Santorini

Santorini is an island of the Cyclades, one of the most popular tourist destinations, not only in Greece but in the whole world.

Because of the volcano and the special volcanic landscape of the island, there is a very special atmosphere not found in the rest of the Cyclades and the Aegean.

A characteristic of the island are the villages built on the dark rock of the island offering spectacular views across the Aegean Sea. The settlements kept the traditional Cycladic architecture with whitewashed houses and verandas, offering moments of relaxation.

Accommodation

The island offers a great variety for accommodation. There are many hotels and rooms to let for everybody. During the summer months booking is required.

Sightseeing

The volcano

The volcano, otherwise called “Caldera”, is one of the active volcanoes in Europe. It is a remnant of the volcanic island “Stroggylh” which exploded in 1613 BC, thereby leading to the creation of the islands of Santorini, and Aspronisi Thirassia.

Akrotiri Prehistoric settlement
Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. This is an area of 200 acres where visitors will see the findings of an ancient culture, a prehistoric journey back around 4000 years, buried under the soil because of the volcano.

Ancient Thira
It is located on the southeastern coast. Excavations revealed the remains of Hellenistic and Roman period, on a regionthat used to be an observatory point.

The traditional village of Pyrgos.
In the village of Pyrgos, restored buildings house exhibits of the traditional life of the island. You can see traditional costumes and many artifacts from the old days.

THE VILLAGES

Across the island the visitor can see traditional villages that offer hospitality and an ideal place for relaxation. Apart from the capital “Fira”, there are the picturesque settlements of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, offering beautiful views accross the sea. There are also the coastal villages of Kamari, Perissa, Vlychada all with beautiful beaches ideal for swimming. In the interior of the island there are the beautiful villages of Emporio, Messaria and Tower.

BEACHES

Because of the volcanic landscape,  Santorini’s  beaches are rarely found in the Aegean. You can visit Mavri Paralia (black beach), Kokini Paralia (Red Beach) at Akrotiri,  Kamari, Perissa, and Vlychada.

MUSEUMS

Prehistoric Museum of Santorini - Thira.
Exhibits findings from the excavations of ancient Thira.

Archaeological Museum of Santorini - Thiron.
Museum with exhibits of sculpture and inscriptions from the Archaic to the Roman period, pottery and clay figurines from the Geometric to the Hellenistic period.

Folklore Museum Lignos A.
Exhibits from the daily lives of residents in the 19th century, artifacts, photographs, books, tools and many other items.

Art Space - Wine Museum
An old winery of 1861, turned into art galleries, where visitors see the old vineyards, the presses, along with exhibits of contemporary art.
http://www.artspace-santorini.com/

LOCAL PRODUCTS

Wine
Given the particular soil and climate, the island has a long tradition of wine even from prehistoric times. The most famous are the white Athiri Aidani and red Mantilaria and Mavrotragano Voudomato.

Split peas
It is famous for its unique flavor and dark yellow color.

Tomatoes
Tasty little cherry tomatoes, with a very strong flavor and aroma.

Cucumbers' Katsouni "
The Katsouni is kind of round cucumber very sweet in flavor and whiter than the usual cucumber.

Info
http://www.thira.gr/

Photo Gallery

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santorini1.jpg Uploaded on August 20, 2009 by David Spender (flickr)
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