The Archaeological Site of Akrotiri - 2023 Guide

Akrotiri, Santorini

As one of the most renowned archaeological sites in the Aegean, Akrotiri holds strong historical significance, and its ruins are located on Thira (present-day Santorini). Steeped in antiquity, this prehistoric settlement is a captivating reminder of bygone eras. 

An excavation of epic proportions in the Akrotiri village on the southern part of Santorini Island has given way to one of the most impressive prehistoric settlements discovered in all of Aegean. Unearth its remarkable history with us! The awe-inspiring historical site of Akrotiri, located between the quaint village of Akrotiri and Red Beach on Santorini’s southern shoreline, attracts thousands of visitors annually. With its resplendent archaeological remains, it is no wonder why this destination warrants such an impressive turnout!

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Historical facts

The awe-inspiring archaeological site of Akrotiri has been exposed to the world thanks to a series of excavations that commenced with French geologist F. Fouque in 1870 and continued on decades later, culminating in Greek archeologist Spyridon Marinatos’ 1967 project and Christos Doumas’s excavation endeavor of 1974.

Archeology uncovers that Akrotiri dates back to the prehistoric Neolithic Age (4500 BC) when it was just a small farming and fishing village. Its advantageous location propelled its growth as an essential trade hub of copper – a key factor in establishing this settlement’s success. Akrotiri soon became a significant crossroads for exchanging valuable resources, which ultimately furthered their development. The discovery of pottery revealed that the people from Akrotiri had commercial ties to Crete, the Dodecanese, mainland Greece, Cyprus, and perhaps even Egypt and Syria. This surge in trading activity drove their civilization’s growth, contributed to their city’s wealth, and enabled them to live prosperous lives.

Agriculture, animal husbandry, fishery, and shipping all played significant roles in the growth of this region. Evidence from archaeological excavations reveal that many locals held occupations as engineers, architects, town planners, and artists. These people grew crops like wheat, barley, and olives while also exporting wine, metals, and lava rocks. Beekeeping was a popular pastime for some residents while women occupied themselves with weaving cloths or collecting saffron flowers.

The inhabitants of the area enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle that enabled them to express their creative abilities. Archaeologists have stumbled upon an array of vessels manufactured by locals for both utilitarian and aesthetic reasons, varying in size, shape, and color. Extraordinary murals were discovered as well, showcasing influences from Minoan culture that provide insight into life during that era – found on walls big and small, doors, windows, or any other conceivable surfaces depicting nature scenes, religious stories, or daily events.

The Akrotiri civilization was thriving before it came to a catastrophic end in 1613 BC due to an immensely powerful volcanic eruption and earthquake. This event, which altered the landscape of Santorini island, caused much destruction but also provided an opportunity for preservation as the town was buried under ash.

Akrotiri has earned the nickname “Greek Pompeii” because it was covered in volcanic ash after the explosion on its location around 1600 BC – one of the largest eruptions within a span of 4,000 years. Curiously enough, no animal or human remains have been discovered here, nor any gold or other precious metals, thus leading archaeologists to believe that people had sufficient warning prior and were able to evacuate safely. Where they escaped and why they never returned remain unknown mysteries until this day!

Numerous structures, along with several everyday items and grand frescoes, acknowledged as artistic marvels of the Cycladic culture, remain intact today. It is noteworthy that this settlement has been proposed to be a potential source of Plato’s Atlantis myth.

Akrotiri is a remarkable settlement, especially noteworthy for its innovative drainage system and Cycladic-style homes. These dwellings featured multiple stories, floor heating, hot and cold running water – in addition to balconies and large windows with striking murals adorning the upper levels. Basements were usually used as storerooms or workshops while streets were paved with stone wind around them. All of these features make Akrotiri an impressive archaeological site that has stood the test of time!

Of particular significance is the fact that no palaces were found at this site, in contrast to Minoan Crete’s royal residences. This discovery demonstrates the absence of social hierarchies and reveals Akrotiri as a society with democratic values rooted in equality for all citizens.

For generations, locals have expressed their artistic skill and higher standard of living by decorating their homes with stunning works of art. The surviving paintings are breathtaking examples of Cycladic artwork while also providing us valuable insight into the life and customs in that period. Many murals portray scenes from everyday life, religious practices as well as nature – painting a vivid picture for viewers today.

The fresco technique, which is believed to be inspired by the Minoans, involves painting on freshly laid or wet lime plaster. This produces a mural with vivid colors such as white, yellow, red, brown, blue, and black. The Akrotiri frescoes are of special significance for studying Minoan art since they have been preserved in much better condition than those found in Crete.

The volcano’s ash had penetrated into every corner of the town, wreaking havoc on its furniture and leaving many wooden pieces destroyed. Utilizing these damaged objects as molds, a liquid plaster can be poured to reproduce portions or entire pieces of furniture – beds, tables, chairs – with remarkable accuracy.

How to get there

A visit to the archaeological Minoan site of Akrotiri, located near its modern namesake village, is a must-see experience. You can explore the ruins of this ancient city and take in its narrow stone-paved streets, mud, and stone houses, as well as various storage units and workshops. Furthermore, many intact artifacts have been preserved at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira for you to admire. Additionally, renowned wall paintings are featured in Athens’ National Archaeological Museum!

Akrotiri Prehistoric site located 20 minutes away from Fira by car or public transportation. If you decide to drive there yourself, an available parking spot awaits your arrival, and Red Beach is only a short distance away – definitely worth visiting! You can also take the bus for regular transportation between Fira and Akrotiri – simply check at the main bus station in Fira for updated schedules.

An essential tip for visitors: always let the bus driver know your final destination. That way, you can be certain that he will make a stop there no matter what route the bus takes!

Opening Hours of the Archaeological Site of Akrotiri

(November – March)

Wednesday – Mondays 08:30 – 15:30

(April – October )

Wednesday – Mondays 08:30 – 15:30

Tuesday close