Delos Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum of Delos was built way back in the year 1904. The construction of this famous museum was carried out under the aegis of the Archaeological Society of Athens. Initially, the museum was spread over just five rooms. It was much later in the year 1931 and again in 1972 that further rooms were added. At present the historical artifacts are on display in nine rooms. There are six exclusive rooms where rare historical statues unearthed from the archaeological site at Delos are on display.

Another set of two rooms to display the fascinating collections of pottery dating back to the prehistoric times. And last but not the least, there is a room exclusively dedicated to displaying objects of art that are meant for everyday use. The Ivory Plaque which dates back to 1400-1200 BC is absolutely stunning. The plaque portrays a quintessential Mycenaean soldier with defensive shield and a rather elongated spear. The soldier’s head is covered by a protective headgear which is made of teeth of a wild boar.

This rare plaque was unearthed from under the debris at Artemision along with numerous other artifacts made of gold, ivory, and bronze. Another notable attraction of the Archaeological Museum of Delos is the trunk of a Kouros. It was recovered from an asylum in Apollo and dates back to the 6th century. There is the marble statue of Boreas which artistically portrays the infamous kidnapping of the then Athenian princess Oreithya. It is one of the finest specimens of Attic art and dates back to the 5th century.

The marble statues of Dioscourides and Kleopatra too are conspicuous by their presence. Dioscorides and Kleopatra were an Athenian couple who lived on Delos island. The statues were discovered from the couple’s residence and there is also an inscription on the pedestal which is believed to have been put in place by none other than Kleopatra way back in 138 B.C.

The marble statue of Apollo, which is on display at the museum, is conspicuous by its distinct Apollo Lyceios features which were patronized by the renowned sculptor Praxiteles. The statue artistically depicts a mythological god inclining on a tree and striding on a bundle of Gallic shields.

Archaeologists and scholars are of the opinion that the marble statue of Apollo on display at the museum is a miniature version of the statue of Delphi which was created exclusively to celebrate the hard-fought victory against the mighty Galls. This marvelous marble statue was discovered from a private residence and is believed to belong to the 2nd century BC.

The bronze mask of Dionysos is another notable attraction of the museum. The craftsman has artistically portrayed a bearded mythological god wearing a crown and an ivy garland. This priceless bronze mask was discovered at the Market of the Competaliasts and is believed to belong to the 2nd century B.C.

The museum is open daily except for Mondays and some public holidays. Visitors to the island of Delos can purchase a combined ticket that includes entrance to the museum as well as other sites on the island.