Evgenidio Foundation
Eugenides Foundation is one of Greece’s most important educational and cultural institutions, with a long-standing contribution to science, technology, and education.
It was established in 1956 according to the will of the national benefactor Eugenios Eugenides, whose vision was to support the education of young Greeks in scientific and technical fields. Eugenios Eugenides was a successful shipowner and businessman with international activity who, despite his global presence, maintained a deep love for Greece and strongly believed that the country’s progress depended on the proper education and training of scientists, engineers, and technical professionals. To fulfill this vision, he dedicated a significant part of his fortune to the creation of a foundation that would promote scientific and technical education in Greece.
A decisive role in the Foundation’s development was played by his sister, Marianthi Simou, who undertook its administration and management. Through her dedication and commitment, she successfully implemented her brother’s vision and became known as the “soul” of the Foundation. From its earliest years, the Foundation focused on supporting vocational and scientific education through scholarships, the publication of technical and educational books, and the creation of educational infrastructure. In 1966, the Foundation’s building in Athens was officially inaugurated, housing a scientific library, lecture halls, experimental laboratories, and the well-known Planetarium. The Foundation’s contribution was soon recognized by the Academy of Athens, which awarded it the Gold Medal in 1965.
In the decades that followed, under the leadership of Nikolaos Vernikos-Eugenides and later Leonidas Dimitriadis-Eugenides, the Foundation significantly expanded its activities. It supported schools and universities with educational equipment, strengthened maritime education, funded infrastructure projects, and developed innovative learning facilities. Among its most important achievements was the creation of the New Digital Planetarium, considered one of the most advanced planetariums in the world, as well as the Center for Science and Technology, featuring interactive exhibits and educational workshops for children and young people. Today, the Eugenides Foundation continues to serve as a major center of knowledge, innovation, and culture in Greece, promoting scientific thinking and technological education through exhibitions, educational programs, workshops, and cultural initiatives.
