The Archaeological Museum of Paros is a must-visit destination if you ever find yourself on this beautiful island. Built in 1960, the museum was originally intended to house exhibits that were previously displayed in Panagia Ekatontapiliani. Initially, it consisted of only one room. However, over the years, the museum underwent expansions, with its full extension completed in 1995.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the exhibits at the Archaeological Museum of Paros and how to get there easily.
What Can You See in the Archaeological Museum of Paros?
The museum showcases artifacts discovered during excavations on Paros and Antiparos. These include the Nike (Victory) of Paros, the marble statue of Mermaid Gorgo (often referred to as Medusa), Cycladic figurines, mosaics, a bust of the poet Archilochus, statues of deities, and amphorae from a local workshop, spanning from the Neolithic period to early Christian times.
The statue of Gorgo
One of the most notable exhibits is the stunning 1.35-meter-tall marble statue of Gorgo, a mythical woman whose terrifying gaze was said to petrify onlookers. This statue, discovered in Parikia in 1993, dates back to the mid-6th century BC and has been remarkably well-preserved.
The statue of Nike
Another famous exhibit is the 1.35-meter-tall marble statue of Nike (Victory), unearthed at Kastro Parikia. Dating to 470 BC, this statue is missing its head, arms, and wings but remains an iconic piece of ancient art.
The museum’s courtyard features mosaics from the floor of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, along with statues and sarcophagi (box-shaped funerary containers) from the Classical and Roman periods.
How to Get to the Paros Archaeological Museum
Located in the village of Parikia, the Archaeological Museum is just a 5-minute walk from a nearby parking lot and a 7-minute walk from the main bus station. Here are the best ways to reach the museum:
Taking a Taxi
You can take a taxi directly from the port, airport, or your hotel to the museum. Alternatively, you can arrange for a local driver to pick you up. Keep in mind, however, that this option may be quite expensive.
Renting a Car
Renting a car is a convenient option, allowing you to pick it up at your hotel, the port, or the airport. This gives you the flexibility to visit the Archaeological Museum at your own pace and explore other attractions on the island. After your visit, consider exploring Parikia or heading to popular beaches like Santa Maria.
Using Public Transportation
The main bus station on Paros is located at the port in Parikia. Buses from this station connect to most parts of the island. However, note that schedules can vary depending on the season. To ensure a smooth journey, let the driver know your destination in advance, as buses may not stop at every point along their route.
To sum up, the Archaeological Museum of Paros is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring ancient Greek civilization. Highlights such as the statue of Nike and the marble statue of Gorgo are just a few of the remarkable exhibits on display.
Rent a car to visit the museum and discover all the other incredible attractions Paros has to offer!
