SYMPOSION CULTURAL CENTER | Music - Art- Mythology

How do I express such admiration to a place that doesn’t just speak—but sings? To a place where the walls breathe myth, where the Lyra echos not only sound, but soul? In Santorini’s embrace, nestled among stone and sun, we found Symposion—not a venue, but a living hymn the transcends time. Yiannis, the maestro of this sacred space, is not merely a guide but a bard of old. Brilliant in mind, boundless in spirit and passionate in his work - he dances between history and heartbeat; weaving melody from myth, insight from Athena, and wisdom from Apollo’s hand. He doesn’t just tell the stories; he resurrects them. Literally. Each note is played on handcrafted instruments fabricated only from ancient writings and played in keys long forgotten... Tales of gods and healers, he reminds us that music is more than art—it is a memory, it's medicine, and it's metaphysics wrapped in mysteries that have been long kept in plain sight, in mythologies enigmas. Here, mythology is not past tense. It is present, it is a pulse. It is Yiannis showing how music is taught through vibration and mythology, how the Lyra and flute was not only for beauty but for balance. He speaks of philosophy not as an abstract but as a rhythm to live by. What an incredible experience. So, how do I articulate how much I love this place? Perhaps by remembering. By carrying a piece of it forward— A note. A story. A sense of wonder. ..and whispering, across time and continents. I hope you love it as much as I did. Yianni, I personally thank you for your friendship, your kindness, and for making me and my family feel music not just in our ears but in our soul.. literally moving us to tears. Ευχαριστώ φίλε. Μπράβο Σας

I took the Pan Pipe making workshop, and had a great time! Yannis is a good, encouraging teacher who makes everything clear...in addition to fascinating conversations about etymology, astronomy and the connection between Greek medical and musical terms!

We attended a fine concert that we won't ever forget. The environment was warm and pleasant. The next we did Yannis' music workshop which transcended the usual reality. He went deep into Greek mythology with great intricacies. We even made music together. A most recommendable place for music lovers.

I came here for a pan flute making class with my girlfriend and left with one of the most memorable experiences of my vacation. To start, the grounds of the Symposion are breathtaking. Immediately upon entering the property, the calming presence of the wine garden was felt as we sat for some coffee. The halls and workshop of the venue are tasteful, resonant, and absolutely beautiful, with an authentic, timeless, and purposeful feel and design. The array of instruments, books, and music for sale was not only interesting but even more wonderful when you realize all the instruments are handmade. Argy and Yannis are both masters of their respective crafts and professions and this is obviously evident upon first talking with each of them. Between the two of them, there is a breadth of historical and current music and cultural knowledge that is unmatched. They are very deliberate, purposeful, and intelligent people and it was a breath of fresh air to be able to spend a day with them in their space. Taking with them was so interesting, and they have some very interesting stories to tell. For any visitors and locals, I highly recommend stopping by. Sign up for a flute making workshop, listen to some music, drink some wine and listen to a lecture. I can honestly say I've never been somewhere like the wonder that is Symposion. A must-have experience for anyone who finds themselves on Santorini.

Unforgettable experience!! We attended the Mythical Music Presentation & Historical Tour. The venue, the drinks, the music -- everything was incredible. Argy and Yannis have so much knowledge, it was so interesting to hear their stories. Highly recommend if you're in Santorini.

We visited the Symposion Cultural centre as part of an all day tour of Santorini. It was an additional cost, as you had the option to not participate. So glad we went in. It was interactive, every person was given a musical instrument to partake in creating music. The history lesson/Greek mythology given behind some of the ancient instruments and linking it to current/modern day items was fascinating. The history of the site to what it has currently been developed into was also amazing. Highly recommend this experience.

Really interesting display of Greek musical instruments and workshop to make your own flute, they also run folk mystic sessions although we were unable to stay for that. Refreshments and food available in their beautiful courtyard.

We took a one day tour which included a stop at the Santorini Cultural Center. The tour guide told us for many tourists this was the best stop and we agree! Once entering we had refreshments in their outdoor cafe. Great selections and at very good prices. Next we were lead into the museum and concert room. The decor and displays of ancient musical instruments were a privilege to see. Mr. Yannis Pantazis and his wife were awesome hosts sharing many historical facts and stories regarding Greek music, instruments, and mythology. Mr Pantazis played many instruments for us including a greek bagpipe! We also got to participate and play along and make beautiful music with him which was the highlight of the experience. This was an unforgettable experience and we highly recommend you make an effort to make the Santorini Cultural Center one of the places you visit! Thank you Mr and Mrs Pantazis for the great memories!