Museen

Archaeological Museum of Messara

Gortyna, Heraklion · Free

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

About

Finds from Phaistos and Gortyn in one place.

The Archaeological Museum of Messara lies near Gortyn, on the main road between Agioi Deka and Mires. It tells the story of the Messara plain, one of the most important areas of ancient Crete, from the Minoan period through to Roman times.

The collection includes finds from Phaistos, Agia Triada, Gortyn and other sites in the area, such as pottery, statues, inscriptions and tools. The modern building has clear displays and helpful explanations.

It's a good complement to a visit to the archaeological sites nearby, especially Gortyn.

The museum is a good place to start before visiting the sites themselves, because it puts Phaistos, Agia Triada and Gortyn into context with maps, models and finds from each period. It is usually quiet, so you can take your time. Afterwards, Gortyn is only a few minutes away by car, and the cafes of Agioi Deka are perfect for a break in the shade before continuing to Phaistos or the south coast.

Around Gortyna

Nearest town: Mires, about 7 km by road
Nearest airport: Heraklion airport (HER), about 50 km by road

Heraklion is the heart of Minoan Crete and the island’s busiest region. Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum are the two places almost everyone visits, and they work well together on one day. In the south, the wide Messara plain holds the palace of Phaistos, the Roman ruins of Gortyna and the famous caves above the bay of Matala. More about Heraklion