The first Maria Callas Museum in the world opened its gates in the heart of Athens, at 44 Mitropoleos Street, and invites the visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the renowned diva and explore her unique interpretation of some of the most iconic roles from her career.

The museum showcases the legendary Greek soprano’s life and career through a variety of mediums, including texts, objects, videos, and rare audio snippets, creating a unique experience for visitors, taking them on a journey through her early beginnings, her time in Greece, her international career and famous roles, her cosmopolitan lifestyle, her personality, the important moments and people in her life, and her lasting legacy.

Since 2000, the City of Athens has been amassing a collection of objects related to Maria Callas. The first items were obtained from an international auction in Paris. Over time, the collection has grown to include around 1,000 items that either belonged to or are associated with Maria Callas. Contributions from institutions and individuals, such as the Maria Callas Greek Society, Konstantinos and Victoria Pylarinos, and loaned objects, have helped expand the collection.

The four-storey building at 44 Mitropoleos Street was constructed during the interwar period (with the oldest contract dating back to 1928) and for a long time (until the 60s) housed the “Royal” hotel. The building was deemed preserved, based on a Presidential Decree, while it was modified around 1950. The original structure of the building is most evident on the facade of Petraki Street. In the 2010s, the City of Athens purchased the building to house its services. With the actions of the current, as well as the previous municipal authority, it was decided that the building will house the Maria Callas Museum.

Photos Courtesy of www.mariacallasmuseum.gr