MOMus–Museum of Modern Art–Costakis Collection

The MOMus Museum of Modern Art houses the Costakis Collection, one of the largest assemblages of Russian avant-garde artworks outside Russia. It operates exhibition spaces within the Lazariston Monastery complex in Thessaloniki, displaying works from 1900 to 1930.

The institution opened in 2001 and established itself as a major venue for presenting modernist art movements. Later, an additional exhibition space was added in a warehouse within the city's port area.

The collection focuses on Russian avant-garde artworks from the early 20th century, showing experimental pieces rarely seen in Western Europe. Visitors can discover works reflecting the artistic upheaval of this era and documenting the development of modern art movements.

The museum offers permanent and rotating exhibitions, guided tours, workshops, and educational programs for various visitors. It is wise to allow enough time to appreciate both the artworks and the architectural features of the historic building fully.

The collection owes its existence to art dealer Georgios Costakis, who systematically built and gathered Russian modernism during the Soviet era. His effort rescued many experimental works that were deemed suspicious or unwanted under Soviet rule.