General information:

About 200 km southeast of the mainland of Greece is the most southern island of the Cyclade archiple: Santorini (Thira). Actually, Santorini consists of multiple islands and its total surface is about 73 square kilometres. Santorini is different from the rest of the archiple, because it came into existence by the action of the nowadays dead volcano. Especially the landscape on the westside if the island is very impressive with the enormous steep cliffs rising from the water, of which the peaks are decorated with bright white houses. The steep coasts in the wests stretch to endless pebblestone and sandy beaches.

From the harbour Skala, one can climb to the capital Fira, either by foot or by donkey. Of great importance is the museum with prehistoric finds and a large collection pottery from the 7th century BC. The view from Fira over the Kamenes, the two small islands across Santorini, is magical. Daily boattrips go to these islands. The houses in Fira leave a great impression because of their architectonic style. Fira is a lively and cosy city, and the white alleys are worldfamous. Nice terraces with taverns, bars, shops and churches give Santorini its own atmosphere and style.

Nightlife:

The nightlife on Santorini is not the same as on for example Mykonos or Ios. Kamari is a touristic place with a boulevard with bars and many great restaurants and taverns. In Kamari are also clubs where the party continues until the early morning. In Fira and Oia are delicious restaurants and no lack of nightclubs, cafes and bars. In Fira, the nightlife is the most lively. Especially the Koo and Enigma club are very popular. Oia is much quieter place.

Sightseeing:

The wonderful island of Santorini is in its entirety one big must-see! The amazing view over the Caldera. the white streets in Fira, picturesque Oia, the churches, and the history of this volcanic island which can be found everywhere make this island an absolute must-see! Also visit the ancient city Akrotiri where Minoan remains have been found.

History:

Santorini has been inhabited since 3000 BC. Proofs are the archeological finds that were discovered in Akrotiri. Here evidence was found that the civilisation on Santorini was closely tied to Minoan Crete. The wallpaintings resemble the paintings found in Knossos and Festos on Crete. In the past, the island was called "Stroggili," meaning "round" and "circular." Before the big eruption, Santorini was completely round. In 1450 AC, after the big volcanic eruption, the island got its current shape. It was then that the Minoan civilisation was destroyed by tidal waves of 100 meters that wiped out the northcoast of Crete. Some people share the opinion that this eruption also meant the end and disappearance of "Atlantis."

The 11th century BC, the Dorians appeared, that in those days had Thira as their leader. He gave the island his name which is in use even today by many Greeks themselves. The name "Santorini" has been derived from Agia Irini (Santa Irini), the loved patron saint of the island. The small islands Kameni and Thirasia originated in the 3d and 2nd century BC after smaller eruptions of the volcano of Santorini. The last heavy earthquake dates from 1956 when most of the houses on Santorini were completely destroyed.