Santorini

The world famous island of Santorini is the most southern island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, and is located 63 nautical miles north of Crete. Its surface area is 73 sq. km. and its population, distributed among thirteen villages, just exceeds thirteen thousand six hundred souls, according to the census of 2001.

The present-day crescent shape of the island is a consequence of the activity of the volcano in prehistoric times. The island itself owes its very existence to the volcano. The mild activity of the volcano after this major eruption continues into the present (the most recent eruption occurred in 1950) building up two small islands within the caldera, Palea and Nea Kameni. These islands represent the volcano's most recent activity. The marvelous dry climate and unbroken sunshine create year around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colors and give the visitor the exceptional advantage of reaching the interior of the volcano by boat.

Santorini Island is considered one of the finest vacation spots in Greece and indeed the world, due to the variety it offers its visitors. Santorini is mostly famous for the renowned Caldera and the spellbinding sunset, although people from all over the world also come to the island to experience its natural beauty, archaeological sites, charming settlements, colorful beaches and culinary venues, along with its unique Assirtiko wine.

It has been said that the sunsets in Oia are the best in the world. From the Caldera enjoy breathtaking views of the volcano & neighbouring islands. From the east, miles of dark sandy or pebbled beaches. Everywhere, one sees small domed churches and remnants of days gone by. Santorini is not easy to describe. It is not comparable with any other Greek island. What makes it so different from any other island, is its imposing landscape, the caldera with its impressionistic contrast of colours, its terrifying birth....!

Oia is well known for its traditional architecture. It is a very unique settlement with half ruins of captain-houses and cave-houses from the 18th century. From its ancient fort - castle 'Goulas' you can enjoy a spectacular sunset and beautiful views from the village.

The last huge eruption of the volcano dates back 3,600 years, in the late bronze age. Thirty million cubic meters of magma in the form of pumice and ash were blown to a height of up to 36 kilometers above the island. Pumice deposits, dozens of meters thick, buried one of the most prosperous pre-historic settlements of that period, feeding the myth of lost Atlantis.