The Byzantine Museum (Byzantine Museum or Musio Byzantiko) is located in Solomo Square (Platía Solomoú), which is not only the largest square of the capital city of Zante, but also of the whole island. The Byzantine Museum is one of the main landmarks of Zakynthos, which is why it is simply called the Zakynthos Museum.

The current form of the Byzantine Museum dates from the 2nd half of the 20th century and stands out for its very impressive architecture. The Byzantine Museum was built on the site of the original museum, which was destroyed during the devastating earthquake of 1953. The building has two large floors and was first opened to the public in 1960.

The museum's extensive exhibition includes magnificent works and objects from different historical eras of the island. It consists mainly of religious artefacts, rare icons and beautiful murals and paintings. The tour starts with Byzantine icons carved in wood, then in the other rooms visitors can admire original frescoes from the 15th to 17th centuries until they reach the exhibition of paintings and paintings by 18th century artists (e.g. Doxaras, Koutouzis, Damaskinos or Kantouni). The museum is also of special importance in that, thanks to the paintings and models here, tourists can compare what the city looked like before the great earthquake of 1953 and after its subsequent reconstruction.

Nowadays, the museum also serves as a social institution and hosts various exhibitions, talks and openings. The Byzantine Museum is open daily, except Mondays.

More touristic destinations of Zakynthos

Tips for trips on Zakynthos: Zakynthos Capital City, Marathonisi (Turtle Island), Blue Caves, Aristeon Press and Museum, Olympia, Callinico Winery, Water park Zante Water Village (Sarakinado), Shipwreck (Navagio Beach)

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.