Akrotiri, Thera: In the shadow of the volcano

The excavated site offers visitors a view of the splendid prehistoric city in its Late Cycladic period. First it was struck by an earthquake and then buried under volcanic deposits following a devastating volcanic eruption in the Late Bronze Age, probably at the end of the 17th century BC, much like Pompeii centuries later.

The excavated section of what appears to have been a densely built urban center has unearthed streets with drainage systems, squares and multi-storey public and private buildings, once decorated with luscious furnishings and masterful frescoes, attesting to the high living standards of its cultured inhabitants.

While the bioclimatic shelter that now protects this fascinating monument was being constructed, archaeologists discovered findings hidden in deeper layers, demonstrating the site’s history goes as far back as 4500 BC. Those findings trace its trajectory from Neolithic village to Early Cycladic settlement, and then Middle Cycladic town. The Late Cycladic city, as witnessed today, was shaped after an earthquake around 1650 BC.

The bioclimatic shelter offers a comfortable experience, allowing visitors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the organization and function of this prehistoric city as they wander around the site. Examples of household equipment and wall paintings displayed in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera complete the picture of a cultured society with a bustling daily existence.