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In the heart of the city of Heraklion, opposite Agios Minas cathedral, is the Museum of Traditional Music, Instruments, Research “Thirathen”. It was founded in 2012 in Kroussonas of the Municipality of Malevizi and since December 2023 it has been operating in its new location, in a renovated neoclassical building in the city center.
The museum offers visitors a unique journey into the world of Mediterranean musical tradition. It aims to acquaint the public with traditional Greek music and the instruments of the wider Mediterranean region, to preserve and perpetuate the musical heritage through seminars and conferences, as well as musicological research, as an active documentation center. The collection of instruments is classified according to the Hornbostel-Sachs system, according to the mode of sound production: airphones, chordophones, diaphragmophones and idiophones.
The museum collaborates with educational institutions and hosts school visits with activities such as musical and kinetic games, demonstrations and guided tours. Visitors enjoy an interactive experience as the exhibits “come alive” with the help of the digital tour, which provides access to information, photographic and audiovisual material.
“Thirathen Museum” combines cultural heritage with modern technology, offering a lively and educational space dedicated to traditional music.
*(Thyrathenia = The classical education of Byzantium, which had a cultural and civilized character.)
*The photos are sourced from the official website and social media of the museum.
Museum
Popular Culture, Musical
Rigas Feraiou Square, Heraklion
+30 2810711196
1 September – 30 April
Monday – Saturday: 09:00-15:30
Sunday: Closed
1 May – 30 August
Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 18:00
Sunday: Closed
The Rural Greece is an online portal that connects travellers with unique destinations and local businesses in the countryside, offering authentic experiences through activities that highlight nature, traditions and culture.
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