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Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands in the
Aegean Sea. It was devastated by a volcanic
eruption in the 16th century B.C., forever shaping
its rugged landscape.
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We took a ferry from Athens, which made stops at three other
islands including
Patmos seen here.
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Approaching Santorini we saw the stunning view of Oia
clinging to the cliffs above the volcanic caldera.
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The main
square of Theotokopoulou anchors the town of Fira, the
capital of Santorini.
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The iconic blue-domed churches are popular spots for
weddings for people of all nationalities.
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Oia and Fira are
traditional villages with charming houses in narrow streets,
blue domed churches, and sun-bathed verandas.
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Their
narrow streets have plenty of tourist shops, art galleries,
taverns, and restaurants. Dining on a verandah to view
the sunset over the caldera is an amazing experience.
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Our
accommodation was in Monolithos, a fishing village (pop.
450) on a black sand beach.
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Monolithos is quite remote, but popular during
tourist season for its sandy beach and warm shallow
waters.
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The Red
Sands Beach is accessible by boat or strenuous hike.
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Kamari is a
popular destination, with rental cabanas, boutique hotels,
cafes and shops lining the beach.
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Santorini is a walker's delight, with scenic pathways
and stairways. Donkeys are available to help with the
steep climbs.
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Akrotiri is a Minoan Bronze Age settlement destroyed in the
Theran eruption and buried in volcanic ash, which preserved
the remains of fine frescoes, artworks and everyday objects.
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Perfectly preserved frescoes have been found at Akrotiri,
including the captivating "Blue Monkeys," now on display
at the Archeological Museum in Fira.
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