Thira

Thira, also known as Thera or Santorini, is a Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades. The island is renowned for its dramatic caldera, cliffside settlements, and archaeological sites. In contemporary usage, Thira is the Greek name for the island, while Santorini is the common English designation.

Geography and geology

The current landscape of Thira was formed by a large volcanic eruption in the late Bronze Age that collapsed the central cone, creating a caldera. The sea now fills the interior basin, with active and dormant islets such as Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni located within the caldera. The main towns, including Fira (the administrative capital) and Oia, sit atop the caldera rims, offering views over the waters and the volcanic landscape. The island features black sand beaches, volcanic beaches, and diverse wine-growing slopes.

History and archaeology

Thira has a long history of human activity dating back to the Bronze Age. The Minoan eruption, around 1600 BCE, profoundly affected the Aegean region and contributed to the decline of Minoan communities nearby. The Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri on the island was buried in ash and later excavated. Ancient Thera, a city on Mesa Vouno above Kamari, reflects subsequent Greek-era habitation. Throughout the medieval period, Thira was ruled by Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans before becoming part of modern Greece in the 19th century.

Economy and culture

Today, tourism is the dominant economic activity, drawn by the caldera scenery, sunsets, and archaeological sites. Viticulture is notable on Thira, with the Assyrtiko grape producing distinctive island wines. The island remains a prominent travel destination in the Aegean.