The purpose of the conservation work at Ancient Messene is to deepen our understanding of the past by using safe methods for the examination, conservation, and preservation of our cultural heritage. The structure and composition of ancient artifacts or monument components, as well as the extent of their deterioration, are determined through analysis. The “Demokritos” National Center for Scientific Research in Natural Sciences, the Stone Center, the University of the Peloponnese, the Technological Educational Institute of Athens, and other institutions have conducted archaeometric analyses on material samples from the archaeological site, providing useful information to archaeologists and conservators. Both the monuments and the artifacts very often provide opportunities for research projects (theses), student internships, and volunteer work.

FINDINGS

A large number of excavation finds (sculptures, pottery, glass, bone, and metal objects, coins, etc.) are conserved in the conservation laboratory, which is housed within the Museum. They are always treated with respect for their aesthetic and archaeological value.