Design for Athens’ New National Archaeological Museum Selected

The architectural proposal of the New National Archaeological Museum in Athens. Photo source: Ministry of Culture.

Athens‘ new National Archaeological Museum will be designed and created by the architects Alexandros N Tombazis and David Chipperfield Architects, the Greek Culture Ministry announced this week.

The two architectural firms were selected after an international assessment committee overseen by Culture Minister Lina Mendoni unanimously selected their proposal for the new National Archaeological Museum.

The design innovatively brings together the current museum facilities with new infrastructure successfully integrating the building into Athens’ urban landscape while meeting museum requirements.

The new museum will extend and upgrade the current facility on Patission St in the historic center, the ministry said.

National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Photo Source: Ministry of Culture

“The proposal submitted by the architecture offices of David Chipperfield and Alexandros N Tombazis embodies the vision, creates a unique landmark in the city center and is human-centered. It highlights the national dimension of the National Archaeological Museum, which it connects to a global presence,” said Mendoni.

“We want an ‘extroverted’ museum in constant dialogue with society, with a dynamic eye to the future. The expansion of the National Archaeological Museum will significantly contribute to the regeneration of the wider area of the historic center of Athens,” she added.

With offices in London, Berlin, Milan and Shanghai, projects carried out by David Chipperfield Architects include the Neues Museum in Berlin, The Hepworth in the UK, and Museo Jumex in Mexico.

Greek architect Alexandros Tombazis is known for award-wining projects including the Church of the Santíssima Trindade in Fátima, Portugal and the Archaeological Museum of Delphi.

Ten proposals made it to the final selection process.