An International Collection in Kerameikos
The Museum of Islamic Art is housed in a neoclassical complex, donated by Lambros Eftaxias, built on a section of the ancient walls of Athens. The collection, which began with Antonis Benakis in Egypt, is considered one of the most important in the world, charting the evolution of Islamic art from the 7th to the 19th centuries. NB: Starting on 14 October 2024, the Museum will be closed to the public.
The Four Exhibition Halls
The collection comprises over 12,000 items, distributed across four halls.
The Café and a Breathtaking View
On the top floor, there’s a café serving Arabic-inspired flavours, offering a unique view of the Kerameikos archaeological site, the Thisio district, and the Acropolis. The setting is perfect for savouring the sunset, especially on days when the museum extends its opening hours.
The museum is a vibrant cultural space that connects the historical craftsmanship of the Islamic world with the urban fabric of Athens, offering a comprehensive experience of art and aesthetics.
The Four Exhibition Halls
The collection comprises over 12,000 items, distributed across four halls.
- 7th - 12th centuries: works from the early period, such as ceramics with metallic colours, wood carvings from Iraq, and rare, inscribed textiles.
- 12th - 16th centuries: ceramics from the Seljuk period and significant works from the Mamluk era, including a unique universal astrolabe from 1328/29.
- 16th - 17th centuries: The marble-clad reception hall from a Cairo mansion, complete with its fountain, and the renowned Iznik ceramics collection are particularly noteworthy.
- Later period: weapons, armour, and the valuable collection of jewellery from the Qajar era are on display.
The Café and a Breathtaking View
On the top floor, there’s a café serving Arabic-inspired flavours, offering a unique view of the Kerameikos archaeological site, the Thisio district, and the Acropolis. The setting is perfect for savouring the sunset, especially on days when the museum extends its opening hours.
The museum is a vibrant cultural space that connects the historical craftsmanship of the Islamic world with the urban fabric of Athens, offering a comprehensive experience of art and aesthetics.
