Plizio Visual Lab
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete is globally recognized as the preeminent institution for Minoan art and culture. The current building was constructed between 1937 and 1940, designed by architect Patroklos Karantinos on the site of a former Venetian Franciscan monastery. Its vast collection spans over 5,500 years of history, ranging from the Neolithic period to the late Roman era. The heart of the museum features unparalleled treasures unearthed from the great Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, and Zakros. Among its most iconic masterpieces are the enigmatic Phaistos Disc, the ivory Snake Goddesses, the Bull-Leaping fresco, and the exquisite gold bee pendant from Malia. Following a decade-long modernization project, the museum fully reopened in 2014, showcasing artifacts in a sophisticated chronological and thematic layout. The building itself is considered a cornerstone of modern Greek architecture and is officially protected as a cultural monument.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Heraklion Archaeological Museum · RAM Rulers · Saint Titus Church
- Nearby: Amoudara (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 21 | 18 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 88 | 75 | 42 | 23 | 15 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 18 | 46 | 59 | 86 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The museum houses the most extensive collection of Minoan artifacts in the world.
- The mysterious Phaistos Disc was discovered in 1908 and remains undeciphered.
- The site was previously home to a Venetian monastery destroyed by an 1856 earthquake.
- A full-scale renovation of the museum was completed in 2014.
- The 'Snake Goddess' figurines in the collection date back to approximately 1600 BC.
- The building features 27 galleries organized chronologically and by theme.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Heraklion Archaeological Museum (9)
RAM Rulers🏛 museum
A museum in Heraklion focusing on rulers and their history.
Heraklion Museum of Ancient Greek Technology Kostas Kotsanas🏛 museum
Housed in a 15th-century Venetian building, it exhibits ancient Greek inventions.
Venetian Loggia
A Venetian building in Crete, now a landmark of the city.
Old Olive Tree (planted ca. 480 years ago /2020.)
An olive tree about 480 years old, still standing in 2020.
Venetian Arsenals
The Venetians used these arsenals to build and repair their ships.
Basilica of Saint Mark
A historic church in Heraklion, now serving as an arts centre.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Is photography allowed in the museum?
What is the most famous exhibit?
Is there an English audio guide?
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: where is it located?
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: what is there to see?
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: when is the best time to visit?
Heraklion Archaeological Museum: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
