

A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Patras

The Archaeological Museum of Patras is one of the most prominent museums in Greece, along with the National Archaeological Museum of Athens and the Acropolis Museum, as well as those in Thessaloniki, Delos, Delphi, and Olympia. It houses collections about the history of Patras and the surrounding area from prehistory to the end of Roman times. Gifted by nature, Patras is nowadays a commercial hub and Greece’s third most important city.

The museum building stands at the north entrance to the city on the new Patras-Athens Motorway and is a model of architectural elegance. Its external appearance is in keeping with the surrounding area. In front of the building there is a spherical dome covered with sheets of titanium standing in an artificial pool, which represents Patras’s relationship with the water element. It is modern, spacious, really interesting and has a distinct point of view, by presenting the archaeological finds of Achaia in a smart, fun and educative manner.

The exhibits reconstruct Patras’s long history dating back to prehistoric times. The museum follows the style of all modern museums of the world, which means that many of the exhibits are not “locked” inside window cases but are “liberated” so that all visitors of all ages can approach them within breathing distance. The findings are exhibited in such a way that the visitor can enjoy an experiential journey into the past. There are also video walls, with optical informative material, offering fascinating information.

The museum's permanent exhibition is divided into three major themes, the Hall of Private Life, the chamber of the necropolis and the hall of public life.

Treasures of the Museum

1300 exhibits will unfold and depict all areas of human life, daily life, public administration and death. Splendid sculptures, like the stone statue of Athena, Mycenaean vessels and weapons, burial offerings and many other exhibits create a vivid picture of public, private and religious life in ancient Achaia…

The private life comes alive with representations of buildings and floor mosaics that adorned the houses of rich Roman Patras. These mosaics, in excellent condition, have been transported “inlay by inlay” from the Roman villas were excavated to the museum. Tombs and a sarcophagus have also been moved from their original location. Unique finds, such as parts of a Roman residence, a middle class home of the Roman times and a luxurious private bath are also housed in the museum.

In Necropolis you will become privy to the ancient beliefs about death from the prehistoric to Roman times. The understanding of the life and interests of people in antiquity are completed by special reference to weaving, fishing, hunting, house decoration, hairstyles, make up, jewelry, clothing, toys and love life.

At the end of your visit, you can visit the gift shop of the Museum where you can find very interesting souvenirs, copies of or pertaining to the museum’s exhibits.

You can get in touch with the Museum to the number +30 2610/220-829

