Athens, the southernmost capital on the European mainland, is one of the world's oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. According to Greek mythology the city was named after Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom. Classical Athens was one of the most powerful city-states in ancient Greece. It was a centre for democracy, the arts, education and philosophy, and was highly influential throughout the European continent, particularly in Ancient Rome. For this reason it is often regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation and the birthplace of democracy.

Planning for an archaeological museum began with the founding of the Kingdom of Greece. Once financing was secured, construction began in 1866. The main building was inaugurated in 1874, followed by the two side wings in 1881 and 1885.

In 2009, the museum was expanded by approximately 24,000 m² of exhibition space, allowing it to display over 2,000 additional ancient exhibits.

The about 11,000 objects on display come from all regions of Greece, as all important finds were brought exclusively there until the 20th century, so it is considered one of the greatest museums in the world and contains the richest collection of Greek Antiquity artifacts worldwide.

The Akrotiri frescoes - 1700 BC.

The Antelope Fresco
was found during the excavations at Akrotiri on the southern coast of the ringed islands of Santorini which was covered by thick deposits of ash and pumice from the great Bronze Age eruption of the Santorini volcano that occurred between 1627 and 1600 BC. This is a leading example of Minoan painting. It depics two antelopes sketched with strong, dark lines on a white plaster background.

The Boxer Fresco

Depicted to the left depicts two boys boxing, perhaps a ritual sport rather than a competitive match. They wear only a belt and loincloth with a boxing glove only on the right hand. The boy on the left wears a surprising amount of jewellery (necklace, earrings, bracelets..), whilst his opponent has none.