Athens' contemporary cultural heritage is reflected in the newly built Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC).

Designed by architectural firm Renzo Piano Building Workshop, the SNFCC is a donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF). In February 2017, upon the completion of its construction, the SNF delivered the SNFCC to the Greek State and society. SNFCC has earned significant architectural distinctions, including the 2018 Award for International Excellence of the Royal Institute of British Architects – RIBA.

The building is impressive but, of course, the most important part of SNFCC is not the brick and mortar, but what goes inside its halls. SNFCC is home to the Greek National Opera. The Greek National Opera was established in 1939. From early on, its program included operetta and dance, in addition to the opera. Inaugurating a new period in its long history, the GNO is now settled in its new home at the SNFCC complex. Its new facilities enable it to further develop its wide range of activities as an organization for education and the arts, including opera, ballet, experimental projects, and shows for children, educational programs, as well as training the next generation of dancers and developing public benefit projects.

This amazing building is open to everyone all day long. From solo travellers to couples to families, there is something here for everyone. Be sure to check the programme while you’re here. The SNFCC hosts various indoor and outdoor activities, guided tours, and a multitude of events and festivals throughout the year, to entertain kids and adults alike, in a beautiful location away from the city noise.

During summer, the outdoor spaces are regularly used as an open air cinema with films projecting onto the surface of the walls and projections screens, in a surrounding cultural and natural landscape. Sit down on the grass and enjoy a film beneath the stars!

Idyllically placed nearby the city’s coastline, opened in 2017 and aims to unite arts, history and nature and give its visitors an unforgettable experience!