🏛️LandmarkClosed · Opens tomorrow 9:00 AMFree

Vallianeio Megaron

Name: Vallianeio Megaron
Rating: 4.6

4.6 ·

Pause at Vallianeio Megaron, one of Athens' most refined neoclassical buildings. Spend a quick 15 minutes admiring Hansen's facade and the library setting before continuing your walk through the city centre.

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Full description

Vallianeio Megaron is the building historically associated with the Greek National Library, designed by Theophil Hansen with construction overseen by Ernst Ziller and financed by the three Vallianos brothers, hence the name. Its grand neoclassical facade is the main draw, and the library has long held Greek-related books, periodicals and manuscripts.

Entry is free and a visit is quick, around 15 minutes, which suits it as a short architectural stop on a walk through central Athens. Reviewers praise the facade but flag that the surrounding streets can feel uncomfortable, especially after dark.

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Address

Ethniki Vivliothiki, Panepistimiou 32, Athina 106 79, Greece · Athina

Website

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Hours

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Booking

Walk-in

Duration

15 min

Best time

morning or lunchtime

Intensity

Easy pace

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Good to know

Go in the morning, as listed hours run only to early afternoon on weekdays
check opening days before you set out, since it is closed on Saturday
stay alert in the surrounding streets and avoid walking there alone at night.

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Reviews

The National Library was designed by Theophil Hansen and its construction was supervised by Ernst Ziller. It was financed by brothers, Panagis, Marinos and Andreas Vallianos, hence the building’s early name, Vallianeion. Since 2017 the National Library has moved at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre. The…

Arzu Aktayli

1/5

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