ΣΑΝΤΟΡΙΝH / SANTORINI 2010-2011

The Αrchitecture

The main characteristic of Santorini's architecture is the "dug-in buildings", i.e. buildings that are constructed into the tephran earth, the tephra. Τhese additions are roofed with vaults or cross-vaults by some sort of casing construction. The typical "dug-in house" is characterized by a narrow facade and is very deep lengthwise. At the front of the house we find the "salla" (the living room) and at the back, the bedroom. The common and the private spaces are sometimes one and the same. An important characterisic is the existence of the concept of horizontal ownership. That means that somebody courtyard is someone else quarters,or that bebeath a field lays the house of another another owner. The construction materials are red and black stone and theran earth, which when mixed with water and lime makes a very strong plaster, the theran plaster. At the end every building has a cistern in order to collect the rainwater.

  Traditional House in Santorini

 

Volcano

The present-day crescent shape of the island is a consequence of the activity of the volcano in prehistoric times feeding the myth of the lost Atlantis. Santorini is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion dated back 3,600 years and which created the current geological caldera; a giant central lagoon, more or less rectangular, and measuring about 12 by 7 km (7.5 by 4.3 mi), surrounded by 300 m (980 ft) high steep cliffs on three sides.
The mild activity of the volcano after this major eruption has built up two small islands within the caldera, Palea and Nea Kameni visited by hundreds of people everyday during the tourist season.
The impressive caldera dominates the west part of the island while the marvellous dry climate and the almost continuous sunshine create year-around conditions which are perfect for observation, photographs and videos under an extraordinary variety of natural lights and colours that give the visitor the exceptional advantage of reaching the interior of the volcano by boat.

 

Weddings & Honeymoons

Has it ever crossed you mind to get married somewhere far away from where you live? Somewhere special and romantic? If you want to experience the happiest day of your life with your other half somewhere other than the ordinary, then Santorini is a very good choice. The landscapes of the island are of unparalleled beauty and will surely give you moments that will remain forever etched in your and your guests' memories. Whether you decide to have a private wedding on the island, or to be followed by your many guests, the experience is definitely going to be unique!
Even if you ultimately choose, for your own reasons, to get married near your home, the island will still be a unique destination for a honeymoon. With the romance that dissipates the island, it is certain that the first moments as newlyweds will have a distinct character.
Whether as intended spouses or as newlyweds, the island is awaiting to enchant you!

Gastronomy

The island has been lucky the past two decades as its products and cuisine have been associated with tourism. This gave way in the production of and in making a good name in the culinary market. Agricultural products such as tomatoes, split peas and capers are already known and sought after. The market's need for continuous improvement, resulted in new proposals for local cuisine, with rare tastes based on pure and delicious raw material. A tendency to highlight the culinary peculiarity of the island has come to the front, through variations of traditional recipes and unusual combinations.
During these twenty years assyrtiko showed its strength and today it is considered to be the first Greek variety, with great wines. The wines of Santorini enjoy a growing worldwide recognition, while, of course, its fans are increasing.
Santorini, though small in size, has already made a big name in gastronomy and is considered to be a gastronomical destination with some of the finest restaurants, wineries and restaurants throughout the country. You just have to try them and form your own opinion!