Archaeological Museum of Isthmia

The museum is next to the Ancient Isthmia archaeological site and is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts which were found in various sites around the area.

The museum is next to the Ancient Isthmia archaeological site and is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts which were found in various sites around the area. The highlight of the collection is the glass panels from the temple of Isis in the ancient port of Cenchreae, which are exhibited in their own specially designed area. The museum’s exhibits are well displayed and arranged so you can get a good insight into the history of the whole area from the mid-7th century BC onwards.

Many of the objects, which include vases, figurines, sculptures, architectural elements, memorial columns, brass objects and coins, were uncovered during archaeological digs by the American School of Classical Studies. This museum really is a “hidden gem” as it includes objects from the Sanctuary of Poseidon, the cemeteries and the stadium at Isthmia as well as from the Hellenistic settlement at Rachi, the ancient port of Cenchreae, the Roman baths and the Byzantine fortress. One final thing to mention is that you can also see finds from digs at the Hexamilion (six mile wall) which was a massive wall built across the Isthmus to protect the Peloponnese from invaders coming down from the mainland.

The museum was built in 1970 and was designed by the well-known Greek architect, Pavlos Mylonas. 

Location

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