The Museum
The Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism “Filio Haidemenou” is a cornerstone of the history and culture of our city. Its remarkable collection of Asia Minor heirlooms — rescued during the dramatic moments of the Asia Minor Catastrophe in the 1920s — owes its origins to the generous contributions of refugees from across the world, who responded eagerly to the call of Filio Haidemenou, herself a native of Asia Minor, who gathered them with exceptional dedication and care. For nearly fifteen years, this space has kept memories alive through the heirlooms and the testimonies of the refugees that make up the cultural tradition of the people of Asia Minor, while the strong turnout of visitors of all ages is the greatest vindication for all those who fought to bring the Museum into being.
History
A great dream come true!
Through great effort, faith, and devotion to her cause, she managed to give substance to her vision.
Year 1991
The gathering of the heirlooms began under the care of Filio Haidemenou, a native of Asia Minor, who — although she began the endeavour at an advanced age — worked tirelessly to see her wish become reality.
Late 1990s
The museum was first established and opened in the old Town Hall building of Nea Filadelfeia. After the major earthquake of 1999, the building suffered serious damage and the exhibits were withdrawn.
A few years later
A few years later, the museum found a home in the building of the Global Cultural Foundation of Diaspora Hellenism. The re-exhibition (the museological and museographic study) was curated by the Ministry of Culture — Directorate of Modern Cultural Heritage.
Today
At the Museum of Asia Minor Hellenism “Filio Haidemenou,” visitors learn about the history of the Hellenism of Asia Minor — not only through historical and diplomatic events and actions, but also through narratives — personal testimonies — of people who lived through those events, and through simple, everyday objects and photographs.
A collection that tells the story of Asia Minor.
“Heirlooms, photographs, costumes, and personal belongings – testaments to a world carried along with its people.”
