Santorini [antikvár]

The island of Santorini casts a magic spell on those who visit it whatever their interests or preferences may be. The specialised geologist will find in the walls of the caldera a unique stratigraphical museum of volcanic provenance. The vulcanologist and the curious find interest in the dormant volcano. The archaeologist, 'the archaeophile and art lovers in generál cannot but admire the archaeological wealth of the island which spans virtually the entire cultural history of the Aegean. The nature lover, finally, will take pleasure in the dramatic landscape and picturesque bays. These are the secrets of the island which attract its admirers in their thousands, particularly during the summer months. By passenger ferry, cruise boats, small excursion craft and aeroplane, flocks of visitors arrive on Santorini every day. Geography and Geology Santorini is located in the southern part of the Aegean and is the southernmost island of the Cyclades. Its surface area is 73 sq. km. and its population, distributed among thirteen villages, just exceeds six thousand souls. Before the earthquakes of 1956, which caused terrible destruction, ^ 1. Part ofOiafrom the air. Built at the northernmost edge of Santorini, it faces the caldera. In the background the open sea is visible. M 2. A scramble of snow-white houses and churches high on the rim of the caldera and the harbour below is the impressive vista which Phira presents to those visiting Santorini by boát. 3. View of the fields on the island. Early vegetables and vines constitute the principal crops of Santorini.