Step Into Santorini’s Rich Heritage
OVERVIEW
Join us for a throwback to the unique history of Santorini! Apart from the stunning natural environment and the cosmopolitan ambiance, the island boasts a long history and a fascinating culture that can be discovered through some of its most interesting museums and archaeological sites!
In the heart of Fira, the island’s capital, the Prehistoric Thera Museum is considered one of the most important museums of Greece. This two-story building hosts impressive findings mainly from the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri, ceramics, artifacts, frescoes, ancient tools and weaponry. On the ground floor you can admire temporary exhibitions and on the 1st floor you will find four permanent collections. The first of them displays the history of research at Thera, the second presents the geology of Santorini, the third reveals the island’s history from the Late Neolithic to the Late Cycladic I Period and the last one refers to the flourishing civilization of Akrotiri in the 17 century BC.
Location: Fira, Santorini
Tel: +30 22860 23217
This gem of a museum in the centre of Fira, exhibits the progress of Santorini’s history throughout the centuries. Its three main collections include sculptures from the Archaic to the Roman period, as well as vases and figurines from the Geometric and the Hellenistic period. The majority of the exhibits comes from the excavations on Mesa Vouno Mountain and the cemetery of Ancient Thera. We would recommend that you first visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and then the Archaeological Museum, in order to fully comprehend the evolution of Santorini.
Location: Erithrou Stavrou, Fira
Tel: +30 2286 022217
The prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri is a must-see on your Santorini bucket list! This prosperous city was destroyed by a massive volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. The entire town was covered by a layer of volcanic ash and thanks to that many of the buildings, furniture, ceramics and several everyday objects have been preserved until this day!
Location: Akrotiri, Thira
Tel: +30 22860-25405, +30 22860-81939
Founded in 1956 by captain Antonis Dakoronias, the naval museum tells the maritime story of Santorini. It is housed in a renovated 19th century mansion donated by the local resident Dina Manolessou-Birbili. The collection includes, ship models, sailing equipment, tools, compasses, anchors, sailor uniforms, nautical books, logbooks, maps and many more interesting items. The Naval Museum is a great place to enjoy some quiet time and escape the crowds of Oia, while you learn about the island’s history.
Location: 25 Martiou street, Oia
Tel: +30 22860 71156
The myth of the lost city of Atlantis, that flourished in the mediterranean region is often related to Santorini! According to the Greek philosopher Plato, the advanced civilization of Atlantis was destroyed by earthquakes and then sunk. The similarity is more than obvious! The Lost Atlantis Museum is a private initiative that is dedicated to the greek history and mythology. During your visit you will experience a digital journey to the past, you will see a 9D film of the destruction of Santorini and the volcanic eruption and digital exhibitions like Diorama, Plato’s Atlantis and a 3D Santorini Hologram.
Location: Megalohori
Tel: +30 22860 85076
Web: https://www.lost-atlantis.com/
One of a kind in Greece, the Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum is located in a natural cave winery eight meters below ground and has a labyrinth-like shape. It presents Santorini’s wine making tradition from 1600 until today as well as all the steps of the wine making process. There’s also a specially designed wine-tasting room where you can taste four wines that the winery produces today!
Location: Vothonas, Santorini
Tel: +30 22860 31322
Web: https://santoriniwinemuseum.com/