Ιστορικό και Λαογραφικό Μουσείο Αρναίας

Museum in the oldest mansion of Chalkidiki, the “Giatradiko”, with folklore and historical objects from Arnea in twelve thematic sections.

Opening hours unknown

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About the museum

The Historical and Folklore Museum of Arnea is located on a narrow stone-built lane near the village's central square, within the historic core of the settlement. It is housed in the Iatrou mansion, known as the “Giatradiko”, which probably dates from the second half of the 18th or the early 19th century and is considered the oldest building in Chalkidiki. The mansion belonged to Konstantinos Katsangelos and housed the folklore collection assembled by the Cultural and Educational Association of Arnea. It has operated as a museum since summer 1999 and today belongs to the Municipality of Aristotelis.

The two-storey building, with a U-shaped ground plan and a covered balcony (hayati) on the upper floor, is an example of the traditional architecture of Arnea. The exhibits are donations from residents and are presented in twelve thematic sections on the ground floor, the mezzanine and the upper floor: agricultural tools, bread-making vessels, beekeeping equipment, carpentry and building tools, the equipment of the traditional coffee house, and weaving equipment.

Two items stand out: a 200-year-old fire pump and the first radio to reach the village, in 1941. There is also an old onta on the highest floor, furnished like the traditional houses of Arnea. The museum shows films about the history of the area and runs educational programmes.

Highlights

The Iatrou mansion (“Giatradiko”), the oldest building in Chalkidiki
Twelve thematic sections on the daily life and trades of the village
200-year-old fire pump
Weaving equipment: loom, distaff and spindles
Old onta furnished like the traditional houses of Arnea