Museum of Byzantine Culture, Thessaloniki (must see)

The Museum of Byzantine Culture in Thessaloniki is a significant institution dedicated to showcasing the magnificence of Byzantine civilization. It was established in 1994, following a process that began in 1977 with a national architectural competition to design a suitable building for displaying the rich Byzantine heritage. Kyriakos Krokos won the competition, and his vision for the museum was realized with construction starting in March 1989 and completed in October 1993.

The museum officially opened in June 1994 with the transfer of antiquities from the Byzantine & Christian Museum in Athens to Thessaloniki. These artifacts formed the inaugural exhibition titled "Byzantine Treasures of Thessaloniki: The Return Journey," highlighting the city's important role in the Byzantine Empire.

Today, the Museum of Byzantine Culture features three main exhibitions. The first one, "Early Christian Churches," explores the architecture and decoration of early Christian churches, showcasing the religious and artistic developments of the time. The second exhibition, "Early Christian Cities and Dwellings," offers insights into the daily life of early Christians, including economic activities, housing, and lifestyle practices. The third exhibition, "From the Elysian Fields to the Christian Paradise," examines early Christian funeral customs and beliefs through the display of jewelry, burial art, and grave objects, illustrating the transition from pagan to Christian burial practices.

Through these exhibitions, the Museum of Byzantine Culture preserves the heritage of the Byzantine Empire and provides visitors with a deeper understanding of Byzantine and early Christian life. It serves as a link between the past and present, offering insights into the cultural and historical significance of these periods.