Folklore and Historical Museum of Xanthi
The Historical and Folklore Museum of Xanthi is one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks, presenting the modern history, social life, and cultural identity of Xanthi and the wider region of Thrace.
It is housed in the impressive “Kougioumtzoglou Mansion,” a historic building dating back to 1860, located in the heart of Xanthi’s Old Town. The mansion stands out for its architectural symmetry, elaborate wall paintings, carved wooden ceilings, and richly decorated façade.
The museum was founded in 1975 by the Cultural Association of Xanthi (FEX) with the aim of preserving and promoting the local history and folk tradition of the area. Its collection includes more than 10,000 items, such as personal archives, letters, photographs, traditional costumes, handicrafts, and everyday objects. The permanent exhibitions present aspects of public and private life in Xanthi from the late 19th to the early 20th century. Special emphasis is given to the city’s prosperity during the tobacco trade era through the exhibition “Xanthi 1860–1940: Period of Prosperity.” Other thematic sections highlight rural life in Thrace, traditional occupations, and the entrepreneurial activity of the time. The building itself is an important exhibit, reflecting the economic and social development of Xanthi during the early 20th century. A visit to the museum offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the history, traditions, and cultural heritage of the region.
