Apart from being a scenic place, Santorini is rich in history. From earthquakes and tsunamis to pirate attacks or even volcano eruptions, Santorini is the island it is today after such situations. Many of their buildings or cathedrals have been impacted by natural disaster but it only enhances their history. Here is a list of attractions you have to visit to learn more about the history of Santorini!
Ancient Buried City of Akrotiri
Also known as Santorini’s Pompeii, the city of Akrotiri was buried by a volcanic eruption. Exploring the buried city of Akrotiri, shows you a different side of Santorini, what it was before it became the island it is today.
Akrotiri started as a fishing and farming village, mostly growing olives and grains. It grew into a big and prosperous city as it was in the middle of the trade route between Europe and the Middle East. Around 1500 BC, the Thera Volcano erupted and it was one of the largest volcanic eruptions recorded. There was an ash cloud, 20 metres high and it also set off a 100-metre tsunami. Akrotiri was then buried in a 200-foot layer of ash and was abandoned for many years before finally being recolonized.
Up till today, the ruins of the eruption are still being discovered. As the ruins are built of mud bricks, they need to be covered as it would get damaged by water. In the midst of walking down the pathway that leads through the ruins, you will even notice reconstructed houses and a stone bathtub!
The Ancient Buried City of Akrotiri is just a 25 minutes drive away from Fira.
The Ancient Buried City of Akrotiri is open from 8 am to 6.30 pm from mid-April to October and open till 3.30 pm during the rest of the year. It’s also closed on Tuesdays and the entrance costs €12 per person.
Ancient Thira
Previously an ancient city and capital, Ancient Thira is found on the ridge of Messa Vouna mountain in Santorini. It was named after the mythical ruler Thira and consisted of a street about 800m long. High on the mountainside was the headquarters of a garrison and further away from the settlement, facing the eastern tip is a small sacred area mostly used as a temple ground.
Located in Kamari, all the buildings here were constructed by local limestone from the mountain. Walking through Ancient Thira would allow you to learn more about Santorini’s history and observe the way locals used to live!
Ekklisia Panagia Platsani
This Greek Orthodox church was initially constructed inside the castle of Oia. After the earthquake in 1956, the church was moved to its current location and rebuilt on more stable ground. Ekklisia Panagia Platsani is dedicated to the Akathist Hymn of the Most Holy Theotokos. It’s also an architectural wonder with whitewashed walls, blue domes and arched windows.
The church was first constructed after locals decided to build a cathedral to honour an icon of Virgin Mary found in the sea by a fisherman. Today, the icon overlooks the sea and inside the church, you would even find tributes to sailors and residents of the town.
Castelli of Emporio
Located in the Emporio Village, 10 kilometres away from Fira is the Castelli Of Emporio, a medieval castle. It’s also the greatest attraction of the Emporio village. Back in the day, the village was the commercial centre of the island.
The Castelli was constructed in the mid-15th century, at the heart of the village, right in the centre. There’s a single entrance to the castle due to safety purposes and as such, it’s known to be one of the best-maintained castles in Santorini. Inside the castle are various wonderful churches dating back to the 16th century and there is also a labyrinth with narrow streets!
Santorini Volcano
Last on the list is one of the greatest attractions in Santorini. The eruption of the Santorini Volcano has given this island its current shape. It also caused the formation of 4 additional islands apart from Santorini - Theresia, Aspronisis, Palaia Kameni and Nea Kameni. The volcano lies opposite Santorini in the sea and you can even visit it and swim around it.
It’s currently an underwater active volcano but you still can explore it and see the crater. You can even touch the lava rock and feel the streaming volcano underneath your feet. That sensation is a unique and interesting experience, one you cannot miss!
