Athens Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center

Location: Kallithea

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC) is located in Paleo Faliro, a civic and old-school neighborhood of Athens. Its grounds host three different projects; the National Library, the Greek National Opera and the Stavros Niarchos Park.

The idea behind the realization of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center was conceived in 1998 when the Stavros Niarchos Foundation decided to proceed with a donation that would create a multi-space that would enrich the cultural facade of Athens.
Initially, the donation was destined separately for the National Library and the Greek National Opera, but as the plans proceeded, it was decided that a new building should be constructed, one that would co-host both. In 2008, the prestigious task was undertaken by the Italian architect Renzo Piano, while the construction process began in 2012 and was completed in 2016.

The institution of the National Library was established in 1832, a few years after Greece was declared an independent state. Until recently, it was hosted at the marvelous neoclassical building of the National Library on Panepistimiou Avenue, designed by the eminent German architect, Ernst Ziller.
With great respect to its history and care for the extremely significant books, documents and writings hosted, the basis of the library was transferred gradually to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, to meet up with the demands of the new digital era. Aspiring to become a research center of global resonance, the new National Library offers ultra-modern facilities to assist the academic audience, researchers, students and well as readers.

The Greek National Opera is another impressive achievement, a venue that can host even the most demanding performances. With the latest technological equipment, impeccable acoustics, supreme design, and premium aesthetics, it can conduct major singing and dancing productions, providing a superior experience to artists and the audience alike.

Last but not least, Stavros Niarchos Park is a breath of fresh air to the populous city of Athens. Vast in size, the park is overgrown with classic Mediterranean flora such as olive trees, aromatic herbs, and flowers that are planted carefully, in order to bloom according to each season. The park is full of alleys and places suitable for gatherings, where families and friends can enjoy a picnic or a walk, while children can engage in hours of playing. Bicycles are permitted, and it is also a great place for athletic activities. Some of the most impressive features of the park are the grand sea-water canal with the picturesque esplanade, the Lighthouse, which is an ideal spot for reading and relaxing, as well as the photovoltaic canopy.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center was donated to the Greek State in 2017 after an impressive ceremony. The entrance to its grounds is free, while there are special facilities for disabled people.

A visit to SNFCC can be combined with a walk to Marina Flisvos for a meal or coffee by the sea or a visit to the Planetarium.

How to get there

There are many ways to reach Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center from any location in Athens.

SNFCC Shuttle Bus: A shuttle bus transfers guests from Syntagma to SNFCC and vice versa for free every day. For more info and timetables, you can visit the SNFFC official website.

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.

Car rental: There is the option of renting a car and picking it up directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Using a rental car allows visitors to discover the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center and many other places of interest in Athens at their own pace.

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

By tram: The closest tram stop is Tzitzifies (Route 7, Aghia Triada - Asklepieio Voulas). Note that Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center is located within a 10-minute walking distance from the tram stop.