Santorini - Museums And Landmarks

Explore the rich history, art, and culture of Santorini through its exceptional museums, ancient ruins, and religious landmarks. These sites offer a deeper understanding of the island’s past—from prehistoric times to the Byzantine and Venetian eras.

Archaeological Museum of Fira

Located in the heart of Fira, this museum features an impressive collection of sculptures, inscriptions, vases, and figurines spanning from the Archaic to Roman periods. A must-visit for archaeology enthusiasts.
Location: Ancient Thera Road, Kamari, 17892
Website: www.odysseus.culture.gr

Ancient Thira

Perched on Mesavouno Mountain along the southeastern coast, Ancient Thira was inhabited from the 9th century BC to 726 AD. Excavations have revealed temples, residences, an agora, a gymnasium, and a theater, offering insight into ancient urban life.
Location: Akrotiri, 84700
Website: www.odysseus.culture.gr

Church of Panagia Episkopi

This 11th-century Byzantine church is one of the island’s religious treasures, featuring rare Byzantine frescoes and the icon of Panagia Glykofilousa, considered one of the most valuable icons in the world.
Location: Fira, 84700

Ancient Akrotiri

Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” Ancient Akrotiri is a remarkably preserved Minoan settlement dating back to around 1627 BC. Visitors can explore multi-story buildings, paved streets, and numerous artifacts buried under volcanic ash.
Location: Mesa Gonia, 84700

Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Founded in the early 1700s, this historic monastery sits at the highest point of Santorini at 567 meters above sea level. It houses a valuable collection of ecclesiastical artifacts and offers panoramic views of the island.
Location: 3 km from Pyrgos, 84700

Museum of Prehistoric Thira

Built on the site of the former Ypapanti Church, this museum showcases important finds from Ancient Akrotiri, including frescoes, ceramics, and tools, shedding light on prehistoric life in the Aegean.
Location: Erithrou Stavrou, Fira, 84700

Gyzi Megaron

Housed in a 17th-century mansion, Gyzi Megaron presents a captivating collection of engravings, manuscripts, photographs, and historical artifacts, chronicling Santorini’s evolution from the Venetian era to modern times.
Location: 405 25is Martiou, Fira, 84700
Website: www.gyzimegaron.gr

Maritime Museum of Thira

Located in the Birbilis Mansion in Oia, this museum traces the island’s maritime heritage through exhibits such as nautical instruments, ship replicas, historical documents, and captains’ logbooks.
Location: Oia, 84702

Santorini Arts Factory (SAF)

Situated in a repurposed tomato canning factory in Vlichada, SAF features the Industrial Tomato Museum and hosts a variety of art exhibitions, live performances, and cultural events, making it a unique blend of history and modern creativity.
Location: Vlichada, 84703
Website:www.santoriniartsfactory.gr

Santorini Folklore Museum

Set inside a traditional 19th-century cave house,this museum offers a glimpse into local life and traditions, showcasing an old winery, tools from local craftsmen, and historic manuscripts.
Location: Kontochori, Fira, 84700
Website:www.santorinisfolkmuseum.com

Argyros Mansion

The only restored mansion open to the public in Santorini, this Neoclassical residence reflects the elegant lifestyle of the island’s former aristocracy, with finely decorated interiors and period furnishings.
Location: Messaria, 84700
Website:www.argyrosmansion.com

Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral

Overlooking the caldera in Fira, this striking cathedral features a graceful arcade, mosaic flooring, and vibrant frescoes by local artist Christoforos Asimis, making it one of the most photographed churches in Santorini.
Location: Fira, 84700