Villages in Santorini

Sights in Santorini

Which are the ‘hot points’ of Santorini? Actually,Thira is not only the caldera. There is so much to discover. Villages that are true jewels, as well as museums and monuments of tremendous importance. Get informed. Find out which stones you should pick up to experience the grandeur of Santorini. Everything can be found here!!

The uniqueness of Santorini

There are some reasons that make Santorini the most sensational destination. One of these reasons is its geological particularity, for she was born out of the volcanic lava. Continuous lava flow deposits gave birth to this island, whose central part sank as a result of the big volcanic eruption in 1660 B.C. That is how the one and only inhabited caldera (=cauldron) in the world was formed at a depth of 400m below the sea surface, truly one of the wonders of the world! As a result, in the place of ‘Strogili’, which was the only island that existed at that time, emerged the islands that we have today: Santorini, Thirasia, Aspronisi and, the newer ones, Palia and Nea Kameni. This Thiran lava became for the people of Santorini the raw material to construct their houses, the so-called ‘yposkafa’ (=dwellings carved in the rock). Due to its volcanic origin, the soil of the island is easy to dig. Later on, they would make mortar out of this very same soil (containing stable materials) and lime to support the vault of the house. In this way, the poor families would have a roof that kept their house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

The three strong points

In case you do not have much time, here are the highlights of Santorini:

  1. The Akrotiri, where the archaeological settlement of the pre-historic Thira is situated.
  2. The Museum of Pre-historic Thira in Fira. You will be impressed with the findings exhibited there.
  3. The world-famous sunset of Oia – people from everywhere in the world come to live this unique experience!
  • It would be better to visit Fira in the morning, when it is not that crowded. Have a glance at the Theotokopoulos Square, the meeting point overflowing with cafés and thousands of visitors! Gold Street with the jewellery stores and the...

  • Following the brow of the caldera, you reach Firostefani, from where you have the best panoramic view on the volcano. The cliff here becomes so steep that it cuts your breath! And, by all means, you have to visit the Conference Center Petros M....

  • The view from here is absolutely breathtaking and there is no doubt it will reward you! It is positioned in the most privileged position of the caldera overlooking Thirasia at the background. The scenery is so calmful and peaceful that puts you...

  • Oia

    Although a tourist spot, Oia remains an exceptionally artistic, hardly touched site; it is the part of the island least affected by tourism. A model of architecture, finesse and charm, Oia has its own fanatic followers: those who know how to...

  • A picturesque village sculptured into the banks of the torrent. White houses and horizontal lines, a delightful calm contrast to the wild passion of the caldera. Vineyards and scattered chapels decorated with humble offerings dedicated by old...

  • Akrotiri is a small fish village but the fact that such a remarkable civilisation flourished here for approximately fifteen centuries, gives it a special prestige. The ancient city of Akrotiri is the most important archaeological discovery in...

  • Perissa is not just the most popular beach of Santorini. Here are remnants of the Byzantine Period, the Church of Agia Irini (Santa Irini, from which the name Santorini derived), the Church of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross) and the Museum of...

  • Probably the most highly touristic spot of the island with regard to aesthetics and amenities. It was built after the 1956 earthquake in order to cover the high touristic needs. Kamari has one of the most beautiful and well-organised beaches on...

  • The archaeological site of Thira dates back to the 8th century B.C. The Lacedaemonians built Thira and named it after their leader. Wake up early –or do not sleep at all!– to drive to Kamari and then continue on foot. Besides the historical...

  • A small village with high expectations. A paradise of wine. The three most important wineries of the island are located here: Boutaris, Antoniou, Gavalas. You will have the chance to savour the unique volcanic taste and sea aromas, and initiate...

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