Discover Ancient Akrotiri
-
Haven
Thira (Santorini), Griekenland
-
Inspanningsniveau
Moderate
-
Excursietype
All
-
Rolstoeltoegankelijk
No
-
Vanaf
$119
-
Minimum leeftijd
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duur
Approximately 4 Hours
-
Maaltijden inbegrepen
Meals not included
In prehistoric times, the people who inhabited 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 take photos of the ruins of the famous windmill.
Next, 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 in 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 Thíra 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. Expect lines at the cable car; the wait can be more than 60 minutes if multiple ships are in port.