Welcome to ICVS 2008

HISTORY

Ancient Thera
Ancient Thera, is located on Mesa Vouno, 396 m. above sea level. It was founded in the 9th century B.C. by Dorian colonists whose leader was Theras, and continued to be inhabited until the early Byzantine period. The preserved ruins belong to the Hellenistic and Roman phases of the city.
There are many important monuments in Ancient Thera, such as the Sanctuary of Artemidoros (with its many engravings), the Temple of Dionysus, the Cemeteries of Ancient Thera and the Agora.

Thera Akrotiri
One of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean, Akrotiri was a large settlement with an elaborate drainage system, sophisticated multi-storeyed buildings with magnificent wall-paintings, furniture and vessels, all indicating its great development and prosperity. Please note that the Akrotiri museum is presently closed due to renovation.

The Lost Civilisation of Atlantis
The story of Atlantis, a fabled utopia destroyed overnight, in ancient times, has captured the imagination of scholars ever since it was first described in 355 B.C. by the philosopher Plato more than 2,000 years ago.
Plato’s depiction of a land of fabulous wealth, advanced civilisation and natural beauty has spurred many adventurers to seek out its location. Debate rages over where it may lie, however various studies place it to be submerged, near Santorini island.

MUSEUMS in SANTORINI

In Santorini there are a variety of museums showing the island’s history from prehistoric times, up until today. Ancient engravings, Cycladic style dresses and shoes, books about Santorini and information about wine-making techniques can all be found in one of the various museums in Santorini.

The Archaeological museum
The museum is located in Thera, the island's capital, opposite the cable car station. You will be able to admire some finds testifying the island's long history. You can also see a collection of Hellenistic and Roman sculpture from the Archaic to the Roman period, as well as vases and clay figurines from the Geometric to the Hellenistic periods.

Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Located in Thera, the island's capital, this museum houses masterpieces of art from the prehistoric Cyclades.

The Naval museum
Located in Oia, a picturesque town in the north of Santorini, this museum houses all kinds of marine objects tracing the maritime history of the island. The museum also features a small library and the vestiges of a Venetian fortress.

The Megaron Gyzi
Museum Gyzi is located in Thira, behind the Catholic cathedral. It exhibits engravings from the 16th to the 19th century with dresses, views and maps of the Cycladic islands as well as fascinating photographs of Thera before and after the earthquake of 1956.

The Folklore museum
The Folklore Museum is located in Kontohori, in Thera. It was built in a cave-house in 1861. You will find a variety of exhibits in this museum: barrel and shoe makers, an old traditional winery and also the work of local artists.

The Bellonio Cultural Centre and Library
Situated next to the post office, the Cultural Centre has a good collection of books about Santorini.

Santorini Wine Museum
The museum is located in the village of Messaria and offers information about the wine traditions of Santorini.