History
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The THERA FOUNDATION is a non-profit organization that was created in 1969, by Mr. Peter M. Nomikos. Thera was the ancient name of the Greek island of Santorini, which itself comes from the Dorian leader Theras, founder of the island in the 9th century B.C. Since 2005 Peter C. Nomikos Jr. has taken an increasing leadership position through a variety of new initiatives including those with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and University of Cincinnati Urban Planning Department.
Akrotiri, the central ancient city of the island, holds many hidden treasures, artifacts and especially very well preserved paintings dating from the 17th century B.C. The excavations which began in 1969 (under the direction of professor Spyridon Marinatos) have still to uncover all the richness of the site.
The THERA FOUNDATION was first introduced in the United States of America as an international channel through which awareness, interest and as a result support could be generated. Through three major global congresses (in 1967, 1978, and 1989), the foundation attained its goal, to support the excavations taking place in Akrotiri.
From these congresses three educational books were published, with archeological, scientific, geological and biological content.
Many projects have been accomplished because of the Thera Foundation, as is the acceleration of the researches (achieved with the EPRIS & XR-100CR projects) and the increase of awareness, through the life sized 3D photographic reproductions of the original Wall Paintings found in Akrotiri that were presented in many European major cities, from 1993 to 2000.
In 1996, an international Symposium named “The Wall Paintings of Thera” took place, and was followed by the publication of its contents.
Many projects have been accomplished because of the Thera Foundation, as is the acceleration of the researches (achieved with the EPRIS & XR-100CR projects) and the increase of awareness, through the life sized 3D photographic reproductions of the original Wall Paintings found in Akrotiri that were presented in many European major cities, from 1993 to 2000.
In 1996, an international Symposium named “The Wall Paintings of Thera” took place, and was followed by the publication of its contents.
The THERA FOUNDATION plays an important role in aiding the archeological excavation of Akrotiri. It achieves this through the organization of International Congresses, Publication of Books, Conferences & Seminars, Exhibitions & Concerts, and Educational Programs.