Santorini, a stunning Greek island, was formed by volcanic activity. The enchanting landscapes that were left behind by a catastrophic eruption that took place over 4,000 years ago are utilized by the charming villages.

Once known as Kalliste, which means “the most beautiful one,” Santorini boasts breathtaking views from its cliffside, particularly the sunsets above the village of Oia, which the locals swear are the best in the world.

Santorini in the sun

Major town of Santorini, Fira, is perched on nearly vertical cliffs rising to a height of 300 meters (980 feet), which form the rim of a vast flooded caldera created by one of the biggest volcanic explosions in recorded history.

The village and the nearby cliffside communities are a tangle of stunning white-washed houses, cobblestone walkways and streets, churches with vivid blue cupolas, windmills, neoclassical palaces, and cottages that resemble caves carved out of the rock.

Far below Fira at the foot of the cliff is the medieval harbour of Ormos, with its terraces, cruise ships, and fishing boats that look like tiny toys, just a short journey away by cable car or donkey ride.

The former capital was Skaros, a medieval fortress town enclosed by a sheer red-and-black rock cliff on a point northwest of Fira, where it was protected from roving pirates and attackers.

The islanders insist that in the 600 years of its existence, the castle has never been taken, but that repeated earthquakes forced them from this area of relative safety. Fira became the new capital in the eighteenth century.

Skaros Rock is still uninhabited and the Skaros village has mostly vanished. There’s just a small chapel left. The highest point of Santorini is called Profitis Ilias, a name shared by various Greek mountains, and it is topped by a monastery resembling a fortress.

The building has a creamy-white tint during the day and a terracotta glow at night. The bell tower is buttressed, and priceless bibles and icons can be found in the neighboring monastery. The terrace beneath the monastery offers a commanding view of the island, the Aegean Sea, and those renowned sunsets.