Build Your Own Antikythera Mechanism
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Duration
1 1/2 hours
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Theme
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Group Type
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Private
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The Athens Museum of Ancient Greek Technology
Your family adventure unfolds at the Kostas Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. The museum was nominated for the European Museum of the Year Award in 2019 and operates under the European Council’s auspices. It aims to highlight ancient Greece’s innovative spirit and its impact on the modern world.
You will begin with a one-hour tour to discover ancient Greek technological achievements. Then, you will explore exhibits showcasing mechanics, engineering, and innovation. The museum houses replicas of original ancient Greek inventions, the most famous of which is the Antikythera Mechanism (if you’d like to see the original invention housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, we can happily arrange a guided visit for your family).
Build Your Own Antikythera Mechanism!
Next comes your exciting hands-on workshop, where you’ll create your own piece of history!
You will explore outstanding Greek innovations, from the “calculator” of Salamina to the world-famous Antikythera Mechanism, considered the world’s first analog computer – ancient Greeks’ laptop!
The museum’s expert staff will guide you through the Build Your Own Ancient Greek Calculator: The Heart of Antikythera Mechanism Workshop. Each kid will take home her or his own Antikythera mechanism so you can remember your unique museum visit forever.
OPTIONAL: Change of the Guards in Syntagma Square
After the workshop, we can visit the Hellenic Parliament in Syntagma Square and witness the change of the Greek Presidential Guard. This is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Athens! Their precision and attention to movement, with almost dance-like movements, are sure to keep your cameras busy.
FAQ
Where is the Athens Museum of Ancient Greek Technology?
The Kostas Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology is located at 6 Pindarou Str., a 5-minute walk from Syntagma Square.
What is the Antikythera Mechanism?
The Antikythera Mechanism is an ancient mechanism discovered off the coast of the Greek island of Antikythera in 1900. It is considered the world’s first analog computer. The mechanism could calculate how the night sky would look for years to come and predict lunar and solar eclipses.
What will I do in the workshop?
You will create your own working part of the Antikythera Mechanism using metal and plexiglass. You will also investigate the history behind the science of the mechanism.
Families should know
- You can combine this fantastic workshop with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, where the original Antikythera Mechanism is housed. Our travel planners will be happy to assist you!
Check availability
CHECKKids will love
- Engaging with interactive exhibits that allow them to see, touch, and operate ancient inventions
- Learning through fun while exploring the advanced technology of the Ancient Greeks
Parents will love
- Exploring the Antikythera Mechanism, considered the world’s first analog computer
- Enjoying an engaging, hands-on experience with the kids
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Would it be possible to arrange this workshop for my family of 4 – two children aged 10 and 13yrs for Sunday the 29th of June?
Hello Melissa! Thank you for your interest in our Build Your Own Antikythera Mechanism. This is an excellent way to explore the history of this unique item. Maria has already sent you an email. Have a lovely trip to Greece!