The island of Santorini was formed over 80,000 years ago from a strong volcanic eruption, leading to the creation of other places like Stroggyli. In 1450 B.C. the island again endured an eruption, causing half of the island to sink, leaving behind the half-moon shape that Santorini is today. Much of its allure and history lies buried deep in the depths of the Aegean, taking with it a Minoan culture that has extended across the water to the island of Crete.
Reaching Santorini by ferry is a 9 hour leisurely journey that ends in its port, Athinios. Santorini’s second port, Fira, primarily serves cruise ships. The city of Fira, however, is a place that must been, a cosmopolitan village of Cycladic white-washed villas perched 350 meters above the sea. Here visit the Archeological Museum, containing exhibitions spanning Archaic to Roman times. Visit the Venetian Gizi Building, the venue for events, concerts, and exhibitions. Don’t forget the convent of the Dominican nuns and the Metropolitan Church of the Visitation.
Take a trip with local fishing boats to Nea Kameni, an island of black lava flows, and a still-fuming sulfurous crater. You also might enjoy walking the hillside of Fira’s nearby village, Firostefani, reachable by the outer roads. Discover this picturesque caldera town with traditional houses and the church of Agios Gerasimos. You won’t be disappointed and may want to stay at the highest point of the island, in Imerovigli or Merovigli. Small and modest, this town is a best-kept secret among Santorini’s hill towns, having suffered considerable damage in the 1956 earthquake, it is only recently on the tourism radar.
Conversely, one extremely popular caldera town can be found by taking the 11 km of road set in red and black rock along the cliffs. Overlooking the plains and beaches of the eastern island, you find Oia. Be dazzled by its white-washed houses built into colorful volcanic rock cliffs. Stand on its stone and marble paths for unobstructed views of the deep-blue Aegean Sea.
In the interior of the island seek out beautiful villages and sites, such as Pyrgos, the Monastery of Prophet Elias (the highest peak on the island), the castle ruins and numerous churches of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Also from Messaria, Megalochori and Emporio you can enjoy the view from both sides of the island and visit the ruins of a Venetian castle.
On this stunning island your imagination and view is as open and free as the horizon. Become a romantic and a dreamer. Santorini is an island of rock, lava and plenty of sun, an island of colors, an island so beautiful you have to see it for yourself.
Γενικές Πληροφορίες - Χάρτης