The National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens (EMST), is the primary institution in Greece dedicated to the collection and exhibition of contemporary art. Established in 2000, the museum focuses on both Greek and international artists, exploring diverse media including painting, sculpture, video art, and digital installations. Its mission is to foster dialogue between contemporary artistic practices and the historical context of Athens.
The museum is housed in the former Fix brewery building, a landmark of mid-20th-century industrial architecture designed by Takis Zenetos. Following an extensive renovation and redesign, the structure now serves as a modern cultural hub, featuring expansive exhibition galleries, a library, and public spaces that integrate the industrial heritage of the site with contemporary museum standards.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Reinforced concrete, Glass, Steel
- Civilization
- Modern Greek
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible
- Date(s)
- 1961 (original building), 2020 (museum opening)
- Condition
- Fully restored and operational
- Original Function
- Fix Brewery
- Key Figures
- Takis Zenetos, Anna Kafetsi
Industrial Origins
1961The building was originally constructed as the Fix brewery, designed by the renowned architect Takis Zenetos. It became a prominent example of industrial architecture in Athens, characterized by its long, linear form and modernist aesthetic.
Foundation of the Museum
2000The National Museum of Contemporary Art was officially founded in 2000. For several years, it operated without a permanent home, hosting exhibitions in various temporary venues while the search for a permanent location continued.
Renovation and Relocation
2003-2020The former Fix brewery was selected as the permanent site for the museum. A major architectural renovation project was launched to transform the industrial space into a contemporary art museum, culminating in the official opening of the permanent collection in 2020.
Cultural Significance
The museum serves as a critical bridge between the Greek art scene and the international contemporary art community. By occupying the Fix brewery, the institution preserves a significant piece of Athens' industrial history while repurposing it as a space for avant-garde expression and cultural critique.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
The transformation of the Fix brewery has been a subject of architectural discourse, specifically regarding the balance between preserving the original modernist design by Zenetos and the functional requirements of a modern museum space.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open Tuesday to Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online. Visitors are requested to leave large bags in the cloakroom.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings to avoid weekend crowds. The museum often hosts evening events and temporary exhibition openings.
Photography
Personal photography is permitted in most galleries without flash or tripods. Professional photography requires prior authorization.
Nearby POIs
20 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]
- [2]Takis Zenetos: The Fix Building — Eleni Kalafati. Architectural Review (2015)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Reinforced concrete, Glass, Steel
- Civilization
- Modern Greek
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible