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Santorini, Greece: the most truthful information about the island first-hand. Santorini - the most photogenic island in Greece Communications and Wi-Fi

All about the island of Santorini: interesting places, sunsets, beaches. Where is it cheaper and more convenient to stay, what excursions to book, and what to see on your own.

On South Aegean Sea Bathed in the rays of the Mediterranean sun is a unique volcano island, a mystery island, a romantic island - Santorini. Already sailing up to it on a ship, you understand that it is not like any of the other islands.

1500 BC there was a devastating eruption of the Santorini volcano, which changed history and led to the disappearance of the Minoan civilization. During the eruption, the central part fell into the sea, leaving part of the land in the shape of a month: Santorini and the nearby islets of Nea Kameni, Thirasia, Palea Kameni and Aspro. Scientists still fantasize that the volcano that went under water could be that same mystical Atlantis. But least of all this worries tourists who flock here for a couple of weeks, a couple of days or at least a couple of hours to see the famous black sand, white houses and blue roofs with one eye.

Santorini is largest island Cycladic Archipelago. At 76 sq. km fit both history and modern entertainment, and several beaches.

Transport: how to get to Santorini

The island is modest in size, however transport connection set up superbly. You can get anywhere in Santorini by bus, or rent a car or bike. Ferries run to Athens, with up to five trips a day in summer. From Santorini you can also easily get to the island of Crete. There are many car rental offices in the port, and you can almost always find owners of guesthouses, hotels and rooms offering accommodation on the island.

Santorini Airport accepts both domestic and international flights(mostly charters).

Where to stay in Santorini 2020

Experienced travelers have proven that due to the considerable cost of tours to Santorini, it is more profitable to organize a trip to the island on your own. Visit Crete and, finally, spend a week in Santorini, in the hotel that you like. All that remains is to choose where to stay in Santorini without sacrificing either romance or the family budget.

Volcano View by Caldera Collection. One of the luxury five star hotels in Santorini. A paradise for lovers and those who only dream of falling deeper in love with each other! A lot is provided for this: restaurants with panoramic views, observation decks, swimming pools, spa treatments and 79 comfortable rooms.
One of the Volcano View by Caldera Collection restaurants with panoramic views
Petit Palace Suites - a beautiful villa with 14 rooms. Luxury option. There is an elevator to get down to the beach (for the rocky landscape of Santorini this is a PLUS - anyone who has been or seen the photo will understand). Each suite has a private pool and stunning views.
Standard Suite at Petit Palace Suites
Porto Fira Suites 4* Suitable for both newlyweds and other loving couples. In this hotel you can definitely either discover or rediscover interest in each other. 14 luxurious rooms, panoramic views of the volcano and the capital of Santorini - Fira. Beauty!
Private terraces of rooms in Porto Fira Suites 4*
Aldea 3* - inexpensive accommodation option. The hotel has only 2 rooms, both new and comfortable, with its own outdoor terrace. It is located in the village of Karterados (near the resort of Oia). For those who dream of a real “island” vacation, this is a huge plus - there are fewer vacationers and excursion groups. Price - from 3,100 rubles. per day per room.
One of the rooms in Aldea 3* (Santorini island)
Villa Michalis 3*. Villa at an adequate price for Santorini, with 12 rooms. Located 150 m from Vlychady beach. Family-run, homely hotel with good breakfasts. Cost of living - from 3,000 rubles.
Where to stay inexpensively in Santorini? Villa Michalis is a good choice!
Anatoli Hotel 2*. An inexpensive hotel with 24 rooms with a high rating (8.8 points out of 10) and excellent reviews on booking.com. There is a swimming pool, a restaurant and an outdoor terrace for breakfast (the view is gorgeous!). The center of Fira is 5 minutes away. Price per room per night - from 4,500 rubles.
The view with which a new day begins at Anatoli Hotel!

Top 10 ideas of what to do in Santorini

Review and short description ten interesting activities and entertainments to which it is customary to devote free time on the island of Santorini:

Tasting local cuisine. Santorini is one of the most “delicious”, it will appeal not only to romantics, but also to gourmets. The combination of local products and traditional Greek cuisine looks appetizing, and the island is full of taverns and restaurants, where a traveler of any income will be fed and watered according to all canons. Vegetable products deserve attention: the farms grow cherry tomatoes (their own variety), capers, peas and white eggplants. Popular dishes on the menu include tomato meatballs, Melitinha cookies, vegetable stew, and sugared nuts. And, of course, the wines of Santorini: volcanic earth, on which the local grapes are grown, gives the “drink of the gods” a special taste and aroma.

Local food and wine in Santorini

Winery tours. Winemaking has been developed in Santorini for 3,000 years. Here they learned not only to produce high-quality wines, but also to turn the excursion itself into an adventure. Get ready for the fact that wine cellars here are usually painted in peach, blue, pink and blue. All this creates an incredible atmosphere and fits well into the landscape. You can book a sightseeing route to kill two birds with one stone: wander around the island with a guide and end the day tasting volcanic wine.
Sightseeing tours around the island. After the first few days of acclimatization, the exploratory instinct kicks in. I would like to get to know the island better, look into the hidden corners, wander the streets. You can order a sightseeing tour: to visit the famous caldera in 6 hours, archaeological excavations and the villages of Oia, Firostefani, Pyrgos, Imerovigli. Visit the Church of St. George, Red and Black beaches and on the same day be in time for the best observation deck for sunset.

The village of Oia is like a maze of colorful houses and streets

Walk along the slopes of the volcano. Santorini exists thanks to the Nea Kameni volcano, whose eruption 2.5 million years ago gave birth to this place. The volcano is considered safe; tourists are given the opportunity to walk along the slopes of Nea Kameni and admire the scenery. The crater of the volcano is still covered with volcanic masses.
Diving and spa. Gorgeous views open not only from the peaks of Santorini, but also from the sea. You can rent a boat and arrange boat trip around the island to admire the villages and white houses from afar. Once you reach the shores of Palea Kameni, dive into the sea and enjoy the volcanic spa. As soon as you sail a little further from the shore, the diver’s gaze opens up to views of underwater caves and abandoned ships.
Contemplation of sunsets. No matter how strange it may sound, watching the sun disappear behind the horizon is one of the main island entertainments. A romantic atmosphere and stunning views are the main features of Santorini. You can enjoy the panorama while sitting on the beach or in one of the restaurants located on the steep western slopes. Watch as the sky changes colors - from blood red to fiery orange, from blue to indigo, and the sun sinks into the Aegean Sea, reflecting in the water and painting the nearby islands in shades of bronze. A spectacle of incredible beauty!

Traditional end of the day in Santorini

Visit to the capital. Walking around Fira, the capital of Santorini, you can see the Skaros rock, just over 300 meters high. At its top there was once former capital Santorini, it can be reached along a narrow stepped path. Those who dare to climb to the top will be rewarded with stunning views and will also be able to visit the church on the rock.
Climbing to the “balcony” of Santorini. This is the best Observation deck to Santorini. It is a rock that miraculously survived the earthquake. Sunrises and sunsets are celebrated here, and wedding ceremonies are held here. The “Balcony” of Santorini is the highest point of the island and is located in the village of Imerovigli. It will be easier for those who have already planned a sightseeing tour: the observation deck is included in the program.
Relax on the beaches of Santorini. One of the most obvious things to do on the island. But here it is important to know that there are almost more beaches on Santorini than settlements. You will have to either remember or write down the names.
The most beautiful - Red Beach, surrounded by crimson-brown rocks and strewn with red sand, it makes an indelible impression. Next door to Krasny there is an equally amazing White beach . The whitish stones extending into the sea create the feeling of an alien landscape. You can get to each of them either by renting a boat in advance, or by car - then you will have to walk a little to get to the beaches themselves.
Beaches Perissa, Perivolos And Kamari amazes with gray-black sand (yes, you haven’t forgotten that Santorini is a dormant volcano?!) and pure water. These are equipped beaches, each of which has many cafes and bars where you can relax in close proximity to the sea. Almost all the beaches of Santorini will delight you with taverns where you can have dinner while admiring the sunset. For diving enthusiasts there is a direct route to Amoudi beach, where you will be impressed by nature's underwater caves and the rich fauna of the Aegean Sea.

Beach with volcanic sand in Santorini (PHOTO)

Visiting clubs and discos. The island is popular both among Greek residents and foreign guests, and at the same time has the reputation of a youth resort. Nightlife in Santorini is vibrant - most bars and nightclubs are located in the towns of Fira, Perissa and Kamari. But Fira is perhaps the most popular place(in the summer there are performances by famous DJs, night parties are organized under open air, retro, pop and jazz parties). You might prefer a glass of wine and light music sung by the sea breeze.

What to see in Santorini

If sights interest you not least, but sightseeing tours If you are not in the mood, we recommend that you study on your own excavations of ancient Akrotiri. For centuries this prehistoric city was buried under a 40-meter layer of volcanic ash. As a result, many buildings and frescoes are perfectly preserved. Artifacts found during excavations can be seen in the Prehistoric Museum, which is located in the capital of Santorini - Fira.

Interesting to visit built in 1712 Monastery of the Prophet Elijah, located in a picturesque location, on one of the highest points of the island. For centuries, the monastery has been a symbol of the Christian faith.

Not far from the village of Imerovilla there is another interesting place to visit - convent named after Nicholas the Wonderworker. Its snow-white chapels set off the volcanic landscape of the island.

Excursions to Santorini at the best prices

We have great news - even in this remote corner, like Santorini, sightseeing routes have appeared from local residents. If you are not yet familiar with Tripster, you can test its secret option: ask the guide any question before paying 😉

Visits to Santorini will be limited to 8 thousand per day

Every summer, the island of Santorini experiences an unprecedented influx of tourists. There is a particular excitement among cruise passengers. One could only rejoice at such an increase in the tourist flow and calculate the “margin,” but the island’s authorities have no time to “rest on their laurels,” since the island’s infrastructure every year turns out to be unprepared for such a number of travelers. And they say in Russia winter comes unexpectedly.

Cruise ships in the port of Santorini: high season

On average, about 10-12 thousand cruise passengers arrive in Santorini per day. On the island this causes traffic congestion. And there aren’t enough hotel rooms for everyone.

The local authorities made a decision, captivating with its novelty and genius, to limit the intake of cruise passengers. No more than 8 thousand (!) tourists per day will be able to land on shore.

According to statistics, only 10% of cruise ship passengers calling at Santorini remain on board. Everyone else goes ashore. According to experts, the number of those remaining could now increase to 40%, as up to 20 thousand cruise passengers per day are expected to arrive on the island this summer. IN general tourists Those planning a cruise vacation will have to be prepared for heated arguments and even fights for the right to go ashore on the island.

We hope that the innovations will not affect stationary tourists who have paid for their bed in a hotel. What do you think, friends, about the problem?

Holidays in Santorini - let's sum it up

Holidays in Santorini are a chance to escape from routine, immerse yourself in the world of history and antiquity, feel the forgotten romance, enjoy warm sea and breathe in the Mediterranean air. And:

Santorini beaches for every taste: rocky, with red and black sand!

You can organize a holiday in Santorini even with a minimal budget: just choose a guesthouse over a luxury hotel. And if you have the means, there is complete freedom here - the choice of five-star spa complexes is one of the best in Greece.
You can come alone, and you won’t be bored, or you can come with your loved one - the island is full of romantic places. There will also be entertainment for all family members if you decide to relax with the whole group.
The local population is hospitable, and hotel workers are friendly and ready to help in any unexpected situation.

Santorini Island (Thira)– the highlight of the tourist world of Greece. The island is covered in legends and myths about Atlantis. The volcanic eruption more than 3,500 years ago was a global catastrophe that changed the course of human history and created an unforgettable landscape.

Santorini is the southernmost of the Cyclades islands of Greece. Its area is 73 square meters. km..

Santorini is actually not one island, but five islands forming a ring near the central lagoon.

The main attractions of the island of Santorini (Thira) are settlements Phenicia, Athenos, Kamari's only airport and ancient city Akrotiri. The Greeks themselves call the island Fira.

Sights and landscapes of Santorini in Greece

Historical heritage of past civilizations, sandy beaches volcanic black, red and white sand, the azure Aegean Sea and unique architecture, expressed in small houses painted in blue, blue and white colors in combination with fresh flowers in pots - have long become the hallmark of paradise holiday in Greece on Santorini Island.

Beaches on Santorini island

The island of Santorini is a place where tourists bask in the gentle sun from May to mid-October; enjoying the warm, clear Aegean Sea. Santorini resort is famous unforgettable sunsets and sunrises, the hospitality of local residents, Greek cuisine and traditional local wine.

Boat trips on yachts, calm and moderate relaxation atmosphere, dynamic night life, shopping, spa - hotels and sightseeing - all this is harmoniously combined in Santorini. Therefore, it is cozy, convenient and accessible for various categories of tourists! Romance o. Santorini attracts newlyweds, young people and lovers who want to have an unforgettable wedding ceremony in one of the most picturesque and wonderful places on the ground.

Visit Fr. Santorini is the dream of everyone who has ever thought about a holiday in Greece: be it a full-fledged long vacation in this cozy corner, a weekend, or just a day spent on an excursion from the nearest islands of Greece.

Life on a volcano, in chaotically built houses, partially carved out of rocks that cascade down to the sea, with beautiful view to liners and ships plying continuously across the expanses of water - what could be more beautiful?!

Donkeys and mules, a cable car, and all types of sea transport are constant companions of city residents and tourists.

An excursion to the Santorini volcano is one of the most educational activities. He is now under constant surveillance. The last time (in 1956) it caused an earthquake and waves reaching 17 meters in height, which caused significant damage to residents of cities on nearby islands.

The most important cities of the island of Santorini are the capital city of Fira and resort village Eeyore.

Santorini - a snow-white romantic island for young people, an unforgettable family vacation and luxury beaches!

Only on the island of Santorini you can visit three types of beaches: with red, black and white sand!

The most famous beaches of Santorini

Kokkini Paralia is a beach with red sand and steep shores. It is better to visit it by boat from other beaches, for example, from Kamari beach;
Perissa and Kamari - black sand beaches;
Monolithos is a black sand beach located near Kamari airport. It is ideal for swimming with children due to its shallow depth.

The cheapest tickets from Moscow to Thira and back

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I first saw pictures from the island on photo sites and even then, in my distant dreams, I wanted to visit there. One of the reasons why my wife and I went holiday in Crete - this is a visit Santorini islands since it is easy to get there from Crete.

In fact, the island itself, or rather the largest of several islands, is called Fira . Titles Santorini you won't find it on the map.

Santorini - This is an island(s) of volcanic origin and is essentially the top of the crater of an underwater volcano. As a result of the eruption, the central part collapsed into the crater.

This is what he writes wikipedia about the history of the island:

"The oldest population of Fira, which appeared here ca. 3000 BC e., was pre-Greek....During this period, the island must have been called Strongyla (Round) due to its shape, since the volcano of Santorini, which was located in the center of the island and had a height of 1.5 km, had not yet begun its destructive effect.

However, about one and a half thousand years BC (1500 BC - 1645 BC according to various estimates) an event occurred that decisively changed both history ancient world, and the shape of the island. We are talking about a terrible (up to 7 points on the eruption scale) eruption of the Santorini volcano. As a result of the eruption, the crater of the volcano collapsed and a huge caldera (funnel) was formed, which was immediately filled with the sea. The sea surface area of the caldera reaches about 32 square meters. miles, and the depth is 300-400 m. All that remains of ancient Strongyla is the currently visible crescent with a steep cliff of more than 300 m in the western part and flat beaches in the eastern part.

After the volcano's mouth was filled with water, it evaporated and a huge explosion occurred (the effect of a steam boiler), which caused a huge tsunami, presumably 100 to 200 m high, that hit the north coast Krita. The consequence of the tsunami was the decline of the Minoan civilization (excavations on the island of Crete showed that the Minoan civilization existed even after the volcanic eruption, since a large number of buildings of the Minoan culture are located above a layer of volcanic ash). The disaster was completed by strong earthquakes and volcanic ash thrown over a considerable distance."

It is believed that the eruption of 1645 BC. laid the foundation for the legend of Atlantis. The middle of the island actually fell under water.

We decided to go to Santorini for 2 days. There are excursions, but I don’t recommend taking them, since you will only have 5 hours on the island and you won’t have time to see everything you would like, and besides, it will cost 2 times more than going yourself. A high-speed ship leaves from the port of Heraklion and takes about 2 hours to Santorini. Leaves Crete at 9 am and at about 12 you are already on the island, at 17 o'clock it goes back to Crete. The price one way is about 50 euros. On boarding the Flying Cat 4 ship (schedule and details can be viewed)

At the port of Santorini. This is how the island appears to travelers in the first minutes of their stay. At the port you can immediately rent a car or use buses. The Hyundai i10 cost us 30 euros for just over a day. The cool thing is that many service sellers speak Russian.

After climbing 300 meters along an almost vertical serpentine road, we find ourselves at the top of the island in the town of Fira, which is the capital of Santorini. The streets on the island are so narrow that only one car can pass almost everywhere :)

As soon as you enter the city, you immediately begin to feel like you are in a fairy tale - the houses, buildings, surroundings seem somehow unreal and fabulous.

As soon as you enter the city, you immediately begin to feel like you are in a fairy tale - the houses, buildings, surroundings seem somehow unreal and fabulous.

Local cafe

Local cafe

View of the central hill of the crater - Nea Kameni island

View of the central hill of the crater - Nea Kameni island

The appearance of the houses and courtyards is stunning with its whiteness and beauty of shape.

The appearance of the houses and courtyards is stunning with its whiteness and beauty of shape.

On the slopes of Fira and other towns there are mainly villas, hotels and restaurants. The main population lives on the plain in the center of the island.

On the slopes of Fira and other towns there are mainly villas, hotels and restaurants. The main population lives on the plain in the center of the island.

Locals make installations on the roofs of houses

Locals make installations on the roofs of houses

Courtyard of one of the villas

Courtyard of one of the villas

View of the towns of Firastefani and Imerovigli, which have merged with Fira. It is impossible to determine where each town begins and where each ends.

View of the towns of Firastefani and Imerovigli, which have merged with Fira. It is impossible to determine where each town begins and where each ends.

steps

steps

Private property, do not enter

Private property, do not enter

There are hundreds of churches in the towns. According to local custom, each family must build its own church.

There are hundreds of churches in the towns. According to local custom, each family must build its own church.

House sign with number "88"

House sign with number "88"

Southern part of Fira, with Mount Profitis Ilias in the background

Southern part of Fira, with Mount Profitis Ilias in the background

Notice the diversity of churches

Notice the diversity of churches

Let's take a closer look.

Let's take a closer look.

On the right is the road to the old port

On the right is the road to the old port.

Catholic Church St. John the Baptist

Catholic Church St. John the Baptist

All houses are clean and tidy. There are many flowers on the streets.

All houses are clean and tidy. There are many flowers on the streets.

Souvenirs.

Souvenirs

Local villa with a telescope for observing tourists :)

Local villa with a telescope for observing tourists :)

In Fira there is a donkey road with steps from the top to the very bottom. The sign shows - the donkey station is below :)

In Fira there is a donkey road with steps from the top to the very bottom. The sign shows - the donkey station is below :)

For some reason the steps are numbered. If you believe the numbering, then there are almost 600 of them. In the heat of 35 degrees, you don’t really want to climb 300 meters uphill, so donkey riding is thriving.

Old port of Fira. From there you can go to the central island of Nea Kameni..

Old port of Fira. From there you can go to the central island of Nea Kameni.

The decor details contain stones of volcanic origin in the form of frozen lava.

The decor details contain stones of volcanic origin in the form of frozen lava.

Orthodox church and the largest square of the island

Orthodox church and the largest square of the island.

Pipe

Clouds flew over the houses and flew straight into the streets :)

Clouds flew over the houses and flew straight into the streets :)

White roofs of houses

White roofs of houses

Pedestrian street, sometimes you can see mopeds here.

Pedestrian street, sometimes you can see mopeds here.

The imagination of the locals in decorating their houses is amazing.

The imagination of the locals in decorating their houses is amazing.

Villa

Wandering the streets, you can find old, unkempt and abandoned houses.

Wandering the streets, you can find old, unkempt and abandoned houses.

Churches

Churches

Thira (Greek Θήρα, otherwise - Fira, Fera; also Santorini) is an island of volcanic origin in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago. The area is 76 sq. km., length coastline- 70 km. Fira, together with the islands of Thirasia, Palea Kameni, Nea Kameni and Aspro, is part of a group of islands in the form of a ring called Santorini (Santorini, Greek: Σαντορίνη) and which gives the second name to the island itself.

View on a larger map

MYTHS

According to Greek mythology, the island of Santorini is a lump of earth given to the Argonauts by the sea god Triton, the son of Neptune and Venus. Callisti is the name given to this island by the Argonauts.

There is another myth. Plato attributes the island to ancient civilization, which disappeared due to a sudden natural disaster. Historians of different times were interested in the myth, who determined the former location of Atlantis in different ways: in Antilles, America, on a number of islands of Gibraltar, in Malta. Some even considered Atlantis to be a figment of Plato's imagination. IN last years scientists have come to the conclusion that the most likely location of the former Atlantis is Greece, and Santorini is the legendary continent of Atlantis, a happy place described in ancient Greek texts several thousand years ago, in the works of such ancient Greek writers as Solon and Plato.

In fact, modern Santorini is the fragments of an exploded volcano, covered with frozen lava. An unusual fate made him one of the most beautiful and mysterious islands Aegean Sea. Jacques-Yves Cousteau also put forward the version that Santorini is the remnants of Atlantis that went under water. This bold statement is based on his painstaking research and on the descriptions of Plato: “But later, when the time came for unprecedented earthquakes and floods, in one terrible day Atlantis disappeared, plunging into the abyss.”

STORY

The oldest population of the island, which appeared here around 3000 BC, was pre-Greek. Presence of influence Minoan Crete was established during excavations on Akrotiri, when a whole settlement with two- and three-story houses, decorated with frescoes that resemble the wall paintings of Minoan palaces, emerged from under a thick layer of volcanic ash. In 1967, Greek archaeologists discovered a pumice tunnel in Akrotiri, a Minoan city of the 16th century BC, and also a city Bronze Age for 30,000 inhabitants. No skeletons, jewels or gold were found at Akrotiri, indicating that the city's inhabitants were aware of the impending disaster, possibly due to tremors. At the time of the existence of this settlement, the island must have been called Kallista (most beautiful) or Strongyla (Round) due to its shape, since the volcano had not yet begun its destructive activity. 35 centuries ago in 1500 (1450) BC. An event occurred that decisively influenced the history of the ancient world. We are talking about a terrible volcanic eruption that was located in the center of the island, as a result of which most of the island plunged into the sea.

The tsunami waves caused by the eruption, the height of which allegedly reached 100 meters, hit the northern coast of Crete and destroyed the Palace of Knossos. This natural disaster may have led to the end of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest and most highly developed in Europe. The disaster was completed by strong earthquakes and volcanic ash thrown over considerable distances. All that remains of ancient Strongyla is the currently visible crescent with a steep cliff more than 300 meters high in the western part and gentle beaches in the eastern part.

The Minoan civilization, which existed on Crete and Tyre before the great volcanic eruption, suddenly disappeared around 1600 BC. This phenomenon was seen as the result of an invasion of the island by Greek tribes. However volcanic eruption on Thira, which occurred during the same period, led Marinatos to suggest that a large eruption not only destroyed Thira, but also provoked a huge tsunami that wiped out Minoan civilization Krita.

After a large eruption that destroyed the civilization that existed on Santorini, the island was uninhabited for a long time. After this break, the Phoenicians were the first to settle it around 1000 BC. In the 11th century BC. e. The Dorians (Spartans) appeared here and founded ancient Thera high in the northern part of the island.

On the ruins of ancient Thira, during excavations carried out by German archaeologists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, graves and inscriptions were discovered indicating that the capital of a Doric colony was located here, starting from the 9th century BC. Ptolemy founded the main garrison here to monitor the archipelago and made Santorini naval base in the Aegean Sea.

In the 8th century BC, the Theban hero Tiras left Sparta, where he was the ruler, and settled in Santorini with a group of nobles. Subsequently, the island was named Thira in his honor. Herodotus wrote that at that time there were seven cities on Santorini, ruled by the monarch Grinnas, who, on the advice of the Delphic oracle, sent an expedition to Cyrene in Africa, where many Tyrians settled. During the war with the Persians, the Tyrians were on the side of the conquerors and in 476 BC they refused an alliance with Athens because they considered themselves Dorians. However, Santorini some time later became part of the Athenian state and was forced to pay 5 talents (ancient Greek currency unit) as tribute. The Tyrians, dissatisfied with the domination of the Athenians, again submitted to Sparta and gained independence only through the Treaty of Antalcis. However, their independence was not fully recognized by the Spartans.

Island in the 1st - 10th centuries. Very little is known about life on the island during the period of Roman rule. After the division of the Roman Empire in 395, the island of Santorini became part of the Eastern Roman Empire.

In the 4th century AD, Christianity began to spread to the island, as evidenced by written documents found in the old Basilica of St. Michael in ancient Tire.

Island in the X - XVII centuries. The island was first named Santorini by the Arab geographer Edis, who traveled to the Cyclades in 1153. The island received this name from the local church of St. Irene (Santa Irina). Foreign sailors first called it Santo, then Santa Irina, which later became one word Santorini.

The island of Santorini came under the influence of Venice during the period of Byzantine rule, which ended in 1204. Santorini and 17 other islands were redistributed to the Dukes of Naxos in 1207. In 1269, Santorini was again captured by the Byzantine Greeks, but in 1296 the Venetians regained the island.

In 1400 - 1500 The inhabitants of the island suffered from constant attacks by sea pirates, as a result of which the population of the island was reduced to 300 people. Fear of pirates was the reason for choosing places for settlements far from the coast, on steep cliffs or in valleys. Catholics, after their arrival on the island, influenced the inhabitants big influence and founded educational institutions, which contributed to the prosperity of the island.

In 1537, the Muslim pirate Barbarossa, with the help of the Turkish Sultan, attacked the Cyclades and handed Santorini over to the Turks.

Santorini in the XVIII - XXI centuries. During the period of Turkish rule, the island of Santorini had the largest merchant fleet in the Aegean Sea, and all of it (280 sailing ships) belonged to the population of the village of Ia.

The island of Santorini, along with the rest of Greece, gained independence in 1821. Captain Evangelos Matzarakis raised the flag of freedom over the island on May 5 this year. After the Greek War for Greek independence from Turkish rule, the Greek Constitution was signed in 1864.

In the XVIII - XIX centuries. The main commercial activity in Santorini was winemaking. The merchant fleet was also of great commercial importance. Prosperous captains, shipping company owners, and international traders built clifftop mansions whose architecture was inspired by their travels to other countries. The construction of such houses in the 18th and 19th centuries was financed by shipping and the export of the famous wine from the island of Santorini to Russia, Russian wheat to France, as well as valuable products from France to the Mediterranean and Greece. Although tomatoes have not enjoyed the same demand abroad as Santorini wines, they are a unique product because... grown in rich volcanic soil that does not know rain, where moisture is formed only in the form of night dew or morning fog. They are served fresh, sun-dried or traditionally deep-fried. Despite their small size, they have a strong taste.

In 1864, Kapetanospito, a sea captain's mansion, was built in Santorini in the town of Oia, built on a triangular marble slab set on a red stone facade, engraved with a memorable date and the owner's initials "S.P.A." This is one of eight houses officially built right on the banks of the Caldera and are examples of traditional architecture protected by the state. This is how the famous architect Dimitris Philippides writes about this building in his book “Three Centuries of Greek Architecture: Composition and Decoration” - “The black volcanic stone decorating the sea captain’s mansion, combined with slabs of white marble, forms the skeleton for the next tier. Contrasting with them is a simple plaster coating on the walls of the balcony and on the lower tiers. This style of decoration, brought from Western Europe, appears to have its roots in the Renaissance and is found nowhere else in Greece.” Afterwards, the owner of the mansion gave it to his daughter as a dowry for her wedding. Later, the inscription on the marble slab changed somewhat: “S.P.A.F.” The "F" was added by another owner. If in Egypt a new ruler could without hesitation erase the initials and hieroglyphs of the previous monarch, who was most often his father, here the previous owner and his family are highly respected and honored.

Often sea captains owned several types of property: a ship, a mansion in Oia and a vineyard in Phenicia. The ship was always ready to depart. The mansion in Oya was a gathering place for the whole family, receiving guests, the naval crew and new employees upon the captain's return from a long voyage. To make and store wine, the captain built special wine cellars in Phenicia - “ditches”. A reduced version of the “ditch” was built in the captain’s mansion for ease of wine storage and prestige. Sea, wine, trade, tomatoes and the volcano are the main attractions of Oia and continue to be for many years. Entering Capetanospito, a sea captain's mansion built in 1864, you will feel the atmosphere of the past and the simple values of the time.

In the mid-19th century, the pearl of Santorini - Oia was one of the most major cities Cyclades, the population of the city was about 10,000 people. The main industry was the fleet. The beginning of the decline of this area of activity coincided with a reduction in maritime transport. Many of the inhabitants of the island moved to Piraeus or abroad, including Russia.

It was not possible to find any information about the island for the first half of the 20th century, with the exception of reports of volcanic activity on the island in the 20s and reports of the occupation of Santorini during the Second World War by Italians and Germans, the occupation lasting until October 18, 1944. Truth caught Another message contradicting the previous one is that when during the Second World War all of Greece was under fascist rule, Santorini remained free. True, Admiral Canaris once brought his submarines to the island, but that same night the awakened volcano sprayed fire at them without touching the island. The death of the submarines was attributed to the action of the new formidable Russian weapons... I don’t know which of them can be trusted, so I’m posting both.

The 1956 earthquake caused death and destruction, and many residents fled the island. and only a few years later the inhabitants began to return to the island again. While indigenous people There were about 400 people on the island. During the 60s, the island's dilapidated buildings were sold off for a pittance to Greeks and foreigners who were able to recognize their value.

Nowadays, the volcano can be seen emitting steam and greenish-yellow dioxide.

WEATHER

Sunny summers and warm winters are ideal climatic conditions for tourism. Santorini has a long hot season and short season rains. The rainy seasons generally occur in November and February. Humidity is relatively high (in fact, it is the main source of water for vegetation). Temperature fluctuations are slight throughout the year, and snow represents a rare event. Temperature on the island of Santorini: in spring 17° - 22°, in summer 22° - 40°, in autumn 25°C - 17°, in winter 17° - 7°. Quite strong winds, as a rule, come from the north (primarily the Meltemi wind in August), but southern winds are sometimes also very sharp.

WHAT TO SEE

The capital of the island is Fira, located on the edge of a steep cliff, at an altitude of 260 m above sea level. The combination of stunning scenery with a volcano and famous Cycladic architecture makes Fira one of the most picturesque places in the world. In the city you can see blocks of houses of different eras, business centers (Agora), theaters, sanctuaries, the home of Ptolemy the Benefactor, graves of the archaic and classical eras, ruins of buildings of the early Christian period, hot springs. The village can be reached by car from Athinios, the ferry port, or by walking or riding a donkey from the small harbor of Fira along a picturesque cobblestone road that rises in a white zigzag line along the rock. Those who prefer modern means of transportation can use the cable car. Construction, a lot of people and noise have significantly changed the local flavor. However, a walk through the narrow streets of Fira will give you an unforgettable pleasure. White houses with arches, terraces and balconies with amazing views, domed churches, taverns, bars and shops with many visitors will enchant you. In the capital you can also get acquainted with:

1. Ayiu Mina Church — it was built in the 17th century on a mountain plateau. Its beautiful white bell tower and huge blue dome are visible from almost anywhere in the city.

2. Archaeological Museum , which exhibits interesting finds from prehistoric eras, including a large collection of vessels from the 7th and 6th centuries. BC, including the famous “Fere vessels”, and a small collection of sculptures and portraits from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras.

3. You can also visit Museum of Prehistoric Thira , where excavations from Akrotiri and other places on the island, dating from the Neolithic to the 17th century, are exhibited in four thematic sections. BC.

4. Dominican convent. The Dominican convent, located in the Catholic Quarter in the center of Fira, is home to twelve nuns from different countries. The monastery chapel of the Rosary is a fine example of island architecture, rich in Baroque elements.

— The most ancient Orthodox Church Santorini, Pangea-Episcopes located near Pyrgos, the former capital of the island. This temple is famous for its ancient frescoes and the miraculous icon of the Mother of God “Sweet Kiss”. Pyrgos itself is a picturesque town with an ancient fortress. Little Pyrgos, with its cobbled streets and countless churches, has been favored by artists.

— Archaeological reserve of Akrotiri . The most significant archaeological reserve of Santorini, 2 km from the village of Akrotiri, on the southwestern tip of the island. It is not for nothing that this territory is called “prehistoric Pompeii”. Under a thick layer of pumice and “Firian soil,” Professor Spyridon Marinatos discovered in 1967 an entire Minoan city with two- and three-story houses decorated with frescoes that resemble the wall paintings of the Minoan palaces of Crete. The most important of these frescoes are “ Sea voyage", "The Coming of Spring" and "Boxing Boys". IN large quantities Also found here were vessels, pithoi, bronze utensils and furniture found inside the houses. This city was completely buried during powerful eruption volcano approx. 1450 BC Currently, the ruins are kept under a large roof that lets in daylight.

— Monastery of Elijah the Prophet (Profitis Ilias Monastery) is located in the very high point island of Santorini, at an altitude of 566 m above sea level. From here you can see the neighboring surrounding islands, and on a clear day - Mountain peaks the islands of Crete, located more than 100 km away. On the peak rising just below the monastery of Prophet Elijah, you can see Ancient Thera. Unfortunately, radio masts and a NATO radar installation spoil the view of the magnificent bell tower of the monastery.

The islanders hold this monastery, founded in 1711 by two monks from Pyrgos, reverently because it housed a secret school where Greek language and culture were taught during the dark ages of Turkish rule. There is a museum at the monastery where you can see a model of a secret school in a monastic cell, a model of a traditional carpentry and blacksmith's workshop, as well as religious objects. The future of the monastery is in doubt because there are very few monks left in it. Every year on July 20, the monastery hosts a big festival-fair.

— . This temple was discovered during archaeological excavations and dates back to the Dorian era - approximately 21st century BC. The gates of the temple are better preserved than anything else, but despite this, the temple is impressive in its size and architecture.

- And I- a village built on the steep slopes of a cliff located in the northern part of the island, above the Caldera, opposite the volcano. Those who have been here say that the sunset seen here mysterious place, the most beautiful. In Oia you can visit a wonderful maritime museum, where the variety of maritime treaties, agreements, models and photographs is not a visible multitude. There is also Oia Castle, an unusual and graceful structure with its own history.

— Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni — islands of volcanic origin, where volcanic craters are located. There is a complete absence of vegetation, there is solidified lava and a specific smell of sulfur all around, and the earth is still warm in many places. The volcano is active; it was last active about half a century ago, but did not cause serious damage. Scientists monitor volcanic activity and can predict an eruption a year or at least several months before it begins.

— Imerovigli village , declared a protected architectural area, from where a magnificent panorama of the entire region opens, and the medieval settlement of Pyrgos. It is located 3 km north of Fira at the highest point above sea level at an altitude of 300 m. A small passage connects Imerovigli with the conical rock of Skaros, on which are the ruins of a Roman fortress, which was built by the Roman patrician Scaurus. During the era of Roman rule, he was the ruler of the island. Later, the fortress housed the residences of Venetian rulers and a Catholic bishop.

— Beaches of Santorini. Since you will not find beaches similar to Santorini anywhere in the world, they, in themselves, are an attraction of the island. Thanks to the activity of the volcano, the beaches here have acquired unique colors that are difficult to find anywhere else. Therefore, the beach sand here is black (Kamari, Armeni, Ammoudi, Baxedes, Perivolos, Perissa, Monolithos, Kokkini Amos), red and green, which is completely unusual for sand. One of the most mysterious islands of the Aegean Sea, Santorini, is beautiful and unusual. Having been here, you will agree that it fully justifies its ancient name— Callisti, which translated into Russian sounds like the Most Beautiful.

GUILT

On Santorini, the unique rocky soil, rich in everything except moisture, allows the cultivation of vineyards that are low-growing, but produce unique grapes. It has a rich taste, which is successfully transferred to wine. But the process of growing grapes in conditions of constant summer heat, strong winds and lack of rain leads to less and less wine being produced. But while there are still dedicated winemakers in Santorini, tourists feast on a variety of dessert, dry and semi-dry red and white wines.

The most popular wine in Santorini is Vinsanto, with citrus, fig and coffee aromas. This dessert wine is dark bronze in color, sweet, but has a dry wine aftertaste. To produce it, the harvested grapes are dried in the sun for another two weeks, and only after that they are sent to the press. This wine is aged in barrels for 4 years, and only after that is bottled. The price of this wine depends on its age, that is, the older it is, the more expensive it is. Although they say that with age this wine changes its taste, losing its sweetness. Well, maybe this is exactly what is appreciated!

If you buy other local wine (Athiri, Assyrtiko, Argyros, Kamarini are popular), then it is better to do it not at the winery, but in simple shops - it’s cheaper there, but you have to charge at least 6-8 euros per bottle. You can buy it from the islanders, it will also be inexpensive, but the quality is excellent. If you visit a wine museum (for example, near Kamari), a tasting of three wines there will cost 5 euros, plus a tour of the cellars.

The grape in Santorini is considered the most important of all plants. And the Greeks still hold Dionysia at the end of the wine berry harvest. Such a holiday in honor of the god Dionysius is not ostentatious, but real! And they also seriously nail horns over the entrance to the house so that the bull protects the home from an eruption.

HOW TO GET THERE

The flight from Moscow to Heraklion is about 3.5 hours, then 4.5 hours by ferry or an hour by speedboat. Another way to reach Santorini is by ferry from Rethymno, in which case the journey will take about 4 hours. It is better to buy ferry tickets several days in advance, this is especially important during the high season. There is another way, somewhat unusual for ordinary tourists: from Athens by plane of local airlines, the flight lasts about half an hour.