Melbourne Athenaeum

Athenaeum
The Melbourne Athenaeum
Map
Address188 Collins Street
Melbourne, Victoria
Australia
Coordinates37°48′54″S 144°58′02″E / 37.81504°S 144.96736°E / -37.81504; 144.96736
DesignationVictorian Heritage Register, Register of Historic Buildings
Capacity880 (theatre one)
Current useLive theatre, comedy, library, readings
Construction
Opened1839
Rebuilt1885-1886
Years active184–185
ArchitectSmith & Johnson
Website
www.athenaeumtheatre.com.au

The Athenaeum or Melbourne Athenaeum at 188 Collins Street is an art and cultural hub in the central business district of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Founded in 1839, it is the city's oldest cultural institution.

Its building on Collins Street in the East End Theatre District sits opposite the Regent Theatre, and currently consists of a main theatre, a smaller studio theatre, a restaurant and a subscription library. It has also served as a mechanics' institute, an art exhibition space, and a cinema.