In central Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera gathers finds from Akrotiri and other parts of Santorini, tracing the island’s past from early settlements to the Bronze Age. Four sections cover Thera’s geology, archaeological research, prehistoric history and Akrotiri’s flourishing period. The vivid wall paintings are a highlight, alongside pottery, tools, jewellery, figurines and fossils. Look for the gold ibex and the Blue Monkeys fresco. A visit here gives useful context for the excavated settlement at Akrotiri, which you can explore separately.
Four sections on Thera’s past
The museum’s displays are arranged in four sections. They begin with the history of archaeological research on Thera, then turn to the island’s geology. Another section covers the island from the Late Neolithic through the Late Cycladic I period. The final section focuses on Akrotiri during its prosperous Bronze Age period, around the 17th century BC.
This structure gives you context for the objects on display: the island’s geological story and the record of its excavation sit alongside evidence of how people lived. The Akrotiri section looks at the settlement’s layout and architecture, its organization as an urban centre, and its connections with the outside world. It also covers pottery and wall painting, including the relationship between painted vessels and murals.
Frescoes, pottery and the gold ibex
The wall paintings are among the collection’s most memorable works. Their vivid colours and lively scenes have survived for thousands of years, and include the Blue Monkeys fresco. Other painted scenes offer glimpses of daily activity, including women gathering saffron from crocus flowers. Some works are displayed in glass cases.
Look for the gold ibex figurine, dated to the 17th century BC, as well as pottery, jewellery, tools, marble figurines and fossilised plant remains. The collection also includes plaster casts of furniture and household objects. Together, these finds give a sense of both artistic skill and ordinary life in the prehistoric settlement.
Pair the museum with Akrotiri
The museum houses finds excavated at Akrotiri, the ancient settlement buried under volcanic ash. Seeing the objects in Fira before or after visiting the archaeological site can help connect individual artefacts and paintings with the place where they were found. Akrotiri is a separate site, so plan time for both if you want to see the excavation as well as the museum collection.
The museum also places Akrotiri within the wider history of Thera, from early settlement through the island’s geological development. Its compact scale makes it a focused stop for learning about Santorini’s prehistoric past without taking on a large museum visit.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you see at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera?
The collection includes frescoes from Akrotiri, pottery, tools, jewellery, marble figurines, fossils and plaster casts of furniture. The Blue Monkeys fresco and gold ibex are notable highlights.
Is the Museum of Prehistoric Thera about Akrotiri?
Yes. It displays finds from the excavation at Akrotiri and explains the settlement’s architecture, art and history. Akrotiri itself is a separate archaeological site.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes, admission is charged. The available information does not give the ticket price.
When is the museum closed?
The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
