Museum sights in Iraklio
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A
Archaeological Museum of Iraklio
The outstanding Archaeological Museum of Iraklio is second in size and importance only to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens because of its unique and extensive Minoan collection. The museum recently underwent a major restoration.
The collection covers Cretan civilization from Neolithic times until the Roman empire and includes pottery, jewellery, figurines and sarcophagi, as well as some famous frescoes, mostly from Knossos and Agia Triada. All testify to the remarkable imagination and advanced skills of the Minoans. Among the highlights are the famous Minoan frescoes from Knossos, including the Procession fresco, the Griffin Fresco (from the Throne Room), the…
reviewed
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B
Historical Museum of Crete
A fascinating collection from Crete's more recent past is presented at the excellent Historical Museum of Crete. The ground floor covers the period from Byzantine to Turkish rule, displaying plans, charts, photographs, ceramics and maps. On the 1st floor are the only two El Greco paintings in Crete - View of Mt Sinai and the Monastery of St Catherine (1570) and the tiny recent addition, Baptism of Christ.
Other rooms contain fragments of 13th- and 14th-century frescoes, coins, jewellery, liturgical ornaments and vestments, and medieval pottery.
The 2nd floor has a reconstruction of the library of author Nikos Kazantzakis. Another room is devoted to Rethymno-born former…
reviewed
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C
Natural History Museum of Crete
Established by the University of Crete, the leading Natural History Museum of Crete has relocated to impressive new five-level premises in the restored former electricity building on the waterfront. Only two wings had opened at the time of research, including an impressive interactive discovery centre for kids, compete with labs and excavation projects.
Apart from the broader evolution of humankind, the museum explores the flora and fauna of Crete, the island's ecosystem and habitats, and its caves, coastline and mountains. It also looks at the Minoan environment, including a reconstruction of a Minoan cottage and its inhabitants. It's a pleasant 10-minute walk along the…
reviewed
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D
Museum of Religious Art
The Museum of Religious Art is housed in the former Church of Agia Ekaterini, next to Agios Minas Cathedral. It has an impressive collection of icons, frescoes and elaborate ecclesiastical vestments. The premier exhibits are the six icons painted by Mihail Damaskinos, El Greco's mentor.
reviewed
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E
Battle of Crete Museum
The Battle of Crete Museum chronicles this historic battle through photographs, letters, uniforms and weapons.
reviewed
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F
Archaeological Museum of Iraklio
The outstanding Archaeological Museum of Iraklio is second in size and importance only to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens because of its unique and extensive Minoan collection. The museum recently underwent a major restoration.
The collection covers Cretan civilization from Neolithic times until the Roman empire and includes pottery, jewellery, figurines and sarcophagi, as well as some famous frescoes, mostly from Knossos and Agia Triada. All testify to the remarkable imagination and advanced skills of the Minoans. Among the highlights are the famous Minoan frescoes from Knossos, including the Procession fresco, the Griffin Fresco (from the Throne Room), the…
reviewed