to Akrotiri Archaeological Site
The Akrotiri archaeological site, on Santorini island, is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. The first habitation at the site dates from the Late Neolithic times (at least the 4th millenium B.C.). During the Early Bronze Age (3rd millenium B.C.), a sizeable settlement was founded and in the Middle and early Late Bronze Age (ca. 20th-17th centuries B.C.) it was extended and gradually developed into one of the main urban centres and ports of the Aegean. The large extent of the settlement (ca. 20 hectares), the elaborate drainage system, the sophisticated multi-storeyed buildings with the magnificent wall-paintings, furniture and vessels, show its great development and prosperity. The various imported objects found in the buildings indicate the wide network of its external relations. Akrotiri was in contact with Crete but also communicated with the Greek Mainland, the Dodecanese, Cyprus, Syria and Egypt. The town's life came to an abrupt end in the last quarter of the 17th century B.C. when the inhabitants were obliged to abandon it as a result of severe earthquakes. The erruption followed. The volcanic materials covered the entire island and the town itself. These materials, however, have protected up to date the buildings and their contents, just like in Pompeii
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Trip / Tour Days / Opening Days :: Tuesdays - Sundays
Trip / Tour Times / Opening Times :: 08.00 - 15.00 (Winter) 08:00 - 20:00 (summer, except Thurs 15:00)
Visit / Trip Duration :: allow around 90 mins
we always recommend contacting directly to confirm opening days & times to avoid disappointment
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Thera 847 00, Santorini Island (Θήρα 847 00), in Santorini/Thira, Santorini, South Aegean
Distances: 25 mins from Thera town, Santorini island
Special Notes:
There is parking very close by. The settlement is completely undercover. There is an open air walk from the ticket booths to the site that takes 2-3mins. There is pushchair access to the top area.
