A great museum in the center of the city of Ioannina

For centuries, the silver and goldsmiths of Ioannina have an excellent reputation which goes beyond the country's borders. Their creations, especially those made of silver, are true masterpieces, whether they are pieces of jewelry or decorative and functional silverware.

 The best craftsmen of silver- and goldsmithing in the world come from the remote village Kalarrytes in Epirus, while the city that became known for their silverware was Ioannina.

 Silver- and goldsmithing began as art back in 1430 A.D., during the Byzantine period, and very soon became famous with the exports in cosmopolitan cities such as Vienna, Venice, Prague, Moscow, and Bucharest.

 Today, the silver- and goldsmiths’ union of Ioannina numbers 90 craftsmen, which ensure to carry on the tradition of their craft, while they continue to contribute to the local economy.

 The objective of the new Silversmithing Museum of Ioannina is not only the recognition of the high art of silver- and goldsmithing but also to the preservation of its history, which has played an important role in the economy of the wider region and in its cultural identity.

 In the museum, which will host seminars and events about the art, are exhibited pieces of jewelry, candlesticks, weapons, cigarette-cases, religious objects, clocks, trays, glasses and dozens of tableware, all dating from the 19th to the 20th century.