Archaeological Collection of Monemvasia
Αρχαιολογική Συλλογή Μονεμβασιάς
A small museum in a 16th-century mosque converted beside the lower town square, displaying Byzantine to Venetian carvings, ceramics and everyday objects.
The Archaeological Collection occupies a 16th-century mosque opposite the central square of the lower town. This square domed building served as a mosque during the Ottoman period, later as a prison and a café, and has been a museum since 1999. The exhibits come from excavations on the rock fortress and include marble carved fragments from Byzantine churches, finely glazed ceramics (Monemvasia was a medieval trading port in the Mediterranean), coins, jewelry and everyday objects. The museum also covers the history of Monemvasia wine, the sweet Malvasia. It is a small and charming museum, and a visit takes about 30 minutes. Tickets cost about 2 to 3 euros. Winter opening hours are shorter (check on site). It is an easy detour while strolling the lower town.
Opening hours
Summer approx. 08:00–15:30; closed Tuesdays (subject to on-site confirmation)
Nearby sights
- Lower Town of Monemvasia
- Church of Elkomenos Christos
- Hagia Sophia, Monemvasia
- Upper Town of Monemvasia
- Gefyra
- Gerakas Lagoon
- Kastania Cave
- Pavlopetri