Ophthalmological Clinic of Athens

Ophthalmological Clinic of Athens

The Ophthalmological Clinic of Athens, one of the oldest Healthcare Institutions in Europe, with its distinctive architecture, remarkable ceiling paintings and museum material, is considered one of the most important historical monuments of recent years, completing the trilogy of the National Library, the University of Athens and the Academy of Athens. Designed by Christian Hansen, Gerasimos Metaxas and Aristides Balanos, the hospital stands as an architectural gem in the city of Athens. The construction of this specializes building for the treatment of eye diseases was approved by King Othon and Amalia in August 1843. The foundation ceremony of the Ophthalmological Clinic building took place in April 1847, and the official inauguration followed in June 1854. As a specialized Ophthalmological Hospital, it stands as one of the pioneers (in the world of Ophthalmology) in Greece and beyond.

Its scientific activity has been exceptional, offering immense social contribution to the Greek people for over 170 years. Established in 1843, it operated for 142 years as a Legal Person Governed by Private Law. The need for an Ophthalmological Clinic in Athens during the Othonian era led to the laying of the foundation stone in 1847 at the intersection of Panepistimiou and Sina streets. The design of the Danish architect Theophilos Hansen envisioned a ground-floor neoclassical building. But after 3 years, the work was stopped due to a lack of funding. When the time came to resume, Lysandros Kaftanzoglou added the main entrance projection and followed a more Byzantine style. The project was delivered to the city in 1855, while another floor was added in the late 1860s based on designs by military engineer Gerasimos Metaxas. Later additions included an attic on the roof of the auxiliary building for outpatient clinics, designed by architect Aristides Balanos. What attracts the passerby is the contrast in style between the Ophthalmological Clinic building and the neoclassical “Athenian trilogy” that one encounters immediately after.