Fresco of Akrotiri Spring. wikimedia.org/public domain
Posted on 07/07/2013 6:45:04 PM PDT by SunkenCiv
The excavations at the archeological site at Akrotiri in Santorini are ongoing, so there is scaffolding everywhere and supports in place to stabilize walls, windows and doorways that might otherwise collapse. You need to use your imagination to put yourself back in prehistoric times, but with the help of guides or signs posted along the walkways, you can get a fair idea of what life was like. An excavated toilet, pictured in the slide show, has been left in view for the amusement of the tourists and to demonstrate how advanced the plumbing and drainage system was.
The inhabitants had warning that the volcano would erupt, perhaps frightened into leaving by strong earthquakes that were precursors to the massive eruption. No human remains were discovered and no precious possessions, such as jewelry, have been found. They fled the island with their belongings, but tools and storage vessels were left in place, indicating they evacuated the area fairly quickly. Some of the clay pots had traces of olive oil, fish and onions. It's not sure where they went, but they had close ties to Crete and Egypt and would most likely have found refuge there.
The archeological site is now covered by a beautiful permanent building to protect the work being done inside. It's estimated the area of the settlement is 30 times the size of what's been uncovered, but the site they chose to work on has revealed a fascinating cross section of ancient society and sophisticated building techniques. These include houses built three stories high, some with balconies. The frescoes have been relocated to the National Archeological Museum in Athens, but Santorini is trying to get them back...
(Excerpt) Read more at examiner.com ...
Fresco of Akrotiri Spring. wikimedia.org/public domain
Akrotiri, Santorini: the Minoan Pompeii - part 1 [of 6]
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/chat/2376007/posts
Went there a few years ago. Spectacular. The houses in the main square would be familiar to any inhabitant of a Mediterranean village up until the mid 20th century.
bttt
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