Amazing Akrotiri

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The excavations at Akrotiri began in 1967. Large deposits of volcanic material covered the area and the exact boundaries of the site still have to be located. 30 buildings have been located and these are protected under a special shelter.

The area has been settled since Neolithic times. A volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC buried the city under volcanic ash. The excavations have revealed the advanced culture of the late bronze age with impressive buildings, sewerage systems and mural paintings. The Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira has many artefacts from Akrotiri, such as pottery and wall murals and is well worth a visit.

After a fascinating couple of hours at the Akrotiri site we had a short walk to the red beach which was very picturesque. The day was completed with a squid and sardines in a fish restaurant.

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