The GNO Foundation (SNF) envisioned and created the GNO Foundation Cultural Center (GNO) to be an open, high-quality, fully accessible public space that belongs to all. Designed by internationally renowned architect Renzo Piano and the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), the GNO, from its first years of operation, has confirmed its multifaceted role in society as a space that is intimate and welcoming, a landmark of modern Athens and an international destination, and a model of environmental sustainability.

In 2017, with the completion of the project, SNF delivered the GNO to the Greek state and the people of Greece, and the Foundation continues to actively support to this day its implementation of a rich program of cultural, sporting, and educational events and a large portion of its operating costs. In addition, the creation and utilization of GNO Park has multiplied the amount of green space available in the region and has enhanced the daily experience of using public space. From the conception of the idea through 2026, it is anticipated that SNF will have given a total of over €630 million ($760 million) to the GNO.

An integral part of the GNO are the new facilities of the National Library of Greece (NLG) and the Greek National Opera (GNO), which have contributed to the entry of both organizations into a new era in their long history, offering new opportunities and expanding their audience and their social footprint.

SNF’s collaboration with the GNO extends beyond its financial support. Over the years, SNF Nostos, an SNF gathering organized at the GNO, has hosted innovative events and important personalities from all over the world, such as a discussion between former US President Barack Obama and SNF Co-President Andreas Dracopoulos.

The millions of visitors from all over the world that the GNO welcomes annually and the way the project has been embraced by people of all ages demonstrate the need for public spaces where we all feel welcome, that we can actively participate in shaping, and where we can express ourselves freely.

“The most important achievement of the GNO Foundation Cultural Center (GNO) is the way it has been embraced by all people, creating—as we had envisioned along with its architect, Renzo Piano—an open and accessible public space.”

— Andreas Dracopoulos, 2022 GNO Foundation (SNF) Co-President