The Museum of the Bank of Greece

The Museum of the Bank of Greece was established in 2010, with the aim of highlighting Central Bank’s role and activities, as well as its contribution to the development of the Greek economy. Being part of the Bank’s Centre for Culture, Research and Documentation, the Museum also aims to promote economic and financial literacy through the organization of specialized exhibitions and educational programs.

The Museum’s permanent exhibition presents the monetary and economic history of modern Greece from the design and introduction of the first modern Greek monetary system in 1828 to the creation of the euro area and Greece’s participation in the single currency. By following the thread of the presentation, the visitor can explore the origins of money in antiquity, witness the introduction and establishment of various mediums of exchange, and learn about the evolution of central banking and the path to European monetary integration. The Bank of Greece Museum tells stories related to money, from the barter economy to the invasion of the coin and from the introduction of the banknote to the advent of plastic money.

Walking along the exhibition path, the visitor gradually realizes that money, in addition to its commercial value, can also be a bearer of ideas and messages, a document of political and economic history, but also an extraordinary work of art. Many of these objects adorn the Bank of Greece building. With a series of interactive multimedia applications and using the most updated museological practices, the visit turns into an experience that combines learning with fun. Note that the Bank’s collections include coins, banknotes, decorations and medals, works of art, furniture, photographs etc. An audio-guide both in Greek and English is available free of charge.

Apart from the permanent presentation, visitors can also enjoy an original and interactive exhibition -currently available- dedicated to electronic payment (e-payment), the modern way of paying without cash (e-banking, cards, direct debit, e-wallet etc). The evolution of digital technology has increased the use of electronic methods of payments in Greece with the use of cards amounting to 629 million euros compared to 78 million euros in 2013. The exhibition, mainly addressed to teenagers and students, invites visitors to discover and take full advantage of the opportunities offered by technology in order to acquire the necessary knowledge and tools in making better financial decisions and transactions in a simple and safe way.

A mobile application (for android and iPhone) operating as a simulation of a digital wallet offers a unique learning experience through multiple choice games in this exhibition that uses video games techniques. The exhibition is set up in such a way as to encourage open discussions, the development of team spirit, personal involvement in the discovery of information and creative activities such as improvisation and theatrical play. The permanent exhibition is available in Greek and English.

The Bank of Greece Museum is located in the centre of Athens (3 Amerikis St.) accesible to people with disabilities and a free entrance.