the most significant in the world. It includes icons, manuscripts, and jewelry from the Byzantine era.

The Folk Art Collection

The museum has an extensive collection of Greek folk art, including costumes, textiles, and decorative arts. These exhibits showcase the traditional way of life of the Greek people.

The Modern Art Collection

The museum has a vast collection of modern art, including works by famous Greek artists such as Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika and Yannis Tsarouchis.

Lindos Acropolis: A Hidden Gem of Greek History

Apart from the Benaki Museum, Greece has many other hidden gems of history and culture. One such place is the Lindos Acropolis, located on the island of Rhodes. The Lindos Acropolis is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Greek history and architecture.

History of Lindos Acropolis

The Lindos Acropolis is believed to have been built in the 4th century BC by the Greeks. It was later occupied by the Romans and then by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century.

The architecture of Lindos Acropolis

The Lindos Acropolis is a beautiful example of ancient Greek architecture. The most notable structure on the acropolis is the Temple of Athena Lindia, which was built in the 4th century BC. The temple is a Doric-style structure with 12 columns and an imposing facade.

What to See at Lindos Acropolis

Apart from the Temple of Athena Lindia, there are several other structures on the acropolis that are worth seeing. These include the Propylaea, the Hellenistic Stoa, and the Byzantine Church of Agios Ioannis.

Conclusion

Greece is a country with a rich history and culture, and the Benaki Museum and Lindos Acropolis are just two examples of the many hidden gems that the country has to offer. A visit to these places will give you a glimpse into the fascinating world of Greek history and culture.