Some little known fun facts about Santorini

SOME LITTLE KNOWN FUN FACTS ABOUT SANTORINI

Although it is the most well-known of the Greek islands, Santorini still has a lot to amaze you! First of all, it is rightfully sometimes called the “postcard island of Greece”, it really stands out from all the rest of the Greek islands (and there are VERY many Greek islands). Its red cliffs, white windmills, crystal clear blue water and blue church domes really are a treat for the eyes!

Today I thought I might share some of the lesser known fun facts that I have heard about the island over the years:

The island sits in a water-filled caldera of a massive volcano (you all know this by now, of course) BUT the eruption is thought to have ended the Minoan civilization on Crete!
Before it was called Santorini, this Greek island was known as Kallístē, which means “the most beautiful one”
Santorini is one of the few places on earth where you can visit white, black AND red beaches. This is because of the volcanic past of the island.
Although its climate is very special (rather harsh and dry), Santorini actually has a very flourishing vine industry! The vine here has a characteristic, unique taste to it due to this.
The name itself – Santorini – was invented in 1153 by the Venetians and was told to the Arab geographer Edrisi. It is the pronunciation of the words Santa and Irenene (Saint Irene), which was taken either from the name of the church in the valley of Therassia or from the name of the early Christian basilica in Perissa (which is not preserved).

Of course, the list goes on and on and on. Visit this place and discover more on your own! Actually, off season is the time to do such discoveries, as the ticket prices go down and there’s more time for exploration of the history and cultural places of Santorini! Trust me, this Greek gem will surprise you (and it will continue to surprise me, without doubt).