There are eight folklore museums in Samos. These museums are located in Karlovasi, Koumeika, Mesogeia, Pagonda, Ampelo, Mavratzaios, Mytiliniou and Pythagorion. Each museum exhibits collections and objects that reflect the daily lifestyle and culture of people from the respective society of the city or village where the museum is located. These museums have been built and are maintained by private initiatives, either by people or associations active in the respective village, with the exception of the museum of Karlovasos which belongs to the Municipality of West Samos.