Discover Ancient Akrotiri
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Port
Thira (Santorini), Greece
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$109.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
In prehistoric times, the people who inhabited what is today known as Santorini called the island Strongyle -- meaning 'round'. They enjoyed a high standard of living -- they built two-story houses, tilled the earth, and were skilled artists, recognizing the beauty of color. Around 1650 BC, a volcanic eruption caused the center of Santorini to sink, leaving a caldera surrounded by high cliffs. This is now one of the world's most dramatic geological sights.
Transfer by local tender boat to Athinios port, where you will board a waiting motorcoach. From here, you will head to the southern part of the island and visit the ruins of the famous windmill to take some photos.
Take in the panoramic view; then, visit the famous antiquities at Akrotiri. This feels like a step back in time and it's easy to imagine what life was like before the village was destroyed by the eruption of the volcano of Thira around 1650 BC. See the remnants of buildings, city squares, shops and working areas. Some very famous Greek frescoes can be found in what is left of the once-prominent homes. Speculation is rife that perhaps Akrotiri is really the lost city of Atlantis.
From there, transfer by coach to Thira town, where a short walk will bring you to the Prehistoric Museum. Step inside the museum and back in time -- the museum's display features fine pottery, figurines, and carvings ranging from the 25th to the 1st century BC. Many of the items on view are artifacts recovered from the archeological site of Akrotiri -- Santorini's own version of Pompeii.
It's a three-minute walk to the cable car that returns you to the port. Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore are welcome to do so, but must return to the ship on their own.
Notes:
Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.