Santorini

1. Welcome to Santorini island

Santorini is one of the most southern islands in the Cyclades. It lies between Ios and Anafi, has an area of 96 square kilometers, and its permanent population numbers 11, 381. It is situated 130 nautical miles away from the main port of Piraeus and 70 nautical miles away from Crete. The coastline measures 69 kilometers in length, while the island itself is 18 kilometers long (from Cape Mavropetra in the north area of the island to Cape Exomytis in the south area of the island) and between two and six kilometers wide. The capital of the island is Fira, and the port is called Athinios.

The semicircular shape of the island today is the result – as, indeed, was the creation of the island itself – of the eruptions of a volcano, which was active as far back as prehistoric times. On the west side, where the volcano is located, Santorini is steep and rocky. The west coast ends in a steep precipice which plunges into the caldera, a circular lagoon-like body of water that measures 32 square miles and is 300 to 400 meters deep.

The cliffs surrounding the caldera, which range in height from 150 to 300 meters, consist of horizontal, parallel bands of red and black rock and lava which were formed during repeated eruptions. Perched on the rim of the cliffs are the island’s main towns, Fira and the pretty village of Oia.

The landscape of the outer side of Santorini is very different from the cliffs overlooking the caldera. In the center of the island, from north to south, are the limestone massifs of Megalo vouno, Mikros Profitis Ilias, and Gavrilos. The highest of these mountains, Profitis Ilias, has a summit only 556 meters above sea level. The ground stretching towards the east coast is flat and fertile. This is where the towns of Pyrgos, Emporio, Karterado, and Finika are located, with the beautiful beaches of Kamari, Perissa and Monolithos, which have pebbles or black sand.

The climate of Santorini is pleasant even in the summer, which is comparatively cool. The northeasterly winds which prevail in the summer months help to keep the temperature down.

If you would like to visit the beautiful island of Santorini, you may book your accommodation on Santorini through our site and get a special discount. If you have fallen in love with Santorini and you wish to stay, then perhaps you should look at some of the real estate on Santorini. If you need any extra information, then please contact us here [email protected] or +30 69 34 620 501 / +30 22840 24 879

2. Activities on Santorini

Sports on Santorini: In Kamari and Karteradso there are tennis courts. In Fira and Kamari there are fields for volleyball and basketball. In Perissa there is mini golf, Water Park, go-cart and roller-skating. There are many interesting places on the island for those that love long walks or cycling.

Scuba diving on Santorini: Volcano diving center is the outcome of thirty years of experience in training scuba divers at 20 – 30 meters to deep wreck dives in the open sea and at depths of over 120 meters. It was established by Vangelis Sotiriou, one of the first persons to introduce the world of scuba diving in Greece.

Telephone numbers: +30 22860 22860 33177 / +30 6971 896 922, website: www.scubagreece.com

Horse riding on Santorini: Santorini Horse Riding, situated in Kamari, organizes horse riding trips around Kamari beach throughout the whole touristic season.
Telephone number: +30 6977 415775

There is also a horse riding club located in Perissa, the famous beach resort of Santorini Island.

Kiteboarding on Santorini:  Imagine how it feels to fly across the seawater powered by a kite in the sky, you are sailing on a board, watching the kite fly above you, the waves ahead of you, you jump right in to the air, not just a foot or two, but up to 30 feet. You remain in the air for some moments and then you are in the water again, rushing across the sea. Kiteboarding is a cross between windsurfing, wakeboarding, and paragliding; riders harness the power of the wind with a large flying kite and use it to pull them across the water with their feet strapped to a small board. You can experience kiteboarding on Santorini island, right on the beach of Kamari. The kiteboarding club has been renting and teaching people since 1989. It is owned by people who are passionate and knowledgeable about water sports and that take your fun seriously.

Kamari beach, contact number: +30 6932 780 852, website: www.3sxsport.gr

Excursions and one day trip around the island of Santorini

– Akrotiri bus tour: The tour begins with a stop at the monastery of Prophet Ilias; the highest point on the island of Santorini. Enjoy swimming at Akrotiri and then at Perissa. At the end of the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the traditional wineries and taste some of the local wine.

– DAILY EXCURSIONS from the old port to the volcano, the hot springs, Thirassia and Oia.

– One day cruise the nearby islands upon request: The cruise includes stops to the nearby islands of Folegandros, Anafi, Sikinos, and Ios.

– SUNSET CRUISE ON-BOARD: Arriving at Athinios port, you will be welcomed on board and then set sail along the superb Caldera. You will have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking volcano, hot springs and Ammoudi, the little bay.

– TOUR TO OIA & TRADITIONAL VILLAGES: Visits to Propet Ilias, Pyrgos village, and the oldest church on the island, Panayia Episkopi. The final stop in Oia village, which is famous to artists of all kinds for its inspiring views and its magnificent sunset.

Telephone number: +30 22860 24355 / +30 6946 680 983

Website: www.santorini-sea-excursions.com

Santorini dive centre: +30 22860 83190 website: www.divecenter.gr

Santorini premium spa: +30 22860 71515

Sea kayaks on Santorini: +30 6951801051 / website: www.santoriniseakayak.gr

Water sports on Santorini: A variety of different kinds of water sports on Santorini, diving on Santorini, snorkeling on Santorini, scuba diving on Santorini, discover the marine of Santorini.  Telephone: +30 22860 33177 / +30 6971 896 922 / +30 22860 28190

Donkey rides on Santorini: Santorini Horse Riding, situated in Kamari, organizes horse riding trips around Kamari beach throughout the whole touristic season.
Telephone number: +30 6977 415775

Nightlife on Santorini:  Santorini Island is also famous for its lively nightlife. You can find all kind of popular Santorini nightlife in the main touristic areas such as Fira, Oia, Perisa and Kamari.  Fira is the most popular place in Santorini and many cafe bars or clubs are situated along the Caldera (the cliff). Some of the cafes are offering a fantastic view over one of the world’s most famous sunset. Searching for a lively nightlife in Santorini, Oia must be the quieter place.
Oia is a world known place for just married couples and for this reason it is full of romantic cafes-bars with breathtaking views.

3. Best beaches on Santorini

AKROTIRI-RED BEACH:  The red beach is one of the most famous and beautiful of the beaches of Santorini. It is located near the village and ancient site of Akrotiri.

You couldn’t ask for a more breathtaking setting for a swim. A number of people come onto the headland just to admire this beach and never make it down to the hot sand. The reason why it attracts so many people is that of the slabs of red and black volcanic rocks behind it. Soaring red lava cliffs which drop right to the black sandy shore and into the clear blue sea make for a majestic setting and one to enjoy. Meals and snacks can be gotten at a nearby hotel and if you fancy, boats leave from Akrotiri to other beaches further down the southwest coast. The White Beach is also located in the area.

KAMARI BEACH:  Kamari is a famous beach resort of the island of Santorini, situated ten kilometers to the southeast side of Fira, the exact opposite side of the island from Perissa.

The general landscape is much similar to Perissa: an impressively long and inviting black sandy beach, characterized by an enormous rock called Mesa Vouno that rises from the sea. The area offers a great landscape, especially at night, when the rock is lighted. You don’t have to walk far to find tavernas on the seafront as well as restaurants, hotels, tourist shops and entertainment spots. A number of water sports are also available like water skiing, windsurfing and paddle boats. From Fira you can take the bus to the village of Kamari with frequent journeys. Located close is the Avis beach, another black-sand quiet one with sports facilities and beach clubs.

MONOLITHOS:  The beach of Monolithos is close to the beach of Kamari, in the area near the airport. Here you will find a more peaceful and quiet atmosphere than the other beaches on Santorini, however with all the comforts of the other beaches as there are bungalows and facilities for snacks and meals available at a very close distance to the beach.

OIA:  Ammoudi and Armeni are two beautiful beaches which are frequented by visitors to Oia, that fascinating town built on the edge of a cliff. Ammoudi is situated directly below Oia on the northwest tip of the island while Armeni is a little further on.

PERISSA:  Perissa is a beach resort situated 15 km to the southeast side of Fira. It is a very tourist-crowded village and has an impressively long black sandy beach.

It’s most noticeable feature is the Mesa Vouno, an enormous rock rising from deep inside the sea.

This area of Santorini offers a great night view when the lights of the rock are lit.

An array of water sports is available at Perissa (water skiing, wind-surfing and diving), one of the most popular beaches on the island. The unique black lava sand and clear deep blue sea are the main attractions. Seafront taverns, hotels, camping facilities and trees for shade add to the location. The beach is located on the southeastern tip of Santorini.

PERIVOLOS – AYIOS GEORGIOS:  Ayios Georgios beach is one of the most “tourist friendly” beaches on the island. It is located about 3.5 kilometers away from the beach of Perissa, The beach of Ayios Georgios is an exciting choice for any visitor to the town. It provides everything its visitors, starting from umbrellas and seats for rent, to hotels and bars that fit everybody’s budget. With options galore, visitors are spoilt for choice and there are always too many things to do and not enough time. Another of the quiet variety beaches on the island with small taverns and rooms to let opposite the beach. It is located on the southern tip of the island. Sports facilities are available here In Perivolos you will have a great time in the well-organized bar-restaurants.

VLIHADA: The beach follows a smooth descent. You will notice as you approach two large chimneys upon a factory. One is directly behind the beach and one nearby, but don’t worry this factory is no longer in use and the brick structures are actually quite pleasant to look at. This beach offers a perfect spot for those wishing to find a quiet beach and avoid the big crowds.

4. Sightseeing on Santorini

Santorini is said to be one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and is listed among the 3 most famous island destinations in Europe. It was formed by a series of volcanic eruptions which affected the whole Aegean sea and even the coasts of Crete. The original name of the island of Santorini was Kallisti, which means the most beautiful, and Strogyli which means round/circular. The inhabitation of the island starts before the 16th century BC when the Minoans settled on it. Since then Santorini became an important trade center of the Minoans. The world famous settlement of Akrotiri dates back to the Minoan era. Around 1550 – 1500 B.C. a violent volcanic explosion caused the submergence of the central part of Santorini, creating the Caldera and the 2 smaller islands in the Caldera, Thirasia and Nea Kameni, where the top of the volcano is found. After the Fall of Constantinople, Santorini came under the Venetian rule and by this time the island was named Santorini, after Santa Irini. For the next 6 centuries, the island came under the rule of the Duke of Naxos, and the Othomans until it joined the Greek Republic. In 1956, Santorini suffered another severe volcanic eruption which destroyed completely many of the villages and caused severe problems to the others. However, the island managed to rebuild and develop one of the most popular cultural destinations in the world.

The volcano on Santorini: The famous volcano of Santorini is located in the middle of the sunken Caldera, right opposite the coastline of Santorini. It is located on the island that is called Nea Kameni and there are everyday cruises to the volcano and the hot springs where guests can swim. Boats to the volcano leave every morning from Athinios port or from Fira’s old port and the usual route is climbing the volcano, stopping at the hot springs for swimming, a stop of about 2 hours at Thirasia for swimming or lunch and return Santorini. The cost is about 20 to 25€ according to the route. Children under 12 years old pay a reduced price. If you decide to depart from Fira’s old port you can walk down to the port for about 45min on a rough route, or choose between taking the cable car, which run every 15 minutes from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm or riding a mule. Both the mule riding and the cable car cost about 3.5€. many tour boats go there from Fira. On the neighboring island of Palea Kameni, there are the hot springs, which are said to have curative properties.

Caledra: Around 1550 – 1500 B.C. a violent volcanic explosion caused the submergence of the central part of Santorini, creating the Caldera and the 2 smaller islands in the Caldera, Thirasia and Nea Kameni, where the top of the volcano is found.

Ancient Thira – Mesa Vouno:  Located on the mountain between Kamari and Perissa

Operating hours-days (during winter-October 15th, 2006 – March 31st, 2007): Monday: closed, Tuesday-Sunday: 08.30-15.00 Tickets: 2€ (reduced admission: 1€) Ancient Thira settlement was founded in the 9th century BC. by Dorian colonists whose leader was Thiras, and continued to be inhabited until the early Byzantine period. The preserved ruins belong to Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The museum of Pre-historic Thira – Akrotiri:  The new Museum of Prehistoric Thira (or Thera), which opened in 2000, has several frescoes and finds from Ancient Akrotiri, along with many objects imported from Crete and the northeastern Aegean Islands. Some of the clay pots on display – cups, jugs and pithoi – are delicately painted with motifs familiar from the wall paintings. Note the fresco fragments with the painted swallows (who flocked here because they loved the cliffs) and the women in Minoan dresses. Fossilized olive leaves from 60,000 BC prove the olive to be indigenous.It’s best to visit both the Museum of Prehistoric Thira and the archaeological site at Ancient Akrotiri – in the same day, if possible. At present, the museum occupies only a small part of its building, and expansions are anticipated in the near future.

Telephone number : +30 22860 22217 –  Opening Hours: Tues – Sun 8:30am-3pm

Cost: 2€   combination ticket to this museum and the Archaeological Museum

Museum of pre-historic Thira:  The Museum of Prehistoric Thira houses findings from the excavations at Akrtotiri, the earliest excavations at Potamos and rescue excavations at various other sites on the island. The exhibition makes a tour of prehistoric Thira through selected findings.

Telephone number: +30 22860 23217

Archeological museum on Santorini:  Thira Archaeological Museum was built in 1960 in order to replace the old museum, which was destroyed by the earthquakes in 1956. The main exhibits of the Museum are sculptures ranging from the Archaic to the Roman period, inscriptions ranging from the Archaic to the Roman period and vases and clay figurines, dating from the Geometric to the Hellenistic periods.

Telephone number: +30 22860 22217

The Megaron Gyzi museum: Operating hours-days: From May to September: Daily 10:30 – 13:30 and 17:00 – 20:00, Sundays 10:30 – 16:30, in October : Daily 10:00 – 16:00, Sundays 10:00 – 16:00 Megaron Gyzi, housed in an awesome old mansion, has exhibits of the 16th through the 19th century with traditional costumes, maps and photos of Santorini before the devastating earthquake of 1956 as well as old manuscripts from the Catholic church.

Telephone number: +30 22860 22244 / +30 22860 22428

The folklore museum: The Folklore Museum is housed in a cave house built in 1861 in Kontochori – Fira. The museum is an old winery with workshops for carpenters, barrel makers, shoemakers and tinsmiths and an art gallery. There is also a library. Within the grounds, one can discover the chapel of Ayios Konstantinos with its belfry and festivities room. The garden and courtyard offer seating areas amongst trees and flowers.

The Folklore Museum was founded by Emmanuel A. Lignos, lawyer, journalist and Director of the monthly newspaper ¨Theiraic News¨.

Here you can find:

– The traditional winery, wine cellar with treading vats, barrels, wine press, linens and antique utensils

– Cavern showing evidence of the volcanic eruption from the excavation of the layers of soil

– Traditional workshops: Carpenters, Barrel makers, Shoemakers and Tinsmiths

– Art Gallery with works by famous artists inspired by Santorini

– Historical archives: Lithographs, Manuscripts and Books from Santorini

–  Pictures of life on the island in past years

Location: Kontochori village

Telephone : +30 22860 22792

Naval museum on Santorini:  Located in OIa, at the ruins of a Venetian fortress, the museum exhibits several historic maritime items including ancient naval artifacts and a great library.

+30 22860 71156

Argyros Mansion:  Operating hours-days: there are daily programs from April to October Tickets: 3€ with a guide. One of the most distinguished recent monuments of Santorini. It combines the traditional architecture of Santorini with elements and influences of eclecticism. The exceptional ceiling paintings and all the upper floor’s furniture and utensils are conserved and attended to as in a museum. Visitor can get familiarized with the residence of 19th century landowner of Santorini. The ground-floor serves as a five star hostel while there are guided tours for the public on the upper floor. By a ministerial decree of 1985, the building was identified as a work of art encircled by a 50 meters protection zone.

Telephone numbers:, +30210 3216855 (Athens) and +30 22860 31669, +30 22860 33064 (Santorini)

The Icons and relics collection in Pyrgos: The Icons & Relics Collection of Pyrgos houses a collection of priceless hagiographies, wooden sculptures, metal art works & other items for ecclesiastic use. Most of the exhibits date back to the 17th & 18th century. It also hosts displays on shoe making, printing, candle making, wine making and typical local food.

The museum can be found in Ayia Triada, originally a Catholic church belonging to a small convent. It had been completely abandoned, and in the early seventies only the north wall and part of the Sanctum were standing. Under the ‘Association of Pyrgos Residents in Thira’ initiative and Mrs. Liza Patiniotis, president of the Association at that time, efforts were made to rebuild the church in 1975 in order to house the collection. Mrs. Patiniotis had the foresight to gather the items of the collection immediately after the 1956 earthquake. The second Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities with the cooperation of Thira’s Holy Metropolis and the community of Pyrgos, managed in 1997 to exhibit once again the collection that had been remained closed for so many years.

Telephone: +30 22860 31812

Traditional Village ‘Vanishing Santorini’:  In the village Pyrgos of Santorini traditional buildings are restored and maintained, dedicated to the presentation of past times of Santorini, of “Vanishing Santorini”. Built in 1895, the traditional complex greets the visitors, who may admire the whole process of wine production, from the grape harvest and methods of winemaking to the storage of wine in large, old, oak barrels. The interest is also attracted by the representation of distillation and production of tsikoudia, “raki”, known for its strong taste.

Other traditional areas are presented separately, such as the production of tomato paste, a basic Santorini product, and certainly the processing of the famous, highly praised in Greece “fava” of Santorini.  Tel: +30 22860 31101

Ventema:  For Santorini Ventema means dancing, singing and joy for all over the island. Before dawn rises, the large chapel bell of the Panayia rings 36 times, signaling to the farmers to collect their grapes. After the grapes had been harvested, musicians of many kinds arrived at the canavas and excited everybody, at this time, the men rolled up their trousers and stepped into the wine-press. The day that the wine pressing was over, the people celebrated by making a large party and it was a great excuse to have alot of fun. The old people of the island say that those who experienced ventema in their days will never ever forget it.

Canava:  In the very olden days, canava was an integral part of every captain’s house. Canavas had a specific architecture and various agricultural activities, especially wine making, was performed there.

The wine museum on Santorini: This unique wine museum is located 8 meters underground. Tunnels that reach a length of 300 meters show us the history of the winemaking and the vineyards on Santorini from 1660 to 1970.

Through reconstructions using working and fixed models and a personal automatic guide in 9 languages, our visitors are led through the history of winemaking. The museum was created to show the passion and commitment that we have for tradition, and the wines that we continue to produce today. It took 21 years of patience, persistence and hard work to create this museum. Funding was entirely from the family that owns the museum. All the work was carried out by hand without mechanical help due to the narrow areas.

The museum is open all year round: April till November : 12.00 – 20.00 / November – March : 12.00 – 20.00

Telephone number: +30 22860 81011

The Archaeological Museum in Fira on Santorini:  While many outstanding archaeological finds from Santorini will be found at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, the Historical and Cultural Archaeological Museum of Santorini in Fira contains artifacts from excavations on the island …

It was built in 1960 by the Ministry of Public Works in order to replace the old museum (built in 1902), that had collapsed during the earthquake of 1956.

Noteworthy are a fine collection of geometric red and black vases from the fifth century BC Inscriptions are plentiful among the displays in the museum and a certain amount of Minoan ware is also on exhibit.

The museum also hosts impressive frescoes as well as sculptures of the Hellenistic period, Byzantine works of art and even some remains of prehistoric times.

Collections on Display :

– Sculpture from the Archaic to the Roman period

– Inscriptions from the Archaic to the Roman period

– Vases & clay figurines, dating from the Geometric to the Hellenistic periods

Archaeological Museum    –    Fira Santorini 847 00 Greece,     –      8.30 – 15.00 (Mon closed)

Tel : +30 22860 22217

Museum of Prehistoric Thira:  The Museum of Prehistoric Thira houses finds from the excavations at Akrotiri, conducted under the auspices of the Archaeological Society at Athens, the earlier excavations at Potamos made by members of the German Archaeological Institute at Athens, and rescue excavations at various other sites on the island, which were carried out by the 21st Ephorate of Antiquities for the Cyclades and Samos. Also on display are other objects discovered fortuitously or handed over …

Fira Santorini 847 00 Greece           8.30 – 15.00 (Monday closed)        Tel : +30 22860 23217

George Emmanuel Argyros Mansion:    Messaria Santorini 847 00 Greece

Open from May until October   Tel : +30 22860 31669 – 33064

The Argyros Mansion is one of the most distinguished recent monuments of the island of Santorini and occupies an important place within the Messaria community, as it is significant for its morphological and its architectural value.

It combines the traditional architecture of Santorini with elements and influences of eclecticism.

Many morphological elements decorate the building’s facets and there are ceiling paintings of exceptional art in its interior. All the furniture and utensils on upper floor are conserved and attended to as in a museum. This way, the visitor can get acquainted with the residence of a 19th century landowner of Santorini.

The Cultural Center ‘Megaro Gyzi’ was founded in 1980, the main purpose being spiritual development and the cultural improvement of the residents, as well as the promotion of Santorini

The main purpose of the Cultural Center is the spiritual development, the cultural improvement and the advancement, of Thira and its residents for the main part, but also of the whole Cycladic area in general. Within the dictates of this purpose, particularly during the tourist period, organizes painting exhibitions, concerts and musical recitals, theatrical performance, photographic exhibitions, lectures, traditional dances, film showings and other events …

Megaro Gyzi Cultural Center     –        Fira Santorini 847 00 Greece

The museum is opposite the Roman Catholic Church.

Open from May 1st – October 31st,      Daily 10.30 – 13.30 & 17.00 – 20.00 and  Sundays 10.30 – 16.30

Tel : +30 22860 23077 – Fax: +30 22860 22428

Naval maritime museum:  In Oia, the picturesque traditional town on the northwest coast of Santorini, a 19th-century mansion has been restored and converted into a museum that houses the Maritime History of Thira.

Rare figureheads, Seamens’ Chests, old maritime equipment, careening drawings and patterns, models of old and new Thiran ships, aquarelles featuring old sailing vessels as well as rare photographs and a library, all register year by year the contribution of the Thirans to the glorious history of the Hellenic Navy. Oia reached the peak of prosperity in the late 19th & early 20th century. Its economic prosperity was based on its merchant fleet which plied trade in the Eastern Mediterranean, especially from Alexandria to Russia.

Hence the two-story captain’s houses built on the highest part of the village which are a reminder of the village’s former affluence …

Naval Maritime Museum     –      Oia Santorini 847 02 Greece

Daily 10.00 – 14.00 & 17.00 – 20.00 (Tuesday closed)

Tel : +30 22860 71156

Archaeological, Prehistoric, Folklore and Cultural Museums:  The Folklore Museum is housed in a cave house built in 1861 in Kontochori – Fira. The museum is an old winery with workshops for carpenters, barrel makers, shoemakers and tinsmiths and an art gallery. There is also a library. Within the grounds one can discover the chapel of Ayios Konstantinos with its belfry and festivities room. The garden and courtyard offers seating areas among trees and flowers.

The Folklore Museum was founded by Emmanuel A. Lignos, lawyer, journalist and Director of the monthly newspaper ¨Theiraic News¨.

Lignos Folklore Museum        –        Fira – Kontochori Santorini 847 00 Greece

Daily 10.00 -14.00          Tel : +30 22860 22792

The icons and relics collection on Santorini:  The Icons & Relics Collection of Pyrgos houses a collection of priceless hagiographies, wooden sculptures, metal artworks & other items for ecclesiastic use. Most of the exhibits date back to the 17th & 18th century. It also hosts displays on shoe making, printing, candle making, winemaking and typical local food.

The museum can be found in Ayia Triada, originally a Catholic church belonging to a small convent. It had been completely abandoned, and in the early seventies, only the north wall and part of the Sanctum were standing. Under the ‘Association of Pyrgos Residents in Thira’ initiative and Mrs. Liza Patiniotis, president of the Association at that time, efforts were made to rebuild the church in 1975 in order to house the collection. Mrs. Patiniotis had the foresight to gather the items of the collection immediately after the 1956 earthquake. The second Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities with the cooperation of Thira’s Holy Metropolis and the community of Pyrgos, managed in 1997 to exhibit once again the collection that had been remained closed for so many years.

Icons & Relics Collection                    Pyrgos Santorini 847 00 Greece

Open from April until October       Daily : 10:00 – 16:00

Tel : +30 22860 31812

The Museum of Minerals & Fossils of the Cultural Society of Thira was founded in 2006 and is located in Perissa, close to the Church of the Holy Cross. Display cases include minerals and fossils from Thira, the rest of Greece and abroad. Amongst the exhibits is an invaluable rich collection of minerals from Lavrio. Mr. Nikos Sigalas is President of the Cultural Society of Thira and responsible for the museum.

Museum of Minerals & Fossils, location: Perissa Santorini 847 00 Greece

Summer: Daily 10.00 – 14.00 Winter: Sunday Morning only

Mobile : +30 697 726 0048

The wine museum of Santorini: The Wine Museum is housed in the Volcan Wines winery and was created by the Koutsogiannopoulos family, who came to Santorini in 1870. Grigorios and Dimitrios Koutsogiannopoulos originally traded oil and, when they made a fortune, they got involved in producing wine at the geologically particular Santorini, where wine has been produced since Minoan times.

Address:  Vothonas Santorini 847 00 Greece

 

Tel: +30 22860 31322

Open: April till October 12:00 – 20:00  Entrance price: 6 €

ART SPACE MUSEUM ON SANTORINI:  Art Space at Santorini’s Exo Gonia continues from 1999 till today its art activities and extends its hospitality to important artwork by Greek and foreign artists. A unique Art Center within the pumice rock – carved chambers of an old winery. In this old winery dating back to 1861, representative works of art from the sphere of painting and sculpture are on display, offering visitors the opportunity to come close to contemporary Greek art and the course of artistic expression in Greece. What is more, Art Space, in its endeavor to continue the wine making tradition includes in its premises a modern winery offering renowned products of high quality.

Open Daily: from 11 a.m. to sunset

Telephone: +30 2286032774 / +30 6932899509

Visit the Art space museum official website here!

5. Villages and settlements on Santorini

Fira village on Santorini:  Fira is considered to be the capital of Santorini. It is located on the west coast of the island of Santorini, upon the caldera cliffs, just opposite the famous volcano. Today, Fira is the cultural and commercial center of the Santorini. Although geared around the tourist industry, perhaps more so than other areas on the island, there is much about Fira worth taking a look at.

Firostefani is a small village within a walking distance from Fira. It is like a suburb to the capital of Santorini. It distinguishes for its traditional architecture, the wonderful view and its tourism development.

Apart from the museums, galleries and cultural events, (See sightseeing on Santorini ) it has the island’s largest shopping center and the biggest choice of restaurants, taverns, bars and entertainment. Fira leads the nightlife section – many bars and cafes are actually on the caldera, whilst others, as well as the large clubs, are tucked into the quaint cobbled streets weaving through the town.

There is so much to choose from and so many places to explore. The whole of the Fira Caldera is connected by a path at the cliff edge that starts just above the Mayor’s office and finishes up on the hill at the Nomikos Conference center. The volcano can be seen from every point, as can the mesmerizing sunsets. Sunset time in Santorini seems to be the only hour of the day when everything and everyone stops moving …

The history of Fira as a settlement started during the second half of the 18th century, when the Venetian nobles and Catholic community abandoned the Castle of Skaros in Imerovigli (capital of Santorini at that time), after a prolonged period of earthquakes.

At the beginning of the 19th century, Santorini fell to the Turks, and the islanders no longer had to deal with the constant fear of pirate raids on the island. Subsequently, Fira became the island capital, replacing the successor of Skaros, which was the Kasteli of Pyrgos. (See the history of Santorini).

Oia village on Santorini: The traditional settlement of Oia is located on the highest northern tip of the island and it is famous for its spectacular sunset; one distinct characteristic of the place is the picturesque road built just on the edge of the cliff side, which takes you all the way to the little village of Oia with 79 churches. Directly below, the beach of Ammoudi is by foot, going down 214 steps and Armeni beach is a little further at about 286 steps. Oia is considered to be the cultural heart of the island of Santorini as it hosts a cultural centre, a central art gallery and many other popular Greek art galleries. There are also many shops that sell local hand crafts, souvenirs and jewellery. Taverns and restaurants around Oia all offer exquisite cuisine with tasty dishes that are mostly accompanied by local Santorini wine. Oia is the perfect place for a vacation in a settling blessed with natural beauty.

Pyrgos village on Santorini: Pyrgos is a large village, which gives you a sense of medieval times. There are fine old houses, a Venetian castle and several Byzantine churches, like Theotokaki the most notable one with interesting frescoes. The monastery of Prophitis Ilias is only 3 km away from the village and it is located on the mountain’s peak with an altitude of 550 meters, founded on the highest point of the island. Monks, Joachim and Gabriel, started the construction of the monastery in 1771 with the approval of Constantinople’s patriarch Cyril. The monastery’s museum is full of ecclesiastical articles of unlimited value. There are icons from the 15th and 18th century, a 20th century iron cross, silver bound scriptures, and Patriarch Gregory, diamond – adorned Mitre.

Imerovigli village on Santorini:  Santorini will keep your camera working for 24 hours, 7 days a week as there are so many breath taking views that are worth taking home with you, many people say that Imerovigli is the most outstanding place on the island of Santorini. In Imerovigli the medieval castle of Skaros lies. Imerovigli is very close to Fira, it’s connected by a public road or by the old path, offering tremendous views as you walk along. Taverns, restaurants, bars, hotels and rooms to let are many in the area.

Karterados village on Santorini:  Karterados village on Santorini is only 2 km east of Fira and has very interesting architecture and three lovely churches; Analipsis – in village center- in the Italian ecclesiastical architecture rhythm transformed in the Cycladic style, resembling Fira’s Cathedral. The other two Eisodia tis Theotokou (Presentation of the Virgin Mary) and Ayios Nikolaos are in typical Cycladic style. It has the black sand beach also.

Messaria village on Santorini:   Messaria is a beautiful small village surrounded by gardens and vineyards just 4 km away from Fira town. The village’s characteristics are the typical Cycladic architecture, the picturesque white washed houses and the tiny winding paths. One of the most impressing sites in the village is the ‘Argyros mansion’ built in 1888 by the wine maker George E. Argyros that has recently been renovated. Take a pleasant stroll among the various shops and eat or have fun at the many taverns and clubs located in the area. People from Messaria are well known for their warm hospitality and their famous red wine that is produced in the area.

Monolithos seaside village on Santorini: Monolithos is a typical village about 7 km away from Fira and near to the airport on Santorini; the village has been named after the large rock on which the village stands. It has an organised black sand beach, a crystal clear sea and is an ideal spot for children. Near-by you will find the small village of Exo gonia, which is a small settlement built on the side of a mountain featuring the church of Ayios Charalambos, that offers amazing views of the whole island.

Kamari village and beach on Santorini: If you are looking for a summer resort on Santorini, then Kamari is the place to be. The black sandy beach, at least 5 km in length, is the main attraction of Kamari. On the beach front you will find hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and shops to satisfy all tastes and budgets. The town is connected with frequent bus service from Fira. There are also travel agencies and car rental agencies available.

Megalochori village on Santorini:  Megalochori is the first village that we come to after we climb up the port of Athinios. The village is located in between the villages of Pyrgos, Emporio and Akrotiri and also at a distance of 5 km away from Fira. It combines traditional architecture with vaulted houses and ‘ calderimia’ (stone – cobbled narrow pathways). Megalochori village attracts many tourists, as they choose it as a handy base for exploring the island of Santorini, it is located not far from Fira, and within easy reach of Akrotiri and the beaches of Perissa, Perivolos, Ayios Georgios and Vlyhada of the south coast. Megalochori is a rock village in the internal of Santorini, the village is known to have existed since at least the middle of the 17th century. The name of the village means ‘ Big village’ but it is really a small village but also a lively community with a fairly large permanent population.

Perissa and Perivolos beach villages on Santorini: In the southern corner of the island of Santorini, we will find the village of Perissa, it is one of the summer resorts on Santorini. The long black sandy beach attracts thousands of tourists every year. Many hotels, restaurants, taverns, bars, clubs and other facilities are available for the visitor. You can also enjoy summer sports, such as wind surfing, water skiing, diving, kite boarding and more in Perissa. Perivolos, Ayios Georgios is located at the end of Perissa – a meeting spot for the young with a beach featuring waterfront restaurants and fish taverns, beach bars and clubs with great music, hotels and rooms to let and sports facilities. Near-by Vlyhada is located with a small marina for fishing boats, small family hotels and fish restaurants.

Akrotiri cape and village on Santorini: Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistorical settlements of the Aegean, the first habitation dates from the Late Neolithic times (at least the 4th millennium B.C.). During the early bronze age (3rd millennium B.C.) a large settlement was founded and in the middle and early Late Bronze age (20th – 17th centuries B.C.) it was extended and gradually developed into one of the main urban centers and ports of the Aegean. Akrotiri was in contact with Crete but also communicated with the Greek mainland, Cyprus, Syria and Egypt. Town’s life came to an abrupt end at the last quarter of the 17th century B.C. when inhabitants were obliged to abandon Akrotiri due to several earthquakes – the eruption of the volcano followed. The volcano materials covered the town and the entire island of Santorini. However these materials have protected – up to date – the buildings and their contents, just like Pompeii.

Emporio village on Santorini:  Emporio is considered to be the largest village on Santorini. As ceding to its medieval core, and entering its narrow streets, you realize that this village is like a small labyrinth, with paths and along side stairs climbing almost vertical to miniature balconies. Lined-up doors that seem to lead no where, bridges among houses, chambers and domes – all structured with the eminent plasticity of the volcanic material. It was a fortified settlement and houses were built around the main core, so as to create a fortified surrounding wall. Outside the limits of the oldest settlement, was ‘ Goulas ‘ castles, with the castle houses, in where the nobility barricaded.

Episkopi gonia (also known as Mesa Gonia )on Santorini:  Episkopi gonia – Mesa gonia suffered greatly during the 1956 earthquake and many of its residents abandoned this village to settle in Kamari. However the village has made a late come back and is worth visiting for its traditional architecture. Panayia Episkopi is also located here – the most significant Byzantine monument on the island – dedicated to the assumption of the Virgin Mary and was built at the end of the 11th century, with all the expenses paid by the Byzantine emperor Alexios Komnenos.

Kodochori village on Santorini: Kodochori is located at the east of Fira and hosts two wonderful mansions and the folklore museum of the island where you can see the daily activities of the former inhabitants of the island.

Firostefani village on Santorini: Firostefani is located at the north of Fira and offers stunning volcano views. The village has been built just on the edge of the cliffs and features Ayios Charalambos and catholic Panayia ton Ayion Theodoron churches that celebrate on the 15th August every year.

6. The history and mythology of Santorini

Over the centuries, the islanders have given thIslandersr home various names. It has been called Strongyle (The round one), Kalliste (the beautiful one), Philotera and Santorini. In the 20th century, many people have linked its turbulent past with the tragic fate of the legendary continent of Atlantis. Scholars and scientists, geologists and archaeologists have treated the island with wonder and interest and they try to piece together its long story from the information that is available to them.

But let’s see how its tragic history has unfolded. Greek mythology tells us that Santorini was created from a lump of earth from far off Libya. History complimented by geology and archaeology gives us a series of mind shattering facts related to the creation and evolution of the amazing island of Santorini, which the French geologist, F. Fouque, lightly called the ‘’Pompeii of the Aegean’’. But in order for us to follow Santorin’s progress through the ages, we should first try to picture the appearance of Greece hundreds of millions of years ago.

In the beginning the Greek earth was covered by water. Gradually and after vast upheavals in the bowels of the planet, sections of dry land rose up above the water some 30 000 000 years ago and created Aegeis. Aegeis was a single land mass stretching from the Ionian Sea to Asia Minor and the south coast of Crete. The geological shifts in the earths crust continued. With the passage of time the sea penetrated the interior of Aegeis, breaking it into pieces. Part of it- what is today the Aegean Sea- sank, leaving only its mountain peaks which still protrude above the surface.

In the situation now occupied by Santorini, only a rocky islet remained, corresponding today to the district of prophitis Ilias and Pyrgos. From that time on, the subsequent evolution of the island into its present shape was the result of the ‘’long term’’ activity of volcanoes, which made their appearance in the region as early as 26 000 000 years ago. Thus, about two million years ago the first volcanic craters began to fall south west of Prophets Ilias, over time the craters broke through the surface of the sea and then united to form what is today called Akrotiri. Later volcanic activity created other craters to the north of the already existing island. the volcanic cones and the rocky islet predating them slowly began to fuse together thanks to the matter that spilled out during eruptions, eventually forming a single island which because of its shape was called as Herodotus tells us, Strongyle or ‘’the Round one’’.

What did the island of Strongyle really look like, we wonder, in those days? Scientists have concluded that it must have been an imposing volcanic cone, with a height of about 1 000 meters and a diameter of 14 – 15 kilometers. There would have been a crater at the top of the cone and other smaller ones along its sides. Lava would burst from the craters, to flow bubbling hot down to the sea. With time the volcano became extinct and after thousands of years plants and animals began to live on the island.

The fertile soil of Santorini seems to have attracted the first settlers during the 5th millennium B.C (in the Neolithic period), as we can see in the finds from the site at Akrotiri. In the early and middle Bronze Age (3200 – 2000 and 2000 – 1550 B.C.) settlements began to develop on sites other than Akrotiri. Inhabitants were mostly farmers, but they also traded with other places by sea. Trade grew still further during the late Bronze Age in the period around 1550 to 1500 B.C. – when the Minoans of Crete were masters of the Aegean and had a decisive influence on the civilization of Thira. But in about 1500 B.C. that civilization suffered a mortal blow when the volcano erupted, ultimately resulting in the eradication of the human settlements on Santorini.

THE CRONICAL OF THE CATASTROPHE

Let’s take our minds back then, to the middle of the 16th century B.C. written documents, which could tell us exactly what happened don’t exist. Historians try from other evidence within their grasp, to piece together the picture of the dreadful catastrophe that befell Santorini.

Earthquakes in Santorini were always a common occurrence in the region. One especially catastrophic earthquake must have triggered the volcano and it awoke. The houses some with two stories and some with three were partially destroyed. Most of the residents abandoned the island in panic and it seems that forewarned by some worrying sign they did not return. They took their possessions with them: the dig at Akrotiri has unearthed no objects of any worth, no jewels, seals or other valuables, no skeletons of humans or other animals apart from that of a pig. Today one can see traces of heavy objects having removed imprinted on the ash and tufa. This tells us that some of the inhabitants must have stayed on the island until the volcano started to erupt. Even these people however, since their skeletons have not been found must have left Thira at some point. Professor Spiridon Marinatos, who was in charge of the excavations in Akrotiri called these people troglodytes, people that lived among the ruins. Christos Doumas, another archaeologist believes that they formed a team who were attempting to repair the damaged buildings. The length of time that elapsed between the earthquake and the eruption of the volcano is not known. However, it must have been at least a year. Scientist have deduced this from the fact that some seeds left in the ruined houses after the earthquake had begun to spout when the first ashes began to fall from the erupting volcano.

The whole island was buried under a thick layer of tufa, which at many points is over 30 meters deep. Huge chunks of basalt were thrown from the crater with such force that many houses at Akrotiri were struck by them. The intensity of the explosion was tremendous. The material thrown up from inside the cone of the volcano, which was in the center of the island, appears to have created a huge vacuum inside. The crust of the earth collapsed and the larger central portion of Strongyle was sucked down into the vacuum. 83 square kilometers of earth vanished into the abyss of the crater, which had a depth of 800 meters. The sea rushed in and flooded the spot, which had once been dry land. All that remains of Strongyle today is Santorini, Thirasia and Aspronisi. This catastrophe of truly inconceivable proportions must have been accompanied by enormous tidal waves which, according to the experts could have reached a height of 210 meters at the start before slamming against the shores of the Aegean with indescribable fury. The ‘’three day-night’’ of Heracles and myths from Attica, the Argolid, the Aegean islands and Lysia are probably nothing more than echoes from the memories of people who had lived through this inducible disaster and were attempting to wrest some meaning out of the ensuing phenomenon. For days on end darkness must have reigned and day was turned into night. The volcanic ash that spewed forth must have fallen on the earth within a huge circumference charring all vegetation.

As a means of understanding the dimensions of the devastation that occurred, we can take the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, in the strait of Sunda between Java and Sumatra. In that eruption, 22,8 square kilometers of the island were blown up and then sank to a depth of 200 – 300 meters. Witnesses reports are mind – boggling, the scale of the disaster is inconceivable. For several months the ports near Krakatoa were unapproachable by ships. Ash covered the sky for a distance of 150 kilometers, and there were tidal waves 30 meters in height which struck many parts of Sumatra with unbelievable force and swept away an entire city on nearby Java. An estimated 30 000 people were killed. With this information in mind we can perhaps form a picture, albeit blurred of what happened when prehistoric Strongyle blew up in what was, as far as we know the most violent explosion in the history of the earth, for example the crater left after the eruption was four times the size and depth of that of the island of Krakatoa.

The phenomena that accompanied the explosions and sinking of the cone of the volcano and the finding of Pumice during his excavations at Amnissos in Crete in 1932 led professor Spiros Marinatos to formulate a new theory. According to him the decline of the Minoan civilization around 1500 B.C. was the result of the blow dealt by the frightful consequences of the eruption of the volcano on Santorini. The tidal waves must literally have shaved the shores of Crete were stood not only the palace of Knossos but also those of Malia and Zakro along with many other important towns. The interior of the island must have been badly damaged by the strong seismic tremors which shook the whole region. This theory has not been accepted unreservedly because the dating of samples of Minoan pottery places the decline of Minoan civilization at least 50 years after the eruption of Santorini. For many scholars, this means that the Minoans were brought down by some other cause. Never the less what seems almost certain is that the affect of the eruption of the Thira volcano on all of the Aegean, including Crete, must have been horrendous.

Between 1500 B.C and 1950 the volcano of Santorini came alive on a total of 14 occasions, erupting with varying degrees of intensity.  The first eruption was in 197 / 196 B.C. and it led to the formation of Palaia Kammeni, the island which the ancient Greek called Hiera. In 1573, fresh sections of dry land appeared joining with Mikri Kammeni and forming the volcano as we see it today Nea Kammeni.

7. Rent a car on Santorini

We cooperate with a couple of rent car agencies on the island of Santorini. Please feel free to book a car or motorbike through this website.
Cars can be delivered to the port or to your hotel and be picked up again there, too.
Insurance is usually third party but full car insurance is also available upon request. The vehicles are rented out for a minimum time of 24 hours and prices are negotiable.
It is best to pre-book a car as it’s not easy to find what you are looking for in the high season on Santorini.

We also have three types of automatic cars, these are:

• Hyundai accent
• Jeep terios
• Grand Cherokee

Please contact some of the rent a car agencies below:

or email us! [email protected]

 

COMPANY NAME	TYPE OF BUSINESS	LOCATION	TELEPHONE NUMBER
Spiridakos Company	Rent a car / motorbike	Fira	+30 22860 23755 / +30 69 44 35 05 13
Jimmy’s car rental	Rent a car / motorbike	Imerovigli	+30 22860 25200
Sixt car hire	Rent a car / motorbike	Fira	+30 22860 23880 / +30 22860 28315
Santorini Car hire	Rent a car / motorbike	Fira	+30 22860 33741
Budget Rent a car	Rent a car / motorbike	Oia	+30 22860 71492
Aegean pearl	Rent a car / motorbike	Fira	+30 22860 22170 / +30 22860 22470
Drossos	luxury car rentals	Oia	+30 22860 71492 / +30 6974 094254
Vazeos	car – moto rentals	Oia	+30 2286 71200
Tony’s cars	car – moto rentals	Firostefani	+30 22860 24113
MOTO CHRIS	bicycles, ATV, buggy, motorbikes	Fira	+30 22860 24713

8. Useful information about Santorini island

Santorini is one of the most southern islands in the Cyclades. It lies between Ios and Anafi, has an area of 96 square kilometers, and its permanent population numbers 11, 381. It is situated 130 nautical miles away from the main port of Piraeus and 70 nautical miles away from Crete. The coastline measures 69 kilometers in length, while the island itself is 18 kilometers long (from Cape Mavropetra in the north area of the island to Cape Exomytis in the south area of the island) and between two and six kilometers wide. The capital of the island is Fira, and the port is called Athinios.
The semicircular shape of the island today is the result – as, indeed, was the creation of the island itself – of the eruptions of a volcano, which was active as far back as prehistoric times (see Volcanic Activity). On the west side, where the volcano is located, Santorini is steep and rocky. The west coast ends in a steep precipice which plunges into the caldera, a circular lagoon-like body of water that measures 32 square miles and is 300 to 400 meters deep.
The cliffs surrounding the caldera, which range in height from 150 to 300 meters, consist of horizontal, parallel bands of red and black rock and lava which were formed during repeated eruptions. Perched on the rim of the cliffs are the island’s main towns, Fira and the pretty village of Oia.
The landscape of the outer side of Santorini is very different from the cliffs overlooking to the caldera. In the centre of the island, from north to south, are the limestone massifs of Megalo vouno, Mikros Profitis Ilias and Gavrilos. The highest of these mountains, Profitis Ilias, has a summit only 556 meters above sea level. The ground stretching towards the east coast is flat and fertile. This is where the towns of Pyrgos, Emporio, Karterado and Finika are located, with the beautiful beaches of Kamari, Perissa and Monolithos, which have pebbles or black sand.
The climate of Santorini is pleasant even in the summer, which is comparatively cool. The north easterly winds which prevail in the summer months help to keep the temperature down.

If you would like to visit the beautiful island of Santorini, you may book your accommodation through our site and get a special discount. If you have fallen in love with Santorini and you wish to stay, then perhaps you should look at some of the real estate on Santorini. If you need any extra information, then please contact us here [email protected] or +30 69 34 620 501 / +30 22840 24 879

Santorini Airport, located near Kamari village and next to Monolithos area, with regular flights from Athens by Olympic Airways and, Aegean Airlines as well as charters from many European towns. Flight duration from Athens to Santorini is about 30 minutes. From the airport there are buses to Fira, where you can change to buses for other towns. Taxis are also usually waiting at the airport, but competition for them can be keen. Many Santorini hotels offer airport transfers, usually for a fee that’s more than a taxi would charge you. Also the airport serves as both a military and a civil airport.

RESTAURANTS ON SANTORINI

Finding a suitable restaurant or tavern on Santorini is not that difficult, most of the villages have many choices when it comes to eating out and are most very good! Here is some advice on how to know where to go and where not to go! If you pass a restaurant or tavern many times and notice that the tables are usually empty, then the food will probably not be that fresh. Restaurants and taverns that are busy every day cook fresh food every day where as places that are not that busy often keep the food in the refrigerator for days so as not to lose their profits.

Greek people are usually very particular and fussy about where they eat. It would be a good idea to ask a Greek’ s opinion if you are not sure about a place.

Menus are not that important to the Greeks, you will often be welcomed into a restaurant by a waiter or the owner and he will try to describe their specialties to you with words. The menus always have an English translation next to each choice so our advice is to politely insist to take a look at the menu but hear what he has to suggest as well.

You might like to try the famous souvlaki that is usually pita bread, filled with tzatziki, tomatoes, pork meat, sliced onions and chips. You would also enjoy the traditional Greek food such as moussaka, pastitsio, stifado and many others.

When you have finished eating your meal, a waiter will usually clear away your empty plates, most times the owner will then bring a small dessert or a coffee that is usually on the house!

Here are some restaurants that we recommend

Name of restaurant	Location	Contact	Website
Pelican Cafe – wine restaurant	Fira	+30 2286023433	www.pelican.gr
Theofanis taverna	Akrotiri	+30 2286081141
Perivolos beach taverna	Perivolos	+30 2286082007
Limanaki tavern	Vlichada	+30 2286082819
Tranquilo beach bar	Perissa
To psaraki	Vlichada	+30 2286082783	www.topsaraki.gr
NTOMATINI Meze food experiance	Perissa beach	+30 2286083015	www.ntomatini.com
Kelly’s beach bar	Perivolos	+30 2286082898	www.kellysbeachbar.com
Glaros fish tavern	Akrotiri	+30 2286081168
To Perasma	Pirgos	+30 2286032011
Zafora	Fira	+30 2286023203	www.zaforarestaurant.gr
Greek tavern Savvas ‘ Popeye’	Perivolos	+30 2286081332
Roza tavern	Vourdoulos	+30 6970565934
Maria restaurant	Akrotiri	+30 2286081096

 

Take a look at some Greek wines with taste descriptions!

Always look at the price list so that you know approximately what it will cost you!

If you would like to cook your own Greek food at home then please take a look at our Greek recipes here!

And please do not forget, if you need any information or help at all, please contact:

[email protected]

or by telephone : +30 69 34 62 05 01 / +30 22840 24879