Archaeological Museum of Thera

This museum is located in Fira, just at the heart of Santorini & although it is small in size, it is full of elements depicting the rich history of the island from Hellenistic and Roman to the early settlement periods.

A Brief History of the Museum

This Archaeological Museum was established in 1960 by the Greek government with the purpose of replacing the first museum destroyed in the earthquake of 1956. However, it does not have a single "founder" in the conventional sense. The Greek Archaeological Service established it as part of bigger plans to preserve and exhibit items from other excavations on the island.

The majority of the objects on display in the museum are from excavations conducted by archaeologists such as Spyridon Marinatos, who is famous for having found and excavated the ancient settlement of Akrotiri in the 1960s. Despite not being the museum's creator, Marinatos made a substantial contribution to both the collection and the general archaeological significance of Santorini.

Highlights of the Collection

Numerous objects from ancient Thera and Akrotiri, two important archaeological sites on the island, are on display in the museum's collection, which covers multiple eras. The history of the ancient inhabitants of Thera is brought to life by its pottery, sculptures, figurines, and inscriptions, which visitors are invited to explore.

Ancient Thera, Santorini.

Akrotiri Excavations, Santorini.

Pottery Collection: One of the primary features of the museum is its collection of pottery. These ceramic objects, dating from the Geometric to the Archaic era, illuminate the artistic expression of early Theran society through their intricate geometric patterns and stylized figures.

Sculptures & Statues: Statues from the Classical and Hellenistic eras are also on display in the museum; many of these exhibit the influence of Greek culture on the mainland. These include marble statues and kouroi, which are exquisitely detailed and delicately sculpted depictions of masculine youths.

Figurines & Inscriptions: The Cycladic figurines, as considered by many, embody the early Bronze Age of the Aegean and, therefore, comprise some of the rarest collections in the museum. Still, its simple, abstract shapes form part of Greece's rich cultural heritage and have constituted a source of inspiration for numerous modern artists. Furthermore, the museum houses a collection of historic inscriptions bearing the laws, language, and way of life of ancient Thera.

Artifacts from Akrotiri: Most of the treasures from this museum come from the prehistoric community of Akrotiri, known worldwide for being preserved under the volcanic ash during the massive eruption of the volcano around 1600 CE. Some Akrotiri antiquities, like pottery and tools, can be discovered here. However, the majority of Akrotiri frescoes and well-known objects are kept in the Prehistoric Museum of Thera.

(credit: commons.wikimedia.org)

(credit: commons.wikimedia.org)

(credit: commons.wikimedia.org)

(credit: www.flickr.com)

The Importance of Thera in the Ancient World

Due to its advantageous location along important Aegean trade routes, ancient Thera was able to establish relationships with the Minoans, Egyptians, and Greeks who live on the mainland. The museum's objects demonstrate how the island functioned as a commercial and cultural center that was enhanced by a variety of influences. For example, the inscriptions reveal contacts with other Aegean communities, and the pottery types clearly indicate linkages to the Minoan civilization on Crete.

Visiting the Museum

Situated in Fira, this museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the island’s layered history. Though small in size, this museum offers a well-curated peek into Santorini's past and hence must not be skipped by either the tourists or the history buffs. The Archeological Museum of Santorini is located in the center of Fira, just a 2-minute walk from a private parking lot and a 7-minute walk from the bus stop.

A tour to the Archaeological Museum of Thera will help visitors understand the rich history of Santorini and its continuing contribution to Aegean history and civilization. This is a monument to life and vivacity from bygone yet unforgettable civilizations, evidence of the resistance of this island against the hardships of time and the versatility of its culture.

Location & area

Location of Archaeological Museum of Thera

Nearby POIs Google Maps

Archaeological Museum of Thera is located in Fira town