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Thalassa Museum: A Deep Dive into Cyprus's Maritime History

Explore Cyprus's maritime history at the Thalassa Museum in Ayia Napa, from ancient shipwrecks to fascinating marine life. A cultural gem!

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The Thalassa Museum in Ayia Napa is dedicated to the maritime history of Cyprus, showcasing the island's relationship with the sea from prehistoric times to the present. Exhibits include a life-size replica of an ancient Greek trading ship and paleontological displays.

A brief summary to Thalassa

  • Monday 9 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the museum's website for any temporary exhibitions or special events.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • The museum is wheelchair accessible.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Thalassa Museum is centrally located in Ayia Napa, a short walk from the Ayia Napa Harbour and the town center. From the harbor, walk inland towards the main square, then follow Kryou Nerou Avenue. The museum will be on your right. Walking from the main square takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses in Ayia Napa serve the museum. Bus route 201 stops near the Thalassa Museum. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single ride costs approximately €2 during the day.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Ayia Napa. A short taxi ride from Nissi Beach or Protaras to the Thalassa Museum will cost approximately €10-€15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The base fare for a taxi is around €4, with an additional €1.5 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Thalassa

The Thalassa Museum, whose name comes from the Greek word for 'sea,' is located in the heart of Ayia Napa and offers visitors a fascinating look into Cyprus's rich maritime heritage. Opened in 2005, the museum aims to highlight the impact and significance of the sea on the island's history, from the paleontological era to the present day. It is operated in association with the Pierides Foundation, the Hellenic Institute for the Preservation of Nautical Tradition, and the Tornaritis-Pierides Marine Life Foundation. The museum's exhibits span over 7,000 years, from the Neolithic period to Venetian rule. Visitors can explore Cypriot antiquities, including a replica of a Mesolithic papyrus vessel and a clay model of a ship with sailors. One of the museum's highlights is the 'Kyrenia II' vessel, a life-size replica of an ancient Greek trading ship from the Classical period (400 B.C.). The original ship sank off the coast of Kyrenia around 300 BC. The replica was built in 1985 for scientific experimental purposes and has been exhibited worldwide. The museum also features paleontological exhibits with fossilized fishes, shells, and corals dating back 130 million years. Visitors can also view stuffed sea animals, marine plants, and other specimens. The museum building itself is a modern, three-story structure made of marble, onyx, wood, and metal, designed to offer unique experiences with its 'bird's eye view'. The exhibits are displayed using various methods, including underground showcases, modern showcases, and suspended displays. The museum also has an open-air amphitheater and a multipurpose hall for events and conferences.

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