Sights

Perched on the southwestern tip of Santorini, the Akrotiri Lighthouse is one of the Cyclades’ most stunning lighthouses. Built by the French company La Société Française des Phares during the early development of Greece’s maritime safety network, it has guided ships safely through the Aegean since 1892.

Initially powered by oil, the lighthouse emitted a long white flash every 30 seconds, visible up to 23 nautical miles. It was deactivated during World War II and reactivated in 1945. In 1983, the original machinery was replaced with an electric system, and by 1988, the lighthouse became fully automated, now featuring a white flash every 10 seconds with a 24-nautical-mile range.

Architecture

The lighthouse tower is constructed from stone and masonry, rising 10 meters from the keeper’s house, which includes three bedrooms, a corridor, a kitchen, a bathroom, and external utility spaces. Its design seamlessly blends functionality with Cycladic charm.

Visiting the Lighthouse

The Akrotiri Lighthouse sits 350 meters from the coast at an elevation of 100 meters, offering breathtaking views over Santorini’s western cliffs, the caldera, and the volcanic islands of Nea and Palia Kameni. Although the lighthouse itself is fenced and not open to visitors, the surrounding area is a prime spot for photography, sunset watching, and admiring the dramatic volcanic landscape.

The lighthouse is accessible via a paved road from Santorini port and is 5 km from the village of Akrotiri. Nearby beaches include the Red Beach, which is only accessible on foot, and Perissa-Perivolos Beach, offering easier access and family-friendly swimming.

Heritage & Protection

The lighthouse is managed by the Hellenic Navy Lighthouse Service and is officially protected under Greece’s Antiquities Law as a modern monument (Law 3028/02).