Tinos Chalepas Museum

Location: Pyrgos
Don't miss: Museums guide (free admission dates and other useful info)

The Museum of Giannoulis Chalepas in Tinos, Cyclades: Giannoulis Chalepas (1851-1938) is probably the most famous personality in Tinos. A notable marble sculpture artist is known for its remarkable works and his tremulous life, Chalepas descents from an island with a rich tradition in sculpture and marble-processing. Today, Tinos the artist's birthplace displays many workshops where young students learn how to work marble. The traditional house of Chalepas which is located in Pyrgos village has been turned into a small museum with narrow rooms and beautiful garden.

The museum hosts many types of furniture of Giannoulis Chalepas, like his bed, table, chairs, and tools that also depict the traditional decoration of that time. Marble statues and busts are on display in all rooms, made by the artist until his death in 1938, as well as personal items, photographs, and information on his life and work. Close to the museum, there is the marble workshop of Pyrgos.

In the courtyard is a statue of the artist and a copy of the Sleeping Beauty, his most famous work that is housed in the First Cemetery of Athens. This work was made in 1878 and presents a young girl sleeping, symbolizing death.