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Rex Theatre

About

Opened in 1937, the Rex Theatre in central Athens is a landmark of Art Deco architecture and cultural ambition. Designed by Leonidas Bonis and Vassilis Kassandras, the building was inspired by New York’s entertainment venues and originally housed a cinema, theatre, and ballroom. Its vertical façade, marble cladding, and neon lighting gave Athens its first “skyscraper” feel. The upper level became home to the Marika Kotopouli Theatre, which was destroyed by fire in 1982 but later restored and designated a listed building. Since 1993, the Rex has served as one of the main stages of the National Theatre of Greece, hosting performances in its spacious auditorium—the largest in Athens. The building also includes the National Theatre’s Children’s Stage and retains its historic connection to a neighboring medical clinic via an internal passage. With its blend of architectural elegance and theatrical legacy, the Rex Theatre remains a vibrant symbol of Athens’ modern cultural identity.

Athens Greece
Rex Theatre
Location

The Rex Theatre is located at 48 Panepistimiou Street, near Omonia Square in central Athens. This iconic Art Deco building, considered Athens’ first skyscraper for its striking vertical design, was constructed in the mid-1930s and opened in 1937. Designed by Leonidas Bonis and Vasileios Kassandras, the Rex houses three performance spaces: the Marika Kotopouli Theatre, one of the largest stages in the city, and two additional venues historically used for cinema and live music. Today, the building is home to prominent stages of the National Theatre of Greece. Its location on Panepistimiou Street puts it in the heart of Athens’ commercial, academic, and cultural district, with Omonia Square, Athens City Hall, and the National Library of Greece all close by. The area is lively and well-served by public transport, making it accessible for visitors. Nearby, you’ll find the National Archaeological Museum, the University of Athens, and numerous cafés, shops, and theaters, highlighting the Rex Theatre as a key landmark for those eager to experience the city’s vibrant performing arts scene and urban energy.

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