Cyclades Guide - Escale Yachting

T H E R A S I A
Therasia has the same geological history and common architecture as
Santorini, and the residents of both islands have common customs and
traditions. However, although so close to the cosmopolitan island, Therasia is
little affected by tourism, keeping its original character intact. The whitewashed
houses with the colourful small gardens – alitanes -, the wild beauty
of the brown and black earth, shrubby vegetation, the rocky sculptures
created by the volcano, the wind and the waves, and the harmonious
contrast of the aquamarine waters make this simple island a scenery of total
serenity and relaxation, an ideal refuge for all those who want to escape the
pressure of urban life.
The settlements of Therasia, which together with Oia in Santorini form a
single community, are populated by approximately 300 residents, mainly
fishermen and farmers.
Part of a long history
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Therasia is a 9km piece of land that was detached from the ancient island
of Strongyli after the tremendous eruption in 1650 BC. It is located in the
northwest part of the caldera at a distance of less than one mile from Oia,
forming the round shape of the ancient island together with Santorini and
Aspronisi.
As evidenced by the archaeological finds (remains of buildings, ceramic
vessels), Therasia participated in the impressive prehistoric civilization of
Strongyli during the 2nd millennium BC, which was destroyed by the
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