Athens: National Acheological Museum Re-opens
Athens, Greece: Athens Archaeological Musuem reopens on 24 June 2004. Better light, lighting and displays, special paints and improved disabled access and elevator. New atrium, cafe and toilets.
Among many other improvements are the display of the gold of Mycenae and the Priamus treasure that Schliemann the archaeologist found in Troy.
Neolithic golden jewelry is being exhibited for the first time.
There are around 9000 exhibits in total. At present near 5000 square metres of the eventual 9000 suare metres exhibit space are open.
A special exhibition for the Olympic Games starts on 15 July 2004.
Museum opening hours are every day except Monday, from 8.00 am to 3.00 pm until 6 July and from the 7th of July from 8.00 am to 7.00 pm.
(On holidays the museum closes at 3.00 in the afternoon).
Tickets are 6.00 Euros.
It is suggested that at least 2 hours be devoted to enjoy the exhibits – perhaps longer, and definitely so if you include a stop at the cafe!
To thoroughly enjoy the museum and many other facets of Athens the mini-guide to the city is most helpful – it’s at http://www.cretetravel.com/Athens .Many people spend a day or two in Athens on the way to or from Crete, which also has its main archaeological museum in Herkalion, being refurbished.
