Exploring Fira, Santorini

The hotel where we stayed in Santorini, Santo Mira Mare Resort which is situated by the Aegean Sea offered beautiful sunrise. Early morning on 14.10.2024, attracted by the sunrise view from the hotel room balcony, we decided to walk along the beach to immerse ourselves with the spectacular view. Soon after, we were joined by friends and members of our tour group.

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After breakfast, we were taken to Fira, the capital of Santorini to explore on our own.

As we walked along the narrow alley leading to the cable car station, we saw poo of donkey left on the alley. We discovered later that donkeys are still used to transport goods and people up and down the steep, narrow alleyways. This is because the narrow and winding alleyways and steep cliffs are not suitable for motorized vehicles to navigate; but donkeys being sturdy and sure-footed are most suited for such terrain. But time is changing, alternative mode such as electric vehicles are increasingly being used to transport goods and people.

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When we saw a road side store selling traditional Greek doughnut called "Loukoumas", we did not hesitate buying one to try out.

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Greek Orthodox Christianity is similarly the dominant religion in Santorini. We visited the all-white Orthodox Metropolitan Church of Fira which is one of the island's most iconic religious structures. It's famous for its traditional Cycladic architecture, large doomed roof and its scenic position overlooking the caldera and the Aegean Sea. The church was originally built in 1827. Much of church structure was destroyed during a major earthquake in 1956. The church was subsequently rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

The interior of the church is adorned with elaborate religious icons, intricate frescoes and a stunning chandelier. Much of the artwork and decoration reflects the Byzantine tradition.

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Our lunch that day was Chinese food in one of the restaurants in Fira, Santorini. That's our second Chinese meal in our tour to Southern Italy and Greece. The dishes are typically simple Chinese food eaten in Chinese homes!

The four couples in the tour group.

Steamed fish.