The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
The University of Athens forms part of the so-called "Neoclassical trilogy" of the city of Athens: Academy-University-Library.
It consists of a group of built masses that shape up a double "T", with two symmetrical courtyards. The building follows the basic aesthetic rules of early neoclassicism, while at the same time is adapted to the Greek Mediterranean climate. It was built between 1839 and 1864 and today serves as headquarters of the University of Athens.
Founded in 1839, the University of Athens
was built from the designs of Christian Hansen, the brilliant architect who
aimed to create neoclassical buildings that would complement the city’s
contemporary architecture.
Completed in 1864, the building benefited from many other fine architects, including Kaftantzoglou and Theophile Hansen. Many Greeks throughout the diaspora contributed to the significant undertaking.
The murals on the façade’s frieze were designed by the Bavarian Rahl, and painted by Polish artist Lebientzki after Rahl’s death. The façade is decorated with the busts of Rigas Feraios, the Patriarch Gregorios V, Adamantios Korais, Gladstone and Ioannis Kapodistrias.
When the Library and the Academy were finally completed, flanking both sides of the first structure, the neoclassical Athens Trilogy was now complete.
Address: 30, Panepistimiou St, Athens
Transportation: Metro Red Line (2): Panepistimio Station