Sightseeing in Santorini - what to see. Complete travel guide

Santorini Island is located in the Aegean Sea near Crete. This is one of the most attractive islands in the Cyclades. The island appeared after a volcanic eruption, when the part of the volcanic rock had gone under water and the remaining volcanic rock had formed a great crescent-shaped bay.

Each island of the Santorini archipelago - Thira, Therasia, Aspronisi, Old Kameni and New Kameni – is a true marvel of nature. Landscapes, which can be seen on the islands, rock travellers with their incredible beauty. Here you will see red, white and black beaches; the volcano crater made of black lava, white majestic churches with blue domes, and divine sunsets and sunrises.

There are several small villages including the capital of Santorini, visiting which is truly mandatory. The first village is a small settlement named Oia. Here you will be able to see best and brightest examples of traditional island architecture. Then continue your travel by making a stop in the settlement named Akrotiri, where you will see houses built in 1500 BC that have survived until our days and unspoiled beaches - Monolithos, Kamari, and Perissa. The village named Megalochori attracts connoisseurs of wine products. Finally, the capital of the island - Fira - offers comfortable stay and numerous attractions for tourists. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The main attractions of the island are, of course, the ancient volcano Palea Kameni that acts even nowadays, Church of the Holy Epiphany and the Great Church of St. George, which vaulted hall is perfect for festivities and celebrations.

On the immediate outskirts of Pyrgos village is located the ancient monastery of prophet Ilya, founded in the early 18th century. On its territory is a beautiful ancient church, built in 1712. It keeps many unique religious artifacts. The ancient monastery is remarkable for being located on the top of the biggest mountain, at an altitude of 565 meters above sea level. It offers a wonderful view of the island. In good weather, you can even see the nearby Crete.

Today, Santorini visitors have an opportunity to visit some interesting archaeological areas, including Akrotiri. Investigation of the area began about 70 years ago. Archaeologists discovered unique artifacts dated to the fifth millennium BC. Akrotiri used to be a major trading city once. It existed in the early 17th century according to historical data. Suddenly, a large prosperous city was destroyed by the strongest volcanic eruption. Nowadays, visitors can admire the saved fragments of its ancient buildings.

In Oia, travelers can spot the ruins of an old Venetian fortress, built in the 15th century. This fortress has repeatedly defended the city from pirates and conquerors. Despite numerous battles, it remained in excellent condition until the middle of the last century. Everything changed in 1956 when a major earthquake hit the island of Santorini. It destroyed the historical building almost completely. They didn't restore the old fortress.

Santorini has many excellent museums which show visitors culture and history of the island. The most unusual is the Museum of Wine. It occupies the building of an old winery of the 19th century. This winery was founded in a large natural cave at a depth of 8 meters beneath the ground over 150 years ago. The underground maze is of amazing proportions. Its length is about 300 meters. You can walk down the cave accompanied by a guide only. The underground labyrinth has ideal conditions for wine microclimate. It is still used for its intended purpose. An obligatory part of this excursion is the best local wines tasting. An excellent specialized store operates on the territory of the old factory.