The Archaeological Museum of Messara

Themes and Sections

Through its permanent exhibition entitled ‘Amidst the Mountains – Human Presence in Messara from Prehistoric to Christian Times’, the Museum presents the continuous human activity in Messara and the surrounding areas. It highlights the decisive role played by the topography of the area (surrounded by mountains) in the development of civilisations. The collections are displayed according to geographical and chronological criteria, utilising modern digital applications and interactive technologies for visitors.

Main Collections – Exhibits

The museum covers finds from the entire Messara Plain and its most significant archaeological sites: Phaistos, Agia Triada, Gortyna, as well as the smaller settlements in the region. Its three main exhibition spaces display objects from:

• Prehistoric times, with significant finds from the Palace of Phaistos and the Minoan settlement of Agia Triada,
• The Greco-Roman period, featuring jewellery, utensils, sculptures, inscriptions and monuments from Roman Gortyna,
• The Christian era, featuring early Christian monuments and finds that highlight the wealth of the local community during the Late Roman and Byzantine periods.

Of particular note are everyday objects, ritual vessels, coins, statues and grave goods. Among other things, the exhibition features the relief of Minos from Agia Triada, Minoan seals and wall paintings, as well as inscriptions containing the famous laws of Gortyna.

Practical Visitor Information

The museum is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities and also features a screening and conference hall, a temporary exhibition hall, an events courtyard, workshops, a gift shop and a café.

• Indicative opening hours: For opening times and ticket prices, we recommend visiting the museum’s official website (messaramuseum.gr) or by telephone on +30 28920 27177. At the museum’s opening, it was announced that admission would be free for the first few months of operation.

Areas Covered

The Messara Archaeological Museum brings together and showcases finds from almost all the archaeological sites in southern Crete: Messara, Phaistos, Agia Triada, Gortyna, whilst also covering the wider southern hinterland (Matala, Tympaki, Kouses, etc.).

Sources:

• The museum’s official website: www.messaramuseum.gr
• Ministry of Culture: Culture.gov.gr
• Incrediblecrete.gr
• Chania News
• Culturenow.gr