Santorini is not just one of the most charming islands in Europe filled with cobbled streets, whitewashed cubic houses and blue-dome roofs; it is home to some amazing sights and sites which bear cultural significance not only in Greece but the world at large. These are the best cultural hotspots in Santorini.
Faros Lighthouse
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Located in the ancient town of Akrotiri, very close to the southern region of Santorini is a spot of cultural significance called the Faros Lighthouse. It is one of the most photographed places in Santorini, and the reason is not far-fetched. It is under the management of the Greek Navy. Visitors are unable to step into the tranquil and very calm house.
Caldera
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One of the most iconic landmarks in Santorini is the 3,500-year-old volcanic crater called the ‘Caldera.’ The huge depression sits in the middle of the Aegean Sea, and it has been linked to the famous lost city of Atlantis by many scholars and scientists. The Caldera is about 6km in circumference, and it is filled with so much water. Many hoteliers and architects decided to site their business establishments around the jagged walls of the ancient crater. At the northern region of the Caldera is an idyllic village of Oia while at the eastern elevation is the drawcard for the rich and affluent, Fira.
Fira Catholic Cathedral
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Located in the capital city of Santorini is the gigantic, whitewashed monument called the Fira Catholic Cathedral. The structure is one of the most beautiful Byzantine-style structures in Europe. The stunning church has a tall bell tower and a bright blue dome. The interior of the cathedral is very idyllic, boasting of different shades of pastel colors and paintings of religious importance.
Ancient Akrotiri
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Recently discovered and nestled in the southern side of Santorini is the demure town of Akrotiri which is known as the main archeological region of the island. The old landmark is believed to have been in existence since the primeval times during the period when the Minoans inhabited Greece. The ruins of the ancient city are a must see. The remains have been well preserved ever since they were dug from the volcanic ash which buried them in 1650BC. The ancient buildings which were dug up involve some three-storey houses which are very much intact. Artifacts such as pottery, frescoes, and some ornaments have also been dug up from this site which was once a flourishing town in antiquity. All the significant finds that were discovered at the site are now lying safely at the Santorini’s Museum of Prehistoric Thira.
Ancient Thira
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The Cyclades island of Santorini also called ‘Thera or Thira’ by the locals is a cultural hotspot itself. It is believed to have come into existence during the Bronze Age at a time where the Dorians, a unique Greek race ruled over Greece. The quaint city is a hot pot of beautiful ruins and architectural structures from the Hellenistic, Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman periods. Some of the hallmark structures in ancient Thira includes a good number of Doric-style temples, mosaic floors, an agora also known as a marketplace, a theatre and an ancient gymnasium.