About Santorini The capital of the island is Thira, also called Phira. It is built almost in the middle of the curve of the bay, above the volcanic caldera, at a height of 260m. The view of the Kameni island, created by volcanic activity, is spectacular and unique. The site of Chora, on the brow of the grey, volcanic rock gives it an arresting quality which is not found in any other settlement in the Cyclades. From the harbour of Skala Phiron, the steps leading up to Chora, may be climbed on foot, by donkey, or by cable-car. At Skaros can be seen the remains of the five kastelia (fortified settlements) of Santorini. The settlements of Phirostefani and Merovigli are almost merged into Phira and have superb views over the caldera. The beautiful village of Oia, 11 km. north-west of Phira, with its unique houses dug into the vertical face of the soft rock. For swimming, steps lead down to the beaches of Armenaki, Ammoudi and Katharos. Pyrgos, an inland village south-east of Phira, spreading around the slopes of Profitis Ilias, was one of the medieval fortified settlements of Santorini, the remains of which are still preserved. A short distance to the west is the harbour of Athinios. South-west of Chora, near the village of Akrotiri, is the archaeological site of the same name. To the east of Akrotiri lies Emporio, or Nimborio, as it called by the locals. Perissa, close by, is a seaside village with superb, black sand. Just to the north, at Mesa Vouno, are preserved the ruins of Ancient Thera.
