Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore Greece’s most important archaeological sites, museums, and monuments free of charge. Entrance to all sites managed by the Ministry of Culture is open to everyone.
This includes iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis of Athens, the Ancient Agora of Athens, the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the sanctuary of Delphi Archaeological Site, the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri Archaeological Site on Santorini, and the famous Palace of Knossos in Crete, as well as all other archaeological sites under the supervision of the Greek Ministry of Culture.
The Acropolis Museum also participates by offering free admission to visitors (usually from 09:00 to 17:00, depending on the winter schedule).
This special day honors the legacy of Melina Mercouri, the legendary Greek actress and Minister of Culture who dedicated her life to promoting Greek culture worldwide and to the campaign for the return of the Parthenon Marbles.Melina Mercouri was the woman who left a profound mark on the Ministry of Culture during the 1980s.
A famous actress, a courageous figure of the resistance against the dictatorship, and a politician with great influence both in Greece and abroad, she served as Minister of Culture for eight and a half years (1981–1989 and October 1993 – March 6, 1994). Above all, however, she was a great Greek woman—someone deeply admired and passionately loved by the Greek people. Using her international fame and personal charisma, Melina Mercouri managed to bring culture into the everyday life of Greeks, making it a central topic on the front pages of newspapers and in the media.
During her time as Minister, she raised the issue of the return of the Parthenon Marbles from the British Museum to the Acropolis Museum. The Parthenon Marbles are masterpieces that were removed by Lord Elgin, mutilating one of the most important monuments of ancient Greek civilization.
Because the old Acropolis Museum would not have been able to house them, she initiated the procedures for building a new museum. This new museum would keep its most beautiful and largest hall ready to receive the Parthenon Marbles when they are finally returned to Greece—the country that created them.
She was also the inspiration behind the institution of the “European Capital of Culture,” the first and, to this day, unique cultural initiative that brings together the countries of a united Europe through culture. This remarkable institution began in Athens.
Tickets:
Free tickets are usually issued directly at the ticket offices on site or through the official platform hhticket.gr. However, due to the free admission, a higher number of visitors is expected, so early arrival is recommended.
Today is a wonderful opportunity to rediscover Greece’s cultural heritage and remember the powerful message Melina Mercouri left behind:
“Culture is the heavy industry of Greece.” 🇬🇷