In Athens is one of the oldest private museums in Greece – Benaki Museum. It was founded in 1930 by Antonis Brakesam in honor of his father Emmanuel Benakis. The Museum is located at the family mansion in neoclassical style, which was built in 1867. In April 1931 the Museum was opened to the public.

His collection, which became the basis of the Museum, Antonis, Benakis been collecting for 35 years and was transferred to the state on condition that it will be exhibited in the Museum. He also was Director of the Museum until his death in 1954.

The Museum's collection of exhibits, covering the period from prehistoric times to the present day. In addition to the extensive collection of objects of Greek art, the Museum also owns a large collection of Asian art. Initially, a collection of exhibits of Islamic art, Chinese porcelain and toys were presented in separate departments of the Museum. In 2000, after the global restoration, museums were created-satellites dedicated to specific topics, such as the Museum of Islamic art in Ceramics, Gallery Nikos Hatzikiriakos – Geek, a famous Greek artist, in Kolonaki, a separate exhibition of the collection of children's toys, etc. This allowed the main Museum to focus on Greek culture.

The Museum features exhibits from Paleolithic and Neolithic artifacts related to the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, the product of the early Hellenistic period. Ceramics, metal and wood, ancient icons and Church utensils, jewelry, textiles, paintings, sculptures, prints and other interesting artifacts allow the visitor to take a journey into the world of Ancient Greece and trace its history to the present day. The Museum also presents works by Greek artist El Greco.

The Museum has its own restoration and conservation workshops, the library regularly organizes traveling exhibitions.

On the roof of the building is a cozy café. From there visitors can admire stunning views of Athens.