We visited the museum the day after we visited the actual Parthenon site and I'm glad we did it in that order. Although there would also be value in doing the reverse. It was a cooler rainy day and not surprisingly the place was busy. But it's a large building and can comfortably absorb a large number of people. While Standing in the ticket line we lamented the foolishness of not buying tickets online in advance. They have a separate line for those folks, or more correctly a separate entrance door - there was no line!

So do yourself a favor, buy your tickets online and save a lot of time getting in the door!

The seemingly simple design of the building belies the incredible thought that went into its elegance. Built on top of a ruin, that will one day become part of its exhibitions, it's columns mirror the design principles and size of the original Parthenon, and the size on the upper floor allows for the display of both original artifacts and copies of the frieze layed out in the same orientation and parallel to the actual building visible on the hill through the windows. Stunning!

Having worked in a museum for amost a decade, I fully understand the challenges in balancing the protection of artifacts (in this case truly priceless ones) with the access of patrons so they can experience and learn from them. I was thrilled to see how this museum tilts toward the visitor experience. While some of the smaller or more fragile pieces are behind glass, the vast majority are not. They are unprotected, without restraint barriers around them, and at heights that allow visitors to get up close to these pieces. This is extraordinary. Archaeologists are also available throughout the floors to answer questions.

They created this environment of access consciously, but must still attend to the protection of the artifacts. They do this with a large fleet of security personnel throughout the building who were attentive and relatively unobtrusive, but did not hesitate to assertively get in the face of people doing stupid things. Sadly, we saw that happen frequently. Some folks don't seem to understand the privilege they are being offered and always want to push the envelope.

The acropolis is an amazing site, and the museum does it justice.

If you are visiting the Acropolis going to the museum is a must. The museum gives you a clear picture of what you see at the Acropolis, how it was built and the pertinent history behind the various periods of occupation...plus you have a great view of the Acropolis from the fourth floor.