On the peninsula stretching within Kea’s large natural bay, archaeologists unearthed a significant settlement that developed at the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC, indentifying eight successive phases of occupation.
The prehistoric settlement of Agia Irini, named after the small chapel at the heart of it, was one of the Aegean’s most important cultural centres. The site was first occupied at the end of the Neolithic period (c. 3000 BC) and was devastated by powerful earthquakes at the height of its powers, sometime in the 15th century BC. The settlement expanded between c. 2000/1900 and 1600 BC, and the peninsula was enclosed by a substantial fortification wall reinforced with rectangular towers.
Excavations have brought to light architectural remains from the Early Cycladic phase, along with the fortifications and an important sanctuary. This is were the celebrated clay female figurines known as the Ladies of Kea (15th century BC), now exhibited at the local Archaeological Museum, were discovered.
Directions
Korissia Community
84002, Kea
7 minutes from the port of Kea (Korissia)
20 minutes from Ioulida
Opening hours
April 1 – October 31
The site is open to visitors by appointment.
Please plan your visit by calling +30 22880 22079
November 1 – March 31
The site is open to visitors by appointment.
Please plan your visit by calling +30 22880 22079
The site remains closed on the following dates and public holidays: January 1, March 25, May 1, Easter Sunday, December 25 & 26.
Tickets
Full: €5.00
Reduced: €3.00
Contact
Guardhouse of the Archaeological Museum of Kea
Τ: +30 22880 22079
Ε: amkeas@culture.gr
Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades
Τ: +30 210 3250148, +30 210 3310966
Ε: efakyk@culture.gr
