Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Μουσείο Προϊστορικής Θήρας
An archaeological museum in Fira displaying Bronze Age wall paintings and artefacts excavated at Akrotiri. It is best visited together with the site.
The Museum of Prehistoric Thera is in the centre of Fira, near the Orthodox cathedral. It displays artefacts excavated from the prehistoric town of Akrotiri, which was buried before the volcanic eruption around the 17th century BC. The highlights include vivid wall paintings such as the 'Blue Monkeys' fresco and 'Spring Lilies and Swallows', exquisite painted pottery, a small gold goat figurine, and many everyday objects. They give a clear picture of the sophistication of the Minoan-era Aegean civilisation. The museum is small, and it takes about an hour to see everything. It is usually less crowded and the air-conditioning is comfortable. It is best to visit the Akrotiri site first and then come here to compare. You can buy a combined ticket that covers several archaeological sites.
Opening hours
About 08:30–15:30 (usually closed Tuesdays; check official site)
Nearby sights
- Fira
- Fira Old Port & Cable Car
- Fira to Oia Hiking Trail
- Imerovigli & Skaros Rock
- Santo Wines Winery
- Nea Kameni Volcano Boat Trip
- Pyrgos
- Megalochori