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Gods, Myths & Mortals: landmark exhibition closing Wednesday 20 November, returning to Greece after 10 years in Australia

Hellenic Museum

Melbourne, Australia – After 10 remarkable years of captivating audiences, the Hellenic Museum's Gods, Myths & Mortals: Greek Treasures Across The Millennia exhibition will close its doors on Wednesday 20 November. This extraordinary collection, featuring over 200 objects on loan from the renowned Benaki Museum in Athens, has brought to life over 8,000 years of Greek history from the Neolithic period to the Greek War of Independence.

Since its debut in 2014, the exhibition has been an essential part of Melbourne’s cultural landscape, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the depth and breadth of Greek civilisation. Gods, Myths & Mortals showcases an impressive range of artefacts including sculptures, pottery, jewellery and coins, which illuminate the rich myths, religious practices and daily life of the ancient Greeks.

Gods, Myths & Mortals marks the first time that such a significant collection was permitted to leave Greece for an extended period of time, in a first-of-its-kind agreement. The collection spans various historical periods, offering insights into the evolution of Greek culture, art and society. From Neolithic figurines to exquisite classical marble sculptures, and from the fascinating intricacies of Hellenistic jewellery to the powerful imagery of the Greek War of Independence, the exhibition has provided a rare glimpse into Greek history.

“We are immensely proud of the impact Gods, Myths & Mortals has had over the past decade,” said Ms Sarah Craig, Director of the Hellenic Museum. “This exhibition has fostered a deeper understanding of Greek history and culture for thousands of visitors from Melbourne and beyond. These treasures on loan from the Benaki Museum have allowed us to tell the story of Greece in a truly unique way, and we are so grateful to the Benaki Museum for this incredible partnership.

“We look forward to building upon our relationship with the Benaki Museum and other institutions in Greece, so that we may continue sharing their remarkable collections, and presenting our audiences with artefacts and experiences unlike any others in Australia.”

The closing of Gods, Myths & Mortals marks the end of an era for the Hellenic Museum, but also serves as a reminder of its ongoing commitment to presenting the very best of Greek art, history and culture to the Australian public. The museum will continue to offer dynamic exhibitions and programs that celebrate the rich history and culture of Greece, while also introducing new and diverse perspectives from around the world.

Last chance to visit & free guided tours
Visitors have just one week left to experience this extraordinary exhibition, with its final day being Wednesday 20 November. The Hellenic Museum is open 10AM–4PM daily, and will offer guided tours at 11AM on Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 November. These tours are free with general admission; online pre-booking is required due to strictly limited space.

“We invite all who have not yet had the chance to experience this magnificent exhibition to visit in its final week,” said Ms Craig. “This is an opportunity to engage with Greece’s ancient treasures one last time before they return to Athens. We look forward to welcoming you to the museum and sharing the beauty and significance of these remarkable objects.”

About the Hellenic Museum
Located in the heart of Melbourne, the Hellenic Museum is Australia’s only museum dedicated to showcasing the transformational power of Greek art, history and culture. Through its innovative exhibitions, public programs and educational initiatives, the museum serves as a cultural bridge between Greece and Australia, fostering a deeper understanding of Hellenism and its continued impacts on the world today.

About the Benaki Museum
Founded in 1930, the Benaki Museum in Athens is one of Greece's most respected institutions, housing a vast collection of Greek and international art spanning over 6,000 years of history. The museum is known for its commitment to preserving and presenting Greece's cultural legacy, and its partnership with the Hellenic Museum has been instrumental in sharing these treasures with audiences around the world.

Contact details:

Lily Hawkins
Marketing & Communications Manager
Hellenic Museum

lily.hawkins@hellenic.org.au
0408 449 365
(03) 8615 9016