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The Island Santorini
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| The enchanting island of Santorini, forged throughout the centuries by the eruptions of an active volcano, contains the history of the Greek islands while remaining a beacon of modern Hellenic culture in the Aegean. The subject of countless poems, songs, and photographs, Santorini has captivated countless minds with its epic views, diverse beaches, cosmopolitan towns, and intriguing night life. Please use the map to explore the different regions and experiences this incredible island has to offer.
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History - Origins
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| The island of Santorini today represents only a fraction of a volcanic land mass that had existed, tumultuously for ages. Once the circular extension of a volcanic cone the island was inhabited by traders and farmers influenced by the Minoan civilization. From art found at the ruins of Akrotiri it has been determined that these people had a well developed culture and extensive contact with the world of the Aegean. Some speculate that this civilization was the Atlantis that Plato described.
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The Catastrophe
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| At some time around 1500 BC the civilization on Thera was to be swept away. The volcano in the center of the island awoke and exploded, causing what is purported to be the most violent eruption in history. Mountains of ash and debris were hurled into the air, and incredible tidal surges of over 200m swept through the Aegean. The majority of Thera sank into the vacuum left by these surges, creating the island formation of Santorini, Thirasia, and Aspronisi.
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Modern Day
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| The island fluctuated in importance and influence as a piece of the Delian league and the Persian, Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman Empires. Christianity spread to the island during the 3rd century, and orthodoxy has defined the culture of the island since. A devastating earthquake in 1956 once again threatened to make the island obscure, yet recent interest in its history and dramatic beauty has made it a premier travel destination.
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