See Also
- Top Hotels in Santorini
- Top Eating places in Santorini
- Best Hotels for Families in Orlando
- Complete Santorini Travel Information
Website: https://tapiocwraps.com/
Archaeological Site of Akrotiri
The exceptionally well preserved remnants of Akrotiri are the most visited cultural destination for travelers to Santorini. The ancient city was a colony of the Minoan civilization on the Greek island of Thera, modern day Santorini. Often alluded to as the Pompeii of the Aegean, the community was buried in ash during a volcanic eruption triggered by an earthquake in the 17th century BC, which also set off a tsunami that eventually destroyed the Minoan civilization of neighboring Crete. Numerous historians believe Akrotiri to be the inspiration behind Plato’s Atlantis legend.
For over 3,700 years, the ancient community of Akrotiri lay entombed under volcanic ash and levels of pumice, safeguarding parts of the city’s framework, homes and their furnishings, and the remains of many items, artistic works, and frescos. It wasn’t until 1967 that the ancient city was found in an archaeological excavation just south of the modern village with the same name, on the southwest side of the island.
Now, the ruins are housed inside a building protected by a bioclimatic roof that can open and close to permit airflow. This makes it a cool and dry place perfect for escaping the heat of summer days. An elevated wooden path winds through the large area, with staircases down into parts of the excavation. The displays have informative and easy to comprehend signs, as well as video screens with visual presentations. Several objects and frescoes from Akrotiri are on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, and some in the Prehistoric Museum in Fira.
We highly advise reserving a visit to the prehistoric locality of Akrotiri (meet guide at entrance) to allow you to explore the site and learn about the island`s history, the eruption, and the ensuing destruction. Many tours include hotel collection and drop off. An excellent choice is the independent visit to Akrotiri and 3 Santorini vineyards.
Archaeological Site of Akrotiri Hours and Information
- Period: April 1 to October 31, open daily. November 6 to March 31, closed on Mondays.
- Hours: April 1 to October 31 – 8am to 8pm. November 6 to March 31 – 8am to 3pm.
- Website: odysseus.culture.gr
- Location: Akrotiri, Santorini 847 00
- Telephone: +30 228 608 1939
- Free Entry: 6 March (in memory of Melina Mercouri) • 18 April (International Monuments Day) • 18 May (International Museums Day) • The last weekend of September (European Heritage Days) • National Holidays • 28 October • Every first Sunday from November 1 to March 31
- Parking: Paid parking (€5) across the street. Limited free parking down the street.
- Bus: The bus stop is located right across the entrance, in front of the parking lot. Another stop is in the village of Akrotiri with a clearly signposted 1km footpath to the site.
- Guided Tours: Cost varies based on group size. Maximum 20 people per gathering.
- Dining: There are modest provisions available at the ruins, together with a couple of outstanding restaurants, Melina’s Tavern and The Cave of Nikolas, situated on the neighboring shore, along with a handful of cafés approximately a 10-15 minute walk away.
Circular House • Royal Lodge • Gin Bugis
Archaeological Site of Akrotiri
