It’s the ancient settlement of Santorini that was founded in the 9th century BC by the Lacedaemonians (Dorians). It is located in Mesa Vouno, 385 meters above sea level and the first citizens of the settlement were Dorians. While, the city took its name from the mythical ruler of the island, Theras.
It was discovered by German archaeologists in 1895 during excavations that were continued until 1902. A new series of excavations took place from 1961 until 1982 by the Greek archaeologist N. Zafeiropoulos and his team. The results of this work are monuments that came to light as well as many smaller items of everyday use displayed in the archaeological museum of Santorini.
A visit to the site offers the opportunity to the visitor to admire the temple of Artemidoros, a temple completely carved on the rock, where symbols dedicated to Olympian gods are visible. Someone can also visit the temple of Apollo and the royal arcade, a building from the Roman era that used to have statues from the royal family of Julius Caesar.
In addition, the guest can walk around the area of the temples and the cemetery, visit the Dorian style temple of Dionysos, the ancient theatre and admire the exquisite view to the Aegean Sea.