Santorini
Santorini is one of the most popular islands of Greece, known all over the world and one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. It is situated in the Aegean Sea, 128 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus and is the southernmost island of the Cyclades.
Its uniqueness stems from the active volcano, that has created an exceptional natural environment. In prehistoric times, the large eruption in 1613 BC, also known as Minoan Eruption, created the caldera of Santorini and caused the sinking of a large part of the island.
The island was named Santorini during the Venetian rule, while in ancient times it was called Stroggili (‘round’) or Thira, a name still officially used today. The capital is Thira, better known by the name Fira, the settlement that is located in the center of the caldera of the island. Stroggili was the prehistoric island, with an almost circular shape, as evidenced by its name, much of which was sunk during the Minoan Eruption. Today, the perimeter of the ancient Stroggili is formed by Santorini, Thirasia and Aspronisi, while in the center of this invisible circle are the islands of the volcano, Palea and Nea Kameni.
Santorini today receives many visitors from the whole world, who arrive at the volcanic island to admire the beautiful villages, the unique undercut cavern houses of traditional architecture, the churches, the unique wine produced in this very special land, as well as the very peculiar beaches. One of the main tourist attraction is of course the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri, an archaeological site of unique value.
Many people classify Santorini among the most romantic destinations in the world, as one of the most iconic images of the island is the sun setting behind the volcano, while dozens of visitors admire the eerie spectacle from the roofs and alleys of Oia . It is no coincidence that in recent years hundreds of couples from every corner of the world choose Santorini to celebrate their marriage.
The high level of services, both for accommodation and catering as well as entertainment, combined with the unique natural environment, set by the volcano and the caldera, and the beautiful settlements built there – place Santorini among the most individual places of the planet and the island is truly worthy of its reputation.
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Santorini - Beaches
Discover all beaches of Santorini on the map, with transport information and nearby points of interest. Popular or hidden beaches, family or nude, with a restaurant or beach bar on the coast, you will find it in TerraBook. Read more
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Santorini - Cultural Attractions
Discover all sights & points of interest of Santorini on the map, with transport information, hours of service and contact details. Everything you should do & see on your trip. Read more
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Santorini - Culture
The culture of Santorini is impressive and among the most distinguished of Greece, both because of the island’s extremely interesting past and for its most recent achievements. Among the attractions of Santorini that are worth visiting is certainly the basilica of Agia Irini, discovered in Perissa that probably gave Santorini its modern name. The Mansion of Argyros in Mesaria, the Megaro Gyzi in Fira , as well as the Bellonio Foundation are all masterpieces of the more recent architectural styles. In order to truly get to know Santorini, one should definitely visit the castles of the island (especially the one in Emporio is the best preserved) but also the canaves ie the traditional wineries and the undercut cavern houses - the traditional houses of Santorini. On the southwestern tip of the island stands the Lighthouse of Akrotiri, with the endless view of the caldera and the sea. Read more
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Santorini - Tradition
The culture of Santorini is impressive and among the most distinguished of Greece, both because of the island’s extremely interesting past and for its most recent achievements. Among the attractions of Santorini that are worth visiting is certainly the basilica of Agia Irini, discovered in Perissa that probably gave Santorini its modern name. The Mansion of Argyros in Mesaria, the Megaro Gyzi in Fira , as well as the Bellonio Foundation are all masterpieces of the more recent architectural styles. In order to truly get to know Santorini, one should definitely visit the castles of the island (especially the one in Emporio is the best preserved) but also the canaves ie the traditional wineries and the undercut cavern houses - the traditional houses of Santorini. On the southwestern tip of the island stands the Lighthouse of Akrotiri, with the endless view of the caldera and the sea. Read more
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Santorini - Villages
Learn where to stay in Santorini, and which places to visit. Browse all the villages, cities and communities on the map, along with nearby points of interest Read more
