The island of Santorini is 96 sq. km. with a coastline 69 kilometres long and a population of almost 12,000. An island of awesome beauty, Santorini or Thera, along with its nearby islets, are the fragments of a volcano that massively erupted about XVII BC. They are cyclically formed around the crater, which is today submerged deep into the sea. Due to that explosion of biblical proportions there have been numerous theories associating this place with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned by Greek philosopher Plato in his dialogues and in ancient Egyptian scripts. The historical fact is that the enormous tidal waves from the explosion swept the northern coasts of Crete where the Minoan civilization was flourishing, yet, despite previous theories, they failed to destroy it, as, according to recent evidence, it survived the eruption and managed to go on for a couple of hundred years. Santorini’s exceptionally atmospheric character is a blend of bare volcanic rocks, whitewashed villages perched along its edges and deep blue sea water. Its beaches are not white and sandy but dark and volcanic, yet no less beautiful. Its wines, due to that same volcanic soil, are regarded among the world's finest. And its archaeological sites feature the most fascinating excavations. The excavations of Akrotiri and the ruins of ancient Thera are well worth visiting.
Thira, the capital town of the island perched on the slopes of the dark hillside, is a web of narrow zigzag streets and steps lined with whitewashed houses and churches with dark blue cupolas that match the intense blue of the sky. The town is a lively tourist area and a stop for most cruise ships. For those staying just outside of Thira, Fioristefani or Imerovigli with the same magnificent views are two ideal destinations. If you are looking for a romantic holiday, then Oia on the caldera to the south is the place for you.
There are other interesting and charming towns in the centre of the island that are well worth exploring.
The eastern side of Santorini is a sharp contrast where flat areas meet the beaches. The land is flat and fertile. Kamari and Perissa are black sand and pebble beaches with crystal clear waters and a lively entertainment scene.