The term “Neoclassicism” describes a Western cultural movement that spread widely in Europe at the end of the 18th century and the first decades of the 19th century. Its origin is based on the interest in archaeological studies, which was stirred after the successful excavations of the time. Its flourishing was favored by the French Revolution, which brought back the myths and style of classical antiquity to support nationalist aspirations. It expressed the theoretical reflection of the time, the revolutionary momentum and the high visions of society, having an influence on all social strata. It served the search and determination of the modern Greek identity as a continuation of the ancient one, of which it is defined as the legal heir and supported the idea of ​​a uniform national entity.

It played a dominant role in the arts (painting, sculpture), in buildings (churches, museums, public buildings, private residences), but also in objects of daily use, over an extensive geographical area. Greek painting had a resounding presence in neoclassicism and, as happened with sculpture, it also lasted beyond the 19th century.

Neoclassical architecture arrived in Greece in the first half of the 19th century, bringing back to the country forms of “antiquity”. Neoclassicism was initially introduced during the Capodistrian period, mainly by Greek students of the architectural schools of Europe (France, Italy, Germany), who returned to their homeland after years of studies, in order to offer their services. At the same time, after 1832 and the establishment of the Kingdom of Otto, several Bavarian architects were called upon to redesign the Greek historical centers. Buildings with neoclassical features exist in many cities such as Nafplion, Aegina, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Paros, Hermoupolis, Patras, Tripoli, Eretria and Argos. The architectures followed the European standards, adapting them partly according to their Greek identity.