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Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania

Explore Byzantine, post-Byzantine & Venetian artifacts in a 15th-century monastery, revealing Chania's rich historical tapestry.

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Housed in the former San Salvatore monastery, this museum showcases artifacts from the Byzantine, post-Byzantine, and Venetian eras, offering insights into the region's history through mosaics, frescoes, coins, and religious items.

A brief summary to Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania | Βυζαντινή/Μεταβυζαντινή Συλλογή Χανίων

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience with the artifacts.
  • Check the museum's opening hours in advance, as they may vary depending on the season.
  • Take your time to read the informative tables and maps provided, which offer insights into the origins of the exhibits and the historical context of each era.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection is located in Chania's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Venetian Harbor, walk inland along Theotokopoulou Street; the museum is located at number 78. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes to walk from the harbor area.

  • Public Transport

    Chania has a network of city buses that serve the Old Town. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near the Venetian Harbor or Plateia 1866, both within walking distance of the museum. A single bus fare within Zone A (the city center) costs €1.20 if purchased in advance from a kiosk or €2.00 if purchased on the bus.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Chania. A short taxi ride from the Chania Bus Station (KTEL) or other locations in the city center to the museum will typically cost between €6-€11. Ensure the driver is aware of the museum's location on Theotokopoulou Street.

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

The Byzantine/Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania offers a captivating glimpse into the rich historical heritage of western Crete. Located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, the museum is housed within the historic Church of San Salvatore, a Venetian-era structure dating back to the 15th century. Originally a church, it was transformed into a monastery in the 16th century by Franciscan monks, who added a cloister. During Ottoman rule, it served as a mosque. The collection includes items gathered from excavations and donations, vividly documenting the historical development of the Chania prefecture from the early Christian period to the era of Turkish occupation. Exhibits are presented in chronological order and grouped by type, including mosaics, funerary inscriptions, wall paintings, icons, architectural sculptures, ceramics, and coins. Highlights include a 6th-century mosaic floor from an early Christian basilica, frescoes from the Agia Varvara church, Venetian coats of arms, and a 17th-century icon of St. George by Emmanuel Tzanes. The museum also features a rare 10th-century Islamic vase. Visitors can explore relics from early Christian churches and gain an understanding of Cretan civilization after Roman colonization. The museum provides insightful historical summaries, enriching the experience and fostering a deeper understanding of the artifacts on display.

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