The buildings of the Academy of Athens, the National and Capodistrian University of Athens and, of course, the National Library, bind together to form the so-called “Athens Neoclassical Trilogy”.

Danish Architect Theophilos Hansen erected this masterpiece of a building in 2 phases: the first one in the period 1859-1863 and the second one in 1868-1885. It is regarded as the finest of Hansen's work, the most beautiful such building in the world, and consists of aesthetically distinct parts, which altogether form a harmonic visual. The structure is set off by its wide pediment and Ionic Style entrance which opens the door to 2 lateral wings, connecting perfectly to a corridor. One can observe Hansen's originating ideas, as the key elements to captivate one’s eye were inspired by the Erechtheion formation found on the Eastern side of the Acropolis; these elements are also visible upon entry into the Academy.

The embossed components found on the central pediment and statues, positioned ideally on the outside of the building, were created by sculptor Drosis. Many more contributed to this fine ornament, including Melnizki, who embossed the 8 smaller elements found on the pediment and Grupenckel, who truly enriched the inside of the building with exquisite wall paintings.

The completed masterpiece was delivered to the then Prime Minister Charilaos Trikoupis in 1887 after being financed by Sinas, Ambassador of Greece in Vienna, Berlin and Munich and, later, by his widow. From time to time, deterioration due to ageing is rectified and brought back to life, with a subtle and costly restoration process which allows its original charm to live on..
(Photos by Michael Tziotis)