The Vision
In 1983, the president of the Lighthouse for the Blind,
Protopapadaki L. and the managing director Kefakis Manolis,
were looking for a way that would give visually impaired people
the opportunity to come in touch with ancient greek Culture.
The first artefacts were bought by Lighthouse, followed by several
donations by suppporting organizations and others.
At the same time it was realized that the ability to touch and feel
the exhibits was an excellent new way of approaching
the ancient greek civilization not only for blind
but for sighted people, too.
History of the Museum
Tactual Museum was founded in 1984, and housed on a two-floor neo-classical building,
on Doiranis Street 198, Kallithea, donated by Empeirikos to the Lighthouse for the Blind of Greece.
After a 3-year period of enforced closure due to the earthquake of 1999, it opened again
in 2004 following subsidies and sponsorship from the Ministry of Health
and Social Solidarity and the American Friends of the Blind in Greece Organization,
based in Massachusetts, USA.
Reopening of the Museum
The Tactual Museum was officially re-opened by the President of the Repuplic,
Mr Konstandinos Stefanopoulos, on the 19th of March 2004.
Commendations
In 1988 the museum was choosen 70 other european museums to receive
the "Museum of the year" Award
In 2004, it also won an award from
the Greek Union of Friends of Museums
for the realization of its accessibility program
Difference
It is one of 4-5 Museums of its kind in the world.
The main difference between the Tactual Museum and
other Museums is the opportunity for all visitors
to touch all the Exhibitsthat are copies of the originals displayed
in other museums of our country.
Operation
The Tactual Museum belongs to the Lighthouse for the Blind of Greece.
Responsible for the operation, development and promotion of the Museum
is Mrs. G. Roukoutaki.
Address
198 Doranis, Kallithea, 176 73 Athens, Greece
Tel .: (+30) 2109415222
Fax: (+30) 2109415271
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
website: www.tactualmuseum.gr
Working Hours
Monday - Friday: 9:00 to 14:00.
Saturday and Sunday: After communication with the person in charge.
Admission: 2€
For the disabled and their attendant no charge.
Access
Full access to people with kinetic disabilities is supported by a ramp at the entrance of the building and a ladder elevator.
