Welcome to the Santorini SMART Buses! Sightseeing with the ...

Welcome to the Santorini SMART Buses!
Sightseeing with the SMART Buses is easy and allows you to discover the Island of
Santorini by following your own program, at your own pace. You are free to use as many
SMART buses as you wish with just one ticket! Visit the traditional villages, enjoy their
fantastic architecture and magnificent land formation, the unique vineyards and of course the
breathtaking Caldera. Try local wines and specialties as exceptional as Santorini itself.
The four SMART Lines: Red, Yellow, Orange and Blue, are at your disposal and will
transfer you from four different directions to all over the island. We also offer you the Purple
Line, which will take you to an unforgettable cruise in the proximity of the volcano.
We advise you to take advantage of the discounted tickets for 2 and more days!
The present guide will lead you through this amazing island so that you can learn it piece by
piece along a route designed by yourself. We hope that you will enjoy it!
Thank you for your SMART choice!
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LIST OF CONTENTS
SMART Buses Line Itinerary 3
Remarks 5
About Santorini … 6
Introduction 6
SMART LINES GUIDE
RED Line
Episkopi Gonias 7
Mesa Gonia 9
Exo Gonia 12
Pyrgos and Santo Wines 15
Vothonas 21
Messaria 25
Karterados 28
Fira 32
Monolithos 39
Kamari 42
ORANGE Line
Perissa 49
Perivolos 53
Vlychada and Exomitis 56
Akrotiri & Red Beach 57
Megalochori 62
Santo Wines 15
Fira 32
Emporio 67
YELLOW Line
Oia 72
Finikia 78
Imerovigli 81
Firostefani 87
Fira 32
PURPLE Line
Cruise in the Caldera 90
BLUE Line
Ancient Thira 91
About Kamari Tours 93
Legend to the maps 94
Useful phone numbers 96

LINES ITINERARY
RED LINE
Starting Point Pick Up / Drop Off Point Duration of Trip (min)
Kamari Panagia Episkopi 5
Mesa Gonia 10
Exo Gonia 15
Pyrgos 20
Santo Wines 25
Vothonas 30
Messaria 35
Karterados 40
Fira 45
Fira Karterados 5
Messaria 15
Vothonas 20
Monolithos 30
Kamari 40
ORANGE LINE
Starting Point Pick Up / Drop Off Point Duration of Trip (min)
Perissa Perivolos 5
Exomitis 10
Vlychada 15
Akrotiri Village 20
Akrotiri Excavations (closed) 25
Megalochori 35
Santo Wines 40
Fira 45
Fira Santo Wines 5
Megalochori 10
Akrotiri Village 25
Akrotiri Excavations (closed) 30
Emporio 40
Perissa 45
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YELLOW LINE
Starting Point Pick Up / Drop Off Point Duration of Trip (min)
Oia Finikia 5
Imerovigli 20
Firostefani 25
Fira 30
Fira Firostefani 5
Imerovigli 10
Finikia 25
Oia 30
BLUE LINE
Starting Point Pick Up / Drop Off Point Duration of Trip (min)
Kamari Ancient Thira 15
Ancient Thira Kamari 15
PURPLE LINE*
Starting Point Pick Up / Drop Off Point Duration of Trip (min)
Fira Athinios Port bus roundtrip 45
Boat cruise 120
* PURPLE Line: Sightseeing cruise in the bay of Santorini (Caldera). Our SMART boat will
take you from the Athinios harbor to a picturesque cruise along the cliffs of Santorini. We will
make a 20 minutes stop at the beach of Thirassia Island where you can have a swim, and then
the boat will take you to the proximity of the volcano. During the sightseeing tour you will
have the opportunity to see from very close the cliffs of Caldera and take spectacular pictures.
The duration of the trip is 45 minutes to and from Athinios Port with the PURPLE Line’s bus
(round trip), plus 2 hours the boat cruise, 2hours and 45 minutes in total.
LINES CONNECTIONS:
Fira Town - Lines connected: RED, ORANGE, YELLOW and PURPLE
Kamari – Lines connected: RED and BLUE
Santo Wines - Lines connected: RED and ORANGE

REMARKS:
• The 11€ All Day ticket, as well as the tickets for 2-, 3-, 4-, 5- and 6-days are valid for the
RED, ORANGE and YELLOW Lines only. Those tickets do not valid for any other line.
• For the BLUE Line to Ancient Thira a separate ticket of 10€ is required (round trip
transportation). This ticket does not valid for any other line.
• For the PURPLE Line a separate ticket of 13€ is required. This ticket covers the round trip
transportation from Fira to Athinios Port and back with the PURPLE Line, and the non-stop
boat cruise along the Caldera. This ticket does not valid for any other line.
Ticket sale points:
• All Kamari Tours offices (Kamari- Fira-Perissa-Karterados)
• Other travel agencies and hotels in Santorini
• SMART Buses (at the boarding)
For more information please contact: 22860 32751
GENERAL RULES:
The bus schedules may change during the season. You will find more information at the sale
points.
The tickets are valid for SMART Buses transportation only.
The tickets valid only for the dates written on.
Pick-up and drop-off are only possible at the SMART Buses stops. The exact location of the
stops is described in the guide handed over to you, free of charge, with the purchase of the
ticket.
The company-carrier is not responsible for any belongings left in the bus.
The passengers are obliged to show valid ticket each time they board on the SMART bus/
boat.
Drinking, eating and smoking are not allowed in the bus.
REFUNDS
Tickets are non-refundable. Full refund is guaranteed only in the case of a route cancelled
by the company or when some changes will occur in the schedule due to reasons which are
beyond the company’s control.
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ABOUT SANTORINI …
THIRA – the southernmost island of Cyclades, counts 73 km 2 , is 18 km long, 2-6 km wide
and 568 m high.
It lost physical contact with Thirassia and Aspronisi - but still form a harmonious circle known
as Thira.
It remains in strict relation with the volcanoes: Kameni, some 2 km off the western shore and
the underwater Koloumbo, some 6.5 km off the eastern shore.
It is known under the names of: Thira, Stroggili, Kallisti, Santorini.
The extremely dry, yet explosive character of the island led it in the archaic past to loose more
than half of its body, but did not calm it down. Successive explosions and earthquakes put
Thira now and again in new trouble and it seems that, despite of frequent winds, there is no
way to extinguish its suicidal intentions.
Thus, Thira remains a cauldron (Spanish Caldera) with the Kameni islands stuck in the middle
and keeping this pot boiling…
To those who dare to stay here is dedicated this booklet.
INTRODUCTION
Santorini actually consists of a group of five islands which form a crescent located in the
southern Aegean Sea about 200 km SE from Greece’s mainland and 128 Nautical miles of
Piraeus Port.
The contrast of colors, light, earth and water makes Santorini the most treasured in the gallery
of Greek islands. Many things have been written about this unique island and many more will
be written in the years to come but Santorini will always remain the crown of the Cyclades. This
is one of the most popular destinations in Greece because of its most impressive landscape. It
has been said the sunsets in Santorini are the most spectacular in the world. This is Santorini
seen through the eyes of people who know and love it.
Transportation to and from Santorini is possible by ferry boats, high speed vessels and
airplanes. On the island transportation is possible by car, moped or donkey…
The island, with its picturesque villages, narrow alleys, traditional donkey rides, unique
architecture, local delicacies (grapes, cherry tomatoes or tomatakia, fava-beans and pistachios,
to mention some of them) and superb wines, gives the visitor a sense of fulfillment, tranquility
and refuge from the cares of the world.
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EPISKOPI GONIAS
Please see the plan of Mesa Gonia
SMART Bus Stop: On the square in front of the entrance to the church courtyard.
Brief characteristics:
The oldest Byzantine church of the island, Panagia Episkopi (built in 1115), is the pride of
the locals.
It was built on the ruins of a 6th century church. Marble pieces from the ruined church were
used to build the new one. Stones from Ancient Thira were also used to build the church
of Panagia Episkopi. Originally it was the seat of the Orthodox Bishop. Following the 4th
crusade the church it passed into the hands of the Catholics (early 13th century). When the
Turks conquered Santorini in 1537, Panagia Episkopi returned to the Orthodox. The church is
worth visiting not only because of its historical and architectural value, but also because of its
picturesque location. It is approximately 10 minutes walking distance to the south from Mesa
Gonia. Despite the stormy past: a disastrous fire in 1915, the earthquake in 1956 and theft of
most precious icons in 1982, the church is still one of the most important monuments of the
island. The one surviving icon from the Byzantine collection, Panagia Glikofilousa, is still in
the church’s sanctuary.
The church is one of the few of the
island that are open for visiting.
Holy mass is given every Sunday
before noon. There is small
entrance fee of 0.50 €.
Strolling around:
Remember: Taking photographs
with flash is forbidden inside the
church!
The church is the first one on
Santorini built in Greek-cross
style, with a central dome. You
enter it by the western entrance.
The first chamber is narthex. From here you pass to the nave. You are facing the impressing
icon-screen (templon). It is an example of keromasticha - marble combined with wax
decoration. The icons you see were brought to the church after the old ones had been stolen
about 26 years ago. The only one remaining after the robbery can be seen on a side of the
nave, covered with glass and under precise humidity control. Some of the marble pieces that
were rescued from the previous church are: the central columns, the northern entrance and
the architraves.
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CANAVA ROUSOS
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6
3
5
1
EPISKOPI GONIAS
1. PANAGIA EPISKOPI
2. GRAVEYARD
MESA GONIA
3. CHURCH OF METAMORPHOSIS
4. AG. TRIADA
5. RUINED MANSION
6. RUINED CAVES

The church interior was decorated with frescoes. Unfortunately, humidity more than the time,
caused heavy damages to them.
While being on the courtyard of the church devote some time to enjoy the nice view of Kamari
and Monolithos, as well as the gorgeous mountain of Prophet Elias to the southwest.
On the back of the church is growing a carob tree, the fruits of which are considered a substitute
of chocolate, popularly used as donkey food but also to treat diabetes.
At the parking area, there is a small sweet-water spring. Springs of sweet water are very scant
in Santorini. Do not be mislead - this one collects rain water...
No more than 80 m down the street towards Mesa Gonia there is a white church located within
a small graveyard, and one more spring of rain water nearby. Here you will find a bench where
you can sit and contemplate the surroundings…
Estimated time for sightseeing:
15 min is enough.
Where to eat:
The nearest place to have refreshment is an ouzerie-tavern in Mesa Gonia.
Nearest spot of tourist interest:
Mesa Gonia (approximately 10 minutes walking to the north)
MESA GONIA
SMART Bus Stop: In front of the Canava Argyros.
Brief characteristics:
Once, Mesa Gonia was the center of Santorini’s wine production. Located on the “foot” of the
mountain, it is the nearest village to Kamari. In old maps Mesa Gonia is referred to as Kato
Gonia (The Corner Below) in contrast to the nearby village Exo Gonia (previously called:
Apano Gonia – The Corner Above).
Two recognized old wineries are located in Mesa Gonia: Canava Roussos (established in 1836)
and Canava Argyros (established in 1903). The history of viticulture is as old as Santorini
itself but the real boom falls to the 17th and the 19th century. Due to the specific climate
(hot summers, strong winds and lack of rainfalls), the grapes of Santorini are very sweet and
the wine is strong and of high quality. Since almost everybody on the island was cultivating
grapes, kanaves (wine cellars) became an integral part of each house. In practice kanava is
a cellar in which they press the grapes and store the wine barrels. It must be shady and cool,
and have a small window for ventilation. Usually kanava has two rooms – one in where no
light can enter, equipped with two wine-presses (separate for red and for white grapes), and
a second one – antechamber with windows that allow a good ventilation. However, there
is something more, not just wineries that make Mesa Gonia famous…History of Santorini
is a history of reiterating volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Within the last 2000 years 3
remarkably dramatic earthquakes took place: The first in 1650 (accompanied by tremendous
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eruption which came from the volcano Koloumbo),
the second in 1707 and the third in 1956. There is
no village in Santorini that escaped the serious
damages which the last earthquake caused. But the
real memorial of that event is Mesa Gonia.
Until the earthquake of 1956, Mesa Gonia was a
lively, picturesque village. During the earthquake it
was heavily destructed and has never been restored.
But even now a short stroll among the ruins will
convince you that this place is still fascinating.
After the earthquake the residents of the village
moved down to Kamari village. However, more
or less 30 families are faithful to Mesa Gonia and
stubbornly remain on the post…
Strolling around:
Hint: Do not enter the ruins. In case you forget this
warning, a big board near the Church of Aghia Triada
will kindly remind you again…
You start from the entrance to the village, next to the
Canava Argyros. It is one of the two oldest wineries on the island. The second one is Canava
Roussos, located 50 m down the village, near the main road to Kamari. Canava Roussos is
open for visiting and wine tasting.
The narrow street will lead you into the settlement, where ruined farm houses stay in contrast
to lush flowers and shrubs. The church of Metamorphosis, that is the first church on your
way, is an early XIX century structure. Have a look at the beautiful mosaic of white and black
stones, which covers the front-yard, typical Santorini-style decoration. Another church on
your way, with the blue dome, is Aghia Triada. Behind it, slightly to the right, you will find
ruined caves for keeping animals (so called mantra). Stay on the main avenue though. Some
10 m further, on a hill to the left, is located an abandoned archontiko. These architectonically
sophisticated buildings belonged to the landlords. You can continue your stroll towards the
western end of the village, where few more caves are to be seen.
After returning to Canava Argyros follow the left branch of the street, down to nearby located
Canava Roussos. You can pay a visit there and taste famous Santorini wines…
Further from Canava Roussos the street leads to the public road. Some 60 m down the road
towards Exo Gonia you will find a signpost to
Art Space of Argyros Canava Exhibition. This
walk requires 5 minutes and by its end you will

have opportunity to find out more about the art and life on Santorini.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
20 minutes is enough to explore the settlement.
Where to eat:
In the area there is only an ouzerie-tavern by the exit from the village.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Episkopi Gonias (approx. 10 min to S), Exo Gonia (approx. 10 min to N, however walking to
the top of the village requires another 20-25 min)
ARGYROS ESTATE
Episkopi-Gonia,
Santorini
Tel: 22860 31489
Fax: 22860 32285
Email: margiros@otenet.gr
www.argyrosestate.gr
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EXO GONIA
SMART Bus Stop: On the main road, opposite to the church of Aghios Charalambos.
Brief characteristics:
Exo Gonia is one of the few villages of Santorini that stay in contrast to the island’s busy
summer life. Exo Gonia is considered the ideal village for those who wish to enjoy the silence
of rustic surroundings far from the vigorous reality of the island. The village is located on a
hill next to Mesa Gonia. Because of its location in historical times Exo Gonia was duly named
Apano Gonia (The Corner Above). To the top of the village leads a public road that has 9 sharp
bends. Crowning glory of the village is the church of Aghios Charalambos, one of the biggest
churches of the island, with imposing red domes. The church of Aghios Charalambos was
built in 1941 on a site of a monastery which was dissolved in 1833. The view from the top of
the village allows you to admire
the island from the southeast
to the northeast: Prophet EIlias
and Mesa Vouno with Kamari
at its foot, Monolithos with the
airport and Fira on the rim of
the Caldera. On the hill to the
southwest proudly dominates
above Exo Gonia the historical
village of Pyrgos
Strolling around:
While being at the top of the
village, take a walk around the
church of Aghios Charalambos.
Look at the beautiful mosaic
cobbling on the courtyard.
In the right corner of the courtyard,
hidden among trees, there is a monument, the tribute to those islanders who fell in the world
war. Follow the stairs down to get to the ouzerie Metaxy Mas. From here you can turn left into
a narrow street. More or less half way down, on the slope you will see ruined cave houses.
On your right side (next to a garage), you will find a stairway leading down into an even more
interesting part of the village. Have a short stroll there and admire the colorful and fantastic
traditional architecture. About 40 m away there is an old church of Aghios Theologos with
beautiful, red-and-white bell-tower. Behind the church, to the right, there is one more ruined
cave house. From here you can follow the stairway up behind the church. You will reach a
cobblestone street near the ouzerie Metaxy Mas. This loop will take you no more than 15

minutes. You can turn left behind the
tavern and follow the alleyway where
you will see a few neoclassical mansion
houses (so called archontika).
If you pass the turn to the church of
Aghios Theologos and follow the
narrow street down, you will soon get to
the main road. The small white church
on the verge of the road looks as if it was
about to slide down the entire slope.
Option for tough hikers: Pass the church
and go down the road until the next
curve where you will find a signpost
leading to the church of Aghios Vlasios.
The trail to Aghios Vlasios initially
leads in the north direction. You will see
the Santorini airport from a distance.
You can also enjoy a panoramic view
of the island. With the small exception
of a trash disposal area which will
accompany you for a short while, the
trail passes through an uninhabited, rural
area. The church of Aghios Vlasios, a
typical island-style church, as almost of the island’s churches is closed. The trail also passes
from a barn-yard. At the crossroads turn left and follow the road that will take you almost
in front of Aghios Charalambos church. This walk will take you about 30 minutes but in the
hot summer days you may find it rather exhausting. However, it can be very romantic if you
happen to be there during sunset…
If you wish to continue your walk along the main road, skipping the Aghios Vlasios church’s
trail, descend to an old Canava (it is hard to miss the big inscription on its gate). There is an
old cave with its front wall made of black lava stones and a narrow concrete passage next to
it. If you follow it up you will get very soon to the entrance to Art Space.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
In order to see the village 40 minutes are more than enough, unless you decide to extend your
visit to Aghios Vlasios church’s route (this will take you approximately 30 more minutes).
Where to eat:
Exo Gonia offers attractions
for your eyes, but still refuses
to take care of your stomach.
Actually you can just count on
refreshment served in ouzeritavern
Metaxy Mas, close to the
church of Aghios Charalambos.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Mesa Gonia (approximately 10
minutes walking from the Art
Gallery).
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ART CENTER
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KAMARI
AG. VLASIOS TR.
2
4
4
5
1
METAXY
MAS
PYRGOS
1
2
AG.VLASIOS
TRAIL
MESSARIA
S
EXO GONIA
1. AG. CHARALAMBOS
2. GRAVEYARD
3. AG. VLASIOS
4. AG. THEOLOGOS
5. OLD CANAVA
W
E
3
N

PYRGOS AND SANTO WINES
SMART Bus Stop:
1. Santo Wines, 1km west from Pyrgos village. Lines: RED, ORANGE
2. First square (Soroton Sq.) in Pyrgos. RED Line only.
Brief characteristics:
Picturesquely located on a round hill, some 360 m above the sea level. After the collapse of
the medieval capital on Skaros, Pyrgos became the temporary capital of the island until 1800.
Pyrgos has a long history; it is believed to be one of the 6 settlements of Ancient Thira.
During the Middle Ages, mainly during Latin rule up to the 16th century the island suffered
a lot from pirate raids. The locals had to fortify their settlements. This is how the kastelia
appeared on the island. Kastelia were built also in Skaros, Oia, Emporio and Akrotiri. The
oldest known documentation about Kasteli of Pyrgos is dated back to the 16th century. Kastelia
were built in strategic positions, highest and most inaccessible parts of the island so that
they were easy to defense and to survey the neighborhood. Because of limited space, sloping
ground and their defensive character, the houses within kastelia were densely packed, literally
stuck one by another. The outermost houses were also the outer walls of the fortification.
The streets of kasteli (rymidia) were narrow and irregular, forming a labyrinth-like net. The
fortified entrance to Kasteli of Pyrgos was on its western side and its defensive character was
strengthened by constructions with pots for hot oil which was spilt on enemies. The entrance
to the kasteli is called Xeporta – the Outside Door.
At times of Turkish domination on the island (1537-1821) pirate raids ceased gradually and
the locals started to build their houses outside the kastelia. The new districts of once fortified
settlements were growing dynamically, becoming continuation of maize-like character of
kasteli…
Kasteli of Pyrgos suffered severe
damages during the 1956 earthquake.
Until the earthquake, narrow alleyways
of Kasteli were covered with plakoto
(stone pavement). Later they had been
covered with concrete to smooth the
breakages and to cover telephone wiring.
In some places, especially on the sides
of footways you can spot fragments of
original plakoto.
Contemporary Pyrgos is a vast, lively
settlement covering the hill all around,
far beyond the boundaries of Kasteli. It
has more than 650 permanent residents.
It also prides itself of having the highest
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location of all villages on Santorini. In Pyrgos you will find more than 40 churches. As almost
all churches on Santorini, they are opened only at special occasions like celebration of the
patron. That particular day wine and traditional food prepared by local housekeepers is served
in the church and everybody is welcome to join the feast (panigiri).
Ironically, despite the fairly high number of churches adorning Pyrgos with their white and
blue domes and sophisticated bell-towers, the regular holy mass takes place in the small Agios
Antonios some 100 m behind the square, far down the hill
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Strolling around:
Santo Wines:
Santo Wines is 1 km NW from Pyrgos village, by
the main road to Fira. It is the largest winery on
Santorini which operates since 1992 and is also
the most modern winery facility on the island,
built on five levels. The surrounding vineyards are
spread at different levels which form traditional
terraces. The winery is located at the edge of the
Caldera and therefore offers the visitor not only
interesting tour to the winemaking area but also
unforgotten wine tasting with the view to the
volcano.
Pyrgos village:
From the small square (Emmanouil Sorotou)
where the Smart Bus will leave you follow the
main road into the town to the main square
(Stefanou Melekou). Start your stroll from
paying a visit to the exhibition “The Vanishing
Santorini” which you will find some 80 m down
the square. The museum is located in old kanava. A short visit there will give you a picture of
the past everyday life of the islanders.
In order to get to Kasteli follow the steps behind the post box at the Melekou square. On your
way up you will have opportunity to buy local products and wine. For your convenience it is
advisable to postpone the shopping until the return from kasteli. From here the best way to get
up is following the blue arrows painted on the streets
The first big church on your way is church of Christ. This church celebrates its panigiri on
August 6th, only 9 days before the
celebration of the most important
church in Pyrgos – the so called
Theotokaki (Church of Virgin Mary).
For this reason meals served on August
6 do not contain meat. Meat, which is
scarce on Santorini, is preserved for
the big feast in Theotokaki that will
take place a few days later.
The arched gate to kasteli (Xeporta -
Outside door) is above a square called
Exoplateia. Once, noblemen of the
settlement gathered around here to
vote. Have a look at the church of
Aghios Nikolaos with a bell-tower that
is said to be one of the most beautiful

on this island. In front of the church stands a monument commemorating those islanders
who died during the World War. On the opposite side you will see a neoclassic mansion with
beautiful ornaments. There are more mansions like this around the kasteli. They usually are
distinguished from the surroundings not only by their size and sophisticated architecture, but
also vivid colors. These houses are an architectonic work-of-art that could be afforded only
by the landlords. They appeared on
the island during the more peaceful
times, after pirate attacks finally
ceased. Behind the mansion is the
church of Aghia Theodosia.
If you wish to do something more
extravagant, have a picture taken on
a donkey in the square…
After entering the kasteli, take a
right turn. Just behind the corner
is one of the biggest churches on
Santorini – Eisodion tis Theotokou
(Presenatation of Saint Mary)
dated from 17th century. In the
neighborhood is the ochre-painted
church of Aghia Triada, formerly
catholic, now it is housing a
collection of liturgical objects and
icons, the oldest of which is dated
to 16th century. The museum is operating from March to October and entrance is free of
charge. You are actually at the top of the Kasteli. Behind the Aghia Triada is a narrow passage
to the small, white-washed Theotokaki. It is dated from 10th century and is one of the oldest
churches on this island. The view of the island from here is gorgeous and will repay you all
your efforts which you put to get there.
Hint: The Kasteli is criss-crossed by countless narrow streets and stairways running in all
possible directions but even if you have the impression of being lost, do not worry, the blue
arrows will appear mercifully under your feet at the most unexpected moment…
From the Stefanou Melekou square you can follow the plakoto that runs to the east. Soon
you will get onto a small parking area near a school. There are three streets going out from
there. The left one will take you back to the main square, the middle one leads to Kasteli. The
right one is not paved and leads along the north-eastern walls of Kasteli. This is an option for
tough hikers. The walk takes about 20 minutes and gives you opportunity to enjoy panoramic
views of the island. On the foot of the
mountain of Profitis Ilias is a quarry of
pumice stone (SE). Then, in a valley you
can spot big, grey edifice of the church of
Saint Nicolas dated from the18th century,
lost among terraced fields. Like Episkopi
Gonias, this church was raised with use
of marble elements from Ancient Thira.
Following the path still to the east you will
easily find the red domes of the church of
Aghios Charalambos on the very top of
Exo Gonia, and finally the long grey line
of the airport. Your way now will turn
left; up the rock is the white church of
Aghios Christoforos. Climb up the stairs,
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pass next to the church and continue your walk. Continue the walk until you get back to the
Church of Aghia Theodosia at the NW side of the Kasteli. From here you have only 5 minutes
to the square of Stefanou Melekou. Well done!
It is time to have a rest.
Estimated time for sightseeing: To get to the top of kasteli from the SMART bus stop on the
first square of Pyrgos count 25 minutes. Add more time so you can better explore the kasteli,
though.
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Where to eat and do
shopping:
Within the romantic
surroundings of Kasteli
you can have a rest at
Franco’s Café next to
Eisodion tis Theotokou
church or café-ouzerie
Penelope just behind the
Church of Christ.
The main square offers
a choice between Café
and tavern Kasteli. Down
the street towards the
Emmanouil Sorotou
square (NW, direction to
Fira) is Mythos tavern
and spaghetteria-pizzeria
Mylos on the very square.
If you follow the street further down you can have dinner at Restaurant Pyrgos. This is an
option for those who like to eat in style.
Public toilets (no offence) are down the main square, look for signposts.
In Pyrgos you will easily find mini markets, bakery, and souvenir stores by the main square.
Where to eat and do shopping:
There you will also find Kallisti Tavern. An excellent choice for Greek traditional cuisine.
There are art galleries on the way up to Kasteli, the last one is in proximity of Xeporta, behind
the church of St. Nicolas.
Some 50 m further down the public road, behind Mythos tavern you will find a store with
traditional products, but you can get them also on the way leading to Kasteli, just behind the
tavern of the same name.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
1 km from Pyrgos (at the direction to Fira) there is a winery Santo Wines, which you can visit.
If you get there on afternoon, you may have opportunity to try Santorini wines while watching
the sunset.
If you like mountaineering, have a walk to Profitis Ilias. The top of the mountain counts 568
m above the sea level and is located 3 km away from Pyrgos (sic!). To get there follow the
main road, pass next to the church of Aghios Antonios, follow for the next 100 m and look for
a signpost “Profitis Ilias footway” on the left side of the road. Have a close look at the church
Aghoi Apostoloi, the only preserved remainder of a 19th century school founded at this site
by the monastery of Profitis Ilias, and enjoy your walk…

N
E
W
S
8
10
PYRGOS
1. SOROTOY SQ.
2. MELEKOY SQ.
3. SCHOOL
4. VANISHING SANTORINI
5. AG. ANTONIOS
6. AG. APOSTOLOI
7. AG. NICOLAS
8. AG. CHRISTOFOROS
9. KASTELI ENTRANCE (XEPORTA)
10. NORTH SIDE OF THE KASTELI
4
9
PYRGOS 7
6
1
FIRA 3
MYLOS
2
MYTHOS
TO SANTO WINES 1 km
7
4
9
SEE THE NEXT PAGE
5
PROFIT IS ILIAS
10
6
19

20
8
4
7
1
6
3
PYRGOS KASTELI
1. CH. OF CHRIST
2. AG. DIMITRIS
3. AG. THEODOSIA
4. AG. NICOLAS
5. XEPORTA
6. ISODION TIS THEOTOKOY
7. AG. TRIADA
8. THEOTOKAKI

VOTHONAS
KALLISTI
Pyrgos,
Santorini
Tel: 22860 34108
Fax: 22860 33347
SMART Bus Stop:
1. Buses arriving from Santo Wines: by the north entrance to the settlement (next to the stop
for public buses, in front of the school).
2. Buses arriving from Messaria: 200 m down the main road, towards Messaria. The bus will
stop on the first crossroads (by the parking area).
Brief characteristics:
Vothonas is another example of a “river-bed” settlement. The village is located in a 5 km long
galley. The settlement, which history goes back to the 18th century, does not extend that far
though. Vothonas, as other villages of this type, is densely built due to limited width of the
ravine. To gain more space the majority of dwellings are carved in the soft tephra (mix of
pumice and volcanic ash). Because of their simplicity these cave houses (so called hyposkafa)
have been very popular on Santorini, especially among farmers, who were not well-off. Now
they belong to the most expensive dwellings on this island.
Hyposkafa are quite narrow, but long. The front wall has door and windows on both sides
of it. Most of the cave houses have one main room just behind the door and a smaller one
(bedchamber) on the back. The wall sharing the two rooms has also openings analogous to
the front wall. The roofing is vaulted. A small kitchen is adjacent to the main room. Restroom
is outside in the courtyard, where also the cistern for collecting rainwater is located. Water
was always scarce on Santorini and therefore rain was the main source of sweet water on the
island.
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Hyposkafa, due to their vaulted roofing and flexible construction material have anti-seismic
properties. Even more, porous pumice is a good isolating material, therefore ensures relatively
stable temperatures inside the house. Last but not least, the only element connecting the house
with the outside world was a narrow front wall, so that the dwelling was hard to find by pirates.
While landlords had their kastelia, farmers had their own barricades within hyposkafa.
Many houses on Santorini are half-built – they are carved in the rock, but their façade is not
limited to the front wall, but is built, to make the construction more spacious. It is not difficult
to spot both types of constructions in Vothonas.
Strolling around:
The northern descent to the village
is by a stairway from the public
road, next to the public school.
From this stairway you have a short
walk to the yellow-colored church
of Aghia Anna (left turn before an
arch), or you can continue straight
forward (pass through the arch),
along street Ilia Anaplioti. This
street runs along the galley. On
both its sides you will see rocky
walls, literally perforated with
numerous cave houses, so that
hardly a piece of untouched rock
can be seen. After some 5 minutes
of walking you will get to the end
of the inhabited area where more hyposkafa can bee seen. Some of them are abandoned and
the surroundings gradually become wilder and greener. For next 60 m the way is dominated
by wild nature, so that you will never get tired with this walk. It will take you to a church of
Aghios Prokopios, which is carved in the rock.
There is also another church carved
in the rock, which Vothonas is
famous for. This one is called
Panagia Sergena, or more popularly
– Panagia tis Trypas. If you return
from Aghios Prokopios, just by
the first opportunity turn left and
go to the west. From the northern
entrance, take a right turn before
the arch and then take another right
turn to the west, so that soon you
will pass next to the salmon-colored
church of Aghia Triada. Just below is
one more church in a cave. Proceed
to the west. Both streets finally
will lead you to the big church of
Panagia (faded salmon color). Have
a look at the fascinating front walls
of the cave houses around there. Then proceed along the street SW, along the galley. There
are roughly 300 m to go. The inhabited area ends here. The street leads now among mostly
abandoned caves. A whitewashed church high up on the slope can make your heart beats faster,
but this is not your final destination. Anyways, you can climb up the 85 steps leading to the
22

church of Aghios Georgios,
because the view from
above is fascinating! If you
are visiting Vothonas shortly
before sunset you will see
far away in the gorge the
village sparkling white and
orange in the evening sun.
From Aghios Georgios
the way becomes less
comfortable; it soon turns
into a narrow trail laid with
small pumice stones. For
this reason it is good to plan
this walk some time sooner
and take athletic shoes with
you. Flip-flops may spoil all
the attraction… The church
of Panagia tis Trypas (Virgin
Mary in the Hole) was a
shelter for the locals during
pirate invasions. The church was dug in the rock 20 m above the ground, once the entrance to
it was by a ladder, which was pulled up after the people climbed it.
Return to the village the same way as you came here. To find the exit from the village go
towards Aghia Triada, turn left after getting to the church courtyard and follow the passage
about 50 m more. You will be at the southern end of the village.
While being in Vothonas it is recommended to extend your walk to the winery of
Koutsogiannopoulous. The winery is about 1.5 km east from the center of the settlement,
by the road Kamari-Messaria. The easiest way to get there is to follow the street leading to
Aghios Prokopios, pass the church and continue until you get to the public road. Turn left and
the winery is on right side of the road. You can have a tour to the underground museum of the
winery that presents the history of viticulture in a very specific and amusing way. The figures,
movable and immovable are the second-to-none attraction of the exhibition. The winery is
open for visits everyday from 10:00 to 20:00, the ticket allows you to both visit the museum
(with an electronic guide) and to taste Santorini wines. Every week there are also organized
Greek Nights with traditional music and dance.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
From the north entrance of the settlement to Panagia tis Trypas is 20 minutes to go.
Roughly 15 minutes are needed to get to Aghios Prokopios. For the route to the winery of
Koutsogiannopoulos you should calculate an additional 15 minutes from Aghios Prokopios.
Where to eat and do shopping:
By the exit to the public road from the Aghios Prokopios route is tavern Kritikos, where
specialties of Crete are served.
More taverns are in Messaria, from the northern village entrance follow the main road down,
some 200 m to the crossroads.
The nearest shopping facility is the super market on the main road leading to Messaria, more
stores are around the crossroads in Messaria.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Messaria – 2 minutes walk.
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24
3
1
6
4 5
WINDMILLS BY THE
NORTH ENTRANCE
PANAGIA TIS TRYPAS
VOTHONAS
1. AG. ANNA
2. AG. PROKOPIOS
3. MANSION NEAR AG. TRIADA
4. AG. TRIADA
5. CH. OF PANAGIA
6. AG. GEORGIOS

MESSARIA
SMART Bus Stop: Argyroy Street, in front of the ruined Saliveros mansion.
Brief characteristics:
One more example of
settlements located in the gorge.
For this reason the central part
of the settlement is built up
with traditional farm houses and
mansions while on its rocky sides
you encounter numerous cave
houses. Existence of Messaria is
mentioned in historical reports
dated to the 17th century. The
name of the village refers to its
geographical location: in the
middle of the island (Greek:
mesa = in the middle). Once
(19th and early 20th century)
Messaria was the industrial
center of the island. Here operated the big Markezini knitting factory and Venetzanos Winery.
Contemporary Messaria is a lively village and centre of wine production, surrounded with
vineyards.
Walking along the streets in Messaria does not require a long time, the village with its more
or less 700 inhabitants is rather small and its size is naturally limited by the ravine in which is
located. It is devoid of the harmony and beauty of Karterados, Finikia or Vothonas. The streets
have a rather hard-up character and constantly barking dogs will convince you that you are
nothing more than an intruder. Despite this, Messaria has some highlights that will catch your
eye, and for this reason it is worth to devote some time for a visit.
Strolling around:
You start your visit in vicinity of the imposing, ruined mansion of family Saliveros. Just
behind this is old winery of Venetsanos (with the long chimney). You can walk along the
narrow Danezi street where most of the houses here are contemporary structures, by the end
though, near a church, there are some abandoned cave houses.
A more interesting route you can take if you turn right from Argyroy street and pass next to
the school. Go towards an outstanding, colorful Argyros Mansion. This 19th century eclectic
building suffered serious damages after the earthquake, but was restored and currently is open
for visits. Guided tours are run from May to October. Turn left behind the mansion and climb
up the stairs to the courtyard of the church of Aghios Dimitris. It was built late in the 19th
century. Adjacent to it is the white-domed church of Christ. On the left side you will encounter
25

uins of the Markenzini knitting
factory set up in 1889.
Return to the Argyros Mansion
and go north so that you go under
an arch and turn left to get next
to the church of Christ. Follow
the passage, on your right side
you will soon see the church of
Aghia Barbara, and next – the
big church of Aghia Irini with
its fancy bell-tower. A few steps
behind the church there are ruined
cave houses. Continue up the
street. It is about 100 m long. At
its end, which is actually the exit
from the densely built up village,
on the left side of the street stays
a ruined windmill. From here the
best thing to do is to return the
same way you have come. Behind the church of Christ turn left. This street runs parallel to the
previous one, but in the proximity of the slope so that you can see numerous hyposkafa dug
in its walls. The nearest church on this way is raised just by the rocky wall. The first example,
really worth seeing, are cave houses on the backside of the church which you encounter as
soon as you turn into this street. Further up the street, on the left is an old, neglected mansion.
You can try to get to the end of this street, but a better idea is to save your energy for nearby
located Vothonas.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
To see traditional settlement 30 minutes is enough.
Where to eat and do shopping:
On the main crossing of Messaria there is a tavern, cafeteria, and towards the football square
grill-souvlaki. More taverns are located along the road to Fira (north direction), as well as a
pharmacy and bookstore. In the vicinity you will find also a bakery and mini market. Following
the road to the south (towards Vothonas) you will find a big discount supermarket.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Vothonas – 200 m south from the crossroads.
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N
E
W
S
MESSARIA
1. SALIVEROS MANSION
2. VENETSANOS WINERY
3. ARGYROS MANSION
4. KNITTING FACTORY
5. AG. DIMITRIS
6. CH. OF CHRIST
7. AG. BARBARA
8. AG. IRINI
KARTERADOS
5
PHARMACY
8
7
6
5
8
M-M
3
KAMARI
4
SPORTS
GROUND
1
A RGYROY ST.
SCHOOL
3
2
DANEZI ST.
M-M
VOTHONAS VOTHONAS 4
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KARTERADOS
SMART Bus Stop: Public bus stop on the main road to Fira, just by the entrance to
Karterados.
Brief characteristics:
Karterados is a lively village located on the way from Messaria to Fira. The nearest beach is
Monolithos, some 3 km down to the east.
The history of Karterados goes back as far as the mid 17th century. This is a typical excavated
settlement. There are a number of settlements on Santorini which, like Karterados, are located
in a so-called “river-bed”. They have a linear scheme, stretching along natural ravine. Steep
sides of the ravine, which are mainly composed of tephra (mix of pumice and volcanic ashes)
are ideal to dig caves. For poor peasants these dwellings offered not just space to live, but also
shelter during piracy attacks. Who would suppose that in 21st century they will gain one more
function – a tourist attraction…
As the time passed by and the danger of pirate raids had decreased, along the ravine grew also
built houses. Characteristic for these settlements are houses which, weather built or dug, do not
follow any architectonic plan. They were built by the same people who were to live in them.
The only thing the builders had to consider
was the limited space. Therefore the houses
feature a multitude of irregular shapes.
More recent history added to this landscape
deliberately designed mansions (see: OIA to
find out more about the mansions)
Karterados is an amazingly colorful
settlement where old, partly ruined cave
houses stay in contrast to fascinating
mansions and built farm houses of all
possible forms. This is what real Santorini
is about!
A unique attraction of Karterados is the
church of Panagia Kokkini (Virgin Mary of
Red). The story says that for construction
of this church red wine was used instead of
water. At some, more dramatic moments in
the history of Santorini, wine was cheaper
than sweet water. Whether red wine was
used as a building component of the church
of Panagia Kokkini or to quench the thirst of
builders, the story does not specify…

One is sure – you will not get bored while
strolling in Karterados!
Strolling around:
Follow down the main street to its end.
There is a square here with an old windmill
and a monument dedicated to islanders
killed during the war.
Southern Bound: Behind the square turn
right and go down. The big church behind
is under renovation and is dedicated to
Aghios Ioannis. Its vast grey edifice is
easily discernible from the public road.
Follow the street to approach the slopes
(left turn, to the east). Surprisingly
in Karterados there are not too many
stairways. The streets are usually covered
with concrete, which makes the stroll
much easier. Follow the narrow street to
the east, which runs along the ravine. The
Church of Aghios Zosimas, up by the slope
is partly dug and partly built. It is dated to
end of the 17th century and once was in
possession of the Profitis Ilias Monastery. The Monastery had to sell it at the beginning of
19th century to finalize the establishment of a Greek School near Pyrgos. Along this way you
will see numerous cave houses standing face to face with magnificent mansions and modern
villas built on the opposite side of the street. The last cave on this way is standing out from the
surroundings because of its unusual blue color. A closer look will explain the phenomenon - it
is used as a place of… carpenter’s workshop.
Turn left behind the workshop, because as you have already discerned, you gone out of the
settlement. Some 5 minutes later you will get to a street that is again leading along the village.
The view down, behind a tennis court will hold your breath for a while. This is the northern
part of Karterados that you should explore and you will not regret it!
A big ochre church with twin
towers is the church of Analipsis.
Behind that, more to the east,
there is a new church that catches
the eye by its pastel pink color.
Although painted already, is still
under construction. In the colorful
reality of Karterados this building
looks like candy.
In the far distance, at the Caldera
is located Fira, the capital of
Santorini. Go along the street to
the west (view to Fira on your
right side) to see more of the
landscape and to return to the
centre of Karterados. The white
church of Paniagia by the road
is set among lush palm trees and
simply calls for a picture.
29

If you wish, have a seat in one
of the taverns along the main
street to do a favor also to your
stomach. Because as far as
Karterados is concerned, it has
still more surprises for your
eyes!
Northern Bound: follow the
street up to the public road,
but do not go that far. Turn
right behind Hotel Cyclades
(across the street you will see
the office of Kamari Tours) and
descend the street for about
50 m towards Villa Margarita.
Take the first turn right, prior
to the Villa and now go towards
the colorfully painted red and
rose Villa Nicolas. It is easy to
spot it. Pass it and enjoy your
walk along one more extremely
narrow and picturesque passage
of Karterados.
Two minutes away from Villa
Nicolas is the magnificent
church of Analipsis. Around
there are also located mansion houses, neoclassical architecture and fantastic colors of which
will satisfy everybody’s taste. Then continue along the same way that brought you to this
point and turn left. Now you will have the “pastel church” just across the fence. Next one,
just behind, is the white church of Panagia Kardiotissa. Across the street is an old windmill.
Just behind it there is a left turn, follow the passage for about 100 m more. This part of the
way you are is already at the outskirts of Karterados, so forgive the barking dogs and make
few more steps so that you get literally onto the courtyard of the church of Panagia Kokkini.
If you follow the street to the west and take the second turn left (first one will bring you to a
private possession) you will soon get in proximity of Villa Margarita. From there it is only 2
minutes to the main street.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
All distances in Karterados are actually short, and to make each of the two suggested rounds
roughly 20-30 minutes is enough. It is safer to count 30 additional minutes just to idle
around…
Where to eat and do shopping:
Along the main road of Karterados there is a variety of taverns serving good traditional food,
also creperie and cafeteria. By the entrance to Karterados and across the street you will find
a bakery and pastry store. At the main street of Karterados there is also internet café. Next to
it is a mini-market. There is no store in Karterados where you can get traditional Santorini
products, however you can ask in the mini-market next to the internet café. The owner can
provide you with fava-beans, tomatakia or wine from his family business.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Fira, about 2km north from Karterados.
30

KARTERADOS
1. KAMARI TOURS OFFICE
2. MINI MARKET INTERNET CAFÉ
3. POLICE DEPARTMENT
4. AG. IOANNIS
5. SQUARE
6. AG. ZOSIMAS
7. CH. OF PANAGIA
8. CH. OF ANALIPSIS
9. NEW CHURCH
10.PANAGIA KARDIOTISSA
11.PANAGIA KOKKINI
9
7
6
11
8
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32
FIRA
SMART Bus Stop for lines YELLOW, ORANGE , RED and PURPLE:
By the main road to Pyrgos, next to the parking area of the supermarket Champion (approx.
80 m down from the office of Kamari Tours.)
Brief characteristics:
Fira can be found on the west coast of the island, perched on the caldera cliffs.
Fira was established by ex-inhabitants of the kasteli of Skaros, who after its damage in 1650
were forced to look for new place to live (see: IMEROVIGLI for more information). In 1800
the medieval capital on Skaros did not exist anymore. Its inhabitants moved it together with
their possessions to their new home in Fira.
At the time Fira was being built, the piracy on Santorini has ceased but the island was still
under Turkish occupation. Written notes dated to 1745 mention existence of look-out tower
in Fira, so called Goulas. In the same notes for the first time in history appears the name of
the village as FIRA.
As others located on the Caldera settlements, Fira has a linear scheme with central road
running parallel to the rim of the Caldera. Fira is overlooking the volcano from an altitude of
260 m. However, to be just, it has to be mentioned that the southern district of Fira occupies
much of the lower part of the Caldera and therefore is named Kato Fira (the Lower Fira). This
is the part where the City Hall is located. Here, on the slope of the Caldera, is embedded the
18th century church of Aghios Minas, as if defining the point from where your stroll along
Fira should begin.
Following the dramatic volcano eruption some 3500 years ago, part of the island disappeared
under seas waters which are now splashing against the high cliffs of the Caldera. The true
story gave rise to a myth of Atlantis. The myth became an integral part of Santorini life and
therefore the first hotel built on the Caldera in Fira took a name of Atlantis. Kato Fira is also a
seat of Orthodox metropolis, while the north
part of the city is a seat of Catholic one.
Long karavolades (about 566 steps
featuring a huge zig-zag on the cliff) lead
to Mesa Gialos, an old harbor of Fira
where currently most of cruiser boats are
anchoring. You will find there also an old
tomato factory. Fira is the only village on
the Caldera that offers easy and comfortable
way of transport on the top: a cable car. The
streets running along the line of the Caldera
are covered with black and white stones
(kalderimia) making the stroll in the village
even more attractive. In Fira there are a
number of museums with exhibitions that

will give you detailed information about
the island.
Although heavily ruined after the 1956
earthquake Fira quickly restored its status
quo and remains the most important center
of the island, bursting with life for all
seasons of the year.
Strolling around:
The main street of Fira will lead you to the
centre of the village, which is full of shops
and traffic. If you decide to explore Fira
just walking along it - be careful, because
before you know it you will get to adjacent
Firostefani…
The cable car is located in the northern
part of Fira which is also the northern border of the city. This is a catholic district; you will
easily find the Dominican Convent with the medieval Rozario church (red bell-tower). Next to
the Convent is the catholic cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Holy masses are given everyday
at 8:00, and on Sundays at 10:00. The sophisticated bell-tower of this church is dominating
over the city and catches an eye from a remarkable distance. Behind the Dominican Convent
begin the suburbs of Fira, known as Firostefani. If you get on the Caldera and look to the
right you will see the red mansion of Petros Nomikos Conference Centre, where you can pay
visit to see reproductions of wall-paintings from Akrotiri (for more details about the Centre
see: FIROSTEFANI). Back from the Centre, on the top of the hill was located goulas of Fira.
Most likely it was raised there before the settlement of Fira was build. It collapsed after the
earthquake in 1956. The current yellow building is an exact replica of the original goulas. It
is now private possession.
Megaron Gyzi, a museum located in an old mansion, is adjacent to Convent of Dominicans
and remains under its care. It is definitely worth visiting, because the museum houses a rich
exhibition of historical documents, old photographs of Santorini, original engravings of maps,
traditional costumes, and finally - paintings of known Greek and foreign painters on Santorini.
The museum is open everyday from 10:30 to 20:00, with a break 13:00-17:00. On Sundays it
is open from 10:30 to 16:30.
Before you leave the Catholic district of Fira, pay a visit to the Archaeological Museum. It
is located on the same square where you find the entrance to the cable-car. You will find a
collection of sculptures and clay pottery mostly from Ancient Thira, but also from Akrotiri.
The museum is open everyday except Mondays 8:30-15:00. There is a small entrance fee
(Sundays free).
To get to Kato Fira you can either
follow kalderimi along the rim of
the Caldera, or the one that is down
the square where the Archaeological
Museum is located. Practically, it
is the one that is nearest to the main
street and leads straight to Megaron
Gyzi. There is lot to see around here.
This kalderimi is probably one of the
most sophisticated on Santorini; the
small black and white stones compose
fantastic mosaics. Along this narrow
street are located little colorful houses,
making you feel as if you were in a
33

surroundings but also your private belongings…
34
fairy tale. No two houses the same!
Every one built according to its own
sophisticated architectonical plan.
Together with their vivid colors
these houses simply catch your eye!
But… trying to see all this in full
season may be a challenge; more
than the architecture, you will have
to mind the myriad of people who
came here for the same reason as
you…
Hint: Fira is full of attractions
and for this reason is also full of
people. Keep watching not only the
The gate to Kato Fira is the huge, whitewashed Orthodox Cathedral of Ypapanti built in
1827. After the earthquake it turned into ruins, following the fate of most other buildings
on Santorini. A new church of Metamorphosis was built later on. In front of the Cathedral
is a Caldera view point. From here you can watch the cruise ships arriving and leaving from
Santorini and small sail boats heading to the volcano and Thirassia.
Near the rim of the Caldera, to the south, there is a big tetragonal edifice of hotel Atlantis. And
down, on the foot of Caldera in blue seas water is the lost Atlantis…
Well, who knows…
If you venture a walk from here along stairways on the cliff, you will pass next to hotels with
the most sophisticated traditional architecture. The entrance part is usually built, but you can
be sure that most of the accommodation is hyposkafo (cave) with endless, narrow stairways.
You will pass next to the church of Aghios Ioannis Parthenos with elegant red door- and
window-lintels. On the southernmost part of the Fira’s Caldera there is a white-washed church
of Aghios Minas, which dates to the 18 th century and has a characteristic dome with lantern,
inspired by renaissance style.
It is good moment to return down to the village and pay a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric
Thera on the back of the Orthodox Cathedral. There are about 500 artifacts on permanent
exhibition. There you can see the range of findings from Akrotiri, including some fragments
of wall-paintings and those few pieces of jewellery found in the abandoned ancient settlement.
The museum is open every day from 8:00 to 15:00, closed on Mondays. Entrance fee is 3
Euro.
Adjacent to the post-office, opposite to the office of Kamari Tours, is the Bellonio Cultural
Centre. It hosts cultural shows, meetings and promotes cultural an artistic development of the
island. There is a well supplied library here also. Down the street is the bus terminal of Fira.
The main street will lead you to a square with a statue commemorating those islanders who
died in fight for independence. Do not idle too long there. Just for your knowledge, behind is
the Tax Office…
Some 600 m north-east from Fira is located a small village Kondochori. The attraction of
Kontochori is Emmanouil A. Lignos Folclore Museum set in the19 th century cave house.
There you can see exhibition of Santorini art and old winery. There is a small entrance fee.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
From 1 hr to 5 hrs.
Where to eat and do shopping:
There is a verity of taverns, cafeterias and shops in Fira. The most interesting, which combine
a good service with picturesque view of the caldera are to be found along the Golden Street

14 20
15
12
FIRA
1. HOSPITAL
2. BELLONIO CULT. CENTER
3. POST OFFICE
4. KAMARI TOURS OFFICE
5. PIRAEUS BANK (next 700m.)
6. EUROBANK
7. ALPHA BANK
8. NATIONAL BANK
9. PHARMACY
10. CABLE CAR
11. AG. MINAS
12. AG. IOANNIS PARTHENOS
13. PREHISTORIC MUSEUM
14. ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL
15. KALDERIMI
16. ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
17. ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
CATHEDRAL
18. DOMINICAN CONVENT WITH
THE ROZARIO CHURCH
19. MEGARON GYZI
20. PETROS NOMIKOS CONF.
CENTRE
21. GOULAS
11
17
OLD PORT
35

– the uppermost calderimi
running along the very rim
of the caldera.
There, just opposite to the
Orthodox Cathedral you
will find the Archipelagos
Restaurant. A few meters
further down to the north is
Cafe Del Mar, a famous cafι
bar with outstanding caldera
view.
There are numerous
jewellery stores and art
galleries located along
calderimia and in the center
of Fira. Opposite Cafe Del Mar you will find Lalaounis Jewellery Shop. The uppermost
calderimi running along the Caldera rim is actually called “the Gold Street”. Guess why…?
By the entrance to the steps leading to the Old Port there is Rastoni Bar Restaurant and a few
meters down from there you will also find a traditional tavern Volcano.
There are also numerous shops selling traditional products of Santorini. It is worth visiting the
one by the road leading to Kontochori and Traditional Products Store on the calderimi leading
to Archaeological Museum. You will enjoy Santorini tradition while being offered a sample
of wine and α pumice stone. Down along the main street you will find a local outdoor market,
so that you can buy these products straight from the farmer.
And for the night, something that sounds “beyond cool” is Casablanca Soul bar. Inspired
cocktails, timeless music and cool, happy people will keep your spirit up.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Firostefani, Petros Nomikos Conference Centre – 1 km from Fira center (N).
Kontochori: 10 minutes walk from the main square.
Karterados – 2 km to the south.
ARCHIPELAGOS
The Greek restaurant
Fira - Santorini pc 84700
Tel-Fax: 22860 23673
Tel: 22860 24059
info@archipelagos-santorini.com
36

CAFΕ DEL MAR
Fira Caldera, Santorini Greece Tel: +30 6939 095 681
ILIAS LALAOUNIS
Ypapantis Street 84700 Fira, Santorini HELLAS Tel: 22860 25844 Fax: 22860 25842
Emails: lalaounis@san.forthnet.gr And lalaounis_santorini@otenet.gr
RASTONI BAR RESTAURANT
Fira, Santorini Tel: 22860 25117
37

38
VOLCANO TAVERNA
Fira, Santorini Tel: 22860 22850
CASABLANCA
Fira, Jewllery Street
Tel: 6946632799
ΘΗΡΑΣ ART
PAINTING
CREATIONS
TEL: 6974364183
www.ilias-art.gr

MONOLITHOS
SMART Bus Stop: In front of the Memories Hotel, on crossroads.
Brief characteristics:
Monolithos is stretched along
the airport. The beach of
Monolithos is a perfect place
for families with children. The
beach is organized and the sea
here is relatively shallow. You
will find here enough free space
to relax on the black sand.
The landmark of the region is a
grey rock with the church of St.
John the Baptist on the top. The
rock gave name to the village.
Greek: Mono-lithos translates
to “single rock”. Together
with mountain of Mesa Vouno
and Profitis Ilias, this is a nonvolcanic
formation. So they stay
in contrast to the rest of the island, which is covered with layers of volcanic ashes, gradually
thickening with each of the 14 eruptions that took place within last 3500 years.
The first Santorini tomato factory was built 1925-26 in Monolithos. At the beginning of
the 20th century, when worldwide interest to Santorini wine declined dramatically, farmers
switched to growing tomatoes. Export of Santorini tomatoes soon became very profitable
and tomato factories were needed,
to ensure effective sale to the most
distant destinations.
By the mid 20th century there were
13 tomato factories on the island.
Currently only one is still operating
– in Monolithos.
Apart from the above attractions
Monolithos is stretched along the
sea shore, so what it has to offer is
also beach, beach, beach….
39

Strolling around:
Monolithos has an organized
black sandy beach that is
more quiet and relaxing than
adjacent Kamari.
From the beach of Monolithos
you can visit the church of St.
John the Baptist on the rock.
It will take you no more than
10 minutes to walk there.
The tomato factory is by the
square. If you like to have a
walk, go along the beach to
the north to see sophisticated
forms of eroded volcanic
rocks. You can find caves dug
in there as well.
A walk to the south will take you to Gaia Winery, which is set in an old tomato factory. This
one is though at fair distance, more than 3 km from the square.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Depending how long you want to stay on the beach.
Where to eat and do shopping:
Along the beach are spread taverns offering tasty food and fresh fish. However distances
between one and another may seem quite considerable. If you do not like to walk, you will
find something on the square. Also there is a mini market there.
Where to eat and do shopping:
Kamari – 4 km
40
CAPTAIN LOIZOS
Restaurant,
Grill House, Fish Tavern
Monolithos, Santorini
Tel-Fax: 22860 31063
Mob: 6976 862825

MONOLITHOS
1. TOMATO FACTORY
2. CH OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
3. BLACK BEACH
1
2
3
41

42
KAMARI
SMART Bus Stop: for lines RED and BLUE in front of Kamari Tours Transfer Office
(opposite to the football field)
Brief characteristics:
Picturesquely located where the sea meets the mountain, Kamari has become a focus of
summer leisure. It is lively and bustling village, with the long, organized Black Beach. But
you make the mistake thinking that Kamari has nothing more to offer. The site where this
modern village is located has its long, long history.
You can find Kamari on the northern site of Mesa Vouno. On top of this mountain at the end of
the 19th century were discovered the ruins of a city, known as Ancient Thira. Also an ancient
cemetery stretching to the west from Ancient Thira towards the mountain of Profitis Ilias was
excavated there.
Ancient Thira is the first known settlement established after the catastrophic eruption of the
volcano in 17th BC. For the next 500 years after this eruption the island remained uninhabited.
The first people that arrived to the abandoned island were presumably Spartans. They
established their settlement on the top of Mesa Vouno 385 m above the sea level and named it
after their leader – Thira. It was also the first ancient capital of the island which held control
over the six other settlements that were soon established on the island. Needless to say that
Ancient Thira left firm trace of its existence not only in the island’s administration, but also
in its…official name.
Excavations on the foot of Mesa Vouno, in the NW part of the village of Kamari had been
initiated in 19th century and brought to light remainders of an ancient settlement and its
cemetery. History of this settlement, called Ancient Oia, goes back to the 8th BC. The best
known in Kamari sign of its existence is so called “kamara” to which the village owes its
name. “Kamara” is a monumental arch, partly built and partly dug in the rock. Presumably in
ancient times this place was custom where merchant ships were arriving to pay taxes. There
is no doubt that Ancient Oia was the
harbor of Ancient Thira.
In one of the caves of Mesa Vouno
on side of Kamari, is a real rarity of
this island – a natural spring of sweet
water.
The spring is duly called the Fountain
of Life (Zoodochos Pigi). At the
entrance to the cave is a church by
the same name. The church was built
between years 1825-34. The spring is
located 190 m above the sea level.
Worth paying attention is also the
church of Panagia Mirtidiotissa by the

entrance to the village.
After the 1956 earthquake army
services built in Kamari rows
of small stables (Greek: stavli),
small shelters for animals that
were held there until the farmer’s
possessions were restored.
Now, more than 50 years after
the earthquake, Kamari offers
everything that is needed to
spend an unforgotten summer
on Santorini.
Strolling around:
The Black beach of Kamari is
covered with pebbles. Water is
crystal-clear here and the beach-front is well organized and offers top-quality bathing. Scubadiving,
wind-surfing, jet-ski is just some of the pleasures waiting for the most adventurous.
By the main road, at the entrance to Kamari is the church of Panagia Mirtidiotissa. If you
follow the road up to the mountain you will find the route to Ancient Thira. From Kamari this
is a quite comfortable way, also available for cars. You are welcome to use the BLUE Line
Smart Bus that can take you there and back.
A walk to the top of Mesa Vouno takes approximately 40 minutes. Keep in mind that Ancient
Thira is open for visits from 8:00 to 14.30, closed on Mondays. From the parking area at the
top of the mountain to the entrance of excavations leads a trail that now and again is quite
difficult, especially in hot summer days. There is a mini shop on the parking area where water
and snacks are sold. If you have no water with you, it is good place and time to get some,
because there will be no such possibility after you get to the excavation site. There is no
entrance fee. The site is about 800 m long but not its entire area is available for sightseeing.
Just by the entrance to Ancient Thira you encounter the church of Aghios Stefanos which is
the oldest church on this island. From this point to the ruins of the ancient city you will need
10-15 minutes up the hill. Whilst visiting the excavations have a look also down the mountain.
Kamari is stretching on its north side and Perissa
on the south. On the return you can either
descend back to Kamari (by bus or on foot), or
walk down to Perissa. The trail requires sport
shoes but is very picturesque. It takes about 20
minutes to go down to Perissa.
Also the descent on foot to Kamari takes less
time than the way up, one more proof that
everything is relative…
Near the street descending to Kamari you can
find trail to Zoodochos Pigi (Lifegiving). The
trail begins behind the second curve of the
street counting from Ancient Thira. Much easier
though is to find the trail from the Kamari village.
It begins behind the Antinea Hotel. The spring is
in a shallow cave and you will have no problems
finding it. From there you can climb up the stairs
and go along the slope of Mesa Vouno; this trail
without mistake will take you in the vicinity of
Ancient Thira.
Remnants of Ancient Oia can be found on the
43

southernmost part of Kamari beach,
by the mountain. Ancient “kamara” is
carved on the foot of Mesa Vouno.
Following the earthquake of 1956
most of farmers from Mesa Gonia
moved that time to Kamari to settle
down there. Rows of shelters for their
animals (so called “stavli”) were built
to temporarily keep them there, until
new barns are fixed. The shelters are
located near the football field, opposite
to the Kamari Tours Transfer Office.
Kamari has also two cinemas, one
at the square and other some 200 m
behind the village (open-air), on the
road towards Fira. Across the street
you can play mini-billards. When you
continue to walk along the main street
you will approach Episkopi Gonias, Byzantine church of the 12th century. To get there follow
the signpost by the road or turn up behind the gas-station.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Ancient Thira: on foot - 40-45 minutes up, 30 minutes down, visiting the site: 1 hr at least
Zoodochos Pigi – 20 minutes one way from Antinea.
Where to eat and do shopping:
There are a countless number of various taverns and restaurants, by the sea side and away
from it, more or less noisy and more or less romantic, serving Greek food, Chinese, Indian and
more. There are also cafeterias, grill-bars, creperies, pizzerias…You are in danger of starvation
if you are not able to make decision in this wide assortment. Worth visiting are taverns at
the south end of the Black Beach, like Zorbas or Atmosphere picturesquely located near the
Kamari Tours Office. International cuisine is served in Mythos tavern while traditional meals
are offered in Salivaros.
In Kamari there is no problem to buy almost anything you wish, from souvenirs, art items,
books, clothes and shoe, tourist items to
cameras, memory cards, even volcanic
candles. The stores are spread along the
beach and all over the city.
Lithos jewellery store you will find on the
beach, next to Kamari Tours office.
Victoria Furs & Leather Store is located
down the street from Ag. Nektarios church
to the beach.
Nearest spot of interest at the walking
distance:
Perissa – 1hr walk across Mesa Vouno.
Ancient Thira, Zoodochos Pigi.
Episkopi Gonias – 2 km from Kamari.
44

ACNCIENT THIRA
7 5
KAMARI
1. KAMARI TOURS TRANSFER OFFICE
2. PHARMACY
3. BOOKSTORE, CINEMA
4. AG. NEKTARIOS
5. PANAGIA MIRTIDIOTISSA
6. KAMARI TOURS MAIN OFFICE
7. ANCIENT KAMARA
8. ZOODOCHOS PIGI
9. ANCIENT THIRA STREET
4
8
KAMARI BEACH
9
45

46
SILIA
Cafe - Restaurant – Pool Bar
Kamari Santorini Greece
Tel, fax 22860 34122
Email siliabar@otenet.gr
LITHOS JEWLLERY
Kamari & Oia Kamari Tel: 22860 31390 198
Oia Tel: 22860 71000
ELEMENT
Επιλεγμένα Κοσμήματα από χρυσό και
ασήμι, τουριστικά είδη και έντεχνα
δημιουργήματα
Kamari – Santorini (κεντρική πλατεία)
22860 31190

AMALTHIA
Kamari, Santorini
PRINCE
Kamari Santorini Tel: 22860 33122
www.prince-barrestaurant.com
ZORBAS TAVERN
Manager: GOTSIS ANTONIO
KAMARI, SANTORINI
Mob: 6973741470
47

48
MYTHOS BAR
RESTAURANT
Tel: 22860 32760
Travel ... with the taste… and
enjoy different dishes and
wines from all over the world.
Tel: 22860 31368

PERISSA
SMART Bus Stop: in front of the Kamari Tours office (next to the tavern Kyklades), about
250 m from the main square.
Brief characteristics:
The south-east coast of Santorini, located on the foot of Mesa Vouno is of special interest to all
who love leisure at the seaside. Approximately 4 km of organized black sandy beach remains
to their disposal. The sea is clear and the bottom has an interesting, volcanic form - shallow
and slippery by the shore, where are prowling many Mediterranean fishes, suddenly drops into
dark depth of the sea. The summer adventure begins in Perissa!
Excavations conducted in the 19th century indicated that Perissa was built on the site of the
ancient city of Eleusina. At times of Hellenistic rule on this island (4th to 2nd centuries BC)
the port of Eleusina was located at cape Exomitis (south from Perissa). The ancient settlement,
according to information provided by archeological research, was abandoned around 7th
century AD.
In Perissa is located the church of Holy Cross (Timiou Stavrou) which is the biggest church
of the island. Its five blue domes are visible from the public road leading to Perissa. The
church was built in the 19th century. Originally its interior was covered all over with beautiful
wall-paintings. Most of them did not survive the 1956 earthquake. In Perissa there was also
excavated an old Christian basilica of Aghia Irini (6th century), the island’s patron saint.
Santa (Aghia) Irini died here on exhale in the 4th century AD. They were Crusaders who at
the beginning of the 13th century started calling the island after its patron. Thus Thera became
Santorini.
Perissa underwent its rapid development within the past 30 years and is a good example of
“touristic metamorphosis”. Until mid-seventieth Santorini was a quiet, unknown island lost
somewhere in the Cyclades. Perissa was a green, almost deserted land. A couple of houses
scattered here and there and the church of Holy Cross were the only signs of life here. From 1970
the significance of Santorini as a tourist destination increased dramatically. To accommodate
the constantly increasing influx of
tourists, new hotels have sprung
up like mushrooms after the rain.
Putative economical profits offered
by new industry attracted also locals,
and soon number of permanent
residents doubled.
Today’s Perissa is a well known
summer resort, offering sandy black
beach, summer sports, a bunch
of souvenir shops, bakeries and
mini markets scattered all along
the village. The blue domes of the
church of Holly Cross are not any
49

50
more alone. They sink in the sea of
white houses and hotels.
Perissa is a lively place during summer.
The square of Perissa is the focus for
main attractions of the village apart
from the beach: The church of Holy
Cross, Basilica of Aghia Irini, the
Museum of Minerals and Fossils
and it is also a good starting point to
explore Ancient Thira on the top of
Mesa Vouno.
Strolling around:
The black, sandy beach of Perissa is
a temptation in all its length. The beach is equipped in every amenity you need to spend
unforgotten and relaxing day. You may have a problem to choose among numerous lively
beach bars. The general rule is that if you order something in a beach bar, you can have an
umbrella at your disposal all day long without any additional charge. Otherwise you may
be asked to pay around 7 Euro per umbrella. If you are looking for a quieter place, without
umbrellas and beach bars in the nearest proximity, there is a chance you will find it near the
mountain. This part of the beach is called by the locals Kolata. If it is not satisfying, you will
have to undertake a 3 km walk along the beach to Perivolos.
On the beach are operating two diving centers, you will find also a water park nearby. Scubadiving,
water ski, parachuting, windsurfing, jet-ski are at your disposal on the beach. In Perissa
you can also try horse-riding.
Have also a stroll to the square of Perissa. Here you will find the big church of Holy Cross.
Some 50 m behind the church, at the foot of Mesa Vouno, are the ruins of Basilica of Aghia
Irini. While at the square, step by to the small Museum of Minerals and Fossils, next to the
church of the Holy Cross. On exhibition are fossils found on Santorini, which are estimated
to be from 50 thousand to 1.5 billion years old! The museum is open from 10:00 to 14:00
everyday.
Option for tough hikers: From the square leads a street towards the mountain. If you follow
it for the next 200 m you will get to the signpost for Ancient Thira. You can venture a walk
up there. The footpath from Perissa is quite steep. During hot summer days it may be quite
exhausting, especially if you are not used to mountaineering. You need about 40 minutes to
get to the top, and because the excavation area is closed after 14.30, you must start before
noon.
At the entrance to excavations there is a church of Aghios Stefanos, the oldest church on
Santorini, dated to the 5th century.
From here there is another 10-15
minutes walk to get up to the ancient
city. It may seem difficult, but consider
that they were Spartans who founded
this settlement!
About one third of the way to Ancient
Thira or just 10 minutes away from the
foot of the mountain where you have
started climbing it up, there is another
footway stretching to the east. This
leads to the church of Panagia Katefiani.
The church is built on the steep slope of

Mesa Vouno and is visible from a distance as a white
spot in the middle of the mountain. Behind the church
are caves. In medieval times this place offered refuge
to the islanders during pirate attacks. It was also a
refuge during so called “time of Evil” or in other words
- terrible eruption of the volcano Koloumbo in 1650.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Sightseeing is actually limited to the square and as
such does not require more that 20-30 minutes.
You will need 50 minutes to get to the excavations at
the top of Mesa Vouno. Return from there takes 20-25
minutes.
Where to eat and do shopping:
Perissa and Perivolos are the best places on Santorini
to have something really traditional to eat. Numerous
taverns offer a variety of meals, also international
cuisine, for reasonable prices and without additional
charge for a sea view. However, if you are fed up with the sea, there is also a variety of
restaurants along the public road.
Local wine you can get from a handler that is occupying the shade by the beach road, near
the mountain.
Fruits and vegetables from family business you can get some 200 m further on, also on the
beach road. At mini-markets you can ask for local wine from barrels. It is poured in into
plastic water-bottles at sale.
There are markets and souvenir shops at the square, also along the main road. A bakery
offering a wide assortment of fresh breads and pitas is about 1 km from the square, by the
public road. Just behind it you will find supermarket and post office.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Ancient Thira – 50 minutes, opening hours 8:00-14:30, Mondays closed.
Panagia Katefiani – 40 minutes to and back.
Perivolos – about 20 minutes walk along the beach, starting from the foot of Mesa Vouno.
THE BEACH BAR
Perissa, Santorini
51

52
PERISSA BEACH
6
5
3
PERISSA
1. SUPER MARKET , POST OFFICE , BAKERY
2. KAMARI TOURS OFFICE
3. CHURCH OF HOLY CROSS
4. MUSEUM OF MINERALS AND FOSSILS
5. BASILICA OF SANTA IRINI (EXCAVATIONS)
6. PANAGIA KATEFIANI

FOINIKAS
Perissa, Santorini
Tel: 22860 83300
PERIVOLOS
SMART Bus Stop:
1. Crossroads up from Mera Beach Bar, close to windmill.
2. On the crossroads 100 m up from the old tomato factory.
Brief characteristics:
Perivolos is an extension of black sandy beach that begins in Perissa. Like Perissa, the beach
is organized, not so crowded though. Along the beach you will find a variety of shops, mostly
with beach items, beach bars and taverns. It offers also a wide range of water sports and beach
volleyball. The southernmost part of Perivolos beach is called Agios Giorgos. This is the most
remote part of black beach, completely wild and quiet. The ancient port of Eleusina links
Perivolos with Vlychada.
Strolling around:
If you spend your vacation on Santorini at the beginning of the season, there is good chance
that from a short walk along the beach you will return with hand-fulls of colorful scallops.
Later on it will be much easier to collect pumice stones…
By the southern end of Perivolos you will find an old tomato factory. It is easy to distinguish
because of its long chimney. From the 19th till mid 20th century there were 13 such factories
operating on Santorini. They were producing world-wide renowned tomato pasta from small
Santorini tomatoes.
Behind the factory a road leads in land. If you follow it for the next 2 km you will get to
Emporio. If you do not wish to go there, but still want have a walk, turn left at the crossroads
53

to approach the hill. On its
slopes here and there you will
see carved arches. These are
remnants of ancient port of
Eleusina, founded by Ptolemies
(4-2 century BC). Follow the
footway along the mountain. By
the end of this trail is an ancient
tomb which you can see close.
The footway is about 1 km long
and leads to Vlychada, so that
you can go to the beach and chill
down in the crystal clear sea
waters of Vlychada.
Estimated time for
sightseeing:
With a good weather you can spend all day on the beach, enjoying it. The walk along Eleusina
does not require more than 15 minutes, but getting there from the crossroads is another 10
minutes or so.
Walk to Emborio takes about 30 minutes.
Where to eat and
do shopping:
On the beach front there are many taverns serving Greek and international food.
Mini-markets are spread all along the sea front too. Do not look for sophisticated souvenir
stores here, for these you would rather go to Perissa. If you turn into one narrow streets
leading in land you have chance to find locals selling by the road traditional products from
family business.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Perissa: E along the coast Emporio – 2 km N
54
TAVERNA PERIVOLOS
Perivolos, Santorini
Tel: 22860 82007

PERIVOLOS AND VLYCHADA
1. MERA BEACH BAR
2. SALTY BEACH CLUB
3. POPEYE TAVERN
4. NOTOS SPA
5. OLD TOMATO PASTA FACTORY
5
ANCIENT ELEUSINA
55
DUNES IN VLYCHADA

56
VLYCHADA AND EXOMITIS
Map – see Perivolos.
SMART Bus Stop:
1. On the crossroads, on the way to Paradisos tavern at Exomitis.
2. In the village, in front of the old tomato factory.
Brief characteristics:
Vlychada is a small village and its inhabitants are mainly fishermen. Black sandy beach of
Vlychada is a SW extension of Perivolos, no more than 2 km away from it. The pumice dunes
fantastically sculptured by the wind are unusually picturesque. The beach is quiet but remains
in proximity of Limanaki – the port of Vlychada, full of small boats floating one by another.
The attraction of the spot is the old tomato factory. At the beginning of the 20th century such
tomato factories played significant role in the island’s industry. “Thera style tomato pasta”
was well recognized and desired worldwide due to the unique taste of Santorini’s tomatoes.
Santorini tomatoes (called also baby tomatoes or tomatakia) have an unusual sweet taste; this
is due to the lack of water during their vegetation. At the beginning of the 20th century their
cultivation was more profitable than the production of wines!
In Vlychada you will also find a picturesque windmill overlooking the Limanaki.
Vlychada’s is located at the southernmost cap of Santorini, called Exomitis. In ancient times
Ptolemies set their naval base, Eleusina, in
this area.
Strolling around:
The first SMART Bus stop is some distance
from the Vlychada port. Follow the sign to
Paradisos Tavern. Here is actually Exomitis
– the southernmost cap of Santorini. Here
you can have a fresh fish for lunch. There is
no passage to the Limanaki along the beach.
To get there you have either take a bus or to
walk some 500 m along the street.
Vlychada has to offer a picturesque black
beach, at some distance from the Limanaki.
Over there you can hire a boat that will
take you to the red and white beaches of
Santorini, which are located more to the
west from Vlychada

If you want to have a break
from the beach, take a walk
along the street next to the
tomato factory. The street
up from the factory is about
1.5 km long and leads to
the main road connecting
Megalochori with Emporio. It
is really scenic road. You can
admire the hills, unusually
sculptured by winds, from
the windows of the SMART
bus. Some people call it
lunar landscape. It makes
an impression and there
are numerous hyposkafa
(caves) hidden in the rocks.
The street runs along Hill of
Gavrilos (on the right side)
and before it ends you will be able to count if there are still 8 old windmills standing there…
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Depending how long you wish to stay on the beach.
Where to eat and do
shopping:
In Vlychada you should not have a problem to get fresh fish. Fish taverns are along the road,
and you can eat watching the sea from above there. First SMART bus stop some 500 m before
the harbor is near fish tavern Paradisos at Exomitis. Trail along Eleusina ends in front of the
tavern Merula.
Dimitris and Fillipos tavern are located in Vlychada overlooking the Limanaki, down on the
beach there is also the Limanaki Tavern.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Perivolos and ancient Eleusina – 1.5-2 km NE (follow the road towards Porto Villa)
AKROTIRI & RED BEACH
SMART Bus Stop:
1. Akrotiri Village – at the main square, next to the mini-market.
2. Akrotiri Excavation Site – the parking area opposite to excavations, which is approx.
400 m away from the Red Beach.
57

Brief characteristics:
In Middle Ages Akrotiri was one of the
five fortified settlements on Santorini,
financially the weakest one but the fact
is also that for a long time Akrotiri was
leading in the production of cotton. In
historical times the Kasteli of Akrotiri (also
called Punta) was a vast structure inhabited
by around 200 families. It has existed since
the early 14th century. Originally it had
two watch-towers (goulades): one was at
the top of kasteli and the other one situated
outside it. Time and earthquakes did not
spare the fortification. Goulas in the kasteli
did not withstand the terrible earthquake,
and currently only the square-shaped base can be merely distinguished among other ruins.
For those who are interested in history, Akrotiri is known as a place of significant excavations.
An ancient settlement, more than 3500 years old was brought to light from a long sleep from
under a thick layer of volcanic ash. Surprisingly well preserved houses and equipment are
silent witnesses of one of the most dramatic volcanic eruptions known in the history of the
Earth. This history has its roots in 17th century BC. Until that time Santorini was a circular
island called Stroggili (Greek: stroggilos=round). At the site of today’s Akrotiri was well
developed Minoan civilization. The terrible eruption of the volcano located in the center of
the island put an end to life on Stroggili. More than half of the island collapsed and sunk
into the seas waters. The ancient city got buried under volcanic ash. At some spots the layer
of volcanic ash is more than 30 m thick! Wide-scale excavations started in 1967 by Spiros
Marinatos who brought to light a surprisingly well preserved ancient settlement of houses
decorated with outstanding wall-paintings. The inhabitants probably managed to escape from
the island before the hell of the volcano’s eruption because so far no human bodies have been
found. Almost complete lack of jewellery and tools suggests that they had enough time to
organize their escape.
The splendid collection of findings from the site is to be seen in the Museum of Prehistoric
Thera in Fira, open everyday except Mondays. Also life-size reproductions of wall-paintings
are exhibited in Petros Nomikos Conference Centre
in Firostefani, by the exit from Fira.For the leisure
visitors Akrotiri means also Red Beach, one of the
most fascinating beaches of Santorini, where the red
cliffs meat the crystal clear blue sea...
Strolling around:
The small square of Akrotiri is your starting point.
Pass next to the church of Aghios Epifanios. It has
very nice courtyard and actually covers most of the
square area. Follow a narrow street named after
Dimitris Roussos. Kasteli is on your right side.
Choose one of the passages leading up there. The
distances are very short. The entrance to the kasteli
is an arch-shaped gate. Be prepared for some more
steep and narrow steps. You are almost at the top.
The white-washed church with light illuminations
stretched around it is Ypapanti, also called Panagia
Flevarotissa. Originally on the top of kasteli was
standing the church of Aghia Triada (Holy Trinity).
58

However it turned into ruins and a new
church had to be built. Remnants of
Aghia Triada are hard to distinguish
among other ruins around Ypapanti.
Ypapanti was built from the expenses
of one of Akrotiri’s residents and is now
in his private possession. It used to be
open for visits, but after the robbery of
3 most precious icons from the church
collection, Ypapanti is now closed. It
only opens for big celebrations.
While descending from the top, pass the
arched gate and keep going straight on
the west so that you will get to the church
of Aghia Theodosia. Aghia Theodosia is
patron of the kastelia from Byzantine times. The church is relatively big. Its blue dome is well
visible from the top of kasteli. Its bell-tower partly collapsed after the 1956 earthquake and
has not been fixed thereafter.
Continue your walk along the street, be prepared for more steps. About 50 m behind the
church of Aghia Theodosia there is stairway turning left. Follow it. Now you get to the part of
the settlement dominated by cave houses, so do not miss it. This is worth the effort. Actually
it is only 5 minutes to go from the church of Aghia Theodosia.
On your return you will have no problem to find the Roussou St. that will take you back to
the square.
For tough hikers: If you want to walk near the excavations site or have a swim at the Red
Beach you have to go roughly 1.5 km down from the village (or wait for the next SMART
bus). Behind the square, next to the mini-market, there is a Spiros Marinatos street. If you
follow it you will get near the sea shore. Excavations are behind the fence that is stretching
along the road. The entrance gate is facing the sea. Excavations are currently closed for public;
it will reopen as soon as the new canopy protecting the site is fixed.
From excavation site to the Red Beach you can get either following the street turning behind
the parking or going along the sea. No more than 10 minutes away is little church of St.
Nicolas, just by the rocks.
Red Beach is behind the rock. The trail is not very long, but is covered with pebbles, that can
severely influence your stability. Good shoes are a good idea here but even then you are under
risk of landing on the beach head over heels or in some other unorthodox way…
The organized beach is at some distance from the place where you left the trail and touched
more stable ground. You may need 10 more minutes to snake among rocks and stones that
are spread all over there. Maybe for this reason some people decide to stay where they are
and watch the organized beach from the
distance. Look at the porous red pebbles
under your feet and think of the volcano
that has expelled them from its depth
thousands of years ago, burying the
ancient city of Akrotiri and sending the
greater part of the island under the seas
waters…
To make your life easier you can rent a
boat from Akrotiri that will take you to
the Red and even to the White Beach.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Within 30 minutes you will easily
59

60
3
2
1
4
AKROTIRI & RED BEACH
1. AG. EPIFANIOS
2. AG. TRIADA / GOULAS
3. AG. THEODOSIA
4. ENTRANCE TO KASTELI
5. AG. NICOLAS
RED BEACH

explore the Akrotiri village (escapade
to Red beach not included…).
Where to eat and do shopping:
By the square and along the street
you will find cafeteria, taverns also
fish tavern at the very entrance to
the village. Taverns are also by the
sea shore and on this part of the road
which leads from excavations to the
church of Aghios Nicolas.
In the mini-market on the square you
can get Santorini fava-beans, tomatakia
and local wines.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Red Beach - about 1.5 km (the same direction as to the excavations)
SANTORINI DIVE CENTER
Easy access to alkl caldera dive spots
from our caldera dive station
(Santorini)
Perissa & Akrotiri, Santorini
Tel: 22860 83190
www.divecenter.gr
PANORAMA
Cafι-Restaurant
Manager:
Maria Karamolegos
Akrotiri, Santorini
Tel: 22860 81183
Mob: 6972 484236
61

62
MEGALOCHORI
SMART Bus Stop:
1. North end: SMART bus stop is on the main road, by the north entrance to the village (near
the bakery), the same place both for routes to Santo Wines and to Akrotiri.
2. South-western end:
- routes to Akrotiri: on the main road, by the crossing with the street to Boutari Winery.
- routes to Santo Wines: on the opposite side of the road, by the front yard of the pottery
studio.
Brief characteristics:
An extremely charming traditional settlement. Before you start the feast for your eyes, pay a
visit to a bakery-pastry shop, up by the road. Get some traditional Greek sweets and then you
are ready for sightseeing.
Do not be mislead by its name (Greek: Megalo Chorio = Big Village), the name does not refer
to the size but to the wealthy past of the settlement. The fact is that in winter no more than
200 people stay there, in summer this number may double. Most of them are farmers. The
village is actually surrounded by vineyards. Because of the dry and windy climate the harvest
of grapes used to be low. To resolve the problem of low yields at least partially, farmers use
an elaborated and unique method of culture. They fold the branches of vines giving them the
shape of a basket. This method protects the fruits from the burning sun and strong Santorini
winds. It also helps to keep the humidity collected by hydroscopic soil from the night air. This
technique once used, lead to a significant increase in grape production and that’s why is used
on Santorini unchanged since the 18th century!
To make things even better, fields on Santorini are terraced, to protect the soil from wind erosion.
Ironically, the harsh, dry climate of the island is not only its curse. It is also its blessing. Fruits
grown here, due to the volcanic
soil and limited amounts of water
(actually, during their vegetation
the plants are never watered,
because there are no rainfalls and
the island is absolutely dry) they
have a very unique taste. Santorini
is famous not only for its wines,
but also tomatoes, capers, splitpeas
(fava) and white egg-plants,
just to mention the most popular
ones. Three well known wineries
are operating in Megalochori. With
all this Megalochori is a very quiet
and neat place. While walking

along its main street, which
is only 200 m long (the word
“street” is an exaggeration)
you may have impression
that it is almost completely
abandoned, especially during
early afternoon hours. But
there are enough things to see
and to admire on your way. So,
do not hesitate, enter it!
Strolling around:
Your starting point – the north
entrance:
Before you proceed from the
square, where your adventure
begins, to the village street,
have a close look at the vines.
Their circular form will
impress you.
Further on, while already on the street, raise your head up to see pistachios, one of the most
popular species of tree on this island.
The black wall along the street is built from lava stones. Lava stones and circular branches of
vines are widely used to decorate the walls around private possessions. Keep looking around
to see them on your way through Megalochori!
About 50 m further down the Sigala street (the main street), on its left side there is a small
ruined farmer’s house and a narrow footway just behind it. Follow it to see yellow archontiko
and the church of Aghios Ioannis just in front of it. After the death of the last member of
the family owning it, the structure turned into ruin. In times of its glory you could admire
collection of old, precious icons in there.
Continuing this way for another 20-30 m you will get to the outer street of the village. Spend
a couple of minutes to admire the fields around there and take some shots of the church of
Aghios Antonios. That is the one with blue dome and ochre colored walls, picturesquely
located among trees and flowers, down the field. If you are looking well, you will also discern
the white washed walls of cave houses.
Having your sense of beauty fully satisfied at this moment, turn right and follow the street
Archiepiskopou Partheniou Akyla. While descending it towards Sigala, you will pass next to
the big, whitewashed church of Aghia Anargyri. Two twin towers of this church are named
Kosma and Damian in honor of the
saint martyrs (inscriptions visible
from the main street). Next to it there
is the church of Zoodochos Pigi,
with the blue dome and picturesque
bell-tower raised above the main
street. Descend to the Sigala street,
pass under the bell-tower and keep
looking around. Next spot worth your
attention is another archontiko, on the
left side of the street, decorated with
the national flag. This neoclassical
building is in much better condition
than the previous one and is a private
possession.
63

Not far away from there by the right
side of the street, there is complex of
abandoned farm houses, ruined mostly
due to the earthquake. They are located
just by the entrance to the main square.
Definitely you will like to idle around
for some time. You can contemplate the
area while having lunch there. Isodia
tis Theotokoy is the name of the church
located by the square. Next to it stands a
monument in honor of locals who fell in
the world war. At the right back corner
of the square you will find a narrow
street (Makri Areopagitoy) leading up
to the Gavala Family Winery (follow
the signs). It is just around the corner and
would be pity to miss it. Pay a visit to the winery, have a mini-tour in its kanavas and try
Santorini’s wines, all for a small charge (around 5 Euro). It is worth it!
Leave the square passing under imposing bell-tower and turn left behind it. It is no more
than 50 m and you will be again at the outskirts street that encircles Megalochori. This time
look down the field, slightly to the right. Thus you will spot the white-washed wall of dug
in the rock church of Aghia Foteini. From here you can return back to the main street of
Megalochori.
If you venture 50 more meters up the hill you will have opportunity to admire Megalochori
from above, which is an impressing view! A walk further on will lead you to the spacious
parking. From here you can see (from S to SE direction): the long hill of Gavrilos with old
windmills on top, Chalarovounia with just one windmill on its plain surface, and the Mountain
of Profitis Ilias with the Monastery on its top. The northernmost village on a high hill is
Pyrgos.
Continuing the road down from the parking area will take you to one more tavern and to the
exit from the village. From there you can catch SMART bus to another destination
Estimated time for sightseeing:
The main street of Megalochori is 200 m long, therefore 20 minutes is enough to get through.
However, if you want really enjoy it, have a stroll along numerous narrow passages leading
deep into Megalochori. Thus 1.5 hr you may spend here, without getting bored! For visiting
the winery consider 20 more minutes.
Where to eat and do shopping:
There are two picturesque taverns at the main square of Megalochori, serving nice traditional
food.
Some 30 m behind the square, following the main street of Megalochori, is located Vedema
Precious Items store. Less particular people are welcome in the mini-market next to it…
Art Centre Philochoria is beyond the corner from Vedema to the main parking.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Megalochori is located at a fair distance from other villages, and walking along the busy
public road is neither pleasant nor recommended in full season. It is much better to depend
on bus transportation.
64

MEGALOCHORI
1. AG. IOANNIS
2. AG. ANTONIOS
3. AG. ANARGYRI
4. CH. ZOODOCHOY PIGI
5. ISODIA TIS THEOTOKOY
6. AG. FOTEINI
7. VEDEMA SHOP AND MINI MARKET
8. POTTERY STUDIO
1
2
3
4
6
5
65

ART CENTER
PHILOCHORIA
Megalochori, Santorini
Tel-Fax: 22860 83281
Mob: 6937 533897
www.philochoria.gr
See PYRGOS – page 15
See page 32
66
RAKI
Traditional Greek Tavern
Megalochori Square
Megalochori, Santorini
Tel: 22860 81724
SANTO WINES
FIRA

EMPORIO
SMART Bus Stop: on the main square of Emporio.
Brief characteristics:
Your current destination is the biggest village of Santorini and one of the five fortified medieval
settlements. The kasteli of Emporio, apart from its defensive character, was an important trade
center. All sorts of merchandize were sold here. The market place was most likely also very
dynamic production place. All in all, the name of the village is a reminder of the past: Greek:
emporio translates to “market place”.
Due to its topographic location the kasteli of Emporio was surveying the southern part of the
island. Its structure was not different from that of Pyrgos and Akrotiri, with a tangle of narrow
alleyways and tightly packed dwellings. Kasteli of Emporio gave shelter to more than 80
families but, as all other kastelia, was inhabited mainly by noblemen.
The characteristic element of fortification still preserved in Emporio is the 15th century
goulas, adjacent to the Kasteli. Goulades were massive tetragonal structures which played a
diverse role.
At time of peace they were used to store agricultural products, during piracy attacks they
offered shelter and were also a point of defense. Both goulas and kasteli of Emporio are quite
well preserved and strolling around there is really exciting adventure.
The picture of the village is completed by ruined windmills on the nearby located hill of
Gavrilos. Due to the windy character
of the island, windmills have been a
permanent element of Satorini landscape
since at least the 14th century. They were
used to grind barley and fava-beans.
Later windmills had also baker’s oven
at their lowest part. Windmills spread
along the hill of Gavrilos are dated to
the 19th century.
To the north of Emporio is located a
relatively flat hill with another broken
windmill at the top. This hill, called
Chalarovounia, is also an excavation
site. On Chalarovounia there has been
found pottery dated to the last period of
habitation on the island before the big
eruption of the volcano in 17th BC.
Last but not least, by the entrance to
Emporio is located a small church of
Aghios Nikolaos Marmaritis. Originally
it was a Doric tomb dated from 3rd
67

68
century BC, six ages later it was
converted into a Christian monument
dedicated to Saint Nicolas. It is built
from grey marble, from which it took its
name Marmaritis (Greek: marble).
With all these attractions and its approx.
3000 permanent residents Emporio still
refuses to become tourist destination.
Strolling around:
The square in Emporio is a quite busy
place. At the back of the square there is a
statue dedicated to the locals who fell in
the war. This is also a nice place where
you can find a bench to sit among trees.
By the side of the square is kalderimi that leads up to kasteli. You be sure to spot it easily,
there is signpost to the Traditional area and big mansion (currently it is a school) just behind it.
Kasteli is only 3 minutes away from there. Following this way you will pass next to the church
of Evangelismos. Not even 30 years old, this edifice is at the top list of the biggest churches
of the island. Around here you can meet a local farmer selling wild capers. By the end of
kalderimi the right turn will lead you to the kasteli, while the left turn – to the goulas.
However, the best way to see the goulas close is by following the narrow path along the
children’s playground (behind cash machine) before the main square. Do not miss the ruins
of hyposkafa (cave houses) on the right side of this way! Take the first turn left and then right
and in 5-8 minutes you will get in front of the goulas. The last 10 m of the pathway is quite
steep, stony and slippery, so take care. On the top of goulas was a church, still you can see
fragments of its vaulted roof. The goulas was a multi-storey massive construction. It suffered
from damages mostly due to the 1956 earthquake.
Just a hint: Show a respect to the sign stuck in front of goulas and keep off the ruins.
Some 50 m down from the goulas there is a church of Aghia Kyriaki. It was built between the
15th and 16th century and its architectonical
prototype was Theotokaki, the 10th
century church on top of the kasteli in
Pyrgos.
From this point it is possible to walk
around the goulas. Continue to go along
the street that brought you to goulas so
that in next 5 minutes you will be able to
see it from above. Further on this street
will also lead you to the kasteli.
Kasteli of Emporio is an amazing place,
quite well preserved and despite the
destructive earthquakes, neat and full of
charm.
Immediately after entering the kasteli you
will get into a real tangle of extremely
narrow streets and passages, with tightly
packed colorful, small houses of irregular
shapes. From the church of Agios
Giorgos follow the street up to the northwest
and go through a passage under an
arch. It will lead you in front of Panagia

Mesani, a church built in the 16th
century, with a sophisticated belltower.
Panagia Mesani is located in
the center of kasteli, because of this
takes its name (Greek: mesa = in the
middle). If you turn right in front
of Panagia Mesani and follow the
passage you will get to the original
entrance to the kastelli. In historical
times this gate was the only way to
get in. In front of the gate there is
a square. Small church just opposite
to it is Aghia Theodosia. The big
church down to the left is Aghios
Spiridion. Next to the gate you will
see ruined cave houses. The passage
behind it leads straight to the church of Aghios Georgios. Down to the east from Aghios
Georgios is Metamorphosis of Sotiros, a 19th century church with a beautiful bell-tower.
Make sure your camera has enough memory because in this picturesque place you will keep
it very busy. The fact is also that kasteli is a real labyrinth of narrow passages. Do not worry;
just remember that the main square of Emporio is somewhere down to the SE…
Option for tough hikers:
Approximately 500 m from the main square of Emporio along the main road towards
Megalochori is located a little church of St. Nicolas Marmaritis. Half way to this church, on the
crossroads there is a mini-church. Mini-churches are dedicated to victims of road accidents.
Roads on Santorini belong to the most dangerous, especially during summer, when traffic is
really busy. Further on from this place you will encounter a ceramic workshop. Looking to the
north is the round hill of Chalarovounia with its single windmill protruding from its the top.
Not even 100 m from the church of St. Nicolas Marmaritis, in the direction back to Emporio,
the road is cut by a village street. Turn right (follow the sign to Escape Café) if you want to
get on the hill of Gavrilos. According to the signpost you have approx. 1500 m to go, but you
will enjoy it. The street leads among vineyards and flowery meadows. Look at the vines with
their characteristic circular shape (see: MEGALOCHORI to learn more about them). On the
way you will have also opportunity to have a close look at the old windmills.
There are 8 windmills standing along the hill. At the very end of the hill there is a white little
church, built just at the rim of a crag. This is Profitis Ilias o Chamilos (Low Prophet Elias) in
contrary to Profitis Ilias o Psilos (High Prophet Elias) overlooking it from a far distance. If you
turn back you spot it on the top of the
high mountain. In front of it, slightly
more to the W is Chalarovounia with
its characteristic single windmill.
This hill seems to be actually
crowned by white houses of Pyrgos,
emerging just behind. A long beach
on the eastern side of the hill of
Gavrilos is the famous black beach
of Perissa and Perivolos. Down by
the hill you will see picturesquely
terraced fields. Also the western side
of the hill offers a spectacular view.
The white village on the peninsula is
called Akrotiri, while the small one
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70
PERIVOLOS 5
PERISSA
HILL OF
GAVRILOS
9
M-M
SHOPPING PASSAGE
8
4
2
MEGALOCHORI 7
SCHOOL
6
3
M-M
9
3
4
5
1
1
EMPORIO
1. PANAGIA MESANI
2. CASH MACHINE
3. CH. OF EVANGELISMOS
4. AG. KYRIAKI
5. GOULAS
6. KALDERIMI
7. WAR MEMORIAL / SQUARE
8. PHARMACY
9. AG. NICOLAS MARMARITIS
MINI CHURCH
S
CHALAROVOUNIA
SEE THE NEXT PAGE
W
E
N

EMPORIO - KASTELI
1. CH. OF EVANGELISMOS
2. PANAGIA MESANI
3. AG. GEORGIOS
4. AG. CHARALAMBOS
5. METAMORPHOSIS TOY SOTIROS
6. AG. THEODOSIA
7. AG. SPIRYDION
8. ENTRANCE TO THE KASTELI (picture:
with the bell-tower of AG. THEODOSIA)
2
3
4
7
5
8
71

closer to you is Vlychada. See the original landscape created by wind and sea erosion. It is
outstanding!
At this point you may find a good idea to have a rest in the cafeteria mercifully set nearby…
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Minimum 40 minutes is needed to visit goulas and Kasteli but most likely you will spend
more time idling around. The route to the church of Aghios Nikolaos Marmaritis requires
10-15 minutes.
Where to eat and do shopping:
Actually there are no taverns in Emporio. By the square you can get refreshment and grilled
food in one of the ouzeries. There is also a bakery behind the corner of Perissa road, as well as
a mini-market. For urgent circumstances there is a pharmacy by the square…
There is also cafeteria-pool bar at the top of the hill of Gavrilos.
Near the church of Aghios Nikolaos Marmaritis there is a farmer’s store, where local products
are sold.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Church of St. Nicolas Marmaritis (approx. 500 m from the main square) and hill of Gavrilos
(nearby).
72
OIA
SMART Bus Stop: The first square before Oia Bus Terminal, near the Bakery.
Brief characteristics:
One of the five medieval fortified settlements of Santorini was located in Oia. It was named
Kastro tou Aghiou Nikolaou (Castle of St. Nicolas) after an early 16th century church dedicated
to the Saint. The Kasteli was located on the hardly accessible NW ridge of the Caldera, and
dwellings within the Kasteli were mostly hysposkafa, cut in the steep rocks of the Caldera.
The settlement on old maps is also known as Pano Meria (the Upper Side). With the course of
time the fortified settlement spread over to the west and east. In the oldest NW part was built
a look-out tower (goulas).
After the 1956 earthquake Kastro tou Aghiou Nikolaou was severely damaged and currently
only ruins of goulas are an evidence of its existence. Around there are crammed one on another
cave houses, a part of the old fortification. At the very cliff, nearly hanged on the rocks, is the
old church Zoodochou Pigi.
Next to it was the church of Panagia Platsani, hidden in a cave. According to a story, icon
of Virgin Mary was found in Crete and brought to Oia. Originally it was placed in one of
the churches near goulas, but the icon in some unexplained way moved to the cave on the

verge of the cliff. The locals believed
that Virgin Mary wanted to look at
distant Crete, from were she was
brought and therefore they adopted the
cave for a church of Panagia Platsani.
However, after the 1956 earthquake
the cave collapsed. A new church was
built on the square of Oia and the icon
was moved there. The new church
of Panagia Platsani became also the
metropolis.
It is said that Oia was built by the
captains and sailors. The peak of Oia’s
development falls in the 18th-early
20th centuries. Oia had two harbors
during the 19th-early 20th century: Armeni – where you can descend 286 steps and Ammoudi
with its 214 steps. From here the merchandize was shipped mostly to Russia and Alexandria.
Most of nearly 80 churches in Oia are dated to years of its greatest marine prosperity. Most of
the churches were raised by seamen who got rescued from a storm or by their families, waiting
in agony for their return.
Yet in the 19th century the main street
of Oia, which is running along the
Caldera, had been paved with marble
flagstones, a sign of prosperity of the
village. Since then this street is called
Marmara. In the 18th century the piracy
raids were already a past, people had
no more need to live within the hardly
accessible fortifications. Frequent
contacts with distant cultures found
their reflection also in architecture.
On Santorini, and especially in Oia
(mostly in its western part called
Sideras), appeared a new category of
houses. They were built according to
well designed and thought-of plan, had therefore regular shapes and sophisticated ornaments.
The earliest ones were based on the Italian Renaissance. Later on also the neoclassical and
eclectic styles appeared. These houses called archontika or mansions belonged to the wealthiest
inhabitants of the island. No wonder that most of them were built in Oia, by captains of the
ships. For this reason here they were called kapetanospitia (captain houses). Sailors were still
dwelling in numerous caves dug in the
slopes of the Caldera.
By the beginning of the 20th century
Oia was densely populated. However
the earthquake of 1956 caused severe
damages to the village, most of the cave
houses and beautiful mansions collapsed.
By the end of the 20th century merely
1000 people were living in Oia and more
or less this number remains until today.
You can take your own tour of history in
Oia by visiting the Maritime Museum. It
was created in 1951 and severely damaged
73

74
during the earthquake five years
later. However the owner, captain
Antonis Dakoronias put all his
efforts into restoring it.
The museum is located in a 19th
century mansion.
Today’s Oia holds its post of the
wealthiest settlement on Santorini.
It is the only village on the island
that has drinkable tap water. The
networks of water pipes supply
Oia with water from desalination
plant.
Oia with nearby settlements and
the island Thirassia comprise a
separate Community on Santorini,
independent of the Municipality
of Fira.
Strolling around:
The SMART bus stop is on the first square in Oia, just 50 m from public bus terminal. West
from the bus terminal is Sideras focusing the finest examples of captain houses. Most of them
are abandoned and partly ruined now but they are still the reminder about the wealth of their
past owners. Look at the beautiful ornaments of anchors and frequently still readable initials
of the family names. From Sideras you get out towards Marmara, the main street elegantly
covered with marble. It runs along the edge of the Caldera. The Caldera in Oia is densely built
up with luxury hotels; however it is not difficult to spot old ruined cave houses in between.
The two relatively big churches with blue domes raised on the Caldera one by another are the
churches of St. Spiridion and of Resurection. In their proximity there is a considerable number
of other churches, therefore this part of the Caldera is called Monastiri.
Following Marmara to the west you will get to a district called Lotza where the city hall
is located. If you are interested in marine history of Oia pay a visit to the nearby located
Maritime Museum, follow the signs to get there. The Maritime Museum is open everyday
except Tuesdays, from 10:00 to 20:00 with a break from 14:00 to 17:00.
In Lotza is located goulas. You will find it easily on the rim of the Caldera, next to a stairway
which leads down to Ammoudi. By the southernmost verge of the rock is the church of
Zooodochos Pigi, once next to it was a cave church with the icon of Panagia Platsani. The
neighborhood of goulas is currently the beloved place for watching sunsets. In summer
though, you should be prepared
for crowds of people, who
massively gather all over with
one scope – to take pictures of the
evening sun. At evening hours Oia
is probably turning into one of the
most densely populated cities of
the world!
The southwestern borders of
medieval fortifications reached as
far as too windmills which stay
there until today. They are called
Garbinoi Myloi after garbis – the
southwestern wind.

From goulas you can
descend to Ammoudi,
following 214 steps. The
long zig-zag of stairways
is called by the locals
karavolades. Descending
to Ammoudi gives you
an opportunity to have
close look at the cliffs of
Caldera. You will pass
next to cave houses dug
in the steep rock. On right
side down the slope is the
old church of St. Nicolas,
built with red volcanic
stones. However it is not
the cliff that you can see
from close now. The same
way is frequently used by mules, which have also their physiological needs. So keep watching
also your steps…
To Ammoudi leads also a regular road that is passing next to an old quarry of pumice. The
small harbor of Ammoudi is the place where from you can hire a boat that will take you to
Thirassia. There is also a small beach with red sand here.
You can also get to the small beach of Armeni, which was the second harbor of Oia. You
will find the stairways to Armeni at the eastern part of Marmara, some 150 m away from
goulas. Armeni requires much more determination than Ammoudi, because - remember – the
karavolades here count 286 steps….
By Marmara, on the way between Ammoudi and Armeni there is a vast square duly called
“balcony of Oia”. On its back is located a new church of Panagia Platsani, built after the
earthquake. This is also the metropolis of Pano Meria. The famous icon was moved here
together with the old templon. The two other templons on its sides were added later, after the
new church was built.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Walk from the bus terminus to Garbinoi Myloi takes 15-30 minutes, depending of the traffic.
Descending to Ammoudi takes some 25 minutes. Twice as much to get up.
Where to eat and do shopping:
There is a great variety of taverns in Oia, offering traditional Greek, Italian or even Polish
food. Those on the Caldera offer meals with the volcano view therefore the prices may shock
you. There are also taverns down in the village, on the way to the bus terminus and along the
public road, which may be cheaper, although devoid of the thrill of being in the proximity of
the volcano. There are also nice cafeterias, pizzerias and some stores offering grilled food.
Shopping in Oia is an exciting adventure. Numerous jewellery stores, boutiques and art
galleries will dazzle you. There is also a lively outdoor market along the Marmara where you
can buy wines, fruits, fava-beans, capers, even prickly pears.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Finikia – 10-15 minutes walk.
Black beach of Perissa and Perivolos (with taverns) - about 2 km down the main street to the
S.
75

AMMOUDI
76
10
I
LE
ARMENI
9
C A
D R A
E
V
W
8
5
11
5
MARMARA
WC
MARMARA
2
4
3
3
1
7
M-M
6
CAR
RENTAL
PUBLIC
BUS
TERMINAL
FINI KIA / FIRA
M-M
4
THOLOS
BAKERY
6
OIA
1. PHARMACY
2. MAIN SQUARE
3. PANAGIA PLATSANI
4. RUINED MANSION BY THE SQUARE
5. MONASTIRI (ON THE CALDERA)
6. MANSION IN SIDERAS
7. MARITIME MUSEUM
8. GOULAS
9. ZOODOCHOS PIGI
10. AG. NICOLAS
11.GARBINOI MYLOI
PARKING AREA
11
S
W
E
N
4 10
9 8

SKALA
RESTAURANT
Manager: Stauros Sigalas
Oia, Santorini
Tel: 22860 71362
Mob: 6972 215023
SKIZA CAFE
Oia, Santorini
Tel: 22860 71569
FEREDINI RESTAURANT
Managers: Christos Markozanes,
Stauros Sigalas
Oia, Santorini
Tel: 22860 71825
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78
FINIKIA
SMART Bus Stop: On the main road from Fira, by the east entrance to the village, next to
signpost “Traditional settlement”.
Brief characteristics:
Finikia is one of Oia’s districts. It is the first settlement before Oia village which you encounter
arriving from Fira. Finikia is located in a gorge; therefore most of the dwellings there are
caves. Surprisingly, Finikia did not suffer very badly after the 1956 earthquake, so the village
remains a lively picture of the past. As Oia is the village of seamen, Finikia is the village of
farmers. The fields around Finikia are planted mainly with vines.
Strolling around:
Finikia is only 15 minutes away (walking distance) from Oia and it is one of those places
that complete the picture of Santorini. The village is located down the main road, where the
land forms natural ravine. The houses are built tightly one by another. To use more efficiently
the limited space, in the wall of the ravine are dug the cave houses (hyposkafa). The streets
are very narrow, with many steps, usually paved; some stretches are covered with concrete.
The east entrance to Finikia from the main road Fira-Oia is marked by signpost “Traditional
Settlement”. If you walk to Finikia village from Oia, you can get there by the west entrance. You
will have to pass along newer part of the village with houses representing typical contemporary
architecture. At the crossroads continue straight on to the east and you will soon get into a tangle
of narrow stairways along
which charming farm
houses and old caves
are densely located.
This is the traditional
settlement. The highlight
of Finikia is the church
of Saint Matrona. Once
the church used to be
salmon-colored, now the
color slightly faded. Next
to it is growing a slender
palm tree.

FINIKIA
1. YPAPANTI
2. AG. MATRONA
3. AG. VASILIS
4. GRAVEYARD
5. AG. GEORGIOS
1
2
5
79

To the right from this
church is another one,
dated to end of the 19th
century. This is the church
of Ypapanti, yellowcolored.
The stroll in Finikia does
not require more than
20 minutes, because the
settlement is really small,
however you may need
some more time to get out
of this maze. The tavern
“To Krinaki”, near the exit,
is waiting for exhausted
guests…
Finish your visit to Finikia
by turning left at the crossroads and getting up to the main road Fira-Oia (S). The village up
here is Perivolas, the gate to Oia. Almost immediately across the street you encounter the
picturesque church of Aghios Vasilis. Keep walking towards Oia, do not miss the sign to
Desalination Plant which supplies the houses in Oia with drinkable water, therefore it is a
pride of the Community.
Further on, on the left side of the street is the big church of Aghios Georgios. Until 1956 this
church was the metropolis of Pano Meria.
After the 1956 earthquake army services build houses to accommodate the villagers who lost
their own possessions. These houses are located on the right side of the street along Perivolas.
On the left side you can admire the Caldera.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
The stroll around Finikia requires about 30 minutes, but if you are going the walk there from
Oia you will need another 15 minutes or so.
Where to eat and do shopping:
You will find one tavern by the entrance to the traditional settlement. By the main road to the
left and to the right from the signpost to Finikia there are some more taverns. You will have no
problem to find something on the way to Oia. There are also bakeries in Perivolas.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Oia – 10-15 minutes walk.
80

IMEROVIGLI
SMART Bus Stop: The parking area by the crossroads to Oia.
Brief characteristics:
A village that you must see to believe that it can be true! Houses of unique architecture are
hanging on a cliff 300 m above the sea level. Thousands of steps connect one with another,
competing for space with flowers. And all this in front of the gloomy rock of Skaros. For ages
here was the capital of Santorini.
As all fortified settlements on Santorini, this one was established to give shelter to the people
constantly tormented by pirates. Santorini was their favorite target and frequent attacks
resulted in dramatic reduction in population number. The 16th century welcomed the island
almost completely abandoned. It seems that the only safe place on Santorini in those ages was
Skaros. The rock was densely covered
with more that 200 houses. Its
strategic location allowed survey of
all of the Caldera. The only entrance
to the kasteli was by a moving
bridge accessible from the long and
narrow street that runs along the
steep cliffs. No wonder that Kasteli
of Skaros, established in the early
13th century for next 600 years
of its history was never defeated.
Decline of its glory came in 1650
with the eruption of Koloumbo,
the underwater volcano about 7 km
northeast from Oia. The eruption
was so dramatic, that in the history
of Santorini it is referred to as “the
time of Evil”. The settlement on
Skaros suffered serious damages
and although for 100 years
thereafter some people were trying
to stay faithful to it, the collapse of
Skaros was irrevocable. By the end
of the 18th century the migration
from Skaros was completed. The
rock remained all alone.
At times of its glory Skaros was
also a seat of the oldest monastery
81

of Santorini – the Nunnery of St. Nicolaos,
established there in the mid 17th century. Not for
long though because the eruption of Koloumbo
did not spare even the monastery. A new edifice
was built at the beginning of the 19th century
on the ridge of the Caldera, at a fair distance
to the south from Skaros, there where you can
see it now.
As regards Imerovigli, the settlement was
established in the 16th century. It is located 300
m above the sea level, overlooking the rock of
Skaros. Imerovigli owes its name to lookoutpost
(vigla) that was on Skaros, just in front of
the settlement. That was the place from where
the day guards were constantly surveying the
sea and warning the islanders in case of danger.
From a combination of words: Imeras (Greek:
daily) and vigla (Italian: to watch) finally
emerged Imerovigli.
Strolling on the Caldera is breathtaking
adventure. While being there you may find
answer to the question: why children are
not allowed in the majority of hotels on the
Caldera…Strolling around:
To get in front of Skaros from the bus stop turn left
and follow the street to the west. The church on your right is Aghios Ioannis Chrisostomas.
The church was built in 1972 to replace another one that was located on the Caldera and
collapsed after the earthquake. Across the street, some more meters up, you will see vivid red
archontiko. Follow the street in a western direction (in case of doubt the sign to Oniro Suites
will help you to find this way). From there is no more than 100 m to the Caldera viewpoint.
You will get to a square, with a statue commemorating islanders who died in the war and the
big church of Panagia Malteza. A story says that an icon of Virgin Mary was found in Malta
and brought by a seaman to Santorini. The original church of Panagia Malteza was raised in
the 19th century in Imerovigli. It had imposing bell-tower with 12 big bells. The rumor says
that when they were ringing, their sound was heard in Oia, 8 km away. The earthquake in 1956
had destroyed everything. A new church was raised in place of the old one, unfortunately most
of the bells turned into pieces,
and today’s bell-tower has
only remaining four. Cladding
with red volcanic stones is
contemporary decoration.
If you happen to find the
door open, get inside to see
marvelous carved wooden icon
screen with old silver-covered
icons and the icon of Panagia
Malteza under a glass cover.
A narrow street will lead you
from this square to the essence
of Imerovigli – a high and
steep cliff now covered with
the most exclusive and luxury
hotels of shapes and colors
82

that you will never forget.
Keep watching the sides of the
footways because it is a good
opportunity to find ruined
caves. Before the earthquake
there were a fair number of
people living in hyposkafa
(cave houses - carved in
the rock) on the Caldera in
Imerovigli.
From here you have full view
to the Caldera. White village
at the northernmost cape of the
island is Oia and the one on
the southernmost is Akrotiri.
The island across the sea, with
white crest of houses on the
top is called Thirassia, once an
integral part with Santorini. Small whitish island left to Thirassia is called Aspronisi. Cones of
the active volcano – Palaia and Nea Kameni, are in the middle of this composition.
The rock nearly at your feet is the gorgeous Skaros...
For tough hikers: You can descent to Skaros following thousands of steps. This walk will
cost you 30 minutes one way and complete dehydration if you have not got enough bottled
water with you. You can find the way if you turn left following signs to Spilliotica. You will
pass next to ruined caves (left side) immediately thereafter turn right down to the cliff. You
have many steps and turns to follow before you get to the small church of Aghios Ioannis
Apokefalistheis, built in 1966. There you can sit to recover because the worst is still waiting
for you. You will have to walk along the narrow footway on the verge of a dreadful chasm.
Good moment to think about the past and realize why this place had never been defeated. This
way will lead you to a picturesque church of Theoskepasti, which is stuck in the front wall
of Skaros.
Hint: If you are with children, either do not continue the walk behind the church of Ag.
Ioannis, or hold their hands and keep an eye on them. In any case do not try to surround the
rock, because footway disappears suddenly, and even if there seems to exist a passage, it is
full of rocks and holes, in the best case you will break your leg…
From the church of Aghios Ioannis
you can return to the stairways of
the Caldera and walk to the south,
towards Fira. Thus you may get
to the whitewashed church of St.
Georgios. The church is raised
at the very edge of the cliff. In
its courtyard is a marble board
commemorating a miracle that
happed some 10 years ago in this
place. According to it a young boy
slipped from the cliff after trying
to reach his jacket that fell down.
He tumbled down from the steep
rock. It is a real miracle that, apart
from some scratches, he did not
83

84
get any serious injury! Further on you
will pass next to the church of Aghia
Anastasia with its characteristic,
square-shaped bell-tower.
Nunnery of St Nicolaos: Behind the
the church of Aghios Georgios try to
find way up to the plakoto that runs
along the upper line of the Caldera.
From the distance you will see vivid
red mansion house that is located by
this street. You have no more stairs
on your way and in next 5 minutes
you will get to the Monastery. While
approaching the Monastery have a
look down the main building, on a cliff. You will discern magnificent whitewashed walls of
hyposkafa. Further on the way leads to Firostefani.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
From 25 minutes to 2 hours. Just getting from the parking area to the Caldera view point is no
more than 10 minutes, if you want to visit Skaros you need additionally 1 hour. Getting to the
monastery from the main road is another 10 minutes but if you are going to get there walking
along stairways of the Caldera you will need at least 30 minutes.
Where to eat and do shopping:
By the main street there are a couple of taverns and a creperie. One more you will find
behind the Church of Aghios Ioannis Chrysostomas. And, of course, you can have romantic
refreshment in one of cafeterias on the
Caldera. Consider that prices there match
the location…
Mini-markets, bakery and Art Gallery
are located along the street following the
direction from Fira to the turn towards the
Caldera view. There are some more stores
with souvenirs and art items up there.
Right from the building where the minimarket
and a tavern are located, you will
find stairs down to a vast parking area.
Here, on the back side of the building is
a store where you can buy capers, favabeans,
local wine and tomatakia from
family business. Also market near the Art
Gallery, up the street towards Oia sells
traditional products of Santorini.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Firostefani – 1.5 km south, 10-15 minutes
walk along the public road or 30 minutes
straying along the Caldera stairways.
Fira – 2.5 km south, 20 minutes walk
along the public road or 1 hour along the
Caldera stairways.

6
IMEROVIGLI
1. AG. IOANNIS CHRYSOSTOMOS
2. PANAGIA MALTEZA
3. AG. IOANNIS APOKEFALISTHEIS
4. SKAROS
5. AG. GEORGIOS
6. AG. ANASTASIA
7. ST. NICOLAS NUNNERY
1
4
2
7
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86
PANTHEON DELUXE VILLAS HOTEL
& RESTAURANT
Imerovigli, Santorini
Tel: 2286025570 Fax: 22860 25573
www.pantheon-villas.gr

FIROSTEFANI
SMART Bus Stop: Next to the church of Aghios Gerasimos.
Brief characteristics:
It is safe to say that Firostefani is suburbs of Fira. Located on the rim of the Caldera, merely
20 m above the level of Fira, gained the title of Crown of Fira (Greek: stefani = crown). The
border between the two villages is the Dominican Convent and vivid red mansion of Petros
Nomikos Conference Centre, further to the north.
The catholic, north part of Firostefani, with the Dominican Convent is called Frankika.
The Petros Nomikos Conference Centre is an imposing neoclassical building overlooking
the Caldera. It is housing an exhibition of life-size reproductions of wall-painting from the
ancient settlement excavated in Akrotiri. Most of the scientific and business meetings as well
as temporary exhibitions are held in Petros Nomikos.
The landmark of Firostefani is the church of Aghios Gerasimos on the square and the catholic
church of Panagia ton Aghion Theodoron. The latter one is the most advertised church of the
island, because it is presented on most of Santorini postcards…
Strolling around:
North walk: Main square of Firostefani is where the church of Aghios Gerasimos is located,
surrounded by slim cypresses. From here you can get to the Caldera and turn right, following
the plakoto with traditional houses along it, or turn down and continue your walk among the
stairways on the Caldera. This way is much, much longer, because you will have to choose
between many turns, ups downs and numerous steps, steep and flat, leading among buildings
most sophisticated in form and color that will make you dizzy. This walk is one of the “musts”
of this island. To find out about the real Santorini you just have to go to the Caldera. The view
that will open to your eyes is something you have never seen before, and certainly, you will
not find something like this anywhere else.
At the point where you will not be able any more to find a passage to Imerovigli, climb up
and get back to plakoto. Most likely you will emerge near Ira Hotel. Continue your walk
either along the nearby located public road or the old cobblestone footway. They run parallel.
At some places you may find this stretch quite messy, but anyways it is much nicer and safer
than the busy road. Following it you will get in front of the Nunnery of St. Nicolas. From here
begins Imerovigli.
South walk: Following the Caldera line to the south you will get to Fira. Along the main road
the distance is only 1 km. Walking at the Caldera will take much more time and effort but it
is worth it. As the locals proudly say – this is the real place where the heart of Santorini beats.
So, do not hesitate any more seconds!
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1
FIROSTEFANI
1.PETROS NOMIKOS CONF. CENTRE
2. PANAGIA TON THEODORON
3. AG. GERASIMOS
4. ST. NICOLAS NUNNERY
2 3 4

About 80 m away from the
square, on the rim of the
Caldera there is a church
of Panagia ton Aghion
Theodoron (next to the
Gaby Hotel). From here you
will see the yellow-painted
façade with the church bell
tower. To see its dome you
should take a road at the back
of the main square. It is only
3 minutes walk and you will
find yourself on a spacious
square with great views to
the volcano. You can watch
it through the picturesque
bell-tower of a white church
with blue dome. Exactly as
on the postcards… The most
frequently photographed church of Panagia ton Aghion Theodoron was built after the 1956
earthquake in place of the older one. There is an icon brought here from Russia in the 16th
century in the church. The icon quickly became famous for miracles which were happening
in its presence.
Following the Caldera line towards Fira you will get to Petros Nomikos Conference Centre.
The exhibition is opened from May to mid October from 10:00 to 21:00. Before you go to see
the reproductions of wall-paintings, spend a couple of minutes in the gallery featuring history
of Akrotiri and documentation on excavations. Most of the original wall-paintings have been
moved to the National Museum in Athens. Some original fragments of wall-paintings are part
of exhibition in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Sightseeingin Firostefani does not require more than 15 minutes. If you decide to walk along
the Caldera to Imerovigli or to Fira, 30 minutes for each is the minimum or just 10 minutes
along the public road.
Where to eat and do shopping:
A couple of taverns and cafeteria are some 20 m down from the square, by the main road from
Fira. Behind the church of Aghios Gerasimos, turning right to plakoto, you will find cafeteria
Mylos (two picturesque windmills will help you to spot the place), and in front of it also
Italian pizzeria-restaurant “Il Cantuccio”.
A store with traditional products of Santorini is located by the square. A mini market and
pastry store are also by the road to Fira.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Imerovigli – 1.5 km
Fira – 1 km
See page 32
FIRA
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CRUISE IN THE CALDERA
SMART Bus Stop:
In front of Kamari Tours office in Fira*, direct connection to Athinios port for the non-stop
cruise in the Caldera.
Pick-up for return from Athinios is at the same spot as drop-off.
* Connection with Yellow, Red and Orange Line in Fira.
Brief characteristics:
The awe inspiring beauty of Santorini,
also known as Thira, leaves every visitor
breathless. There have been many legends
told about this mystical island that scientists
can not explain, even to this day. The
geological shape that has made this island so
famous is a result of a tremendous eruption,
which occurred around 3600 years ago.
Before that Santorini was a circular island,
named Stroggili (=round) and later-on also
Kalllisti (the fairest one). The violent eruption
of the volcano located in its center, sent more
than half of the island to the bottom of the
sea and created a biggest underwater crater
(caldera, or just: pot) of the world. The main island, Thira, which covers an area of about 75
km2, Thirasia - around 9 km2, uninhabited Aspronisi - just 100 m2, Palea Kameni - 500 m2
(one inhabitant) and Nea Kameni - 3.4 km2 are the only leftovers of the former Kallisti. The
giant caldera of Santorini has depths of up to 400 m and extends 11 km NS and 7 km WE. It
is surrounded by steep cliffs (reaching up to 300 m above the sea level) on three sides. The
island slopes downward from the rim of the caldera to the surrounding Aegean Sea. On the
fourth side the lagoon is separated from the sea by islands of Thirassia and Aspronissi. All the
island’s harbors are in the lagoon, and there are no ports on the outer perimeter of the island.
The volcanic activity did not cease with that tremendous eruption in the 17th century BC. 14
another explosions occurred since then. The latest one took place in 1950. Two small islands
in the centre of today’s Caldera are quietly waiting for their turn: Palea and Nea Kameni, the
cones of active volcano...
Sightseeing:
The very arrival to Athinios is an
unforgotten adventure. The road
descending the steep cliff features
a huge zig-zag. If you suffer from
acrophobia you better keep your
eyes tightly closed...
Our boat will pick you up from the
Athinios Port and sail to the north,
along red cliffs of the Caldera.
During this cruise you will have
opportunity to see the cliffs close
and distinguish horizontal lines
which are layers of volcanic ashes
built after subsequent eruptions of
the volcano.

The boat will approach the magnificent
rock of Skaros in Imerovigli. Along the
way from Imerovigli to Oia you will have
opportunity to take pictures of numerous
caves in the rocks of the Caldera. The
boat will pass next to picturesque harbor
Armeni and Ammoudi in Oia, then it will
turn to the west, approaching the island
Thirassia which is actually the remnant
of the western shore of the prehistoric
Stroggili. Thirassia has approximately 200
inhabitants and only three villages.
On the return the boat will pass next to the
volcano. The bigger island is called Nea
Kameni (New Burnt) which is the youngest
volcanic structure in Mediterranean. The
youngest lavas on this island are no more
than 60 years old! Smaller Palea Kameni is
located just next to it. Around their shores
are numerous hot springs, rich in sulphur.
In proximity of the small harbor of Nea
Kameni is a church of Ag. Taxiarchos.
On the back side of the volcano is another
church, dedicated to Saint Nicolas.
Looking at the black unfriendly lava of
Kameni islands it is hard to believe that about 40 species of plants found here their Eldorado.
And even more: in red, thermal waters of Kameni was identified iron bacteria and it is strongly
suggested that the same one can survive on Mars…
Estimated duration of the trip:
The cruise takes approximately 2 hours and despite the volcanic activity of the site, we
promise to drop you off safe and sound at the harbor of Athinios.
Bus transportation Fira - Athinios takes about 20-30 minutes one way.
SMART Bus Stop:
In front of the Kamari Tours
Transfer office (opposite to the
football field). Drop-off and pickup
for return from the excavations
– parking area on the top of Mesa
Vouno.
Brief characteristics:
Ancient Tira is the second most
important ancient site in Santorini
after the Minoan City of Akrtoiri.
ANCIENT THIRA
91

The excavations here, began in 1896
by Baron Hiller von Gaertringen in
the area of Mesa Vouno, brought to
light the ruins of the town founded
by the exiled Spartan King Thiras.
Mesa Vouno is 369 m high and is
located at the SW end of the island.
It predates the volcanic formation of
the island and plunges steeply down
to the sea, dividing the beaches of
Kamari on the north and Perissa on
the south.
This naturally fortified high ground
was a perfect place for the Spartan
King and his followers to build
their city.
Founded in 11th century BC this settlement became ancient capital of the island. They built
the road leading to Kamari, where they had their port (Ancient Oia). Their second important
port, ancient Eleusina, was located on the southern part of Mesa Vouno. The excavations
cover an area around 800 m long and 150 m wide. The public buildings were constructed from
limestone blocks, a plentiful material on the island, while private houses were made of small
stones. There was a great wall surrounding the city, part of which can be seen today. Visitors
can walk along narrow streets and see the marketplace in the centre of the town, the royal
arcade and the amphitheatre, which was used also as the Parliament.
See also: KAMARI – page 40.
A leaflet with detailed description
of the excavations site is available
in Kamari Tours offices.
Estimated time for sightseeing:
Approximately 1 hour. Bus trip is
about 15 min one way.
Nearest tourist interest spot:
Zoodochos Pigi – spring of sweet
water in the cave, about 20 min
walk from the parking area near
excavations, to the N.
92

HEAD OFFICE – KAMARI
SANTORINI GR-84 700
Tel. Centre : +30 22860 31390 kamaritours@san.forthnet.gr
Transfer Dept.: + 30 22860 32751 www.kamaritours.gr
Fax : + 30 22860 32750
BRANCHES : KAMARI - FIRA – PERISSA – KARTERADOS
KAMARI TOURS SERVICES :
• Acommodation
• Transfers
• Tour & Cruises
• Car rental
• Tour-operators representation
• Group Tourism & Student Tourism
• Cruise ships handlings & on shore excursions
• Air charter handling
• Conferences & Incentives
• Wedding arrangements
•
V.I.P. services
93

Jump with SMART Buses
from village to village!
Explore each village
as long as you like!
Discover Santorini
in one day with
SMART Buses
only for 11,00 €
Ticket for 1 day
11,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 2 days
17,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 4 days
27,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 1 day
8,00 €
Choosing ONE of
the following Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
94
Ticket for 3 days
22,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 5 days
32,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 1 Roundtrip
ONLY for BLUE Line:
ANCIENT THIRA
10,00 €
Ticket for 6 days
36,00 €
Including Lines:
Red / Orange / Yellow
Ticket for 1 Trip
ONLY for PURPLE Line:
SIGHTSEEING CRUISE
13,00 €

Êüêêéíç Ðáñáëßá
Red Beach
5
ÖçñÜ
Fira
5
The lost
Atlantis
95

96
LEGEND TO THE MAPS
M-M
SMART Bus stop
Cave house
Mansion (archontiko)
Church
Church in a cave
Ruins
Windmill
Canava / Winery
Tomato factory
Café / Ouzerie
Tavern / Restaurant
Grill / Souvlaki
Pizza / Creperie
Mini-Market
Traditional products sale
Bakery
Pastry store
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS:
INTERNATIONAL ACCESS CODE FOR GREECE: +30
Police
22860 22649
Hospital
22860 23123
Airport
22860 31525
Port Authority
22860 22239
Customs
22860 22230
Post Office
22860 22238
Tourist Police
171
Taxi Station
First Aid Stations:
22860 22555
22860 23951
- Fira
22860 22237
- Emporio
22860 81222
- Kamari
22860 31175
- Oia
22860 71227
- Pyrgos
22860 31207
Left Luggage and Lockers Service
(Fira)
22860 22220