Athens Islamic Art museum

Location: Kerameikos

The Museum of Islamic Art in Athens: The Museum of Islamic Art is located in the area of Kerameikos, close to the metro station of Thissio. The museum, a department of the Benaki Museum, opened in July 2004 and is housed in a neoclassical building hosting approximately 10,000 items that date from the 7th to the 19th century. Antonis Benakis, the founder of the museum, engaged his collection in the early 20th century.

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The Museum of Islamic Art is regarded as one of the most renowned in its category, being home to exhibits of major cultural and artistic significance of the Asian historical ancestry. The rare artifacts and objects include weapons, jewelry, tools, etc. that derive from countries where the Islamic civilization flourished, especially due to the establishment and expansion of the Ottoman Empire, such as Asia Minor, the Middle East, Arabia, North Africa, and even Spain.
Among the impressive items on display, one will encounter rare door panels of the 8th century from Mesopotamia, a renowned saddle from Bursa and even the facade of a reception of a Cairo mansion from the 17th century.

The impressive neoclassical building is located at the corner of Dipylou Street and Agion Asomaton Street and is a donation by Lambros Eftaxias. During the restoration operations, archaeological research brought to light a tomb as well as parts of the ancient fortification of Athens. The findings were properly preserved and are open to visitors.

Lastly, note that a cafe is part of the facilities of the Museum of Islamic Art, serving coffee and snacks inspired by Arabic gastronomy.

The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday and its opening hours are 10:00-18:00.

How to get there

There are many ways to reach the Museum of Islamic Art from any location in Athens.

Private transfers: We recommend using an online pre-booked transfer service, which provides transfer by taxi, minibus, or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the port, airport, or your hotel. Alternatively, there’s the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: (0030) 18288, (0030) 18222, (0030) 18180. You can also book your taxi online.

On foot: As the Museum of Islamic Art is located in a central area of Athens, it can be easily reached on foot from Syntagma Square in approximately 20 minutes.

By metro: The closest metro station is Thissio (Green Line). Note that the Museum of Islamic Art is located within a 5-minute walking distance from the metro. Get a map of the metro here.

By bus/trolleybus: The closest bus stop is “Ag. Asomatoi”. Check the routes and the official timetables on OASA Telematics.