The richness and variety of the cultural heritage of Symi is present in the upgraded and fully restored Historical Symi Museum, which was reopened on the afternoon of Friday, September 18 by Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni.

“Symi has great cultural reserves starting from Prehistory down to our times” said Ms. Mendoni. “Symi had always been known throughout different periods for its particular culture which was connected with the islanders’ refinement and their zeal for letters. This museum was not built by the Greek state; it was donated by the people of Symi. The State is indebted to them for their generosity and will honour the donors for years to come, for making a gift of their property,regardless of the state of their finances,to house their island’s long history .

“Every island, every corner of Greece, is entitled to at least one organized archaeological site and at least one museum. Because apart from their importance as arks of History and Culture, museums and archaeological sites, the newest and most modern creation, are economic and development tools for  Greece that having just found its footing once again is currently being tested by covid. However, it is certain that thanks to our country’s long history and its people, it is making up for lost time and overcoming the pandemic affecting the entire planet”.

“The Historical Museum of Symi, located in the Chorio district of the town of Symi, is a complex of eight buildings with their courtyards and gardens. Adjacent restored traditional houses were added to the Farmakidis and Chatziagapitou mansions, with a total area of 1,385 square metres on four levels.

The re-exhibiting of the Museum’s collections was organized with a main focus on Symi’s social, economic and intellectual life during its period of prosperity, presenting its history over time and the island’s impressive topography. The exhibition records the residential development of the town, the shipbuilding, sponge fishing, trade, social life, religious practice and art developed on the island, as well as typical features of a Symi house and regional costumes.