Re-excavating’ Findings in Storage: The Refurbishment of the Old Acropolis Museum in Athens

The refurbishment of the Old Acropolis Museum (OAM) in Athens, undertaken by the Ephorate of Antiquities of the City of Athens (EACA), has revealed significant insights into the history and management of Acropolis antiquities. Through repackaging, re-documentation, and study of stored archaeological materials dating from Antiquity to the modern period, researchers uncovered valuable information about socio-political contexts, scientific advancements, resource availability, and key figures in the museum's history. This 're-excavation' process not only sheds light on the evolution of preventive conservation practices but also contributes to the emerging history of archaeological storage. The study highlights the importance of integrating stored materials into broader heritage narratives, offering a unique case study with relevance across cultural heritage sectors.

Papadopoulou, M., Bouzaki, A.-A., Koupadi, K., Mantzana, E., Pavlou, M., Tsichli, M., & Papida, S. (2021). Re-excavating’ Findings in Storage: The Refurbishment of the Old Acropolis Museum in Athens. Museum International, 73(1-2), 42–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/13500775.2021.1956733