Akrotiri Lighthouse Open to Visitors on Sunday, August 17

The Akrotiri Lighthouse in Santorini will be open to the public on Sunday, August 17, from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00, along with 17 other lighthouses across Greece, as part of the celebration of World Lighthouse Day.

During the visit, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the crucial role lighthouses play in maritime safety, the importance of the lighthouse network as part of Greece’s cultural heritage, and the valuable contribution of lighthouse keepers to its operation.

World Lighthouse Day, established in 2003 by the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities, is celebrated annually on the third Sunday of August.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse

The Akrotiri Lighthouse is situated directly along the sea route between Piraeus and Alexandria and is considered one of the finest in the Greek network.

Built in 1892 by the French lighthouse company La Société Collas et Michel, it is located 18 km from Fira at an altitude of 58 meters. The tower stands 10 meters tall, with a focal height of 100 meters above sea level.

When it first began operating in 1892, the lighthouse used petroleum as its energy source, emitting a prolonged white flash every 30 seconds, visible from 23 nautical miles. It was deactivated during World War II and resumed operation in 1945, again powered by petroleum.

In 1983, it was connected to the electricity grid and operated as a manned electric lighthouse until 1988, when it became fully automated with modern equipment. Today, it emits a white flash every 10 seconds, visible from 24 nautical miles.

Coordinates: 36°21’27.54″N, 25°21’26.33″E