Explore Archaic Crete at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Discover the fascinating world of Archaic Crete at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum’s new exhibition, “Ekatompolis: The World of Archaic Crete”!
Delve into the island’s rich history through a captivating display of approximately 300 archaeological finds, showcasing the establishment and development of Cretan cities during the Archaic period (7th-5th centuries BC). This era, which dawned 500 years after the fall of the Minoan civilization, saw Crete emerge as a hub of political and cultural innovation.
“Ekatompolis”, meaning “hundred cities,” draws its name from Homer’s Iliad, which famously referred to Crete as the “island of a hundred cities.” The exhibition vividly brings to life the diverse and dynamic character of these ancient cities, their economic and political growth, and the lives of their inhabitants.
Highlights of the exhibition include:
- A wide range of artifacts: Explore pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and other archaeological treasures that shed light on daily life, religious practices, and artistic expression in Archaic Crete.
- Focus on Crete’s political development: Discover how the island’s early political structures and institutions contributed to the formation of ancient Greek political identity.
- Connections to the wider Greek world: Explore Crete’s influence on mainland Greece through artifacts and stories, such as the intriguing connection between the Cretan sage Epimenides and the purification of Athens.
- Rare and unseen objects: Many of the exhibits are on public display for the first time, including finds from across Crete and other regions of Greece, such as Samos and Delphi.
- Special exhibit on the Phaleron cemetery: Learn about the fascinating “Bound Ones” – a group burial from the Phaleron cemetery near Athens – and its connection to Cretan rituals and law.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a lesser-known chapter of Crete’s rich heritage!
Exhibition Details:
- Dates: December 2024 – August 2025
- Location: Temporary Exhibition Hall, Heraklion Archaeological Museum (entrance from Doukos Boforos Street)
- Guided tours and lectures: The museum will offer regular guided tours and a series of lectures (in Greek and English) by archaeologists and researchers.
Plan your visit:
- Website: https://heraklionmuseum.gr/en/
- Contact: +30 2810 279000 or info@amh.gr
Supported by the Ministry of Culture and the Region of Crete.
