Ancient Thera (sometimes spelled Thira) is one of the most important archaeological sites on Santorini.

On an area of about 400 x 100 meters, the very well-preserved foundations of the ancient city still lie, which is worth a visit just for the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Ancient Thera is situated in a formerly strategic and inaccessible location 360 metres above sea level on the Mesa Vouno hill between the resorts of Perissa and Kamari.

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History

The origins of ancient Thera date back to the 9th century BC, when colonists from Sparta arrived on the island and built Thera into an economically important city, to which the inhabitants of the surrounding islands moved. During the 3rd century BC, the Ptolemaic war fleet moved into the city, turning Thera into a military town of officers.

Thera became a provincial city of little importance from the 1st century BC, when it fell under Roman rule. It was inhabited until 726 AD, when a major earthquake struck Santorini and most of the inhabitants moved more towards the coast.

Entrance fees and opening hours

Opening hours from 6 November to 24 March are daily except Tuesdays from 8:30am-3:30pm. Between 24.4 and 31.10 it is closed on Wednesdays, otherwise open between 8:30-15:30. In between March/April and October/November the site is closed.

Tickets cost 6 eur. For 15 eur you can buy discounted admission for 3 locations: the Akrotiri, the Ancient Thera and the Archaeological Museum in Fira.

Official website: odysseus.culture.gr

How to get there?

Ancient Thera is only accessible by car or on foot. The road leads from the resort of Kamari to a small free parking lot with refreshments about 1 km from the excavations.

You can walk to Ancient Thera from either side, but expect a lot of elevation gain and a rocky path in places: