Prime Minister Mitsotakis Opens “Ekatompolis” Exhibition Showcasing Archaic Crete’s Rich History

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis inaugurated the “Ekatompolis: The World of Archaic Crete” exhibition at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum on Thursday. In his speech, Mitsotakis emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Greece’s cultural heritage while commending the exhibition’s innovative approach to showcasing Crete’s history beyond its famed Minoan civilization.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni highlighted how the exhibition brings to life the stories of the people and cities that defined Crete during the Archaic period, while Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni noted its value in uncovering a lesser-known chapter of the island’s history through its collection of approximately 300 artifacts.

Illuminating Crete’s Archaic Past

The exhibition, “Ekatompolis,” explores the emergence of cities (poleis) in Crete during the Archaic period (7th–5th century BC). These cities became hubs of culture and power, laying the groundwork for the political structures that shaped ancient Greek identity. Inspired by Homer’s reference to Crete as the “island of a hundred cities” in the Iliad, the exhibition reflects the vibrancy and dynamism of these ancient communities.

Through a remarkable array of archaeological artifacts, many displayed for the first time, the exhibition highlights the cities’ economic and political development, material culture, and inhabitants' lives. It sheds light on Crete’s significant contribution to the formation of the Greek world during this era, a narrative often overshadowed by the island’s Minoan past.

Noteworthy Highlights

• Rare Finds: Artifacts include items from Cretan museums, as well as collections from the museums of Samos and Delphi. Particularly significant are objects from the Faliro cemetery group burial of the “Desmotes,” linked to the Athenian narrative of the Cylonian Affair.
• Cretan Lawmaker Epimenides: The exhibition explores the role of Epimenides, a legendary Cretan seer, in the transition from unwritten clan-based laws to codified city laws, showcasing Crete as a bridge between myth and governance.
• Cultural Connections: The exhibition underscores Crete’s pivotal role in shaping political and cultural practices that influenced ancient Greece.

Exhibition Details

“Ekatompolis” will run from December 12, 2024, to August 31, 2025, at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. It will invite visitors to discover a fascinating and lesser-known chapter of Crete’s cultural legacy.

Venue: Archaeological Museum of Heraklion – Periodic Exhibitions Hall, entrance from DoukosBofor str.

The Museum’s website and social media will regularly announce information about the exhibition and its associated events.

With the support of the Ministry of Culture and the Region of Crete.

Contact details

Archaeological Museum of Heraklion 

Telephone 2810279000

Email: info@amh.gr 

Website: heraklionmuseum.gr