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One of the most iconic artifacts in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens is the Mask of Agamemnon—a gold funerary mask dating back to around 1550–1500 BCE. Discovered in 1876 by Heinrich Schliemann at Mycenae, the mask was initially believed to belong to the legendary king Agamemnon of Homer’s epics. While modern research suggests it predates the Trojan War by several centuries, the mask remains a symbol of Mycenaean craftsmanship and royal burial practices. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a must-see for visitors interested in ancient Greek history.
Housed in the museum’s Bronze Collection, the Antikythera Mechanism is a remarkable testament to ancient Greek engineering. Recovered from a shipwreck off the island of Antikythera in 1901, this 2nd-century BCE device is considered the world’s oldest known analog computer. Comprising at least 30 bronze gears, it was used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses, and to track cycles such as the ancient Olympic Games. The mechanism’s complexity and purpose highlight the advanced technological understanding of the ancient Greeks.
One of the most striking sculptures in the National Archaeological Museum is the Artemision Bronze, a masterpiece of Classical Greek art. Discovered in a shipwreck off Cape Artemision and dating to around 460 BCE, the statue depicts either Zeus or Poseidon—his extended arm once held a thunderbolt or trident. Standing over two meters tall, the figure captures a moment of dynamic motion and power, showcasing the Greek mastery of bronze sculpture. The detailed anatomy, lifelike stance, and expressive energy reflect the artistic achievements of the early Classical period.
