Historical and Folklore Museum of Rethymnon

The Rethymnon Historical and Folklore Museum is housed in a 17th-century Venetian building on Vernardou Street in the Old Town. This museum was founded in 1973 with the goal of collecting and studying regional folklore. The museum moved into this two-story Venetian structure in 1995, complete with an internal courtyard and outstanding architectural elements.

This museum has exhibits ranging from the 17th century to the present day. There are five rooms containing a variety of items, as well as a lecture and cultural event area. Textiles from the 19th and 20th centuries with a range of styles and colors are displayed in the first room. The second area showcases embroidery supplies and equipment.

The third chamber features basket-knitting and pottery materials and equipment, as well as vessels for water, raki, and olive oil. The fourth chamber is dedicated to traditional cultivations, specifically Rethymnon’s traditional bread. Traditional occupations such as coppersmith, horseshoer, and packsaddle maker are featured in the first area.