Discovering the Treasures of the National Archaeological Museum of Athens

Constructed in 1889, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, often referred to as NAMA, stands tall among the most prestigious archaeological museums worldwide. With a collection featuring some of the most renowned and unique artifacts from the ancient Greek world, this museum is a treasure trove of history just waiting to be explored. Spanning over 50 rooms across multiple floors, visitors will find an abundance of historical wonders to discover. Join us as we unveil Victoria’s top 21 fascinating highlights at NAMA.

1. The Sculpture from Epidauros

One of the striking artifacts is a sculpture hailing from Epidauros, famed for its significant theater. These water spouts, resembling lions, were once part of a structure built in the mid-4th century BC and may have connections to the healing deity, Asclepius. Among the remnants, you can still discern the head of Priam, despite much of it being lost from the sack of Troy.

2. Chariot of Diocletian

The museum showcases a magnificent chariot of Diocletian, with fragments discovered in modern-day Turkey. This Roman emperor’s palace chariot features bronze sculptures of panthers in pursuit of deer, while the top showcases Bacchus, the god of wine.

3. The Statue of a Fighting Gaul

Dating back to around 100 BC, this statue depicts a wounded Gaul protecting himself, discovered in Delos, a testament to the Roman conquest of Gaul, now comprising France and Belgium, which occurred in 52 BC.

4. Golden Treasure of Carpenizi

Hailing from the mountainous region of Carpenizi, this collection from the 4th to 2nd century BC includes stunning gold artifacts such as intricately designed belts and bracelets, alongside hairnets adorned with statuettes of the goddesses Artemis and Aphrodite.

5. Varvekian Athena

Once within the Parthenon stood a colossal statue of Athena crafted from gold and ivory. Although this original masterpiece has been lost, the Varvekian Athena serves as a replica, giving insight into what the statue may have looked like.

6. The Diplomat Amphora

Standing over five feet tall, the early Greek work known as the Diplomat Amphora was created by the renowned Dippilon Master. This funerary monument from 750 BC depicts a grieving scene surrounding a deceased figure, illustrating the mourning rituals of ancient Greece.

7. Cycladic Harp Player

Dating back 4,500 years, the Cycladic Harp Player is a small but significant marble statue representing one of the earliest known images of a musician. This seated figure, playing a harp or lyre, provides a glimpse into the ancient art of music.

8. The Ninion Tablet

Found in Eleusis and dating from 370 BC, this tablet is an important artifact related to the Eleusinian Mysteries—an ancient sacred practice in which participants vowed secrecy about the rites they experienced.

9. Koros and Khoury Collection

The museum’s display also includes the Koros, idealized human forms that preceded lifelike sculptures. One notable figure, from the temple of Poseidon, stands 10 feet tall and dates back to around 600 BC.

10. Diadem Bearer

This well-known bronze statue, created circa 100 BC and found in Delos, illustrates an athlete in the act of donning a diadem—a symbol of victory in athletic contests.

11. Statue of Aphrodite and Pan

Also from Delos, this charming sculpture from around 100 BC captures a playful moment between Aphrodite, Pan, and Eros, deviating from older, more serious depictions of deities.

12. Epinetron of Aphrodite

Used to cover the thigh while making thread, this beautifully painted epinetron showcases mythological wedding scenes, hinting at its potential role as a wedding gift.

13. Funerary Monuments from Kerameikos

These poignant relics from the Kerameikos cemetery, particularly the Grave Stele of Hegeso, illustrate intimate scenes of life and death, with the deceased depicted admiring a piece of jewelry.

14. Bronze Head of a Boxer

An intriguing artifact, this bronze head from around 330 BC presents a victorious boxer with a distinctively swollen eye, embodying the glory of ancient sporting competitions.

15. Marble Statue of Poseidon

The majestic marble statue of Poseidon, discovered on the island of Milos, is near eight feet tall and once held a trident, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient sculptors.

16. Jockey of Artemis

Dating from 150 to 140 BC and salvaged from a shipwreck, the Jockey of Artemis reveals the artistry involved in depicting equestrian scenes in ancient times.

17. The Antikythera Mechanism

From a shipwreck, this remarkable device comprised of over 30 bronze gears is often referred to as the world’s first computer, believed to predict celestial phenomena.

18. Akrotiri Collection

This collection consists of extraordinary artifacts from the city of Akrotiri, which was preserved under volcanic ash, showcasing stunning frescoes and objects from 3,500 years ago.

19. Youth from Antikythera

Another prized find from the Antikythera wreck, this bronze statue from around 340 to 330 BC remains shrouded in mystery regarding its identity and outstretched hand’s significance.

20. God of Artemis

Also discovered alongside the Jockey, this bronze figure from approximately 400 to 440 BC is thought to represent either Poseidon or Zeus, demonstrating the choir of artistic interpretations.

21. Treasures of Mycenaean Civilization

Culminating the list, this collection houses artifacts from Mycenae, famous in myth for the Trojan War. Notable pieces include the Warrior Vase, the Dagger of Lion Hunt, and the renowned funerary mask known as Agamemnon’s Mask.

With its rich history and captivating exhibits, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. For more detailed information regarding specific artifacts or additional insights, check out our other videos on Akrotiri, Mycenae, and other iconic locations. What treasures would you like to see added to this list? Join the conversation in the comments below!

source