Heraklion Archaeological Museum
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Escape the City Plan|Greece🇬🇷|Day 1 Guide to Crete Island
Olivia MaeOlivia Mae
452
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete is one of the most significant and renowned museums in Greece, particularly known for its extensive collection of Minoan artifacts. Here are some key details about the museum: The museum is located in the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. It is centrally situated, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the city. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses the most comprehensive collection of Minoan artifacts in the world. It offers a deep insight into the Minoan civilization, which flourished on Crete from around 3000 to 1100 BC. The museum's collection includes thousands of items from the Minoan civilization, such as pottery, tools, weapons, frescoes, jewelry, and everyday objects. Some of the most famous pieces include: A mysterious clay disc featuring a unique script, believed to date back to the second millennium BC. The museum houses several well-preserved frescoes from the Minoan palaces, including the famous "Prince of the Lilies." A statue representing a female deity holding snakes, symbolizing fertility and religious rituals. Depicting the Minoan practice of bull-leaping, a ceremonial activity involving athletes and bulls. In addition to Minoan artifacts, the museum also features collections from later periods, including the Mycenaean, Geometric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman eras. These collections highlight the continuity and development of civilization on Crete over the centuries. The museum building itself is a fine example of modern architecture, designed in the early 20th century. It has undergone several renovations to accommodate the growing collection and modernize its facilities. A major renovation project was completed in the early 2000s, enhancing the museum’s infrastructure, display techniques, and visitor services. The museum is generally open daily, with extended hours during the summer tourist season. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information on opening times. Visitors can explore the museum on their own or take part in guided tours, which are available in multiple languages. Guided tours offer deeper insights into the exhibits and the history of the artifacts. The museum is accessible to people with disabilities, and it provides various amenities such as a gift shop, café, and rest areas. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is not only a place for exhibition but also plays a significant role in the research, preservation, and conservation of Cretan antiquities. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events aimed at engaging both local and international audiences. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology, offering a rich and immersive experience into the ancient world of Crete
mpampis antoniadismpampis antoniadis
80
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Minoan civilization and other ancient Greek cultures. Located in the heart of Heraklion, Crete, Greece, the museum is easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from the city center. The museum offers a combined ticket with Knossos Palace for €20, valid for 3 days. You can purchase your tickets online or at the museum itself. The museum is open from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM on Mondays and Tuesdays, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Wednesdays through Sundays. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including: Original frescoes from the Palace of Knossos. The museum boasts a wide array of pottery, including vases, jugs, and bowls, as well as sculptures of gods, goddesses, and other figures. There are also gold jewelry, precious stones, and other ornaments from the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations. Also, Tools and weapons used by the ancient Cretans, including swords, daggers, and axes. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is located in the heart of Heraklion, surrounded by a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The museum is also close to the Venetian Harbor and the Loggia, a historic building that now houses the City Hall. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in learning more about the Minoan civilization and ancient Greek history. The museum is well-organized, informative, and offers a wide variety of exhibits. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Crete.
Abeer HekalAbeer Hekal
00
The collection is wonderful. The experience was not. Due to Covid regulations we had to queue for almost an hour (having the tickets already) without knowing why, as we were too scared to ask the staff, as they were so rude and nervous. Probably the reason was to keep a certain number of people inside. Once you get inside the rooms nobody respect the social distance anymore, but the staff is constantly on your neck, making you feel quite uncomfortable. What happened to me and my sister was very upsetting. First of all we come from a family of artist and we basically grow up in museums. We loved the collection, which is very well displayed and reading the historic notes gives you an amazing inside on the Minoan culture. On the other hand, we were taking a picture where I was pointed at a jar that was taller than me (see in attachments). The security in the room didn’t like that. She first tried to take the phone from my sister’s hands, then she started saying that we are in a museum and that we need to keep our hands behind our back.. I’m honestly shocked, we weren’t showed any respect and we were accused of not having a proper behaviour like we were teenagers messing around. I’m wondering, what would they do to children? Do they know that is allowed having fan in a museum, still respecting the place? I really advise either a change of guidelines for the staff, or to write at the entrance the behaviour rules, that not even in the Vatican Museum are so strict!
Nadja D'UonnoNadja D'Uonno
290
The Heraklion Museum, officially known as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, is a treasure trove of ancient artifacts located in the heart of Crete, Greece. This museum is one of the most significant archaeological museums in the world, dedicated to Minoan civilization, which thrived on the island around 3000-1100 BC. As you enter the museum, you're greeted by a well-curated collection that showcases an impressive array of exhibits, including pottery, jewelry, frescoes, and sculptures. Among the highlights is the renowned “Priam’s Treasure” and the famous fresco of the “Prince of the Lilies,” which exemplify the exquisite artistry of the Minoans. The museum also features artifacts from other historical periods, providing a comprehensive overview of Crete’s rich history. The modern design of the museum complements the ancient artifacts, allowing for an immersive experience as you wander through the various exhibits. Informative displays and descriptions enhance your understanding of the significance of each piece. After exploring the museum, visitors can enjoy a lovely café with views of the surrounding area. Overall, the Heraklion Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and archaeology, offering a captivating glimpse into the Minoan civilization and the cultural heritage of Crete.
T MT M
40
We went to the Minoan Museum in Heraklion and would recommend buying a combination ticket for €20 per adult. This will get you into both the Museum and knossos and is well worth the money. I would highly recommend visiting the Museum 1st so you get the fullest experience of what you are visiting. The place of knossos is only a 15-minute drive south of the museum. Anyways I'm digressing 🤣 When we went to buy our tickets at the Museum for this place we was informed that people with disabilities and their carers actually go free so myself and my partner and our 2 autistic children went completely free to both the Museum and Knossos. It only cost for my partners auntie who came with us. And with that combination ticket I mentioned earlier it is also valid for 3 days from purchase so you can visit at your own leisure. Anyways the Museum itself is brimming with artifacts so much you will be fully immersed for hours. All the staff are friendly and helpful and very knowledgeable and will answer your questions happily 😊 They also have good facilities and a lovely cafe however it's expensive so bring your own drinks 😉 And parking is on street or their main carpark is at the bottom of a big hill. I recommend visiting here and we will definitely be returning. Thanks for reading this I hope it helps.
Chris HadgraftChris Hadgraft
00
Nearby Attractions Of Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Morosini Fountain
Rocca a Mare Fortress
Heraklion Venetian Port
Venetian port in Heraklion
Cathedral of Agios Minas
Agios Minas (St. Menas)
Heraklion Port Passenger Station
Georgiadis Park
Bembo Fountain
Church of Agios Titos

Morosini Fountain
4.5
(8.9K)
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Rocca a Mare Fortress
4.6
(4.4K)
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Heraklion Venetian Port
4.6
(3.3K)
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Venetian port in Heraklion
4.6
(2.4K)
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Nearby Restaurants Of Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Peskesi
A Little Wine A Little Sea
Mare Coffee Bar & Food
BEER O'CLOCK
Antipodas
Phyllosophies (Liontaria)
Via Pastarella
Apiri greek_eatery
Thraka Grill Restaurant
Xalavro Open Bar

Peskesi
4.8
(5.2K)
$$
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A Little Wine A Little Sea
4.4
(2.4K)
$$
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Mare Coffee Bar & Food
4.4
(2K)
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BEER O'CLOCK
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Basic Info
Address
Ξανθουδίδη και, Chatzidaki 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
Map
Phone
+30 281 027 9000
Call
Website
heraklionmuseum.gr
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(11.2K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
accessibility
Description
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a museum located in Heraklion on Crete. It is one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art, as it contains by far the most important and complete collection of artefacts of the Minoan civilization of Crete.
attractions: Morosini Fountain, Rocca a Mare Fortress, Heraklion Venetian Port, Venetian port in Heraklion, Cathedral of Agios Minas, Agios Minas (St. Menas), Heraklion Port Passenger Station, Georgiadis Park, Bembo Fountain, Church of Agios Titos, restaurants: Peskesi, A Little Wine A Little Sea, Mare Coffee Bar & Food, BEER O'CLOCK, Antipodas, Phyllosophies (Liontaria), Via Pastarella, Apiri greek_eatery, Thraka Grill Restaurant, Xalavro Open Bar
