The Aegean Natural History Museum features a Natural History Department and a Paleontological Museum.
Museum of Natural History of the Aegean nestled in the village of Mytilinioi on Samos. Founded in 1992 through the generous donation of Konstantinos & Maria Zimalis.
The museum operates under the homonymous foundation and is a member of the International Council of Museums (I.C.O.M.).
Its mission extends three key areas: Research & Environmental Studies, Exhibitions and Education.
Exhibitions & Collections
The museum’s exhibition halls are divided into five main sections, each supported by dedicated research laboratories:
- Palaeontology: Αn impressive collection of fossils of large and small mammals and vertebrates.
Animals who inhabited in Samos 8-10 million years ago, during the Turolian Age. - Minerals & rocks: Showcasing 300 mineral and rock specimens from Samos, Greece and around the world.
- Marine life: A fascinating collection of approximately 500 shells from Greek and international waters. Along with representations of Aegean ships such as the trechantiri and sponge diving vessels.
- Herbals: A curated collection of plant species native to Samos and the Aegean preserved in Herbarium form.
- Zoology: Exhibiting animals and birds from Greece and beyond. It includes a special showcase of Australian wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, and emus. The department also houses a collection of reptiles and amphibians from Samos.
One of the museum’s most interesting exhibits is the legendary “Kaplani”. Kaplani a feline that crossed from Asia Minor to Samos 150 years ago. The animal was killed, preserved, and eventually became part of the museum’s collection. This very creature inspired the celebrated Greek writer Alki Zei to write thw same name book “The Kaplani in the showcase”.
Ethnographic & Historical collection
Beyond natural history, the museum also has a valuable collection of historical and ethnographic objects:
Rare 19th-century costumes from Samos and surrounding islands.
Historical documents and engravings and everyday objects from the past.
Some of these treasures are temporarily displayed within the museum, awaiting their placement in a dedicated exhibition space.
The Aegean Natural History Museum is a gateway to the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Aegean, preserving its wonders for future generations.
Information
The Museum is open from May until October.
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 14:00
Monday closed
Ticket: 4 € / Free admission for children, schools and certain group visits.
Note: During the rest of the year, November through April, it is open only after special arrangement mainly for groups.
Visitors interested in this particular period are encouraged to contact the Museum to arrange an appointment.
___________
Source: Natural History of the Aegean
Photos: From the Μuseum’s archive
