As a book lover and someone who appreciates architecture, I was excited to visit the National Library of Greece, a historic institution with a rich and fascinating past. Established in 1830, the library was originally located on the island of Aegina before being moved to Athens in 1834. Throughout its history, the library has received numerous significant donations, allowing it to grow and become the largest library in the country.
During my visit, I marveled at the majestic neoclassical marble building, constructed in 1888 with the generous financial support of the Vallianos brothers. Designed by Baron Theophil von Hansen and supervised by Ernst Ziller, the library is a stunning example of Doric order architecture, featuring a central Greek temple-like structure and two wings. The statues of the Vallianos brothers, a testament to their contributions, are prominently displayed on the library grounds.
Upon entering the library, I was greeted by an impressive portico with six Doric columns, reminiscent of the Temple of Hephaestus. The interior, designed by Ernst Ziller, is beautifully illuminated by a skylight and features an Ionic-style colonnade. The library’s collection is vast and diverse, housing thousands of books in various languages, which makes it an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone with a love for learning.
In addition to its main location, the National Library of Greece has two other facilities in Agia Paraskevi and Nea Chalkidona. Although the Vallianos building still partially houses the library, I found it inspiring to learn that the institution has expanded to accommodate its ever-growing collection and serve the needs of its patrons.
During my time at the National Library of Greece, I felt an immense sense of gratitude for the people and organizations that have contributed to its development and success. The library stands not only as an important cultural institution but also as a symbol of the enduring love for knowledge and literature that transcends time and borders. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to the National Library of Greece for anyone who appreciates history, architecture, and the power of the written word.
