VILLAGES

Fira:

The capital of Santorini, doubtlessly one of the most beautiful villages in Greece - along with Oia. Fira is built in a very impressive location above the cliffs on the edge of the caldera, at a height of 260 meters. Seaport of the country is the bay of Fira, from where one goes in the Country taking the cable car, donkey or on foot for the more adventurous! The sea view captures both the look, if you choose the latter way to climb a lot of attention and our eyes - the cliff is steep and unguarded.

Fira founded in the late 18th century. and are built with traditional Cycladic architecture. The houses are whitewashed, with domes, arches, many windows on the side facing the sea, peek through the narrow streets. On top neighborhoods, on the edge of the cliffs, terraces, balconies made ​​of surrounding homes. Despite the picturesque neighborhoods, whitewashed houses and churches with blue domes, a walk in the crowded streets of the city, where shops, cafes and restaurants dominate, will make you realize that you are in one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands.

Oia

Oia is the first village to be confronted by the board as you enter the caldera and raised his eyes open. The sight of the spread in Oia cliff above the cove Armenia and picturesque harbor of Amoudi welcomes the traveler and puts climate of Santorini. The colors of the rocks appear to have roll over and be uphill from the dark bottom of the white surfaces of buildings, having traveled thousands of years a course that has been imprinted in the rock with a variety of shapes and colors.

The current name Oia just took the 30s by the Venetian conquerors, after the earlier name of the settlement was Pano Meria or Castle of Saint Nicholas. Then throughout the so-called Santorini built castles - small stone closes with openings-plots at the highest point of the wall, in which was enclosed the bulk of the village to protect it from pirates. To avoid residents unannounced landings built watchtowers - Watchtowers or sip from the Turkish Koules means tower - the highest point of the fort from where viglatores (objects) could see the sea and to notify in case of emergency gunfire day or fires during the night.

Imerovigli :

Imerovigli is 3km from Fira the caldera rim, overlooking the peculiar and steep red rock making, which was formerly a Venetian castle - fortified settlement. Imerovigli with whitewashed houses, blinding and neatly with colorful flowers in the courtyards and harmony in relation with the environment and hotels along the width of the cliff, relax your eyes and offer an unmatched spectacle. The cobbled going for the settlement and the capital Fira Fira is framed by stone walls and, just beyond, donkeys grazing in farmland blonde.

The settlement was established in the 16th century and the name was given by the then pirates - conquerors (Imerovigli observatory during the day). When the leader of the Venetian Marco Sanudo conquered Santorini in 1207, raised the flag on the castle Skarou probably at that time the island was officially renamed from Thira to Santa Irini - Santorini.

The castle of Skarou guarding the western entrance of the island not conquered even once during the 600 years of life. The castle overlooks the rock Skarou has a long history and well worth a visit, of course on foot, following the path that connects the Rock to Fira (about 20 minutes walk). Do not forget to visit the small chapel located at the front of the making visible of the ship at the entrance to the caldera.

Megalochori

Megalohori is 9. Fira. One of the most picturesque villages. Megalohori existed since the 17th century. A thriving community traditional winter and summer, which maintains the architecture of the houses with innumerable canavas, mansions mansions and numerous white churches.

Less than 60 years ago, the village belonged to one of the most powerful families of the island produced the first sweet wine vinsanto and exported across the world.

Today Megalohori consists of more than 150 residents, contributing to the mores and traditions in local color and charm of the island. Three of the largest wineries in Santorini are here, and 2-3 of the most traditional restaurants with great food. The distance from the nearest beach (Perivolos, Agios Georgios) is just 5 minutes.

Pyrgos Village:

Pyrgos is a medieval gem and dominates a hill overseeing Santorini from one end to the other, from the Cape to Oia. It is a castle that still retains the characteristics of the Venetian Empire, studded with castles and ruins, exuding a strong sense of power and prosperity. Three large blue domes adorn the village, where houses and village houses are in harmony. Residents with simple, happy homes are living witnesses of a peaceful and humane way of life that has survived the test of time.

Does the Santorinioi built many churches to appease the angry volcano? From the tower you will have the best panoramic view of the island!

Emporio:

Emporio, another landlocked castle has many common elements with the tower, so that the two villages strangely confused. Built both in the hinterland of the long Venetian rule, the fear of pirates, as the terrible Barbarossa that ravaged Santorini in 1537.

The village of Emporio is compact, densely-built and Shielded, with narrow streets, arched paths, secret passages, dead ends and basements. The shutters of the castle and leave you here taste the same drop as insurers spend outside doors, tiny terraces and courtyards with flowers. In the midst of all this a beautifully decorated, very tall steeple, a tricolor accord blue, ocher and white.

An old resident tells me that life was once here: the bonds of love that unite membered, many times, families were so powerful that nobody varygkomouse when stacked together every night to sleep in cramped rooms inside, after a whole day the plains. Further down, a stone threshing floor, two villagers sort through the wheat. Here the past comes to life in a place where time seems to have stopped.

Vourvoulos:

The village is located in Fira 2.5 km North of Fira and the same distance east of Imerovigli, right in the center of the northern part of the island. Although a bit remote from the sea, the village has great views of the Aegean. The Vourvoulou is a quiet village with traditional architecture. In taverns offer good food with local delicacies and mini market, cafe and pool bar. Because they are very close, a few minutes by car, Vourvoulou a perfect combination of tranquility and relaxation with intense and noisy fun Fira. It is also the basis for exploring the northern beaches are quieter, less crowded, isolated and always idyllic.

Finikia:

The Finikia is located 10 km NW of the main road in Fira to Oia and less than a kilometer from it. It is a small inland village with 50 residents. The entrance is quite impressive as the visitor faces a high wall of dark volcanic stone.

Noteworthy are the two churches in the village, the Holy Matri and seven children that are dug into the rock.

Perivolos:

Just 4 km from Fira, the Southeast, almost in the center of the island is Perivolos, inland village with 1075 inhabitants. Here beats the heart of Santorini wine. Surrounded by orchards and vineyards, whitewashed houses and narrow streets is perhaps the most beautiful village of the island, suitable for stays not only in summer but all year round.

Some old neoclassical mansions stand side - the side with low Cycladic, an interesting mix of architectural styles. The most striking "Argyros Mansion." Built in 1888 by the wealthy winemaker George Argyros. It was severely damaged during the earthquake of 1956, but was restored recently exemplified by his grandson and operates as a hostel - museum. Of interest are some of the churches Mesarias as the Cathedral, the church of the Transfiguration and St. Irene, the protector of the island. The last two dating from the late 17th century. In recent years the popular village grows rapidly and has accommodation for guests, good food, drink and fun. But beware! The sweet wine and the spirit of the village you can get drunk easier than you think!

Vothonas:

6 km from Fira is Vothonas, a small picturesque village located in a small valley with beautiful houses and few residents. Things have both dug in the rock churches of the Virgin Mary and Sergeinas hole. Because it is very near the main road Vothonas has easy access by bus, rented or private car and walk to the nearby Perivolos.

Monolithos:

The Monolith is a small village with 405 inhabitants 9 km east of Fira and close to the airport. It is a typical Cycladic village with narrow streets and whitewashed houses, less noisy from Kamari or Perissa. It has a sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for families with young children. On July 24 celebrated the feast of St. John. It has several rooms in some hotels and rented rooms and offers good food and drinks in restaurants and drinks in cafes and bars.

Episkopi Gonia :

Mediterranean village, 8 km SE of Fira, on the road to Kamari. The village suffered extensive damage during the earthquakes of 1956 and almost abandoned by their inhabitants, many of whom settled in Kamari. It is a beautiful village surrounded by vineyards. The Inside Corner is one of the most important centers of wine production on the island. The main attraction is the church of Panagia Episkopi. Built around 1100 AD is one of the oldest and most important of the island. The Venetians turned to the Catholic Church. Orthodox rejoin when the island was occupied by the Turks. The interior of the church has a beautiful sculptural decoration and old pictures, some of the 11th century -12ou. The temple is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which is celebrated with a festival on August 15, with traditional musicians, food and wine. Worth visiting Canava Roussos, a family wine company established in 1836 is located at the entrance of the village. You can browse the site, to taste and buy wine company. Mesa Gonia there are accommodations. Food can be found in the few taverns of the village.

Exo Gonia:

The Exo Gonia is a small village 12 kilometers from Fira with few inhabitants. The village has maintained the lifestyle of the past, is quiet and unspoiled by crowds of tourists. Narrow streets, beautiful houses, a flat landscape with spectacular views of the locals sitting on patios, entertain friends and greet all passersby. An old tomato paste factory has been converted into a cultural center. Here one can see interesting exhibitions and events. It has no hotels or restaurants, but in the few taverns and cafes you can find good food and local delicacies. The village can be reached by rented or private cars and motorbikes. One can also walk from the Tower or the Mesa Gonia (about 3 km from the two villages).

Kamari

Kamari is one of the most organized resorts in Santorini and is located 10 kilometers from Fira. It is a new village, Rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1956 and has developed into a summer resort with 1350 inhabitants. Apart from the beach, it is worth seeing the ruins of ancient buildings by the beach. On September 24 organized a festival in honor of the Virgin Mirtidiotissa where music and dancing last until late in the morning and offered plenty of food and wine to guests. An old wine factory founded in 1880, the "Volcan", has become a museum of wine production. The procedure for the production of wine and exposed various tools, utensils and equipment, such as traditional handicrafts associated with wine. In August organized cultural events, the "Kamariano Fair." Among other singles events and Jazz Festival. The accommodation needs of visitors covered with any kind of benefit. From luxury hotels to a campsite. Because Kamari is one of the most attractive destinations of Santorini is a problem, stay in August. There are many taverns, restaurants and snack bars that offer good food and flavors for all tastes. Bars, discos and cafes fill the nights guaranteed visitors with entertainment and an outdoor cinema unique to the island, meet the most demanding tourists. There are many shops for gifts and souvenirs, but also for any other need. There is a health center to meet the medical needs of visitors.

Perissa:

Perissa is the most famous summer resort in Santorini. Located on the southeastern tip of the island, 15 km from Fira and has 470 permanent residents. Due to the rapid development of tourism Perissa is almost joined to the next village Emporio.

It is worth seeing the Byzantine church of Agia Irini is the patroness of the island from which it takes its name Santorini (Santa Irene) because Ayia Irini in Santorini died during exile. Other notable church Panagia Katefiani which is dug into the rock and has a wonderful view to the sea. Also, the Monastery of the Holy Cross is located on the beach is an impressive 19th century church. If anyone is interested in archeology should visit ancient Thira on Mesa Mountain at an elevation of 300 meters. Excavations have revealed a portion of the Dorian city sanctuaries, a Doric temple of Dionysus, market, theater and gymnasium. All are dated between the fourth and first centuries BC In ancient Thira one can go from Perissa only walk (Road approximately one hour).

The village celebrates the festivities with St. John on August 29, Panagia Katefiani on September 8 and the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14. For stays Perissa offers from luxury hotels to camping. Many taverns, restaurants and cafes offer food, snacks and drinks of all kinds and all tastes and culinary desires. Also many discos, countless bars and clubs promise and offer visitors memorable and nightlife.

Athinios:

The Athinios is the new port of Santorini, 12 km South of Fira, almost half of the caldera. It has a cafe for refreshments and a couple of mini-markets for shopping passengers disembark from the ships of the line, but not organized settlement. The Athinios connected with Fira, as with all the other villages by bus to synchronize their schedules with the arrival or departure of ships.

Akrotiri:

15 km from Fira, at the southwestern tip of the island, this small village of 450 inhabitants became famous thanks to the very important Minoan settlement revealed by the excavations started in 1967 by Professor S.. Marina and continues until today Professor Ch. Doumas. Buried under tons of volcanic ash, this prehistoric site remained almost intact and archaeologists revealed a settlement that was full of life and activity of the 3rd millennium BC The most important discovery was that of the Minoan city that disappeared beneath the volcanic material of the great eruption of 1500 BC The excavations have brought to light a fully organized city sewerage system, two-storey houses, astonishing frescoes on the walls, ceramics and precious objects with burnt debris fruit. The archaeological site is open, but most findings, especially the murals have been transferred to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens and the New Archaeological Museum of Fira. Apart from the prehistoric settlement that needs and deserves more than one visit, interesting Venetian castle and the churches of the Holy Trinity and the Visitation. A 3 km asphalted road leads to the cape at the western end of the island. The view from there is magnificent and worth seeing the lighthouse. A few hotels and rooms available at Akrotiri. Most are open only in summer, from April to October. For dining there are few Hotels with view in Akrotiri in Santorini, restaurants and cafes.

Four festivals are at Akrotiri over time: the two of them in May (12 and 29) and the rest - the most important - August 6 (Transfiguration) and 15 August (Assumption). The village is connected with Fira by bus, which runs every hour in summer, from 9 am until 8 pm Also one can use taxi and private hire cars and motorcycles. The road is paved and good enough until the Red Beach and the lighthouse at the cape.

Thirasia:

Thirasia is a small island opposite Oia shows us that Santorini was once a round island before the eruption of 1500 BC Together with the Ia form the northern entrance of the caldera. It has an area of ​​9 square kilometers and 150 residents. The main settlements are the Country (or Manolas), not far from the sea and the coastal Korfos east. Other settlements are Riva, opposite Oia in the north and the River to the west. Thirassia (Chora) is a typical Cycladic village with a lifestyle like that which existed before the massive invasion of tourism. Small houses of different colors give a special character to these settlements. Few locals and fewer tourists wander the narrow streets of this island and left over here is calm, traditional style and natural life. Local herbs, floral aromas, an untouched beach with clear blue waters, spectacular views of Oia, wild natural beauty are the only ones that can offer the small island to those who choose to spend a few days there. Some churches in the town and the river is remarkable if one found on the island on September 21 must not miss the feast of the Virgin of Giatrainas.

The island has a hotel and some rooms and good food with local delicacies in the taverns and a few drinks and appetizers in the cafes on the island. In Thirassia one can go by boat from Oia. We also organize tours in the summer. The boats leave guests in Riva and then by taxi or go to the River Country.