Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
Photo: Museums of Macedonia — CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki showcases artifacts from the Prehistoric to Late Antiquity periods, highlighting the rich history of Macedonia.
Planning your visit
Macedonia was the kingdom that produced Philip II and Alexander, and Thessaloniki's archaeological museum holds the material from its heartland — grave goods, gold wreaths of astonishing delicacy, weapons, jewellery and sculpture from the region's cemeteries and settlements.
The Derveni Krater is the outstanding object: a bronze-and-tin vessel of the fourth century BC, over ninety centimetres tall, worked in high relief with Dionysus and Ariadne and figures of extraordinary quality, used as an ash urn. It is among the finest metal objects surviving from the ancient world.
The Derveni Papyrus, found charred in the same cemetery, is the oldest surviving European manuscript.
Galleries cover prehistoric Macedonia, the Greek colonies of the Chalkidiki, the Roman city and late antiquity.
The Museum of Byzantine Culture next door continues the story. Allow two hours. Bookable options include guided tours. Current availability is listed below.
Before you book
Where is Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki?
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is in Thessaloniki, Greece. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki?
Allow two hours. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
What are the opening hours of Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki?
Every day 9:00-17:00. Hours change on public holidays, so check the official site before travelling.
Do I need to book Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki in advance?
Guided tours run to a fixed schedule and small group sizes, so they are usually booked ahead.
