DK Travel : Cyprus : Pierides Foundation Museum, Larnaka

Pierides Foundation Museum, Larnaka

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This eclectic collection, which spans the ancient history of the island from prehistoric times through the Roman and Byzantine empires to the Middle Ages, is the oldest private museum in Cyprus and is still run by the Pierides family who established it in the 19th century. The displays of local crafts and costumes are among the best on the island. The museum has four rooms, together with exhibits in the entrance hall and corridors.

Top 10 Exhibits

1. “Howling Man”

This 5,000-year-old terracotta figure is the largest and most striking relic yet found from the Chalcolithic era, when the island was first settled by humankind. Liquid poured into his gaping mouth (which gives the figure its name) flows down and emerges from his penis. Room 1, Case 1.
2. Attic Ceramics

These painted pots and bowls from mainland Greece are evidence of trade between ancient Cyprus and the Hellenic world. They depict Theseus and other mythical characters. Room 2.
3. Terracotta Figurines

The earthenware figures in this display represent actors performing the comedies written by Classical Greek playwrights in the 4th and 5th centuries BC. Room 2, Case 3.
4. The Roman Collection

Almost 400 pieces of delicate Roman glassware adorn the walls and display cabinets of Room 4.
5. Pomos Heads

These small carved limestone and terracotta heads and figures, found at Pomos on the northwest coast of Cyprus, date from both Greek and Roman times. Among the figures is a small bust of the Roman emperor Nero as a young man. Room 2.
6. Medieval Corridor

Fascinating charts and maps, crusader coats of arms, and ferocious Ottoman scimitars and daggers are displayed in the main corridor of the museum.
7. Archaic Pottery

Finds from Margi and Kotsioitis, near Nicosia, include vases and other objects of red and black polished ware from the early Bronze Age (2500–1900 BC). There is also a terracotta idol representing a child in a cradle, and a striking earthenware figurine of the fertility goddess Astarte . Room 1, Cases 2–4.
8. Byzantine & Medieval Ceramics

Sgraffito ware in brown and green glaze, etched with images of animals, birds, warriors, courting couples and a variety of mythical creatures are the highlight of this collection. There are also some Byzantine icons. Room 3.
9. Folklore Wing

This section of the museum contains colourful traditional embroidery, antique lace, silver and amber jewellery, tools, utensils and fine antique furniture.
10. Michael Kashalos Collection

Michael Kashalos (1885–1974) was a self-taught painter whose depictions of Cypriot life, exhibited in the folklore wing, span more than six decades of the 20th century. Kashalos was tragically killed during the Turkish invasion of 1974.

Practical Information

For a cold drink or meal after visiting the museum, cross Zenonos Kitieos Street and walk east to Leoforos Athinon, where you will find a plethora of open air tavernas and cafés with a view of the harbour. Zenonos Kitieos 4 248 14555 Open 9am–4pm Mon–Thu, 9am–1pm Fri–Sat Adm CY£1.00