Culture and history info

The museums of Chania feature excellent archaeological findings and hundreds of exhibits which outline the diachronic influence of the island's cultural history. The most important museum of Chania that provides much insight into the Cretan history is the Archaeological Museum of Chania located in the Catholic church of Saint Francis. The permanent exhibition covers a long period from the Neolithic to Roman times, discovered in the surrounded excavated sites. Ceramics, pottery, sculptures, statuettes and excellent mosaics are on display. An outstanding collection from the Byzantine era can be viewed in the Venetian church of Saint Salvatore including frescoes, jewellery, sculptures and other specimens of that time. The War Museum of Askyfou is a tribute to the Cretan men who fought for their freedom and is found at the centre of Chania with great historical relics and printed material. In the heart of the old town you can visit the Folklore Museum which hosts several items from the private collection of the locals.