 Founded in 1898 by Otto Benndorf, it is the fifth oldest such institution in Greece.Its main role is to provide a basis for Austrian scholars active in Greece, and to facilitate Austrian-run archaeological projects in the country.During its long existence, the ÖAI Athen has been involved in excavations at Lousoi, Aigeira and Gremoulias (all in the modern province Achaia), at the site of Elis and in Kolonna (Aegina).