In Athens several museums are marking the occasion with events that invite the public to connect with art, history, and culture in fresh and meaningful ways.
Acropolis Museum
On Saturday, May 17, the Acropolis Museum invites visitors to see ancient stories through a new lens. At 11:00, the thematic presentation “Water Routes: from Nature to Myth and the City” highlights how essential — and symbolic — water was in ancient life.
Later that day, at 18:30, the museum hosts a special discussion between artist Michael Rakowitz and curator Elina Kountouri, tied to Rakowitz’s new exhibition “Allspice | Michael Rakowitz & Ancient Cultures.” His work blends contemporary art with ancient memory — a fitting tribute to transformation and continuity.
On Sunday, May 18, admission is free all day (9:00–20:00). Archaeologists will be on hand to present artifacts from Mesopotamia and the southeastern Mediterranean, in dialogue with Rakowitz’s deeply personal pieces. Expect themes of exile, heritage, and resilience.
Maria Callas Museum
On Sunday, May 18, the Maria Callas Museum celebrates International Museum Day with free admission from 10:00 to 19:00 and an invitation to experience the diva’s legacy in a new light.
In line with this year’s theme — “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities” — the museum launched “POV: My Take on Maria Callas Museum,” a creative initiative inviting visitors aged 16 to 106 to create short video reels inspired by their personal tour. These videos will be screened on the day in the event hall, followed by an open discussion with the creators.
It’s a celebration of voice, perspective, and the evolving ways museums connect with the public.
Free tickets available via more.com.
Alekos Fassianos Museum
On Sunday, May 18, from 12:00 to 13:00, the Alekos Fassianos Museum hosts a guided tour (in Greek) for up to 30 guests. You’ll walk through the painter’s early abstract works, Byzantine influences, poetic collages, and theatrical set designs — all in a space he helped design himself. It’s a rare opportunity to get close to the vibrant, often playful universe Fassianos created.
Hellenic Children’s Museum
For families with younger kids, the Hellenic Children’s Museum is bringing play to the heart of learning. On May 18, it offers the program “Come… Let’s Play!” — a creative, interactive experience designed for children aged 4 to 12.
There are two sessions: 11:00–12:45 and 13:15–15:00, filled with games, storytelling, puppets, and more. What makes it extra special? It’s designed and led by participants of the museum’s “Museum Education” seminar — young people sharing their ideas with even younger ones. It’s free to join, but booking through more.com is essential.
Industrial Gas Museum
In the heart of Gazi, the Industrial Gas Museum is turning the spotlight on local history and imagination.
The popular theatrical tour “Next Stop: Gazohori” (already fully booked as of May 12) takes guests through the neighborhood’s stories — its industrial roots, its people, and how it became the vibrant district it is today.
Meanwhile, the workshop “From Gazi to Infinity” invites children aged 6 to 11 to dream up the city’s future. With scissors, paper, and a dose of imagination, kids can build their own visions of what Athens could become. It runs from 12:00 to 13:30 at the New Water Gas building, and spots can be reserved by phone at 2130109325.
