Embark on a cultural journey in Santorini

Santorini’s history is scattered to its beautiful villages where many museums showcase its rich cultural tradition. Valuable exhibits and rare collections reveal the island’s prominence through the centuries and its importance during the past times. 

 

First and foremost there are two museums to start your culture itinerary. The Archaeological Museum of Thera is conveniently located in the center of Fira. Its interesting exhibits give the visitor a deep insight into how sophisticated were the civilizations that preceded us. The museum was built in 1960 and houses amazing sculptures ranging from the Archaic to the Roman Period. There are inscriptions of the same period as well as many figurines and vases dating from the Geometric to the Hellenistic Periods. Artifacts and statues can also be found.

 

The second museum that should you definitely visit is the Prehistoric Thera Museum, that is also situated in Santorini’s capital. Its construction started at the beginning of the 1970s and finished around thirty years later. This state-of-the-art edifice houses the finds of the prominent civilization that thrived during the Minoan Bronze Age. It also exhibits finds that come from all over the island with those of Akrotiri standing out, as they are excellently preserved. 

 

Very close to the capital of Santorini, Folklore Museum of Emmanuel A. Lignos is housed in a traditional cave house built in 1861. The interior features unique arches, a cellar, a dining room, a kitchen and a winery built in a cavern.

 

There are also several prestigious museums that unravel Santorini’s rich cultural legacy. Naval Maritime Museum showcases the naval history of the island while the Museum of Minerals and fossils hosts collections from Greece and all over the world. Last but not least, the Wine Museum gives the visitor the opportunity to taste and learn about Santorini’s signature product.