Destination List > Akrotiri

Akrotiri

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The history...

Akrotiri is an ancient town on the Greek island of Santorini. It was a thriving settlement during the Bronze Age, around 4,000 years ago. The Minoan civilization was a bustling port town where people traded goods like pottery, metals, and food with other places in the Aegean Sea.

The town was buried under volcanic ash after a massive volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. This eruption destroyed much of the island but preserved Akrotiri in remarkable condition, similar to how Pompeii was preserved in Italy. The ash protected the town’s buildings, artwork, and everyday items, giving us an incredible look at how people lived thousands of years ago.

Excavations of Akrotiri began in the late 19th century and continue today. Archaeologists have found well-preserved multi-story buildings, colorful frescoes (wall paintings), pottery, and tools. The frescoes show scenes of everyday life, nature, and ships, suggesting the people of Akrotiri were skilled sailors and artists.

Unlike Pompeii, no human remains were found, which suggests the people may have evacuated the town before the eruption. Akrotiri is often called the “Minoan Pompeii” and is a must-see site for history lovers.

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