Archaeological Collection of Stavros, Ithaki

About the museum

The Archaeological Collection of Stavros is located in the settlement of Stavros, in northern Ithaki, and consists of a single room. It holds finds from the wider area, dating from the Early Bronze Age to the Roman period. Most come from Pelikata, an important settlement of the Early Helladic period.

Among the best-known exhibits are fragments of Geometric bronze tripod cauldrons from the Spilaio tis Polis (Cave of the City). Their elaborate decoration recalls Homer's Odyssey. A fragment of a Hellenistic mask of the 2nd century BC bears the inscription “EYCHIN ODYSSEI”, that is, a prayer on behalf of Odysseus, and attests to the veneration of the hero on the island.

The presentation of the offerings in their historical and archaeological context, and their connection with the Homeric epic, give the visit an almost experiential character. Odysseus was an integral part of the identity of the people of Ithaki, as the island's coins also show.

Highlights

• Fragments of Geometric bronze tripod cauldrons from the Spilaio tis Polis
• Fragment of a Hellenistic mask with the inscription “EYCHIN ODYSSEI”
• Finds from Pelikata, an Early Helladic settlement
• Connection of the exhibits with Homer's Odyssey

Permanent exhibition

• Μόνιμη έκθεση της Αρχαιολογικής Συλλογής – Finds from Pelikata and northern Ithaki, from the Early Bronze Age to the Roman period, with the tripod offerings from the Spilaio tis Polis.

Founded

1933

Operated by

Υπουργείο Πολιτισμού – Εφορεία Αρχαιοτήτων Κεφαλληνίας και Ιθάκης

Admission & discounts

Free admission: 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend of September, 28 October and every first and third Sunday of the month from 1 November to 31 March.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

Ramp and lift in the building.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The collection is about 15 minutes on foot from the centre of Stavros, 24 minutes by car from the port of Aetos (“Odysseas”) and 28 minutes from Vathy.

Amenities & dining

Toilet facilities.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit