Official Language:
Greek
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Currency:
EUR
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Population:
Approximately 11,000 people call Santorini home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Santorini Island Greece: The volcano island of Santorini is undoubtedly the most spectacular of all the Greek islands. It rarely rains during the summer and reaches about 80°F/27°C degrees every day. Winters are mild.
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As cruise visitors will discover, legend has it that the island of Santorini in the Cyclades is the site of Plato's lost city of Atlantis. In 1450 BC, a marine volcano erupted, creating the extraordinary landscape.
The capital of Santorini is Firá (also Thera or Thira), located on a 900-foot-high cliff overlooking the harbor and volcanic crater. In order to enter the huge central basin ships must pass between the sheer rock walls. You can get to Firá via funicular, by foot via a winding, 587-stepped path or on mule-back.
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Attractions |
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This town is found to have charmingly beautiful with its white-washed houses, winding lanes, picture perfect squares and blue-domed churches. As the tourist trade boomed so did the establishment of new shops. Visit the Archaeological Museum which displays works ranging from the Cycladic and Minoan periods to the Hellenistic and Roman times.
Other attractions on popular Santorini include:
Black volcanic pebble beaches, which offer swimming in clear water. Several wineries offer tours including tasting the product.
If you are a hiker you will enjoy some gorgeous views along the footpath that connects Phera and Oia. Santorini is one of the most beautiful places in the world to watch a sunset with someone special.
Car, taxi, bus, and moped are the easiest ways to get around the island. From the town of Fira, the only way to get to the port below is by foot, donkey, or funicular railway.
Thera:
Located on the west coast of the east rim, this town consists of attractive whitewashed buildings sitting pretty on a jet-black cliff top. Here you will find most of the island’s amenities, including plenty of restaurants and shops selling jewelry, local artwork, and handicrafts. Visit the archaeological museum in town, which displays prehistoric finds, a famous collection of vases dating from the 7th and 6th centuries BC.
Oia:
Oia used to be a major shipping port at the turn of the century, home to about 9,000 people. located at the island's northern tip. Until World War II, the little town of beautiful white-washed houses was the island’s economic and commercial center. Today, Oia remains virtually unspoiled. Along its twisting lanes are arts and crafts shops, cozy restaurants and art galleries.
Argyros Mansion:
In 1888, G. Argyros commissioned this mansion. He was a wealthy wine merchant, this elegant estate is an example of classic Santorini architecture. The building has been uninhabited since an earthquake destroyed much of it in 1956, but has since been beautifully restored. Today the ground floor serves as a five-star hostel while the upper floor is available for public tours. Here you’ll find some beautiful ceiling paintings, furniture, and utensils that have been preserved just as they were used by the Argyros family in the 19th century.
Akrotiri:
3,600 years ago this ancient Minoan civilization was completely buried by a volcanic eruption. The site was excavated in 1967, revealing what was probably one of the most important urban centers and ports in the Aegean. Today visitors can get a unique glimpse into the life of prehistoric Greeks by seeing their streets, homes, and wall paintings.
Ancient Thera:
In 1895, excavations began, uncovering the remains of Hellenistic and Roman civilizations including the Sanctuary of Artemidoros (engraved with epigrams and inscriptions), the Agora, the Temple of Dionysus, a theater, gymnasium, and several cemeteries.
Beaches:
Visit Perissa Beach (on the southeastern tip of the island) and Kamari Beach (stretching five miles across the eastern coast) feature the island’s spectacular black sand beaches, produced by the sea pounding the volcanic shores for thousands of years. Close to the ancient Akrotiri site is the Red Beach, which has red sand.
Shopping:
A bit touristy, Oia’s shops nonetheless contain some nice souvenirs, including lovely watercolors and hand-painted shirts and jewelry. Be sure to barter for the best price. Local wines are available in large quantities and can be sampled at some of the wineries.
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More Information |
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Web: http://www.santorini-greece.net/
Web"http://www.greektravel.com/greekislands/santorini/index.html
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