N
Athens Observatory telescope under a clear night sky

National Observatory Of Athens

Athens, Greece

National Observatory of Athens: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The National Observatory of Athens (NOA) is one of Greece’s most significant scientific institutions and a remarkable historical site. Founded in 1842, shortly after Greece’s independence, the Observatory stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to scientific advancement and cultural renewal. Perched atop the Hill of the Nymphs, just southwest of the Acropolis, the NOA offers visitors not only a deep dive into the history of astronomy and scientific research in Greece, but also sweeping views of Athens’ ancient and modern landmarks (NOA History; This is Athens; Greeka).

Today, the Observatory is a vibrant center for research in astronomy, astrophysics, meteorology, and geodynamics, with international collaborations involving agencies such as NASA and ESA (Greek News Agenda). For visitors, NOA provides guided tours, access to historic telescopes like the Doridis refractor, and special sky-watching events, making it a unique destination for both science enthusiasts and travelers exploring Athens’ cultural treasures.

Table of Contents

Founding and Early History

The National Observatory of Athens was established in 1842, thanks to the philanthropic efforts of Georgios Sinas, a prominent Greek banker and ambassador. Sinas’s vision was to promote scientific inquiry in the newly independent Greek state. The chosen location, the Hill of the Nymphs, was historically significant; ancient astronomer Meton of Athens conducted observations in this area during the 5th century BCE (NOA History; This is Athens).

The Observatory’s distinctive neoclassical building, designed by Theophil Hansen, features an X-shaped layout aligned with the four cardinal points, highlighting its dedication to celestial study. The first director, Georg Bouris, played a crucial role in establishing the scientific direction and reputation of the institution.

Expansion and Scientific Achievements

In the latter half of the 19th century and early 20th century, the NOA expanded its research activities. Under directors such as Johann Friedrich Julius Schmidt and Dimitrios Eginitis, it became a leading center for astronomy, meteorology, seismology, and cartography (Astronomical Heritage). Schmidt’s precise lunar maps and Eginitis’s modernization efforts—including the introduction of the World Time Zone system and the Gregorian calendar in Greece—cemented the Observatory’s global reputation. Eginitis also expanded the Observatory’s network with new meteorological and seismological stations throughout the country.


Architectural and Scientific Heritage

The NOA’s Sinas building is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture and houses the Astrogeophysics Museum, a collection of 19th-century scientific instruments, historic telescopes, and a notable scientific library (Greeka). Until the mid-1960s, the Observatory was responsible for setting Athens’ official time, a tradition marked by the noon dropping of a large ball from the Observatory’s flagpole (This is Athens).


Modern Research and International Collaborations

Today, the National Observatory of Athens comprises three main research institutes:

  • Institute of Astronomy, Astrophysics, Space Applications and Remote Sensing (IAASARS)
  • Institute of Environmental Research and Sustainable Development
  • Geodynamics Institute

These institutes conduct advanced research in astrophysics, seismology, climate science, and space technology. The Observatory operates several research stations, including the Astronomical Station of Penteli, established to minimize the impact of urban light pollution (NOA; NEON). NOA’s telescopes have been chosen for NASA’s Psyche mission, and the Observatory is actively involved in ESA’s EarthCARE satellite project (Greek News Agenda).


Visiting the National Observatory of Athens

Visiting Hours

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Closed: Mondays and public holidays
  • Evening Tours: Select dates, usually Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 8:00 PM (check the official website for updates)

Tickets and Admission

  • General admission: €5
  • Students and seniors: €3
  • Children under 12: Free
  • Group rates: Available with advance booking
  • Special events: Fees may apply
  • How to buy: Tickets can be purchased online via the official NOA website or at the entrance

Accessibility

The Observatory is committed to accessibility, with wheelchair access and guided tours available for visitors with disabilities. Some historic buildings may have limited accessibility due to their age.

Travel Tips

  • Location: Hill of the Nymphs, Thissio district, opposite the Acropolis
  • Metro: Thissio station (short walk)
  • Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain
  • Nearby sites: Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora, Philopappos Hill

Special Events and Programs

NOA organizes public lectures, astronomy workshops, and evening sky-watching events. Educational programs for schools and inclusive initiatives for vulnerable groups are offered throughout the year (Greeka; NOA).


Guided Tours and Visitor Experience

Tour Highlights

Guided tours (in Greek and English) encompass the main Sinas building, the library, and the museum. Visitors can view rare scientific instruments and antique star charts, and learn about the evolution of astronomy in Greece. Tours typically last 60–90 minutes.

Historic Telescopes

  • Doridis Telescope: A 40 cm refractor from 1902, restored for public use during evening tours.
  • Meridian Refractor: Housed in the Ziller building and used for educational demonstrations.
  • Schmidt’s Telescope: Used for the famous lunar map.

Panoramic Views

The Observatory’s hilltop location provides two stunning outlooks: one toward the Acropolis and another to the city’s western hills. Sunset and night tours offer especially memorable vistas.


Facilities and Accessibility

Amenities include restrooms and a gift shop. Some pathways are steep or uneven, so comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended. The Observatory and its grounds are partially accessible; visitors with mobility concerns should contact staff in advance.


Nearby Attractions

The NOA is within walking distance of the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Philopappos Hill, and the lively Thissio and Plaka neighborhoods. Its central location makes it easy to combine with other Athens historical sites (Greece Is).


Photography and Multimedia

Photography is permitted in most areas, though flash and tripods may be restricted during telescope sessions. The Observatory’s panoramic views are ideal for memorable photos. Virtual tours and high-quality images are available on the official website.


Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Visit during evening hours in summer for comfortable temperatures and stargazing.
  • Wear sun protection and carry water, especially in summer months.
  • Book tours in advance during peak tourist seasons.
  • Dress appropriately for walking on uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; evening tours on select days.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: €5 for adults, €3 for students/seniors, free for children under 12. Special events may require additional fees.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Greek and English. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the site accessible?
A: Partial accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Contact the Observatory for details.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, except where restricted during telescope use.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Via Thissio metro station or on foot from central Athens.


Cultural Significance and Legacy

The National Observatory of Athens is a beacon of Greek scientific and educational progress. As Greece’s first research institution, it played a foundational role in establishing the country’s scientific identity and advancing public engagement in science. Its educational outreach, public events, and research collaborations reflect an ongoing commitment to both national heritage and global scientific discovery (Astronomical Heritage; NOA).

The Observatory’s neoclassical architecture and panoramic setting make it an enduring symbol of Athens, bridging the city’s ancient legacy and modern aspirations. Today, the NOA continues to inspire visitors of all ages through its blend of history, science, and public programming.



For the latest visitor information, events, and ticket booking, visit the official NOA website. Enhance your travel experience by downloading the Audiala app and following NOA on social media for updates on special programs and astronomical events.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Athens

Academy Of Athens Library
Academy Of Athens Library
Acropolis Western Hills
Acropolis Western Hills
Aerides Bath
Aerides Bath
Agios Panteleimon Church, Ilissos
Agios Panteleimon Church, Ilissos
Aiolou Street
Aiolou Street
Akadimias Street
Akadimias Street
Alexandros Papadiamantis
Alexandros Papadiamantis
Alma Theatre
Alma Theatre
Altar Of Athena Polias
Altar Of Athena Polias
Altar Of The Twelve Gods
Altar Of The Twelve Gods
Amalias Avenue
Amalias Avenue
Ancient Agora Of Athens
Ancient Agora Of Athens
Angelon Vima
Angelon Vima
Antitheatro
Antitheatro
Apo Michanis Theatre
Apo Michanis Theatre
Aqueduct Of Hadrian In Athens
Aqueduct Of Hadrian In Athens
Arch Of Hadrian
Arch Of Hadrian
Archaeological Society Of Athens
Archaeological Society Of Athens
Areopagus
Areopagus
Argo Theatre
Argo Theatre
Armenia (Khachkar), Athens
Armenia (Khachkar), Athens
Arrephorion
Arrephorion
Athena Promachos
Athena Promachos
Athens
Athens
Athens Concert Hall
Athens Concert Hall
Athens Conservatoire
Athens Conservatoire
Athens Klepsydra Well
Athens Klepsydra Well
Athens Olympic Tennis Centre
Athens Olympic Tennis Centre
Athens Olympic Velodrome
Athens Olympic Velodrome
Athens Polytechnic Uprising
Athens Polytechnic Uprising
Athens University Museum
Athens University Museum
Athens University Of Economics And Business
Athens University Of Economics And Business
Athens War Museum
Athens War Museum
Attis Theatre
Attis Theatre
Bagkeion Mansion
Bagkeion Mansion
Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation Museum, Athens
Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation Museum, Athens
Benaki Museum
Benaki Museum
Benizelos Mansion
Benizelos Mansion
Bouleuterion
Bouleuterion
Bust Of Aristotle Valaoritis
Bust Of Aristotle Valaoritis
Bust Of Dionisios Solomos
Bust Of Dionisios Solomos
Bust Of Jean Moreas
Bust Of Jean Moreas
Bust Of Lela Karagianni, Athens
Bust Of Lela Karagianni, Athens
Bust Of Spyridon Samaras
Bust Of Spyridon Samaras
Caves Of Apollo, Zeus And Pan
Caves Of Apollo, Zeus And Pan
Centre For The Study Of Traditional Pottery
Centre For The Study Of Traditional Pottery
Chicago Athenaeum
Chicago Athenaeum
Choragic Monument Of Lysicrates
Choragic Monument Of Lysicrates
Choragic Monument Of Thrasyllos
Choragic Monument Of Thrasyllos
Constantine I Of Greece
Constantine I Of Greece
Daphni Monastery
Daphni Monastery
Davelis Cave
Davelis Cave
Demosion Sema
Demosion Sema
Diana Theatre, Athens
Diana Theatre, Athens
Dipylon
Dipylon
Eleftherios Venizelos Historical Museum
Eleftherios Venizelos Historical Museum
Eleftherios Venizelos (Statue)
Eleftherios Venizelos (Statue)
Eleusinion
Eleusinion
Ellie Lambeti (Bust)
Ellie Lambeti (Bust)
Embassy Of Germany, Athens
Embassy Of Germany, Athens
Embassy Of Norway, Athens
Embassy Of Norway, Athens
Embassy Of Slovenia, Athen
Embassy Of Slovenia, Athen
Embassy Of South Korea, Athens
Embassy Of South Korea, Athens
Embassy Of Sweden, Athens
Embassy Of Sweden, Athens
|
  Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Athens
| Embassy Of The People'S Republic Of China, Athens
Embassy Of The United States, Athens
Embassy Of The United States, Athens
Enneakrounos
Enneakrounos
Epigraphical Museum
Epigraphical Museum
Erechtheion
Erechtheion
Evangelos Zappas
Evangelos Zappas
Fethiye Mosque, Athens
Fethiye Mosque, Athens
Frankish Tower
Frankish Tower
Frissiras Museum
Frissiras Museum
General Confederation Of Greek Workers
General Confederation Of Greek Workers
General State Archives
General State Archives
George Karaiskakis Statue, Athens
George Karaiskakis Statue, Athens
Giorgakis Olympios
Giorgakis Olympios
Gloria Theatre, Athens
Gloria Theatre, Athens
Greece Crowns Byron
Greece Crowns Byron
Hall Of The Academy Of Athens
Hall Of The Academy Of Athens
Harilaos Trikoupis
Harilaos Trikoupis
Harokopio University Of Athens
Harokopio University Of Athens
Hekatompedon Temple
Hekatompedon Temple
Heliaia
Heliaia
|
  Hellenic Children'S Museum
| Hellenic Children'S Museum
Hellenic Motor Museum
Hellenic Motor Museum
Hellinikon Stadium
Hellinikon Stadium
Heroum Of Musaeus, Athens
Heroum Of Musaeus, Athens
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum
Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum
Ilion Municipality
Ilion Municipality
Imia Memorial
Imia Memorial
Ioannis Makriyannis
Ioannis Makriyannis
Ioannis Varvakis
Ioannis Varvakis
Jewish Museum Of Greece
Jewish Museum Of Greece
José De San Martín
José De San Martín
José Gervasio Artigas
José Gervasio Artigas
José Martí
José Martí
Karaiskaki Square (Athens)
Karaiskaki Square (Athens)
Karytsi Square
Karytsi Square
Kerameikos
Kerameikos
Kerameikos Archaeological Museum
Kerameikos Archaeological Museum
Kifisia Municipality
Kifisia Municipality
Klafthmonos Square
Klafthmonos Square
Konstantinos P. Cavafy
Konstantinos P. Cavafy
Konstantinos Zappas
Konstantinos Zappas
Kontopigado Site
Kontopigado Site
Kostas Perrikos
Kostas Perrikos
Kostis Palamas
Kostis Palamas
Library Of Pantainus
Library Of Pantainus
Lyceum
Lyceum
Maria Callas Museum
Maria Callas Museum
Maximos Mansion
Maximos Mansion
Melina Mercouri (Bust)
Melina Mercouri (Bust)
Memorial To The National Resistance, Koukaki
Memorial To The National Resistance, Koukaki
Metroon
Metroon
Metropolitan Cathedral Of Athens
Metropolitan Cathedral Of Athens
Monument Of Nikias
Monument Of Nikias
Monument Of The Eponymous Heroes
Monument Of The Eponymous Heroes
Mount Lycabettus
Mount Lycabettus
Mousouri Theatre
Mousouri Theatre
Municipal Gallery Of Athens
Municipal Gallery Of Athens
Museum Of Anthropology, University Of Athens
Museum Of Anthropology, University Of Athens
Museum Of Cycladic Art
Museum Of Cycladic Art
Museum Of Greek Children Art
Museum Of Greek Children Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Art
Museum Of Greek Folk Musical Instruments
Museum Of Greek Folk Musical Instruments
Museum Of Illusions
Museum Of Illusions
Museum Of The Ancient Agoraha-3019
Museum Of The Ancient Agoraha-3019
Museum Of The Antidictatorship Democratic Resistance
Museum Of The Antidictatorship Democratic Resistance
Museum Of The Bank Of Greece
Museum Of The Bank Of Greece
Museum Of The City Of Athens (Foundation Vourou-Eutaxia)
Museum Of The City Of Athens (Foundation Vourou-Eutaxia)
Museum Of The History Of The Greek Costume
Museum Of The History Of The Greek Costume
National And Kapodistrian University Of Athens
National And Kapodistrian University Of Athens
National Archaeological Museum Of Athens
National Archaeological Museum Of Athens
National Library Of Greece
National Library Of Greece
National Museum Of Contemporary Art
National Museum Of Contemporary Art
National Observatory Of Athens
National Observatory Of Athens
National Reconciliation Monument
National Reconciliation Monument
National Theatre Of Greece - Ziller Building
National Theatre Of Greece - Ziller Building
Numismatic Museum Of Athens
Numismatic Museum Of Athens
Odeon Of Pericles
Odeon Of Pericles
Odysseas Elytis (Statue)
Odysseas Elytis (Statue)
Old National Printing Office Of Greece
Old National Printing Office Of Greece
Old Parliament House
Old Parliament House
Old Royal Palace
Old Royal Palace
Older Parthenon
Older Parthenon
Palataki, Chaidari
Palataki, Chaidari
Pallas Theatre
Pallas Theatre
Panagis Athanase Vagliano
Panagis Athanase Vagliano
Panathenaic Way
Panathenaic Way
Pandroseion
Pandroseion
Panepistimiou Street
Panepistimiou Street
Panteion University
Panteion University
Parnassos Literary Society
Parnassos Literary Society
Paul And Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum
Paul And Alexandra Canellopoulos Museum
Pedestal Of Agrippa
Pedestal Of Agrippa
Pelasgic Wall
Pelasgic Wall
Perserschutt
Perserschutt
Pompeion
Pompeion
Propylaea Of Athens
Propylaea Of Athens
Rabbithole Art & Performance Space
Rabbithole Art & Performance Space
Rigas Velestinlis
Rigas Velestinlis
Sacred Gate
Sacred Gate
Sanctuary Of Pandion
Sanctuary Of Pandion
Sanctuary Of Zeus Polieus
Sanctuary Of Zeus Polieus
Socrates (Statue)
Socrates (Statue)
St. Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, Athens
St. Gregory The Illuminator Cathedral, Athens
Stadiou Street
Stadiou Street
Statue Of Adamantios Corais, Athens
Statue Of Adamantios Corais, Athens
Statue Of Alexandros Panagoulis
Statue Of Alexandros Panagoulis
Statue Of George Averof, Athens
Statue Of George Averof, Athens
Statue Of George Canning, Athens
Statue Of George Canning, Athens
Stoa Basileios
Stoa Basileios
Stoa Of Eumenes
Stoa Of Eumenes
Stoa Of Zeus
Stoa Of Zeus
Stoa Poikile
Stoa Poikile
Strategeion
Strategeion
Synagogue In The Agora Of Athens
Synagogue In The Agora Of Athens
Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection
Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square
Temenos Of Dionysos
Temenos Of Dionysos
Temple Of Aphrodite Urania
Temple Of Aphrodite Urania
Temple Of Apollo Patroos
Temple Of Apollo Patroos
Temple Of Athena Nike
Temple Of Athena Nike
Temple Of Olympian Zeus
Temple Of Olympian Zeus
Temple Of Rome And Augustus
Temple Of Rome And Augustus
Theatre Aliki
Theatre Aliki
|
  Theatre "Athenon"
| Theatre "Athenon"
Theatre Dimitris Ηorn
Theatre Dimitris Ηorn
Theatre Of Dionysus
Theatre Of Dionysus
Theatrical Museum Of Greece
Theatrical Museum Of Greece
Theatro Alambra
Theatro Alambra
Theatro Ilisia
Theatro Ilisia
Theatro Lampeti
Theatro Lampeti
Theatro Metaxourgeio
Theatro Metaxourgeio
Theatro Peroke
Theatro Peroke
Theatro Poreia
Theatro Poreia
Theatro Sfendoni
Theatro Sfendoni
Theatro Stathmos
Theatro Stathmos
Theatro Technis Karolos Koun - Frinichou
Theatro Technis Karolos Koun - Frinichou
Theatro Tzeni Karezi
Theatro Tzeni Karezi
Theatro Vembo
Theatro Vembo
Theatro Vretania
Theatro Vretania
Theocharakis Foundation
Theocharakis Foundation
Theodoros Kolokotronis
Theodoros Kolokotronis
Tower Of The Winds
Tower Of The Winds
Tzistarakis Mosque
Tzistarakis Mosque
Varvakeios Market
Varvakeios Market
Veaki Theater
Veaki Theater
Virgin Mary Athiniotissa
Virgin Mary Athiniotissa
Voukourestiou Street
Voukourestiou Street
William Ewart Gladstone
William Ewart Gladstone
Zappeion
Zappeion
Zina Theater
Zina Theater