The Neoclassical Buildings Of Athens

What city springs to mind when you think of neoclassical architecture? Rome? Paris, maybe? Well, you would be surprised to know that Athens, as the capital of Greece and the classical world, except for its legendary historical monuments dating back to the Classical Era, has also a charming neoclassical side.

A walk through the historic center reveals some of the city's most stunning neoclassical structures, carrying so much history and splendid grandeur within its walls.

Zappeion Hall


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The Zappeion Hall is located within the National Gardens of Athens and is considered one of Greece's most impressive neoclassical structures. It was the first building in the world constructed specifically for the Greek Olympic Games. Its construction was funded by national benefactor Evangelos Zappas, who assigned the work to Danish architect Theophil Hansen. The building now frequently hosts art exhibitions and other events.

Academy of Athens


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The neoclassical building of the Academy between Panepistimiou and Akadimias Street was designed" in 1859 by the Danish architect Theophil Hansen, as part of an architectural "trilogy along with the University and the National Library. Highly influenced by the Acropolis and the overall architecture of the Golden Age of Athens, many believe it to be Hansen's most important architectural achievement and one of the most astonishing neoclassical structures worldwide.

Iliou Melathron


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On the same street as the Academy of Athens, you will find this majestic three-story building. Built between 1878 and 1880 for Heinrich Schliemannby renowned architect Ernst Ziller, it was considered the most glorious residence of Athens. Its elaborate design is inspired by Neoclassicism and the Renaissance Revival movement. The marble columns and the replicas of the triglyph and metope of the temple of Athena in Troy are the most distinctive features of this iconic building. Today it hosts the Monetary Museum of Athens.

Stathatos Mansion


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The Stathatos Mansion is a neoclassical villa on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue. It was built in 1895 by the Saxon-Greek architect Ernst Ziller and, until 1937, served as the residence of Othon and Athina Stathatos. In 1982, it was purchased by the Greek government with the intention of housing visiting royals and state officials, although this never happened. Today it is part of the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art.

Presidential Mansion


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On Irodou Attikou Street lies this spectacular mansion that now serves as the official residence of the President of the Hellenic Republic. Formerly known as Royal Palace, its construction began in 1891 by architect Ernst Ziller, intending to present Crown Prince Constantine with a private dwelling. Despite its otherworldly glamor, the building is also known for its magnificent gardens, constituting a green haven in the heart of Athens.