Oia is an idyllic settlement located in the northwestern part of Santorini. Oia is the most famous of all villages in Santorini; it is known as the village where the winters are mild and the summers are dry. The stunning beauty of this community cannot be surpassed. These are some interesting facts about Oia.
The Caldera
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Oia is perched above the caldera; hence the best views of the crater can be seen from the village. The thousand-year-old caldera was formed after the Minoan eruption. It is one of the virgin beauties of the world. Some believe the Caldera has strong ties with the lost city of Atlantis; others think it has stronger links with the Biblical book of Exodus.
Site of Attractions
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Oia is home to some breathtaking sites like the Maritime Museum. The museum houses some items that were used in the maritime field, a tiny library and some significant finds from the Venetian fortress. The beauty of the city captivated many artists; it is unsurprising to find many art galleries in the settlement.
Magical Sunsets
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Oia has the most beautiful sunset in the world. The best time to have panoramic views of the Aegean Sea in all its glory is during dusk. The sun appears to take a dip in the Aegean changing the sky to enchanting shades of pinks and oranges, the cerulean waters of the seas illuminate a gorgeous hue of burnt orange. It has been said that the most remarkable place to have these sightings is from the touristyOia Castle. Little wonder the place is always crowded with visitors falling over themselves to get the most spectacular sunset they will ever see.
Sea Trade
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A few centuries ago, Oia was a commerce hub. Two notable ports; Ammoudi and Armeni ports where ships loaded with Theran pumice and wine for export. Imports such as perfumes, fabrics, and silverware were also offloaded from these ports.
Origin of name
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Oia is also popularly referred to as Apano Meria or Ano Meria. The indigenes of the city are referred to as ‘Apanomerites.’
Posterchild
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Oia is the poster child of Greece. It is one of the most photographed communities not only in Greece but in the world. The little white buildings which tier the hillside, interspersed by hues of cobalt blue, earthy red, oyster pink and bright okra. The sun-bathed verandahs and blue-domed churches are also worthy of observation. The smooth paths snake around the corners and are stopped by either a church or an iconic building. It has been a source of inspiration for not only authors but artists and poets alike.
Buildings
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There are two main types of housing in Oia; the cave houses and the Captain houses. The cave houses were carved into the rocks formed by volcano on the cliffs of the caldera. They were once the homes of members of the ship crews. The captain houses were specially built for wealthy owners of ships. A vast majority of the churches in the village were dedicated to sailors.