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SANTORINI
SANTORINI
Santorini is a magical Greek island enveloped in mystery and charm. It continues to be one of the most popular destinations in the country. It has the most unique geographical characteristics of any other island in the world and it was literally formed by a series of catastrophic volcanic explosions over the course of thousands of years, resulting a wonderland of steep cliffs, ebony volcanic rocks and mesmerizing ocean views.
PLACES TO VISIT
1.ANCIENT THIRA
This archaeological site is home to ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine eras such as the Roman baths, old mosaic houses and even an old marketplace. On the Terrace of the Festival with its spectacular views ceremonies were held in honor of the Greek god Apollo, son of Zeus and the god of light.
2.ANCIENT AKROTIRI
This site was discovered in the late 1960s but its buildings date back to the 16th century. The site was destroyed by a volcanic eruptions, but after years of excavation enough of the city has been uncovered to allow visitors to explore. The former homes is decorated with prehistoric frescoes and littered with pottery.
3.THE MARITIME MUSEUM
This museum showcases the islands' nautical history using model ships, antique navigational equipment, cannons, anchors and a variety of other maritime memorabilia.
4.FIRA
Firá with its whitewashed cubic houses and terraces, winding lanes, little squares, and blue-domed churches lives principally from tourism. Many of the buildings is converted into small hotels, apartments, restaurants, cafes, souvenier shops and jewelers. It can be reached either by walking up the 587 steps, riding a mule or the cable car.
5.PROFITIS III
ASOn Santorini's highest point of Mt. Profitis llias you have stunning views over the island and out across the sea. On the top The Profitis llias Monastery with its richly carved iconostasis and museum displaying the miter and crozier of Patriarch Gregory V is a must see. Also of interest are the library, the monastic archives, and the kitchen.
6.AKROTIRI LIGHTHOUSE
Built in 1892 the lighthouse is among the oldest lighthouses in Greece. The lighthouse is conspicuous by its square shaped tower that looms above 10 meters from the lighthouse warden's house. It stands on the southern peninsula of Santorini island.
7.LA PONTA-GREEK BAGPIPE EXHIBITION & WORKSHOP
The exhibition and workshop can be located within the Venetian Castle of Akrotiri, a 13th century tower. On display is a tsabouna, a Greek folk wind instrument of the bagpipe family.
8.WINDMILLS OF EMPORIO
Just before Emporio across Gavrilos hill stands the preserved windmills. They were the cornerstone of the local financial bloom when Santorini was an agricultural village. Today is a symbol for an era lost in time.
OTHER PLACES TO VISIT
- Museum of Prehistoric Thira
- La Oia Village
- Caldera
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site and Red Beach
- Pyrgos
- Beach at Perissa
- Outdoor Cinema in Kamari
- Kamari Beach
- Amoudi Bay
- Atlantis Books in Oia
- Skaros Rock
- The White Door Theatro
- Venetsanos Winery
- Cathedral of Sain John the Baptist
- Church of Panagia
- Byzantine Castle Ruins
- Cathedral Church of Candlemas of the Lord
- Karavolades Stairs
- Monastery of Dominican Sisters
- Oia Wave Sculpture
- Santorini Arts Factory
- Panaghia Episcope
- Panagia Episkopi
Getting around the island is incredibly easy. Public buses are the most inexpensive way to get around. You can also rent a car or get around with a taxi.
The months of April, May, October, and early November are great times for visiting Santorini.