Santorini Island was home to Mt. Thera and in 1610 BC it erupted with one of the fiercest explosions ever witnessed by man. Archaeologists feel this explosion may have brought an end to the Minoan Civilization due to the tsunamis and temperature declines caused by the massive amounts of sulfur dioxide spewed into the atmosphere. What is left is a thin, 18 mile long, crescent shaped island that almost encircles the massive caldera. Towns cling to the cliffs that soar upward 200 to 300 meters out of the sea.

Now-a-days Santorini is one of the most visited islands in Greece. Most mornings up to four cruise ships steam into the caldera and deposit their passengers. Today we will see the Royal Princess with 4300 passengers and the Celestyal Olympia with another 1500. Most will come to Oia and fill the narrow walkways to the point of gridlock. The first day we were here, four cruise ships were in town and the crowds were overwhelming. The powers to be have actually limited the number of passengers allowed on the island at any one time at 8000. We have quickly learned where to find the cruise ship schedule and to hunker down when they arrive or go somewhere off the itinerary.

Path when passengers return to their boats

Path at Cruise Ship time

Yesterday we hiked from Oia to Fira, opposite direction from what is recommended. Our path had more uphill during the 13 kilometer walk. The route follows the edge of the caldera. You climb three hills and at the top of each is a little church. One must be very devout to attend the services. It was a beautiful hike and we only met a handful of people along the way. One couple was from South Africa and they had just been to Crete, our next destination. We soaked up their recommendations and somewhere along the conversation stream we were convinced that Africa must be moved up on our bucket list.

Tomorrow we leave for Crete, the largest of all the Greek islands. Sad to leave Santorini but so excited about visiting the former center of the Minoan civilization.

Doorways

Last Dinner on Santorini…..Ambrosia Restaurant