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Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania: A Historical Journey

Explore Byzantine and post-Byzantine art and history in the heart of Chania's Old Town at the San Salvatore Monastery.

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Housed in the former San Salvatore Monastery, the Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania showcases a rich collection of artifacts from the Byzantine era to the Turkish rule, offering insights into the historical and artistic evolution of the Chania region.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the artifacts.
  • Check the museum's opening hours, as it is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Take your time to appreciate the details in the mosaics and frescoes, as they showcase the artistic skills of the Byzantine and post-Byzantine eras.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the charming Old Town of Chania to soak in the atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection is located at Theotokopoulou 78 in Chania's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Venetian Harbour, walk inland towards the west, following the main street (Theotokopoulou). The museum will be on your left. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Chania's urban bus system (KTEL) provides access to the Old Town. Several bus lines serve the area. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date routes and stops. A single ticket within Zone A (which covers most of the city center) typically costs around €1.10 - €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Chania. A short taxi ride from the central area to the museum should cost approximately €6-€11, depending on the distance and traffic. Taxi rates start at €0.80 per km.

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Discover more about Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania | Βυζαντινή/Μεταβυζαντινή Συλλογή Χανίων

The Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania, nestled in the heart of Chania's Old Town, offers a captivating glimpse into the region's layered past. Located within the historic San Salvatore Monastery, the collection features a diverse array of artifacts spanning from the early Christian period through the era of Turkish occupation. The museum's exhibits are thoughtfully arranged to highlight the historical and artistic development of western Crete. Visitors can explore mosaics, funerary inscriptions, wall paintings, icons, architectural sculptures, ceramics, and coins. Noteworthy items include a 6th-century mosaic floor depicting a deer and vine, frescoes from the Agia Varvara church, and a 17th-century icon of St. George by Emmanuel Tzanes. The collection also features a rare 10th-century Islamic vase and Venetian coats of arms. The San Salvatore Monastery itself adds to the museum's ambiance. Originally a Venetian church built in the 15th century, it was expanded by Franciscan monks in the 16th century. During Ottoman rule, the church was converted into a mosque. Today, the monastery's architecture reflects its varied history, with Late Gothic motifs and remnants of its time as a mosque. Visiting the museum provides a unique opportunity to understand the intricacies of Cretan history and art. The collection showcases the artistic achievements of the Cretan school alongside traditional Byzantine artistry. Informative panels and maps guide visitors through the exhibits, providing historical context and insights into the origin of each artifact.

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