Historical Museum of Crete in Heraklion

The Historical Museum of Crete with excellent permanent exhibitions

had often caused my curiosity and my interest and since we finally managed to visit it, I can only say that nothing here reminds “dusty” history, a visit is worth 100%!

In the well-equipped rooms of the neoclassical building on the quayside of the island’s capital Heraklion, the writer Nikos Kazantzakis, 2 original paintings by the famous El Greco, wonderful Byzantine frescoes and icons, a select numismatic collection and quite a large and impressive exhibition on World War II in Crete are, among others, harmoniously combined. The Cretan history is unfurled by the liveliest style with modern optical and acoustic means and captures you in its spell.

Nikos Kazantzakis Collection

The Nikos Kazantzakis Collection includes the Cretan author’s study from his home in Antibes, France, with his library, original furniture and personal possessions, manuscripts of his works and several first editions of his books in numerous languages.

Model of Venetian Candia

With particular regard to Heraklion, or Venetian Candia, an impressive 1:500 scale model measuring approximately 15 square metres replicates the city in the mid-17th century, shortly before the Ottoman assault. Plans, photographs and brief texts on the surrounding walls present particular monuments and sites in Heraklion, which visitors can pick out on the model by using the special lighting system. Alternatively, the city can be toured via a wall projection of relevant images combined with spotlights focused on the monuments.

The exhibition hall

The former home of the politician Lysimachus Kalokairinos, brother of amateur archaeologist Minos Kalokairinos (Knossos excavations), is transformed in the most impressive way in a great and lively Museum and also has a café with terrace and sea views.