National Gallery in Athens Expected to Open in March

The National Gallery in Athens is expected to open its doors to the public in March, as the project for the revamp and expansion of its premises has entered its final phase.

According to Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, there have been difficulties and delays due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, but the Ministry has set a strict schedule in order for the building to be delivered on time and house again the art collection of the National Gallery.

“Everything will be ready for the inauguration ceremony, which has been scheduled by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for March 25,” she said during a visit to the construction site on Christmas eve.

“The renovated Gallery will place Athens among the European capitals, whose galleries narrate the story of contemporary art,” she added.

The construction of the National Gallery’s amphitheater was recently completed with the installation of seats.

The cloakroom and the shop in the foyer area as well as the coffee shop on the third floor have also been completed.

The floors and lighting systems of the exhibition areas are ready, while works continue in the halls that will house the periodical exhibitions and in the Gallery’s surrounding area.

Furthermore, the installation of security systems will be completed shortly.