📖 About Santorini

Santorini (officially Thira) is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of the Greek islands, famous for its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed villages, and spectacular sunsets. With approximately 17,000 permanent residents, this crescent-shaped island is one of the world's most photographed destinations.

The island was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, possibly inspiring the Atlantis legend. The caldera cliffs rise 300 meters from the sea, topped by white buildings with blue domes. Santorini represents Greek island beauty at its most iconic—volcanic drama, classical architecture, and Mediterranean romance.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Tourism completely dominates Santorini's economy—hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, and tours employ most residents. Wine production continues with unique volcanic varietals (especially Assyrtiko). Some agriculture—tomatoes, fava beans—uses the volcanic soil. The economy is seasonal but extremely prosperous, with high prices reflecting global demand.

Greek Orthodox culture persists despite tourism—festivals, church traditions, and family ties continue. Greek is spoken. The iconic Cycladic architecture (whitewashed walls, blue domes) was originally practical—white reflects heat. Food features local specialties like fava, tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), and fresh seafood. The culture balances tradition with tourism's cosmopolitan influence.

📜 History

The Minoan eruption (~1600 BC) was one of history's largest volcanic events, destroying a thriving Bronze Age civilization. Akrotiri preserves remarkably intact ruins. The eruption may have contributed to Minoan Crete's decline and inspired Plato's Atlantis story.

Greek colonization, Byzantine rule, Venetian and Ottoman periods followed. Wine trade brought prosperity. Modern tourism began in the 1970s, exploding by the 2000s. Today Santorini welcomes over 2 million annual visitors—volcanic landscape, sunset romance, and Cycladic beauty creating one of Earth's most desired destinations.