The museum’s history dates back to the late 19th century, when the need to house the priceless finds from the Sanctuary of Zeus became urgent. Between 1883 and 1887, the first museum was erected on a hill northwest of the archaeological site.
This elegant neoclassical building was designed by German scholars Friedrich Adler and Ernst Curtius, who organized the first systematic excavations.
Its construction was made possible by the generous donation of the national benefactor Andreas Syngros, whose name still graces the entrance architrave
The devastating earthquakes of 1953 and the ever-growing number of discoveries necessitated a modern facility.
In the late 1950s, work began on the New Archaeological Museum in the valley northwest of Kronion Hill.
Designed by the iconic architect Patroklos Karantinos, the building was completed in 1970.
Its architectural layout, featuring a grand central hall for sculptures surrounded by U-shaped exhibition galleries, offered a new, imposing experience for visitors.
In 1974, a monumental re-exhibition project began under the supervision of archaeologist Nikolaos Gialouris and sculptors Stelios Triantis and Ismini Stypsianou.
In 1982, the museum officially opened its doors, showcasing the pediments of the Temple of Zeus in all their glory.
Years later, in 1994, the winged Nike of Paionios was displayed in its own dedicated hall, restored to its airy beauty and freed from previous interventions.
On the occasion of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, the museum underwent a radical renovation to meet the standards of modern museology.
On March 24, 2004, a new era was inaugurated, with three museum centers working in harmony: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games (the old Syngreion), and the Museum of the History of Excavations.
Today, within its 3,500 square meters of exhibition space, the museum tells the story of the Sanctuary of Zeus from prehistoric times to the early Christian centuries.
Through a panorama of votive offerings and masterpieces of ancient art, visitors witness the evolution of the Greek spirit and the eternal glory of Olympia.
