On the evening of Thursday, November 21, 2024, the Cultural Hall began its journey with an extraordinary exhibition featuring selected works from the City of Heraklion’s art collection. Located at 8 Chrysostomou Street, the launch attracted a lively crowd who enjoyed an exceptional showcase of 60 pieces of painting, engraving, and sculpture by renowned Greek artists who have generously donated their works to the gallery.

This new space aspires to become a vibrant cultural hub for the city. Alongside individual art exhibitions, the hall will host music events, lectures, workshops, seminars, and other similar activities. Additionally, it will display periodic exhibitions from the Municipal Art Gallery’s extensive collection, which charts the evolution of visual art in Crete from its early foundations to its contemporary forms.

The Municipal Art Gallery’s collection is a treasure trove of artistic expression, enriched over time by donations and acquisitions. Highlights include works by celebrated Greek artists such as Fanourakis, Markogiannakis, Tsarouchis, Vassiliou, and Fassianos. A crowning jewel of the collection is El Greco’s The Baptism of Christ, acquired specifically to enhance the gallery’s offerings.

For those unable to visit in person, the gallery’s collection is also accessible online at www.heraklionartgallery.gr.

The Cultural Hall is open to the public Monday to Friday, from 10:00 to 14:00 and 18:00 to 21:00. For inquiries, you can reach them at +30 2810 288487.

This new venue is more than an art space; it’s a celebration of Heraklion’s rich cultural heritage and a must-visit for anyone eager to explore the city’s artistic soul.