82 Theotokopoulou Street, Chania

Since 1997, the Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Collection of Chania has been situated in the church of the San Salvatore Monastery in Chania. The church, likely dating back to the 15th century, is located next to the bastions on the west side of Chania’s Venetian fortifications. On the south side, a covered portico (chiostro) remains, which once housed the cells of the Franciscan monks. During the Ottoman Era, the church was transformed into a hospital and later a mosque, known as the Topu Aga Khan Mosque.

The displayed items come from archaeological discoveries made by the 13th Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities, private collections, and donations. These findings depict the historical and artistic aspects of Chania’s prefecture during the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods. Due to limited space, only carefully chosen objects are exhibited, representing the extensive history of Chania’s prefecture.

The exhibits in each section are arranged chronologically, with maps and informational tables providing details about the exhibit’s origin and the historical context of each era. Some notable exhibits include the mosaic floor of a 6th-century basilica, frescoes from churches (such as Saint Varvara in Latziana), and icons like the exceptional depiction of Saint George on horseback, painted by Emmanuel Jane (1660-1680). Other significant findings include the dedicatory inscription of 1623 with Venetian coats of arms, deformed masks, wall sections, and more.