Folklore Museum

Located in the heart of Aegina Town, the Historical and Folklore Museum offers a captivating journey through the island’s rich cultural heritage. Housed within an elegant Neoclassical building dating back to 1828, the museum is a testament to the generosity of Polymnia Iriotou Thomakou, who donated the structure to the Municipality of Aegina. The daughter of renowned archaeologist and folklore scholar Panagis Iriotis, her philanthropic gesture ensured the preservation of Aegina’s historical treasures for generations to come.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a wealth of artifacts that offer insight into both urban and rural life on the island. The first floor is dedicated to the Urban House of Aegina, showcasing family heirlooms from the Iriotou family, along with the personal library and correspondence of Panagis Iriotis. Here, visitors can marvel at a curated collection of old furniture, engravings, paintings, traditional costumes, delicate lacework, and ornamental decor, providing a glimpse into the domestic life of Aegina’s past inhabitants.

Descending to the ground floor, visitors are transported to the rural landscapes of Aegina, where the Country House and Fisherman House await. The Country House exhibition displays an array of everyday objects and agricultural tools, offering a window into the island’s agrarian traditions. Meanwhile, the Fisherman House showcases a trove of fishing implements and meticulously crafted boat models, highlighting the island’s maritime heritage.

Despite facing adversity, including damage from the earthquake of 1981, the museum has persevered thanks to the support of donors and the proceeds from exhibitions and bazaars. Through their efforts, the museum continues to serve as a vital repository of Aegina’s cultural legacy, inviting visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time and tradition.