In 1953 the Society of Cretan historical studies was founded the Historical Museum of Crete. The Museum is located in a neoclassical building, which was built in 1903 and belonged to the family of Kalokerinos. In 1952 Andreas Kalokairinos gave the building to the historical Society research to create a Museum.

The exhibits at the Museum, covers a time period from the early Christian times of Crete and to the present day. The main goal of the founders of the Museum was to collect and preserve valuable archaeological, ethnographic and historical material. The Museum collection is gradually enriched, expanded and the Museum (the main building of the new wing was built in a modern style). The Museum is engaged in research and publishing activities, conducts temporary exhibitions and various educational programs.

The tour starts with A. hall Kalokerinos, which presents a survey exhibition of the history of Crete. The main exhibit of this hall is a model of the city of Heraklion the mid-17th century (the peak of the popularity of the Venetian power) size 4x4 meter. Further extensive collections of the Museum are presented in chronological order and by topic. The Museum exhibition includes ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, wall paintings, engravings, portable icons, manuscripts, ritual objects, weapons and much more. We should also highlight the rich numismatic collection, coins, banknotes, medals, seals and archival documents, reflecting all stages of Cretan economic history from the early Christian period to the 20th century.

Pearls of the collection are two paintings of the famous painter El Greco's "view of mount Sinai and the Monastery of Saint Catherine" (1570) and "the Baptism of Christ (1567). This is the only work of the artist, exhibited in Crete.

Of particular interest is the exhibition dedicated to the life and works of the famous Greek writer Nikos Kazantzakis, which includes personal belongings, manuscripts and first editions of his works in different languages. Well-lit and modern history of Crete, with special emphasis on the revolutionary events of the 19th century and the Second World War. Ethnographic collection of the Museum acquaint visitors with the life and traditions of the inhabitants of Crete. This page presents the reconstructed interior of a rural house.

In the library of the Historical Museum preserves rare books, periodicals, archives of the local newspaper, a rich collection of historical archives and photographs. The library is aimed at both the General public and researchers.