Page 24 - EMPIRIA 2025

JOYFUL EXPLORATION I SANTORINI

Unveil Santorini’s

true character:

where every path ECHOES OF CIVILIZATION
The past in Santorini is not buried—it surfaces, preserved
as if the island itself refuses to forget. At Akrotiri, under
whispers a hidden a protective canopy of modern engineering, lies the ghost
of a Minoan city. Streets, homes, pottery—all sealed
story. in time, not as ruin, but as memory. This is more than
archaeology—it is a moment frozen in time: a bed left
unmade, a vessel left half-full, a painting on a wall too
beautiful to lose. Nearby, the Museum of Prehistoric
Thera in Fira holds treasures lifted from Akrotiri’s
THERE IS A HIDDEN side of Santorini unseen in postcards. embrace: frescoes of saffron gatherers, clay figurines,
A place where the land breathes stories older than memory, elegant utensils. For a glimpse into the island's more
where sunlight strikes stone and sea not as a tourist's recent soul, the Folklore Museum of Emmanuel Lignos
spectacle, but as part of an eternal rhythm. This is not the offers a passage through the 19th century—cave homes,
polished, curated version of the island—it is Santorini’s tools, linens, and photographs capturing a way of life
authentic heart, still pulsing beneath its allure. that remains etched in the island’s veins. Atlantis Books,
in Firostefani, is more than a bookstore. Recognized
VILLAGES WITH A MEMORY by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful
Step inland, and the clamor of the coastline softens into bookstores in the world, its handpicked selection of
something older. In Emporio, Santorini’s largest village, new and vintage books in multiple languages makes it
silence gathers between the whitewashed walls of the a sanctuary for readers and dreamers alike.
medieval Kasteli. Winding alleys conceal tiny chapels and
From top left and clockwise: The iconic bell tower of Megalochori rises above cobbled alleys. Inside the vaulted elegance of Symposion
Cultural Center, tradition comes to life through music, myth, and hands-on artistry. A splash of blue and bursts of bougainvillea—Oia’s doors painted the color of midnight. Here, one might stop THE TASTE OF THE EARTH
charm lives in every detail. A quiet moment in Emporio. at a humble kafeneio—the kind of traditional Greek coffee Volcanic soil bears gifts. Santorini’s vineyards, low and
shop where time slows down. Coffee is served black and coiled like nests to shield their fruit from fierce wind,
unhurried, and conversations unfold with the quiet rhythm produce wines of distinctive character. Assyrtiko wine
of a place untouched by rush. Pyrgos, perched higher on reigns supreme—crisp, mineral, luminous. Wineries like
the island, is another village. Gazing over the sea from afar, Hatzidakis, where wines are crafted in cave-like cellars,
its alleys lead not just to views, but into a quiet stillness.
There is an art to walking Pyrgos at dusk, when the last
light brushes its bell towers and shadows stretch long CHRISTINA, VEDEMA CONCIERGE, UNLOCKS
across stone. Higher still, Prophet Elias Monastery sits THE TRUE ESSENCE OF SANTORINI
atop Mount Profitis Ilias, the island's highest peak. From Complete the phrase: “For me, it’s not Santorini
here, the view stretches from the northern to the southern without…”
tip of the island, a breathtaking panorama that reveals Assyrtiko wine, cherry tomatoes, fava, and the
Santorini's full, awe-inspiring expanse. Megalohori exudes sunset.
an authentic, well-preserved character, as the heart of Share a scenic drive or walk that’s sure to
Santorini’s winemaking, steeped in medieval merchant charm your guests:
and pirate lore. Labyrinthine alleys, majestic bell towers, In the Heart of Santorini lies a hidden gem that
and vine-covered landscapes honor its rich history. But most visitors never discover. Just a 12-minute
Megalohori is not just a visual treasure—it sings. At the walk from Vedema, this peaceful spot offers
Symposion Cultural Center, the ancient tradition of the untouched beauty, a captivating sunset, and a
Greek symposium comes alive through music, dance, and quaint little church. We always recommend guests
storytelling. Workshops on ancient instruments, theatrical wear sneakers—it’s a short adventure, but the
performances, and local mythologies create a rare and reward is pure magic.
soulful experience. To the north, Finikia awaits quietly Reveal your favorite island beach that’s off
beside the more famous Oia. This village is a hidden gem, the beaten path:
untouched by time. Narrow paths lined with pastel cave Theros Wave Bar at Vlychada Beach—a secluded
houses wind through vineyards and sleepy courtyards. In haven where nature meets elegance.
Finikia, Santorini feels personal again, intimate and slow.

24 25