Museums in Andros

Andros is the second largest island in the Cyclades, after Naxos with dense vegetation, running waters and endless rural areas. Paleopolis identifies with the ancient identity of Andros located on the steep slopes that overlook the bay. The ancient settlement flourished during the Roman and early Byzantine period, findings of which are now kept in the archeological museum of Andros.

The Archeological Museum of Andros lies in Chora, in Kari square. It was established on the initiative of the Goulandris Foundation in a beautiful building that was founded in 1981. The museum owns a collection of fascinating finds from the geometric era, the ancient town of Paleopolis and other regions of the island that were brought to light during the excavations. The most important artwork found in the museum is the statue of Hermes, made by Praxiteles.

In the heart of the town lies the Museum of Modern Art. It exists since 1979 and hosts a fine collection of works of renowned Greek artists such as Tsarouchis, Nikolaidis, and others. In 1986, a new section was added to the museum that enriched the existing exhibition, including also a library and a projection room. The museum organizes art exhibitions and other cultural events during the summer period.

Andros was the Aegean maritime center in the 19th century, a period that has left several traces which are now stored in the Maritime Museum of Andros which was founded in 1972 at the center of the island. Its collection includes nautical items, shipping documents, models of old vessels and other exhibits that bear witness to the strong connection of the locals with the sea.

Kydonieos Institute is located in the capital of Andros, along Kari Street. It was established in 1994 and over the years it has become the cultural center of Andros being the main host of several art exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural events. The old renovated house of Theofilos Kairis, one of the leaders of the Greek revolution in 1821 is open to the public displaying a great photo archive and thousands of books from his private collection.