Byzantine Museum of Ioannina: Caught between religious and secular art

The museum is housed on the first floor of the Royal Pavilion, a building constructed in 1958 by the Greek Army for the then royal family. Its collections include sculptures, coins, icons, and small artifacts from across Epirus.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by an impressive 19th century wall painting depicting the victory of Constantine the Great over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (measuring 2.30 x 4.54 m). This striking work sets the tone of the museum, balancing religious and secular art.

The exhibition of silversmithing in the neighboring Treasury highlights this blend even more vividly. Secular artistry, which flourished particularly in Epirus, here serves the Christian faith, producing masterpieces of liturgical silverwork.

Another historic building under the museum’s care is the Fethiye Mosque, directly opposite. Visitors can admire its conserved non-figurative wall paintings, as well as two late Byzantine pillars that have been incorporated into the mosque’s mihrab (prayer niche).