Can you imagine a volcanic explosion so violent that creates a crater nearly 7 miles wide, a 700 ft. high tsunami that obliterates the Bronze Age Minoan Empire, and its remaining Caldera eventually becomes the most spectacular tourist destination of the Greek Islands?

All of these facts crossed my mind when the ferry in which I was traveling from Ios Island arrived to the Santorini port. The 1000+ feet high caldera walls showing multiple layers of volcanic rocks and hardened ash surrounded us. The winding road that climbed up to the white towns resembling snow on the hills was a lesson in geologic history.

The view from above is no less impressive. For me, and I am sure for many of the visitors, the geometric tapestry of houses, shops, hotels and restaurants covering the Caldera hillside are a powerful visual attraction. The Caldera itself, and the blue Aegean Ocean that fills the view all the way to the horizon complement the architecture in the most perfect way.

The northern section of Oia still has old windmills and the white buildings shining in the Sun are a must-take photograph. Click the image for more.

Getting lost in the maze of streets and steps that snakes among the white buildings, and periodically provides an astounding view of the ocean, is the best way to experience this unique Greek Island.

Click here for a gallery of photos from Santorini in my Photoshelter Portfolio website. While being there, you might want to check out some of the other galleries from Greece.

A street musician plays at the shadow of an umbrella with the Greek Blue and White colors. Oia, Santorini. Click the image for more.

As twilight gives a blue cast to the white buildings of Fira the restaurants and bars hanging to the Caldera walls come to life. Click the image for more.

Looking west from Fira the island of Thirasia and the Caldera frame the sunset. Click the image for more photos