In 1866 in Thirasia (just like in Thira), the Thiraic land was mined to be used in the construction of Suez Canal. During the works, an ancient building was accidentally discovered, as well as some vessels and a skeleton. The volcano activity attracted many scientists from all over the world, including the French volcanologist Fouque. In 1867 he carried out some excavations in Thirasia and studied the remains of the buildings and the findings (including fruits, stone vessels, utensils and tools).
The settlement of Thirasia was then dated back to the Late Bronze Age. These findings sparked the excavations in Akrotiri and other areas of the island.
