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.

Sunset at Santorini, Greece

With the time available before sunset, the local guide took us to a high point just below the highest peak of Santorini to have a sweeping view of the entire island. The highest point of Santorini called Profitis Ilias is just 567 m above the sea level. From there, he gave a brief lecture on the formation of Santorini through numerous past volcanic activities. Its existing shape and configuration were formed through a series of intense volcanic eruptions and tectonic activity that took place over hundreds and thousands of years. The central pool of water formed by the submerged crater and ringed by a series of smaller islands has now become a unique caldera view of Santorini.

The island remains volcanically active, with periodic tremors and minor eruptions, though these are closely monitored. Santorini's volcanic origins give it fertile soil, supporting vineyards and other distinctive agriculture on the island.

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When talking about the suitability of Santorini's volcanic soil for growing grapes, the local tour guide told us that he in fact comes from a family with a long tradition of growing grapes and making wines.  

Pointing to the vines of unusual shapes planted over a field, he said that vines grown in Santorini are deliberately pruned and woven into a low, circular basket shape close to the ground. This technique shelters the grapes from direct sun exposure and strong gusts while retaining morning dew to help hydrate the vines. Such unique agricultural practices and natural conditions help the vines to thrive despite the island’s challenging climate.

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Before the local guide ended the guided tour, he pulled out a few bottles of wine and and a few bottles of liqueur for us to savor. According to him, the wines he served us were produced in his family winery. Unfortunately, they are only for local consumption and are not for export! But for us as his special guests, he allowed us to purchase the wines manufactured by his family's winery.

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Santorini is world-famous for its stunning sunsets and the caldera views. But for me, Tanjong Aru in my hometown KK offers the best sunset view! 

Sunset at Tanjong Aru.

The crowd that turned up at Fira - capital of Santorini to see the sunset that evening was massive. To me, it's the white-washed buildings with blue domes perched along the cliff edge that offered more stunning views over the caldera and the Aegean Sea. We spent significant time moving along the some of the narrow alleys to capture some of the most stunning views of the white-washed building and the blue-domed churches.