Athanasakeion Archaeological Museum

The Athanasakeion Archaeological Museum was built in 1909 and is named after the sponsor who funded its construction. The Athanassakio Archaeological Museum houses exhibits in a spacious neoclassical building with a lovely garden. You will have the opportunity to see a variety of findings from different but equally important periods of Greek history.

Most objects in the collection were discovered in the early 20^th century or during modern excavations in the region of Thessaly. Some of the earliest findings are related to the Neolithic settlements of Dimini and Sesklo. Others belong to the Geometric Period – the period of the Argonauts and the Trojan War- the Hellenistic Period and its classical heritage or the modern Byzantine era with its exquisite religious art.

The findings range from household utensils and agricultural tools to weapons, jewellery, coins and gold artefacts. All items are labelled and described in both English and Greek, thus allowing you to visualize the way people of the region lived thousands of years ago. The collection is organised chronologically, which offers an interesting insight into the evolution of technology, weaponry and culture over the centuries. Outside the museum, there are also some interesting restoration houses found at Dimini and Seklo, enhancing the experience even more.

Of particular interest are also the ancient tombs that are in the museum. The tombs are exposed exactly as found with the skeletons and sacrificial objects.

The museum is not in the city center, but it is very easy to find as it is next to the hospital. If you don’t have a car, you can just hop on Bus 1, which will leave you straight at the entrance. Tickets are quite affordable and although the museum is small, it will definitely interest you and your kids!