The Heraklion Archaeological Museum has been awarded a Special Commendation from the European Museum of the Year Award 2017 Judging Panel.
The EMYA Judges have praised the museum for presenting a cutting-edge interpretation of the history and civilisation of Crete, focused on the rise and decline of the Minoan culture. The museum has become a huge social and cultural asset for the island, influencing tourism and the economy, while also helping the local community to interiorize a positive perception of science and culture.
The museum brings together archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5500 years of the island’s history. Pride of place is given to the treasures of Minoan civilisation, the entire historical course of which can thus be appreciated. Justly regarded as the home of Minoan civilisation par excellence, the museum houses the most important collection of Minoan antiquities the world over.
The main building of the museum was closed for interior renovation from November 2006 to May 2013 with a small temporary exhibition remaining opened.
