Feodosia Money Museum

Feodosia Money Museum: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites in Crimea

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: The Significance of the Feodosia Money Museum

Located on the southern coast of the Crimean Peninsula, Feodosia is a city shaped by centuries of cultural and economic exchange. Founded in the 6th century BCE by Greek colonists and later influenced by Byzantines, Genoese, Ottomans, and Russians, Feodosia stands as a living testament to the crossroads of civilizations around the Black Sea. The Feodosia Money Museum encapsulates this rich legacy, offering visitors access to a remarkable numismatic collection that spans from ancient Greek drachmas to present-day currency. For travelers interested in history, numismatics, or cultural exploration, the museum provides an engaging window into the socio-economic developments that have defined the region (Britannica; nashaplaneta.net; travelsort.com).

This comprehensive guide covers up-to-date visiting hours, ticket prices, accessibility, and travel tips for the Feodosia Money Museum. It also highlights major historical landmarks nearby, helping you plan a culturally rich and insightful visit to Feodosia.

Introduction
Ancient Origins and Early Development
Medieval Transformations: Genoese and Ottoman Eras
Russian Annexation and Modernization
Feodosia Money Museum: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Highlights
Exploring Feodosia’s Historical Sites
Travel Tips and Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visitor Tips
Sources

Ancient Origins and Early Development

Founded as Theodosia by Greek settlers from Miletus in the 6th century BCE, the city’s port became a vital trade link connecting the Greek world to the broader Eurasian steppes. Archaeological discoveries, including coins and artifacts now housed in the Money Museum, underscore Feodosia’s early prosperity and regional importance (Britannica).

Medieval Transformations: Genoese and Ottoman Eras

In the Middle Ages, Feodosia—then known as Caffa—rose as a powerful Genoese trading hub. The Genoese fortified the city, constructing walls, towers, and bridges, the remnants of which remain significant historical sites (culture.voicecrimea.com.ua). Following the Ottoman conquest in 1475, the city became Kefe and retained its commercial vibrancy. Notable Ottoman-era monuments like the Mufti Jami Mosque (1623) reflect this era’s cultural imprint (olkas.net).

Russian Annexation and Modernization

After the Russian Empire annexed Crimea in 1783, Feodosia experienced renewed growth. The 19th century brought urbanization, the construction of modern harbors, and the development of cultural institutions, further establishing the city as a key Black Sea port (Britannica). Buildings like the National Picture Gallery and Astoria Hotel remain as hallmarks of this transformation.

Feodosia Money Museum: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Highlights

Overview and Mission

Founded in 2003, the Feodosia Money Museum is dedicated to the preservation and research of regional numismatic heritage. Its extensive collection—over 30,000 coins and banknotes—covers eras from ancient Greek Theodosia and the Bosporan Kingdom to the Genoese, Ottoman, Russian, Soviet, and Ukrainian periods (olkas.net).

Visiting Hours (2025):

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and public holidays

Ticket Prices:

Adults: 150 rubles (or 150 UAH, depending on the local administration)
Schoolchildren/Students/Seniors: 100 rubles/UAH
Children under 7: Free

Note: Currency and rates may vary depending on the current regional authority. Confirm on arrival.

Accessibility:

The museum is generally wheelchair accessible, but some older buildings may have limited access—contact ahead for details.
Guided tours are available in Russian and, upon request, in other languages.

Address:

12 Kuibyshev Street, Feodosia (historic district)
Museum Website

Collection Highlights

Ancient and Medieval Currency

Greek Drachmas/Staters: From the city’s founding as Theodosia.
Roman Denarii/Byzantine Solidi: Indicating continued trade and imperial influence.
Genoese Ducats/Florins: Evidence of the medieval port’s cosmopolitan wealth.
Ottoman Akçes and Crimean Khanate Issues: Reflecting diverse local rulers (discover-ukraine.info).

Imperial, Soviet, and Modern Money

Russian Imperial Rubles and Kopecks
Soviet Banknotes
Ukrainian Currency: Tracing monetary shifts into the 20th and 21st centuries.

Local Artifacts and Banking History

Minting Tools, Scales, Ledgers
Commemorative Medals and Tokens
Unique local “emergency” money

Exploring Feodosia’s Historical Sites

Combine your museum visit with these nearby landmarks:

Genoese Fortress: Impressive medieval military architecture (culture.voicecrimea.com.ua).
Mufti Jami Mosque: A 17th-century mosque reflecting Ottoman heritage.
Aivazovsky National Picture Gallery: Celebrating the renowned marine artist Ivan Aivazovsky.
Stamboli Dacha: Moorish-style villa showcasing Feodosia’s eclectic architecture.
City Embankment: Scenic promenade for walks and photography.

Travel Tips and Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
Photography: Allowed in most areas (no flash/tripods); confirm at entrance.
Language: Most labels are in Russian/Ukrainian; bring a translation app for deeper engagement.
Payment: Bring cash (rubles or hryvnia, depending on status); credit cards may not be accepted.
Local Customs: Rubbing the “money tree” sculpture at the entrance is said to bring luck (who-knows.imtqy.com).
Accessibility: Some stairs at the main entrance; check for updated accessibility info as needed.
COVID-19 Measures: Confirm any health protocols before visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Feodosia Money Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Generally Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Check locally for updates.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults: 150 rubles/UAH; students/seniors: 100 rubles/UAH; children under 7 are free.

Q: Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Mostly accessible, but some limitations exist due to stairs. Call ahead for details.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Russian and by request in other languages. Advance booking is recommended for groups.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Photography is permitted in designated areas; confirm at entry.

Q: What other sites should I visit nearby?
A: Genoese Fortress, Mufti Jami Mosque, and the Aivazovsky National Picture Gallery.

Summary of Key Points and Visitor Tips

The Feodosia Money Museum provides an unparalleled perspective on the economic and cultural evolution of Crimea, covering over 2,000 years of history.
The museum’s central location, affordable entry, and availability of guided tours make it accessible and informative for all visitors.
Accessibility is generally good, but specific physical limitations should be checked in advance.
Combine your museum visit with Feodosia’s major historical sites for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Stay updated on museum events and local travel conditions by consulting official websites and tourism offices.