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Museums #12 in Kalamaki, Attica

Museum Ship Averof

4.8 · 3,407 reviews
Historical and technically imposing
Museum Ship Averof, Marina Flisvos, Trokadero, Paleo Faliro 175 10, Greece
Interesting facts
1

It is the only surviving Pisa-class armored cruiser in existence globally.

2

The ship was never defeated in battle and was affectionately nicknamed 'Lucky Uncle George' by its crews.

3

During the Battle of Elli, the ship independently engaged the entire Ottoman fleet while its engine crews exceeded original design limits to gain speed.

4

The vessel functioned as the Greek government's headquarters while in exile in Egypt during World War II.

5

The ship's construction was partially funded by a significant donation from Greek benefactor Georgios Averof.

6

Its main battery consists of four 9.2-inch guns and eight 7.5-inch guns, largely preserved in their original configuration.

7

The ship's hull plating still bears markers indicating the impact of shellfire from historical naval engagements.

8

Despite its age, the ship maintains a formal naval crew and flies the Greek ensign as an active-duty vessel.

Overview

The Georgios Averof is a Pisa-class armored cruiser commissioned in 1911 and currently anchored as a museum ship in Marina Flisvos. It is the only surviving ship of its type worldwide and served as the flagship of the Hellenic Navy during the Balkan Wars and both World Wars. The vessel remains an honorary active ship in the Hellenic Navy, maintained in a state of operational readiness. Visitors can explore the engine rooms, weaponry, bridge, and living quarters of the original 1910 crew. The ship played a pivotal role in the liberation of the Aegean Islands during the First Balkan War. It is permanently moored at the Flisvos Marina waterfront in Paleo Faliro. The exhibit preserves the authentic naval engineering and combat technology of the early 20th century.

Photo spot

From the adjacent pier at sunset to capture the ship's silhouette against the marina lights.

Insider tips

Wear flat-soled, non-slip footwear, as the ship's metal decks and steep ladders can be slippery.

The interior compartments can be significantly warmer than the external deck temperatures during summer months.

Allow extra time to walk the full length of the deck to view the external weaponry installations.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit on Mondays, as the ship is closed for maintenance.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Avoid leaning on or touching the historical equipment; refrain from entering roped-off crew restricted zones.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, to avoid crowds and the peak afternoon sun.
Address
Museum Ship Averof, Marina Flisvos, Trokadero, Paleo Faliro 175 10, Greece
37.934, 23.684
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsOriginal 1910 machinery, 9.2-inch main battery guns, and the Admiral's bridge.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, to avoid crowds and the peak afternoon sun..

From the adjacent pier at sunset to capture the ship's silhouette against the marina lights.

Close by you'll find Μαρίνα Φλοίσβου, Stavros Niarchos Park, Palio Faliro.