The island of Kimolos , could not be an exception and not confirms the reputation of Greece as one of the richest countries in cultural and archaeological wealth. The island has an Archaeological and Folklore Museum, waiting to unfold the long history and tradition of the island to the visitor!
The Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Kimolos is located in the capital of the island, Chorio, and is housed in a traditional building that is one of the oldest on the island. This building is located opposite the Metropolitan Church of Panagia Odigitria, and is typical of the island.
The exhibits that are presented, start to tell a story that starts from the first inhabitation of the island (that we know until today) and reaches to the present time. The presentation of the exhibits is really impressive, as they prove that the history of the island is lost through the centuries. The glass floor of the museum allows one to see a representation of an ancient burial, and to experience the visit to the archeological site more realistically.
The Folklore Museum
The Folklore & Naval Museum of the island respectively, has nothing to envy the Archaeological Museum. It is located in the traditional complex of the Castle of Kimolos, where it is housed in a privately owned two-storey space. This two-storey building is the ancestral home of the museum's founder, Dr. Manolis Arist. Christoulaki. The purpose of the establishment of the Folklore Museum is to preserve the exceptional maritime and folk heritage of the island over the centuries.
Among the exhibits of the museum, the visitor can see many protected objects, various textiles, embroidery but also tools and objects of the older inhabitants of the island. The special area of the house, which functions as a nautical corner, is a memorial column of the old shipowners, with photocopies of paintings of their sailing ships and various naval instruments.
The Castle
Of course we must not forget the Castle of Kimolos. The oldest settlement of the settlement of Chorio Kimolos is the medieval castle, of the 14th or 16th century, with a square shape, consisting of two complexes of houses.
In Mesa Kastro there is no sign of life anymore and it is ruined. However, in Exo Kastro you can find a series of houses, which was also the outer wall, which was also the defensive wall. A special architecture, with emphasis on the defensive function and with entrances that were specific.
The Gates are two. The Lower Door and the Upper Door. The first is on the south and the second on the east side. The history of the old settlement is of great interest, since it counts pirate raids and was crucial for the cultural development of the island of Kimolos.
