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Museum of Icons and Relics in Pyrgos

Although the Museum of Icons and Relics on Santorini is small, it has in its collection beautiful and valuable icons, sculptures, relics, vestments, books and other objects related to the liturgy and the church.

History of the museum

Where the museum is now located, there was once a monastery with the church of Agios Triada (Holy Trinity). However, in 1956, during an earthquake, it was destroyed. Thanks to the activities of the Association of Pyrgos Residents in Thira, headed by Liza Patiniotis, many exhibits were saved and collected, the building was rebuilt, and in 1997 a museum was opened in it.

Museum exhibition

Many of the exhibits are truly antique religious objects. Most of them come from the 17th and 18th century. You can see local icons, originating from Santorini, and Cretan icons. The oldest of them dates back to the 16th century and depicts St George. Most probably it comes from the church under his name. Moreover, in the museum it is worth paying attention to:

  • three icons from the collection, “Agios Ioannis Theologos”, “Upper Prophets” and “Theia
  • Leitourgia” of the church of Agios Ioannis Theologos,
  • A pair of gold embroidered sleeves with scenes of Eisodia and Ypapanti,
  • A collection of wooden sculptures from the 18th and 19th centuries,
  • wooden, richly carved cross (woodcut),
  • handwritten religious writings from the 17th century.

And also church vessels, mass books, embroideries, liturgical vestments and other exhibits of a religious nature.

Location of the museum

The museum is located in the central part of the island of Santorini, precisely in the village of Pyrgos, near the castle.

Practical information

The Museum of Icons and Relics in Pyrgos on Santorini is open from April to October from 10am to 4pm.

It is possible to purchase a ticket for €15, which also allows you to visit other museums on Santorini. However, a ticket to the Icon and Relic Museum itself costs €2 (reduced – €1). Admission is free for EU students and children and young people under 18.

Gallery of Museum of Icons and Relics in Pyrgos

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