Santorini
Did you know that the whole complex of Santorini islands is still an active volcano (the same as Methana, MÃlos and Nisiros) and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea?
Santorini is a remarkable natural wonder that features a world-renowned volcano. This magnificent sight and attraction played a significant role in the formation of the island, shaping its current structure and geomorphology through a massive volcanic eruption that occurred thousands of years ago.
Crescent-shaped Santorini (or Thira), the precious gem of the Aegean, is actually a group of islands consisting of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of Cyclades.
The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years approximately, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again.
Accessible Attractions
Santorini, a stunning Greek island known for its breathtaking sunsets and picturesque villages, offers several accessible places and attractions. While accessibility levels may vary, here are some examples of accessible places in Santorini:
Fira Town:
The capital of Santorini, Fira Town, has accessible pathways in many areas, allowing visitors to explore the narrow streets and enjoy the charming atmosphere. The main pedestrianized street, called Gold Street, is relatively flat and accessible for wheelchair users. It is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Oia Village:
Famous for its stunning sunset views, Oia Village has improved accessibility in recent years. While the village itself has narrow and uneven streets, some parts have been made accessible with ramps and pathways. The main pedestrian street in Oia offers wheelchair access, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views and explore the shops and art galleries.
Kamari Beach:
Kamari is one of the most popular beaches in Santorini and offers accessible facilities. It has accessible ramps and walkways that provide easy access to the beach, making it suitable for wheelchair users and individuals with mobility challenges. Kamari Beach also provides accessible amenities such as beach chairs, accessible restrooms, and beach bars.
Ancient Thera:
The archaeological site of Ancient Thera, located on a hilltop, offers historical ruins dating back to the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. While the site itself has some steep sections, there are pathways and ramps that provide access to certain areas. The site offers beautiful views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
Santo Wines:
Located in Pyrgos, Santo Wines is a winery that offers stunning views of the caldera and the surrounding vineyards. The winery has accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators, allowing visitors to enjoy wine tastings, take in the scenery, and learn about Santorini's wine production.
Perissa Beach:
Perissa Beach is another popular beach on the island that has made efforts to improve accessibility. It offers accessible walkways, beach ramps, and accessible amenities such as beach chairs and accessible restrooms. The beach is known for its black sand and crystal-clear waters.
Museum of Prehistoric Thera:
Located in Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera showcases artifacts from the prehistoric era of Santorini. The museum offers wheelchair accessibility, allowing visitors to explore the exhibits and learn about the island's ancient history.