Santorini, Greece

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Entry posted by korver · August 11, 2021

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Our trip around Europe continues today as we take a look at the iconic Greek island of Santorini, one of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea. It was devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC, forever shaping its rugged landscape and creating an extraordinary natural wonder. The tour includes a look at the whitewashed, cubiform houses of its 2 principal towns, Fira and Oia - who cling to cliffs above an underwater crater, overlooking the sea. From the top, there's stunning views over several small volcanic islands to the west that we'll also be visiting as well.

We'll begin with a few scenes from the past - beginning with a look at Santorini in the mid 17th century - before volcanic activity changed the look of this iconic island forever.

A massive volcano blew the top off of this island back in 1646 BCE - drastically changing the look of the island and turning it into one of the most unique destinations in all of Europe.

We move ahead to modern times with a view of the entire group of islands and crater from high above.

And finally, an animation of the island's violent volcanic past on display.

Today, one of the most visible remnants of the island's past is the small island of Nea Kameni in the middle of Santorini's archipelago. This uninhabited island is made up of black lava rock and is a popular day trip from Fira or Athinios ports on Santorini for its views of the neighboring island. It's also home to a number of steep walking paths through Nea Kameni Volcanic Park, which pass active, smoking craters created over the last few centuries.

Several sulfurous hot springs are found just off the shoreline and are another one of the island's most popular attractions.

A few assorted shots of Santorini's cliffside villages throughout the day.

Our next stop is a look at Santorini's iconic cliffside town of Oia, one of the island's most famed destinations. This small town is known for its many whitewashed houses carved into the rugged clifftops, and for its great restaurants, boutique shops, and wonderful views of the Aegean Sea below.

A closeup look at Oia.

SantoriniMosaic.jpg?dl=1

imgur link here.

The island's other principal town is Fira - the capital of Santorini. On the caldera side of the city you can get one of the best views of the island - and the activities here are
enough to keep you entertained for hours. There are cafes, bars, and restaurants - all with great views and some with several levels of patios and balconies to make the most of the space they have. Additionally, it's home to the famous Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral with it's many beautiful frescoes - and it's prime location affords views of Nea Kameni, a still-active volcanic island to the west - which we got to take a look at previously in in the update. It's definitely one of Greece's most charming towns - and the views and memories you'll make here are ones you'll remember for a lifetime.