Archaeological Museum of Naxos

About the museum

The first archaeological collection of Naxos was assembled in 1899 from about twenty ancient objects and housed in the old primary school of Grotta. In 1931 it was moved to a room in the Gymnasium of Chora, and in 1963 it was housed in the historic building at the top of the Kastro, with a core dating from the 13th century and two towers of the Frankish wall. In the 17th century a Jesuit school operated there, and in the late 19th century the building housed the Commercial School, which Nikos Kazantzakis attended.

The exhibition, as shaped by 1972 and completed in 1994, presents works from Naxos and the Small Cyclades, from the Neolithic to the late Roman and early Byzantine periods. Particular emphasis was placed on the Early Cycladic collection with its Cycladic figurines, which is considered one of the most important in the world.

As part of the project “Nisida Museon Kastrou Chora Naxou” (Museum Islet of Chora Castle), the building is undergoing consolidation and upgrading work. Most of the old exhibition has been shown since 15 May 2021 in the neighbouring Cultural Centre “Agia Ursoula”, in the former Ursuline convent, with free admission.

Highlights

• Collection of Cycladic figurines from Naxos and the Small Cyclades
• Pottery and finds from the Early Cycladic period
• Exhibition in the former Ursuline convent with free admission
• Historic building in the Kastro of Chora where Nikos Kazantzakis studied

Permanent exhibition

• Προσωρινή έκθεση του Αρχαιολογικού Μουσείου στην «Αγία Ούρσουλα» – Most of the old exhibition is presented in the former Ursuline convent, a journey through the island’s archaeological past.

Founded

1972

Operated by

Εφορεία Αρχαιοτήτων Κυκλάδων

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission to the temporary exhibition is free.

Accessibility

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Kids & families

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Getting there & parking

The museum is in the Kastro of Chora, about 10 minutes on foot or 3 minutes by car from the port of Naxos.

Amenities & dining

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Events & venue rental

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