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Santorini (Thira)
Santorini is regarded by many as the most spectacular of the Greek islands.
Thousands come to marvel at its sea-filled caldera, a vestige of what was
probably the world's largest volcanic eruption. Its landscapes of blue-domed
roofs, dazzling white walls and black-sand beaches contrast the charming
with the unearthly.
The eruption that caused the caldera is believed by some myth-makers to have
caused the disappearance of Atlantis. The island's violent volcanic history
is visible everywhere you look - in its black beaches, earthquake-damaged
dwellings and raw cliffs of lava plunging into the sea. Volcanic activity
has been low-key for the past few decades, but minor tremors occur pretty
frequently and experts reckon the caldera could bubble up once again at any
moment. For lovers of impermanence and drama, no other place even comes
close.
To get some background into this island's extraordinary history, head to the
Megaron Gyzi museum of local memorabilia in Fira, with fascinating photos of
the town before and after the disastrous 1956 quake. The Museum of
Prehistoric Thira houses impressive finds from the ancient site of Akrotiri,
destroyed in the 1650 BC eruption. Look out for the gold ibex figurine,
found in mint condition in 1999 and dating from the 17th century BC.
Santorini (Thira) Overview
Major Villages: Fira (capital), Ia (Oia), Imerovigli, Perissa, Kamari,
Akrotiri,
Firostefani, Messaria, Karterados, Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio, Vlyhada
Mesa and Exo Gonia.
Main Port: Athinios
Airport: The airport of Santorini is located near the beach of Monolithos, 8
kilometres south east of Fira.
Famous Beaches: Perissa, Kamari, Perivolos, Monolithos, Red beach, Cape
Columbo, Paradise, Vourvoulou, Paradise, Exomitis
Culture: Archaeological places, Museums, Churches
Accommodation: Luxury Resorts, Hotels, Hotel Apartments, Apartments,
Bangalows, Villas, Studios, Rooms, Campings, Traditional houses
Transport: Taxi, Topical Buses
Entertainment-Nightlife: Cafes, Bars, Clubs, Cinemas, Festivals
Food: Restaurants, Traditional Tavernas
Activities: Yacht Cruises, Water Sprorts , Diving, Wind Surf, Horce Riding,
Cycling
Travel Services on the island: Reservations, Bookings, Check Availability,
Special Offers, Last Minute Offers, Holidays Packages, Travel Agencies,
Alternative Tourism, Rent a room, Car rentals, Rent a bike, Rent a car,
Ferries tickets, Flights, Airtickets
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