Founded in 1951 from Captain Antonios D. Dakoronias’ personal collection, the Santorini Maritime Museum preserves the island’s rich naval history. Originally housed in his grandfather’s mansion, the museum’s operations were suspended after the devastating 1956 earthquake. Following decades of dedicated effort, it found a temporary home in 1980 before the expanding collection necessitated a larger, permanent space.
In 1988, a generous donation by Dina A. Manolessou-Birbili provided her father’s house in Oia for the museum’s permanent housing. Rebuilt by shipowners Nikolaos and Dimitrios L. Nomikos, it reopened in 1992 as a Public Benefit Foundation. Today, following a comprehensive 2022 renovation and re-exhibition supported by M/MARITIME and led by President Nicoletta Nomikou, the beautifully restored museum continues to celebrate Santorini’s maritime legacy.
A visit to the museum highlights the crucial role of Santorinian shipowners and captains in shaping Greek maritime history.