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27/10/2009
SANTORINI
One of the Cyclades islands,
Santorini is a spectacular jewel of the Aegean. Born out of a volcanic
eruption in approximately 1500BC, which formed the two islands of Aspronissi
and Terrasia, Santorini is a magnificent mixture of dramatic cliffside
villages, glorious black sand beaches and ancient treasures. Steep cliffs
plunging into a crystalline sea distinguish the west coast, while the east
coast is gentler, featuring a fertile plain and delicate bays, with the
Profitis Ilias mountains in the background.
Archaeological investigations have shown that the 69 kilometres of coastline
of Santorini was probably inhabited in prehistoric times, while the first
chronicled civilisation to live on the island were the Phoenicians. Through
the centuries the island continued to fall under different rulers, including
the Spartans, Athenians, Byzantines and Turks. Commencing in 1967, ongoing
excavations near the pink sand beach at Akrotiri have revealed the ruins of
ancient Thera, the centre of population on the island before it was
destroyed by the volcanic eruption.
Among the extensive remains are ceramics, stone and bronze tools, ornaments
and small artworks. A series of frescoes suggest a highly-developed
community and some researchers believe it is the site of the mythical lost
city of Atlantis.
One of the prettiest spots on the island is the village of Oia, a network of
narrow marble-paved alleys, lined with yellow and blue domed houses, and
extraordinary views out to sea.
EXCURSION
Leaving the ship by motorboat, you will arrive at the port of Anthinios where you will find guides and buses to take you to Oia Village. Following the coast road to the northern end of the island, you will drive along the "Caldera", which is the typical rocky cliff that completely surrounds Santorini. At Oia, you will go for an inviting stroll along its lanes, overlooked by the typical ochre houses with their characteristic blue dome-shaped roofs. You will enjoy a beautiful view of the islands of Folegandros and Sikinos and of the famous volcano, now extinct. Further on, you will enjoy another breath taking view of the beaches of Ammoundi and Armenians, with the pretty church of St Nikolaus. Then we continue our tour to Thera, the main centre of the island. Here, you will have some free time for a walk or for shopping, before going back to the harbour by cable car.
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Arrival
Arrival
Athinios to Oia (by Bus)
Oia
Oia
Oia to Fira (by Bus)
Fira
Fira
Departure
Departure