By Catherine Tsounis
The Rethymnon Archaeological Museum in Crete features exhibits from both the Hellenistic era and the Roman period, each offering unique insights. Among its notable artifacts is a Roman marble statue of Aphrodite, a copy of the famous Hellenistic sculpture known as the Aphrodite of Milos. Also on display is a clay model of a shrine, with only its upper part preserved, a terracotta female figurine’s head from Axos dating back to 530 BC, and a section of a marble funerary stele depicting a warrior carrying a shield in relief. Additionally, visitors can admire a clay-footed vase with a perforated base and floral patterns on its lid.
The museum houses a diverse range of collections spanning various periods: Late Neolithic (3500-2900 B.C.) and Early Minoan (2800-2100 B.C.) artifacts from caves such as Gerani, Melidoni, Margeles, and Helenes; discoveries from sites like Apodoulou, Monastiraki, and the peak sanctuary at Vrysinas, dating to the Middle Minoan period (2100-1600 B.C.); Late Minoan artifacts (1600-1100 B.C.) primarily from the Armenoi cemetery; items from the Geometric (1000-700 B.C.) and Archaic (700-500 B.C.) periods found in Eleutherna and Axos; and artifacts from Stavromenos and Argyroupolis (ancient Lappa) dating to the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods.
During the Greek, Hellenistic and Roman periods, Rethymnon was affluent. Stop by the Archaeological Museum and enjoy the exhibits.
Reference:
1. Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon – Crete Guide
