Heraklion News

“Urban Life” an exhibition showcasing exhibits from the urban life between the end of the 19th century to the interwar period is currently on at the Historical Museum of Crete in Heraklion. Previously an autonomous state, Crete became a part of Greece during this period.

Spread over four rooms, the urban life on the island is revived with exhibits that symbolize the period’s domestic setup. Additionally visitors can gain better insight into the era’s conditions through three comprehensive films.

Organized by the Society of Cretan Historical Studies, also scheduled is a related conference, titled “Crete: Urban Life (1898-1940),” for March 30 and 31 at the museum. This conference entails participation from Greek and Turkish academics.

The city of Heraklion and its social life were greatly influenced by the island's periods of autonomy and eventual union with Greece. The urban communities of the city adopted European ideas and trends. Meanwhile, political developments increasingly set Heraklion apart from its Ottoman past. Social discrimination came about in less than half a century due to the ethnic and religious differences amongst the city’s citizens.

A free of charge educational program, titled “Life In the City Back Then,” is also included in the exhibition. This program addresses the final three primary schools grades and all high school levels.