Archaeological Museum of Abdera: Preserving the Heritage of an Ancient Greek City
Visitor Information
Google Rating: 4.7
Popularity: Low
Google Maps: View on Google Maps
Official Website: odysseus.culture.gr
Country: Greece
Civilization: Greek, Roman
Remains: Museum
History
The Archaeological Museum of Abdera is situated in the town of Abdera, Greece, a site with origins tracing back to the 7th century BC. Abdera was an ancient Greek city known for its long history spanning several centuries. The museum itself was established in January 2000 to preserve and showcase the archaeological heritage of this historic city.
The artifacts housed in the museum cover a wide chronological range from the 7th century BC through to the 13th century AD. This extensive timeframe reflects the continuous occupation and development of Abdera through various historical periods, including its classical Greek era and later phases. The collections reveal aspects of the city’s public and private life, as well as burial practices, offering insight into the social and economic activities of its inhabitants over time.
Remains
The Archaeological Museum of Abdera is housed in a modern building designed to display finds from the ancient city. The structure is divided into three main sections, each dedicated to a different aspect of Abdera’s past.
One section focuses on public life, exhibiting items related to religion, governance, coinage, weights, seals, and weapons. These artifacts illustrate the administrative and ceremonial functions of the city from its early days through later periods.
Another section presents objects connected to private life, including tools and products from various trades and workshops. It also features building materials, pottery, textiles, personal grooming items, clothing, hairstyles, and jewelry.
The third section is devoted to burial customs. It contains grave markers, clay sarcophagi (stone coffins), containers for ashes, burial offerings, and reconstructions of burial sites.
All artifacts come from excavations in and around Abdera, particularly from ancient cemeteries.