Thira (or Thera) is the capital of a volcanic island of Santorini. With its unique white-and-blue buildings, it is considered the most alluring nook in Greece. There are millions of reasons to come here!
The city of Thira was built on top of a black pumice bedrock – the remnant of the volcano that exploded around 1600 BC. After this natural disaster, the island remained uninhabited for almost 500 years, until the Dorian settlers came to live in the archipelago about 1100 BC. Nowadays, Santorini is a tourist destination famous for the most picturesque sunsets in Greece, delicious sweet wine and snow-white houses that look as if they were glued to the black volcanic rock. Interestingly enough, beaches in Kamari and Perissa, among other spots of the island, are covered with black volcanic sand. Even in the early 20th century, this fact made native inhabitants believe that the island was visited by vampires.
What’s there to see? The city welcomes you with charming narrow streets filled with taverns and souvenirs boutiques. It is also worth visiting the Catholic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist with its decorative clock tower. Not far from the city you will find the Archeological Site of Akrotiri with the ruins of ancient Thira dating back to the 9th century BC, which is referred to as the “Minoan Pompeii”. From the old port in Thira, you can set out for a trip to a deserted island of Nea Kameni to hike the volcano crater or take a bath in hot springs. You also simply have to see the town of Oia, known as one of the most beautiful spots on Earth.
All islands in this Greek archipelago are famous for their fertile volcanic soil. It’s perfect for growing grapevine from which the local white wine is produced – sweet vysado and nikteri as well as dry santorini. Tomatoes, pistachios, and wheat are also cultivated here. What should you taste on Santorini? Surely fish and seafood, in particular dishes with octopus which is a regional specialty. Greek salad with eggplants and feta cheese, as well as starters of capers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are also worth their recommendation. For excellent regional cuisine visit Selene and Anemoloos Restaurant or the Parea Tavern.
