GEOLOGY IN A NUTSHELL

Santorini is not a single island, it is an archipelago comprising five or so. Its architect is volcanic activity.

The two larger isles (Santorini and Thirasia) were once one. Around 1500 b.c. came the cataclysm behind the present and beautifully unique landscape. A build-up of volcanic gasses fuelled a massive explosion. The centre of the island was literally blown away, hurling countless tons of debris into the sky and surrounding sea.

The explosion ranks amongst the earth’s largest geological events. Tidal waves swamped neighbouring islands, reputedly destroying on Crete the homes of refugees from earlier, warning quakes. Links are also made with the Atlantis legend. The local devastation and loss of life are beyond doubt.

In the last few geological seconds (1925 a.d. by our clocks) a new eruption gave birth to the third largest of the isles - Nea Kameni. The strange formations made as lava flowed into the sea are virtually untouched by erosion.

In 1956 the most recent quake destroyed swathes of buildings. Some communities rebuilt and others migrated to safer locations or shores.

AND NOW . .

Presently the volcano sleeps. It still warms the sea and evaporation lends a magic haze to the local atmosphere. Between the isles, the sea is known as ‘the Caldera’, which I’m told is Spanish for caldron.

The sheer cliffs bordering the Caldera illustrate the island’s violent history. Deep layers of ash and pumice interleave with ‘normal’ layers. I imagine ecologies would wax and wane in step with seismic rhythms.

The island does have a rich social history. This reflects in ancient sites (only partly excavated), clear influences of Venetian connections and more recent exploitation of its stunning landscapes. It is truly a jewel amongst Greek jewels.

It would be unfair to close without mention of the islanders. I was there for only a few days as a ‘package deal’ tourist in July 2004. The local economy is tourist dependant and much of it cruise-ship orientated. Despite this, I never felt less than welcome and usually warmly welcomed.

My visit also coincided with Greece’s triumph in the European football competition. I’ve seldom seen such good-natured revelry. A population so magnanimous in victory deserves the highest accolade.

I recommend a visit to Santorini - photographers especially.

Link to professional Santorini information including maps and webcam: http://www.santorini.net/home.html