Painting the guns on board the Greek submarine Papanicolis during 1942 in Beirut

Greek Submarine Papanikolis

Greek Submarine Papanikolis: Visiting Guide, Tickets, and Piraeus Historical Sites

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The Greek submarine Papanikolis (Y-2) stands as an enduring symbol of national resilience and maritime innovation within the context of Greek naval history. Preserved at the Hellenic Maritime Museum in Piraeus, its storied World War II service and connection to the legendary naval hero Dimitrios Papanikolis make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, maritime aficionados, and curious travelers. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the submarine’s legacy, practical visiting details, and tips for exploring the rich historical tapestry of Piraeus.

For official updates, visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum’s website, and consult additional resources such as Wikipedia and Phileas Guide.

About the Submarine Papanikolis
Historical Legacy and Wartime Service
Visitor Information
Exhibit Highlights
Nearby Attractions
Cultural and Educational Impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Tips
References

About the Submarine Papanikolis

Commissioned in 1927 and constructed in France, Papanikolis (Y-2) was named after Dimitrios Papanikolis, a key figure in the Greek War of Independence. The submarine was one of the first modern submarines of the Hellenic Navy, alongside her sister ship, Katsonis (Wikipedia). Despite being technologically outdated by WWII, Papanikolis became a symbol of Greek ingenuity and courage.

Historical Legacy and Wartime Service

Wartime Exploits

During World War II, Papanikolis played a pivotal role in the Greco-Italian War and subsequent Allied operations in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. Under the command of Lieutenant Commander Miltiadis Iatridis and later Lieutenant Nikolaos Roussen, Papanikolis conducted 14 war patrols, sinking at least 14 enemy vessels—including the Italian motor ship Antonietta and the troop carrier Firenze (WW2Wrecks.com). The submarine also participated in covert operations, landing commando teams and supporting resistance movements across occupied Greek islands (Phileas Guide).

Survival and Return

Despite mechanical limitations and intense enemy pursuit, the crew displayed outstanding bravery—surviving depth charge attacks and continuing operations from Allied bases in the Middle East after the German invasion of Greece. Papanikolis returned to Greece after liberation and was decommissioned in 1945 (Greek War Equipment Blog).

Technical Overview

Papanikolis was a Schneider-Laubeuf class submarine, displacing 576 tons surfaced, measuring 62.4 meters in length, and equipped with six 533mm torpedo tubes. It had a crew of about 30 and was powered by Schneider-Carels diesel engines and electric motors (Greek War Equipment Blog).

Visitor Information

Location

Address: Hellenic Maritime Museum, Marina Zeas, Akti Themistokleous, Piraeus, Greece (Hellenic Maritime Museum)
Easily accessible from central Athens via Metro Line 1 (Piraeus station) or local buses.

Opening Hours

Regular Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 09:00–14:00
Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays
Hours may vary during holidays; check the official website for seasonal updates.

Tickets and Admission

Adults: €5–6
Students/Seniors: €2–3
Children: Free (age limits may vary; check latest info)
Groups: Discounts available by prior arrangement
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance; advance booking is recommended during peak seasons.

Accessibility

The museum and the Papanikolis turret exhibit are wheelchair accessible. Some submarine interior areas may be narrow; contact the museum for specific needs.
Facilities include ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and a café.

Getting There

Metro: Line 1 (Green Line) to Piraeus station, then a 10–15 minute walk
Bus: Multiple routes from Athens and around Piraeus
Car: Limited parking nearby
Taxi/Ride-Share: Convenient for travelers from the port or city center

Exhibit Highlights

Conning Tower Display: The preserved turret of Papanikolis offers a direct connection to the submarine’s history.
Artifacts & Models: Explore authentic navigation instruments, uniforms, logbooks, and personal effects. Detailed scale models and interactive diagrams illustrate submarine operations.
Multimedia Presentations: Video documentaries and interviews with veterans bring the Papanikolis story to life.
Memorial Wall: Commemorates the crew and Greek submariners lost in WWII.

Nearby Attractions

Zea Marina: Lively waterfront with shops and restaurants, ideal for a stroll after your visit.
Archaeological Museum of Piraeus: Ancient artifacts and exhibitions on local history.
Municipal Theatre of Piraeus: Notable example of 19th-century architecture.
Mikrolimano Harbor: Picturesque area for dining and leisure.

Combine your museum experience with other Piraeus historical sites for a full day of exploration (The Crazy Tourist).

Cultural and Educational Impact

The Papanikolis exhibit serves as a platform for education about Greece’s maritime and wartime history. Through interactive workshops, school programs, and commemorative events (such as Ohi Day and Navy Day), the museum fosters appreciation for the values of perseverance, adaptability, and patriotism. The story of Papanikolis is regularly featured in national celebrations and educational materials (Keep Talking Greece; Hellenic Navy Official Site).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Papanikolis visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Saturday, 09:00–14:00. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: €5–6 for adults, €2–3 for students/seniors, children free. Check official site for current prices.

Q: Is the exhibit wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the museum and turret are accessible. Some submarine interiors may be narrow.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be arranged in advance. Audio guides and educational materials are available for groups and schools.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is generally allowed for personal use; avoid flash and tripods.

Q: How do I get to the museum from Athens?
A: Take Metro Line 1 to Piraeus station, then walk 10–15 minutes or take a local bus/taxi.

Summary and Tips

A visit to the Papanikolis submarine at the Hellenic Maritime Museum offers a unique glimpse into Greece’s wartime history and maritime tradition. The immersive exhibits, accessible location, and proximity to other Piraeus attractions make it a highlight for both tourists and locals. For a richer experience, consider joining a guided tour, attending commemorative events, or exploring nearby museums and the vibrant port district.

Tips:

Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
Combine your museum visit with a stroll along Zea Marina or lunch at a local taverna.
Check the museum’s website or the Audiala app for current events and special exhibitions.